Lost with Luis: 8 of My Favourite Unique Stays

I am a sucker for unique short-term rentals. In fact, whenever I am traveling I am often looking for something different, quirky and unique. I’m pretty sure it somehow feeds the inner child in me. Why not stay in a castle? Or why not stay in a Volkswagen in the middle of the forest?

While we are still in the midst of a pandemic, we are finally seeing light at the end of the tunnel with vaccines on the horizon and that means it’s time to get back into planning mode and start making those travel plans.

From tree houses to hobbit homes, I have stayed in my fare share of unique places and here are my top picks to date.

1) The Land Yacht in California
This airstream nestled in the middle of the Californian dessert and and on the border of Joshua Tree Park came equipped with a stock tank pool to cool off in. It was a true 'California Dreaming' moment and one I will never forget. The retro air stream, the mountains in the background and the pool to cool off in were the perfect environment to unwind in after a long day of exploring Joshua Tree. Read more about my California toad trip here.

2) Chalet Perché in Quebec
This tree house located in Nominingue, Quebec is a nature lover’s dream. Perched up in trees, it felt like I was one with nature. The house has a suspended bridge that leads to another outdoor gallery area perfect for drinks. Nearby, there were hiking paths and beautiful views of mountains and lakes in Quebec.

3) Sunset Hobbit Pod In Portugal
This cute little hobbit pod was located along the Atlantic coast in Setubal, Portugal. The nearby cliffs were breathtaking and the location was rustic and not as developed which was perfect for anyone looking for an ‘off the beaten path’ experience. I had one of the best meals in my life at a seafood restaurant nearby.

4) Cahercastle in Ireland
If you ever really want to live your own little fairy tale, then this Airbnb castle in Galway, Ireland is what you are looking for. This original medieval castle has been around since the 1400’s and has been restored for your comfort. It’s not every day you can say you stayed in your own personal castle. Read more about my stay here.

5) A 1978 Westfalia Volkswagon on Vancouver Island
We rented this camper van for three incredible nights on Vancouver Island and it was incredible. From beach side glamping to the inner depths of the forests, it was an incredible experience. The camper van itself is small but cozy and made me feel like I was transported back to the late 70’s when life was a little more simple. Read more about the experience here.

6) A Tipi & Ojibwe Spirit Horse Encounter in Ontario
Spending a night in a authentic tipi on a Métis farm was an extremely humbling experience and one I will never forget. The experience included interactions with the almost extinct Ojibwe Spirit Horses as well as a drumming circle and incredible stories by the fire. Read more about the experience here.

7) Husky Cabin with Cedar Hot Tub in Quebec
Cabin in the woods? Check. Cedar hot tub overlooking snow covered trees and mountains? Check. This was the perfect winter getaway nestled in the mountains in Quebec and perfect chalet to unwind after skiing. I didn’t partake in any winter activities, but I practically lived in the hot tub. My schedule consisted of waking up - hot tub - breakfast - hot tub - lunch - hot tub - you get the picture. While there are many cabins and chalets with hot tubs, there’s just something about a cedar tub!

8) Finn Lough Bubble Domes in Northern Ireland
Ever wonder what it would be like falling asleep under the stars, but in the comfort of warm sheets and a comfy bed? This experience was all that and more. Located in Northern Ireland, Finn Lough Resort has several bubble domes that are perfect for those that want to be a part of the outdoors, in a more luxurious way. The ‘Elements' spa was one of the greatest spa experiences I have experienced to date! Read more about my stay here.