Quirky Quarters

Since IT is always on the lookout for unique places to stay, we were pleased to stumble upon TripAdvisor's list of the top ten world’s quirkiest hotels. From canine quarters to deep cave dwellings, here are a few of our favorites.

Fur ‘n’ Feathers Rainforest Tree Houses, near Cairns, Australia
This wacky, four-star establishment is made up of five tree houses and has received the highest rating by Australia’s Eco Certification Program. In spite of its location on a 100-acre private wildlife sanctuary in the Cairns Highlands, the getaway prides itself on having “no mosquitoes, flies, or crocodiles." More likely sightings are the tree kangaroos, endangered cassowaries, and wallabies that hang out around the tree houses; and the hosts offer a complimentary platypus watching tour. Fur ‘n’ Feathers starts at $159 for two nights off-season double occupancy.

Dog Bark Park Inn, Cottonwood, Idaho
Literally located inside the world’s largest beagle is a bed-and-breakfast that won’t leave you ruffin’ it. Both dogs in this park—named Toby and Sweet Willy—were created by chainsaw artists and owners Dennis and Frances, who specialize in making folk-art-style wooden carvings. Guests can stay in the multi-room Sweet Willy, with  a second-story deck, views of the Idaho prairie, and complimentary breakfast. Kids will enjoy sleeping in the extra quarters—located in the dog’s head. Rates start at $92 per night for two people.

Gamirasu Cave Hotel, Ayvali Village, Urgup, Turkey
This restored thousand-year-old Byzantine monastic retreat is now an 18-room troglodyte cave hotel located near Urgup. New features include two suites and wireless Internet access. Horseback riding and a Turkish bath will soon be available as well. The chef incorporates organic food into the six-course dinners they serve (not included in room rate) and offer plenty of vegetarian options at every meal. Doubles start at $95, which includes a breakfast buffet.

For more information on unique accommodations, check out Unusual Hotels of the World.

Comments

[frances conklin]

Jeanette - Just discovered your listing of our Dog Bark Park B&B in your Quirky Quarters article. Many thanks for the mention. Come visit Idaho's famously popular dog!
By the way, we always think 'green' wherever possible for our inn. During our mostly dry summer months, for instance, we line-dry linens rather than running the electric dryer. Guests have the added benefit of prairie fragrance sheets w/a hint of pine aroma as our clothes line is adjacent to a huge pine tree!
Travel well!