When it comes to booking accommodation, hotels and hostels tend to be the first port of call. However, if you’re looking to infuse some extra adventure into your trip, there are plenty of wonderful and wacky alternatives.

In fact, accommodation should never be seen as a mere afterthought – it can really transform your experience of a place. Even if you’re more of a luxury hotel kind of person, it is definitely worth trying a more unconventional option at least once.

Here are some out-there accommodations and where you can find them.

A Historic Castle in the Scottish Highlands

If there’s anywhere that lends itself to a few nights in a medieval castle, it’s the Scottish Highlands. What better backdrop than rolling greenery and breathtaking mountains?

Although not so far removed from the hotel experience, a castle offers a more authentic way to experience Scotland and all of its history. Four poster beds and medieval décor will transport you back in time, and with plenty of stunning locations to choose from, you can really immerse yourself in the surrounding nature.

A Lighthouse in Norway

Accommodation doesn’t get much quirkier than this: a lone-standing lighthouse in the beautiful port of Ålesund, Norway. Whilst it’s technically part of the Hotel Brosundet, there’s no denying that Molja Lighthouse – or Room 47 as it’s known locally – is an experience unlike any other.

The interior has been designed by the same company responsible for Oslo’s opera house, and visitors can enjoy the best of both worlds – a rustic feel combined with modern facilities. This is the perfect little hideaway for a relaxing Nordic break.

An RV in Australia

They say the journey is as important as the destination, and this is definitely true when travelling by campervan. It’s perhaps not as out-there as some of the other accommodations we’ve listed, but it is certainly one of the most adventurous ways to travel.

With its vast open spaces, beautiful coastlines and thrilling outback, Australia is one of the best places to pick up an RV and hit the open road. Use a site like campanda.com to find your preferred vehicle type and check out our selection of the five best Australian road trips.

A Tropical Treehouse in Puerto Rico

If you’re going for the tropical experience, it doesn’t get more authentic than these treehouse rentals in Rincon, Puerto Rico.

Travellers can choose between the Sunset Hooch – a self-sufficient treehouse complete with master bedroom and kitchenette – and the Buddha Hooch, which is considerably larger and even has a penthouse suite which can be reached by ladder.

Exotic beaches, shops and restaurants are all nearby, but the spectacular views alone are enough to make this accommodation worth booking.

A Houseboat in South Africa

If you want all the luxury of a hotel but in a more unusual setting, Kraalbaai Houseboats are the ideal accommodation. Moored in the Langebaan Lagoon – an hour away from Cape Town by car – these floating houses are nothing short of idyllic.

There are two options to choose from: the Larus Houseboat and the larger Nirvana Houseboat, both with open decks, kitchen facilities and plenty of sleeping space. Aside from the beautiful accommodation, the location has everything – picture-perfect turquoise waters, outdoor activities galore and, of course, fresh seafood.

PRODUCTS YOU SHOULD HAVE WHEN STAYING IN ALTERNATE ACCOMMODATION: ↓

Powerfly Solar Powered Backpack

LifeStraw Personal Water Filter

CamelBak Chute 1L Water Bottle

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When it comes to planning your next trip, don’t head straight for the usual hotels – try one of these alternative options instead and experience your destination from a whole new perspective.

When it comes to planning your next trip, don’t head straight for the usual hotels – try one of these alternative options instead and experience your destination from a whole new perspective.

Megan is an Australian Journalist and award-winning travel writer who has been blogging since 2007. Her husband Mike is the American naturalist and wildlife photographer behind Waking Up Wild; a website dedicated to opening your eyes to the wild & natural world.

Committed to bringing you the best in adventure travel from all around the globe, there is no mountain too high, and no fete too extreme! They haven’t been everywhere, but it’s on their list.

Follow their journey on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Pinterest and Instagram.