World’s most bizarre hotels

Despite the world's wealth of disparate locales and host of hotel options, from design boutiques to hovels and everything in between, finding a unique one can prove difficult. They're out there, though. A temporary lodge in the arctic circle, a one-room venture 155 metres underground, an undersea resort, a nautical-themed historical house, and other curios comprise The World's Most Bizarre Hotels.

Behind the News

ICEHOTEL, Jukkasjärvi, Sweden

While many a bizarre hotel has world renown, Sweden's ICEHOTEL is the most famous. Located 200km inside the Arctic Circle, the ICEHOTEL began as an art installation before blossoming into the coldest lodge anywhere. Seasonably available, it has a cachet-birthing transience. Utilizing the nearby Torne River, construction annually begins in November, opening in its first phase on December 10th. From there, it adds sections, including the Absolut-sponsored ICEBAR and various suites, completing its process two days before the new year. Art still plays a major part in the concoction. No two ICEHOTEL incarnations are the same, with differing design concepts from year to year. Tip: long johns may not be cool but, seriously, don't go without. Also, worry not about shrinkage (there's nothing you can do about it).

Sala Silvergruva Hotel, Sala, Sweden

Claustrophobics should stop reading now. Located 155 metres underground, Sala Silvergruva is not so much a hotel as a single subterranean bedroom. And it's stunning. Located in a preserved Swedish silver mine, it's a candlelit space that's about as private as one can get. There's only the aforementioned bedroom and the underground staff consists of one de facto butler/server/etc. that sees to guest needs, including breakfast and dinner. The ad hoc hotel comes with a banquet hall and washroom facilities and... a mine. The place teems with industrial history and aesthetic and geographical curios. Tip: don't watch The Descent beforehand (you don't even know what I'm talking about, do you?).

Songjiang Hotel, Songjiang, China

Songjiang Hotel may not yet exist, though reps assure me it's coming. So, it gets a mention on this list. Like ironic moustaches, the environmentally aware epoch will not soon disappear. Of all recent trends (with the possible exception of high-waisted jeans and plaid), earth-friendliness is the most welcome. However, this heightened level of awareness need not preclude striking and innovative design. Projects can blend environmental sensitivity with aesthetic panache; Atkins' Songjiang Hotel concept does both. Interacting with the landscape symbiotically, the multi-star, 380 room resort will slide into the 100-metre tall quarry. A hideaway, it will have its own ad hoc lake and natural views of nearby rock (probably prettier than it sounds). Did I mention it's in a damn quarry?