10 Hidden Gem Hotels You Won’t Believe Actually Exist
In the vast expanse of the travel industry, there are iconic hotels that often dominate the limelight. But hidden beneath the radar are some extraordinary properties—hidden gems, if you will—that offer guests unparalleled experiences. These hotel books defy the ordinary, blending unique designs, remote locations, and immersive experiences that make them stand out as some of the most remarkable accommodations in the world. Whether nestled in jungles, perched on cliff edges, or floating in the middle of a serene lake, here are 10 hidden gem hotels you won’t believe actually exist.
1. Hoshinoya Karuizawa – Nagano, Japan
Tucked away in the mountains of Nagano, Japan, Hoshinoya Karuizawa feels like a step into another world. This tranquil retreat is designed to be in harmony with nature, blending traditional Japanese ryokan aesthetics with modern luxury. Surrounded by dense forests, bubbling streams, and the majestic Mount Asama, this eco-friendly resort encourages guests to unwind and reconnect with nature.
The property also focuses heavily on sustainability, harnessing local geothermal energy and offering nature-centered activities like forest meditation and bird watching. The highlight, however, is the resort’s famous hot springs (onsen), where guests can soak in mineral-rich waters while enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Why It’s a Hidden Gem: It’s not often on the radar of international travelers, making it the perfect sanctuary for those seeking privacy and serenity in a timeless setting.
2. Amangiri – Canyon Point, Utah, USA
Amangiri is a minimalist luxury hotel located in the desert of Southern Utah. It’s a place where architecture and nature seamlessly blend into one cohesive experience. The resort, surrounded by striking rock formations, offers unparalleled views of the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.
Each suite is designed to offer panoramic views of the desert, with floor-to-ceiling windows that allow the golden hues of the canyon to flood in. The crown jewel of the property is its one-of-a-kind pool that wraps around a massive rock formation, giving guests the sensation of swimming in the middle of the desert.
Why It’s a Hidden Gem: Its remote location makes it a destination in itself, offering a rare opportunity to disconnect completely and immerse yourself in the rugged beauty of the American Southwest.
3. Keemala – Phuket, Thailand
Keemala is a lush tropical escape like no other. Located in the hills above Phuket, this boutique resort is far removed from the tourist hotspots. The accommodations here are what truly set it apart—guests can choose between treehouses, clay cottages, or even bird’s nest-inspired villas, all of which are draped in greenery and overlook the Andaman Sea.
Inspired by mythical Thai tribes, Keemala’s design is rooted in ancient traditions and nature-centric principles. The spa offers treatments based on traditional Thai medicine, and the resort’s commitment to wellness extends to its locally sourced organic food.
Why It’s a Hidden Gem: The whimsical architecture and secluded location provide a completely unique experience, making Keemala feel like a sanctuary hidden deep in a fairytale forest.
4. Treehotel – Harads, Sweden
If you’ve ever dreamed of staying in a UFO or a mirrored cube in the middle of a forest, Treehotel in Sweden is the place for you. This collection of seven distinct treehouses, each with a different concept, is located in the serene forests of Northern Sweden. The Mirrorcube reflects its surroundings, blending almost invisibly into the landscape, while The UFO is a quirky, futuristic escape.
Guests can enjoy activities like hiking, dog sledding, and even northern lights tours during the winter months. For those seeking an unusual, immersive nature experience, Treehotel delivers a stay that’s truly out of this world.
Why It’s a Hidden Gem: The unique architecture and the magical setting in the middle of a Scandinavian forest make it one of the most surreal places to stay on Earth.
5. Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort – Saariselkä, Finland
Imagine falling asleep beneath the shimmering northern lights from the comfort of your own glass igloo. This fantasy becomes reality at Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort, located in Finnish Lapland. The resort is famous for its glass igloos, which provide unobstructed views of the Arctic sky, perfect for watching the aurora borealis.
In addition to the igloos, guests can stay in traditional log cabins or snow igloos. The resort offers a plethora of winter activities, such as husky sledding, reindeer safaris, and ice fishing. A visit to Kakslauttanen isn’t just about accommodation—it’s an immersive Arctic adventure.
Why It’s a Hidden Gem: Staying in a glass igloo in the heart of Lapland while witnessing one of nature’s most stunning phenomena is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, yet it’s often overlooked by many international travelers.
6. Mashpi Lodge – Mashpi Reserve, Ecuador
Deep within the Ecuadorian cloud forest, Mashpi Lodge feels like an isolated paradise. The lodge is an architectural marvel, with floor-to-ceiling windows that open up to breathtaking views of the surrounding forest. Every aspect of the hotel is designed to immerse guests in nature while maintaining a high level of luxury.
Mashpi Lodge offers a variety of nature-based activities, including guided night walks, birdwatching, and canopy tours. The biodiversity in the surrounding area is incredible, with hundreds of species of birds, plants, and animals calling the forest home.
Why It’s a Hidden Gem: Its remote location within an ecological reserve ensures a true connection with nature, offering an escape from the modern world in one of the world’s most biologically diverse regions.
7. Aqua Dome – Längenfeld, Austria
Set amidst the stunning Austrian Alps, Aqua Dome combines futuristic design with the natural beauty of a thermal spa resort. This extraordinary hotel features multiple pools filled with thermal water, surrounded by towering mountains, offering guests a therapeutic and scenic experience.
The hotel’s “levitating” pools are its standout feature, elevated above the ground and providing panoramic views of the alpine landscape. Aqua Dome also boasts extensive wellness facilities, including saunas, steam rooms, and a state-of-the-art fitness center. The resort caters to adventure seekers and relaxation enthusiasts alike, offering a perfect balance between outdoor activities and luxurious pampering.
Why It’s a Hidden Gem: The unique combination of futuristic architecture, natural hot springs, and alpine scenery creates an extraordinary wellness experience that is still largely under the radar for international travelers.
8. Huilo Huilo Nothofagus Hotel – Patagonia, Chile
Rising from the dense forests of Chilean Patagonia, the Nothofagus Hotel is a marvel of eco-friendly design and architecture. Built from natural wood, the hotel’s circular design and treehouse-like structure make it blend harmoniously with the surrounding forest. Large windows bring the outdoors inside, allowing guests to feel connected to the lush, green environment.
Located in the Huilo Huilo Biological Reserve, guests can explore the surrounding waterfalls, rivers, and mountains. The hotel is deeply committed to sustainability, offering a range of eco-tourism activities that promote conservation and respect for the environment.
Why It’s a Hidden Gem: Its off-the-beaten-path location in the heart of Patagonia, combined with the extraordinary design, makes it a perfect retreat for nature lovers and adventurers looking for something out of the ordinary.
9. Anavilhanas Jungle Lodge – Amazon Rainforest, Brazil
Anavilhanas Jungle Lodge offers an immersive experience in the heart of the Amazon Rainforest. This boutique eco-lodge is situated on the banks of the Rio Negro, one of the Amazon’s major tributaries, and offers guests the chance to explore one of the world’s most fascinating and biodiverse ecosystems.
The lodge is built with sustainable materials and operates with a focus on minimizing environmental impact. Guests can embark on guided jungle treks, canoe through flooded forests, and visit indigenous communities to learn about their way of life. Each accommodation at the lodge provides a blend of rustic charm and modern comfort, allowing guests to enjoy the wonders of the jungle in style.
Why It’s a Hidden Gem: The remote location in the Amazon Rainforest, combined with eco-conscious luxury, makes Anavilhanas Jungle Lodge one of the most unique and enriching travel experiences in South America.
10. Adrère Amellal – Siwa Oasis, Egypt
Adrère Amellal is a desert retreat unlike any other. Located near Egypt’s Siwa Oasis, this eco-lodge is built entirely from local materials, including mud and salt rock. The hotel has no electricity, relying instead on natural light and candles to create an atmospheric ambiance. Despite the lack of modern conveniences, Adrère Amellal offers a luxurious experience with handcrafted furniture, organic meals, and breathtaking views of the surrounding desert landscape.
Guests can explore the nearby salt lakes, wander through ancient ruins, or simply relax in the tranquil atmosphere of this desert hideaway. The blend of ancient tradition and modern luxury makes Adrère Amellal an unforgettable escape into Egypt’s mystical past.
Why It’s a Hidden Gem: Its remote location, unique construction, and commitment to sustainability make it a hidden treasure in the middle of the Egyptian desert, offering a deeply immersive and off-grid experience.
Conclusion
In a world where mass tourism often leads to overcrowded and cookie-cutter experiences, these hidden gem hotels stand as a testament to the beauty of the unexplored. From glass igloos in the Arctic to eco-lodges deep in the Amazon, these properties offer more than just a place to rest—they offer an experience. They blend seamlessly with their surroundings, prioritize sustainability, and give travelers a chance to connect with nature in extraordinary ways. Whether you’re an adventure seeke
