The new holiday rentals that offer a one-of-a-kind escape
For a trip that you'll talk about for years to come, it's worth seeking out the most unusual holiday rentals. Finding a unique place to stay is a great way of wowing your other half on a romantic escape or finally getting that girls' trip out of the WhatsApp group.
Whoever you're taking with you, tracking down unusual holiday rentals means you might find yourself sleeping in a stylishly renovated hacienda in New Mexico, a former fisherman's house on the Azores, or a French château that sleeps almost 50. Or perhaps you'd prefer the gothic glamour of a restored church on the edge of the Scottish Highlands or the cultural intrigue of a Portuguese wine estate.
Luckily, design-focused holiday accommodation expert Welcome Beyond has a collection of one-of-a-kind places to stay around the world. In this unique list, we've selected some of our favourite amazing holiday homes that combine luxurious, modern touches with historic character, intriguing backstories and unique architectural touches.
If you're after a sun-dappled beach holiday, you might want to keep it classic and book into a gorgeous Greek island villa with striking sea views and the best spots for sundowners. Or you can switch it up with a stay in a brutalist bungalow in Mexico, with views of the dramatic Sierra Madre mountain range and the sound of the Pacific Ocean beckoning you to nearby beaches.
A word to the wise – the most unusual holiday rentals book up fast, so it's worth planning ahead and snapping up your stay before everyone else does. Here are 10 of our favourite unusual holiday rentals to book now...
Villa Divina III, Skiathos, Greece
The trump card of this four-bedroom Greek island haven has to be its dreamy sea views, which can be enjoyed from dawn til sunset (golden hour is exceptional here). A vast infinity pool and spacious outdoor terraces provide plenty of settings from which to drink in the incredible vistas.
The rest of the villa is equally beautiful – sleek, modern and impeccably finished, with bedrooms sumptuous enough to avoid any room allocation disagreements. It's located within a short distance of scenic beaches, as well as Skiathos Town and the Mandraki Natural Reserve.
Sleeps: 8
The Highland Tower, Crieff, Scotland
Unusual holiday rentals come in every shape and size – and this one is decidedly ecclesiastical. This three-bedroom apartment stands within a former church in the Scottish town of Crieff, which is famous for its whisky. The building's original church tower still stands, and from a corridor inside the apartment, it's possible to see inside all the way to the top.
A spiral staircase is another standout feature of this unusual holiday rental, leading up to a living and dining area with a beautiful Bulthaup kitchen and a balcony. Continue up the tower and you'll find a viewing platform with seating from which to enjoy views of the pretty town and majestic surrounding hills.
Sleeps: 6
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Wine and Art Villa, Greater Lisbon, Portugal
This striking property unites two natural bedfellows: art and wine. The airy, spacious rental is set in a beautiful viticultural landscape, spread across two buildings connected by an underground tunnel. the first is home to a gallery-like kitchen and living space, adorned with modern art, while the second contains three blissful bedrooms.
One of the best features is outside: a vast wine estate on your doorstep, which is yours to explore for the duration of the stay. With an infinity pool on the roof too, there are surprises around every corner of this unusual holiday rental.
Sleeps: 6
Azores House, Azores, Portugal
Once a fisherman's house, this charming sage-shuttered property overlooks the wild Atlantic Ocean on the secluded Portuguese islands of the Azores. It's located in Fajã do Calhau on São Miguel, with only lush greenery and salt air for neighbours.
Inside, the house has been updated to create a cosy setting from which to retreat from everyday life. The design follows a minimalist approach so that guests can focus on the striking setting and memorable views. An amazing holiday rental that all your friends will want to book after you...
Sleeps: 2 (plus 2 on a sofa bed)
Château bord de Loire, France
For a property that lets you live out the French château fantasy, look no further than this unusual holiday rental. This renovated property stands on a 200-year-old estate at the heart of the Sancerre wine region, containing an astonishing 24 bedrooms and 22 bathrooms. There's also a large swimming pool, wood-fired sauna and a Nordic bath, spread across an eight-acre garden.
Rolling hills and timeless vineyards surround this unique property. Inside, meanwhile, the design has a mid-century, modern aesthetic that provides a welcome contrast to the 200-year-old setting.
Sleeps: up to 47
Stockholm Apartment, Stockholm, Sweden
If you're on the hunt for amazing holiday homes, don't miss this centrally located Stockholm apartment, located within a historic building in Gamla Stan at the heart of the city. The traditional features of the property have been preserved, including original wooden details and doors (with most dating from the 18th century).
The modern touches are a study in Scandi chic, making this a great place to stay for some design inspiration. Some of the city's best cafes and restaurants can be found on the doorstep, while the Royal Palace is a two-minute walk away.
Sleeps: 2
Bungalow, Guerrero, Mexico
Hidden on an inconspicuous dirt road, this brutalist hideaway is cheerful, chic and completely unexpected. It was transformed from a California-style hacienda that had fallen into disrepair to an indoor-outdoor haven featuring raw concrete and rustic touches combined with refined details like locally sourced oak cabinetry and handmade Mexican tiling.
Guests staying here can also enjoy dramatic views of the Sierra Madre mountain range and the breezy sound of the Pacific Ocean. There are beautiful beaches nearby too, the closest of which is a five-minute walk away, and surfing opportunities abound.
Sleeps: 4
Hinterland Hall, Massachusetts, USA
This one-of-a-kind property certainly ticks the boxes for those seeking unusual holiday rentals. It used to be known as Old Stone Church, a Gothic Revival building constructed in 1836, but it has been transformed into a unique place to stay for two.
The owners have carried out a painstaking renovation that has preserved the original spirit and characterful features while introducing chic, minimalist interiors and a neutral colour palette. A fully restored mahogany hand-pumped organ – one of the oldest of its kind in the country – is a highlight.
Sleeps: 2
The Hacienda, New Mexico, USA
This 18th-century hacienda is like something out of an interior design book, located in the creative community of Galisteo in New Mexico. It was originally crafted from mud and stone, but the owner has now created a soothing retreat within, maintaining the distinctive style while adding chic elements to create a brilliantly unusual holiday rental.
The hacienda is surrounded by hiking trails and scenic ranches with some A-list owners (including designer Tom Ford). Santa Fe is another great place to visit nearby, with its thriving arts scene including the Georgia O’Keefe Museum.
Sleeps: 6
Casa Sao Braz, Faro, Portugal
Hidden among the thriving countryside outside the capital of southern Portugal’s Algarve region, Faro, this private pad is ideal for going off-grid in style (while remaining surprisingly close to the airport and blissful beaches). Mountainous views and wildlife mean it's easy to reconnect with nature here.
Inside, services and amenities make this property a refreshingly relaxed take on a wellbeing retreat; there's an honesty bar fully stocked with local drinks, and guests can arrange a private chef to serve traditional breakfast or dinner. Massages and yoga classes are also available.
Sleeps: 8
More rentals to browse:
- The best Airbnbs in Lake Como
- Stylish villas in the South of France
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