When planning your next getaway, ditch the traditional hotel room and opt for something a little more exciting! If you have recently been stuck in a timeshare agreement, that you may have had to end through the use of either timeshare exit companies or lawyers, you might be feeling ready to experience something truly different from your past vacations. We have 5 truly unique lodging experiences that will make your next Washington vacation one to remember.
Hobbit House
Have you ever wanted to know what it is like to live like a hobbit? Well now you can! Inspired by J.R.R. Tolkien’s novels, the Underground Hygge is available to rent on AirBnB. It is a perfect choice for anyone interested in experiencing life in The Shire. Nestled into a hillside with breathtaking views of the Columbia River, the home was a passion project for builder Kristie Wolfe. This is evident from the many handcrafted details throughout the home. The interior is filled with wooden elements such as a carpenter table, books of riddles, pastries (or should we say Lembas bread?) and an over-sized fireplace. And the hobbit community is growing which will make securing a reservation at this popular destination much easier in the future. Wolfe has plans to build more hobbit homes on the property, along with a communal kitchen that will look like an English pub.
Insider tip: you will need to hike about 5 minutes from the parking area to the Hobbit House, so keep that in mind as you are packing your bags for your trip.
A Train
It doesn’t get much more unique than sleeping in your own private train caboose converted into a Bed and Breakfast. At the Red Caboose Getaway in Sequim, each caboose has been transformed into a luxurious suite complete with a fireplace, beverage center and cozy robes. These charming structures are located around a pond so that you fall asleep to the sounds of nature. In the morning, you will enjoy a four-course locally-sourced breakfast in an old dining car.
Insider Tip: Planning to go on a whale-watching tour during the day? They will even pack you a sack lunch to take along!
Yurts
If you like the idea of sleeping in a tent, but you’re not quite ready to leave the comforts of home behind, spending the night in a yurt might be just for you! In recent years, “glamping” has become more popular, leaving no shortage of yurts in the PNW for you to try. You can find basic yurts at many of the Oregon State Park which come with electricity and heat. You can also book their deluxe yurts which also include a bathroom and kitchen. Or try one of the many privately-owned yurts on AirBnB where your imagination is the limit when it comes to comfort and amenities. The Thiselle Creek Farmstay is your very own wellness retreat complete with a sauna, an outdoor heated bathtub, and wood burning fireplace. Additionally, it is located on a 20-acre farm, so you get to share the space with baby lambs, ducks, and sheep!
Houseboats
Anyone who has ever seen Sleepless in Seattle has likely dreamed of a night in a houseboat. With over 50,000 miles of waterways in Washington, there is no shortage of houseboat communities for you to choose from. Whether you are looking for something quirky and small or large and luxurious, a houseboat is a one-of-a-kind way to experience the maritime traditions of the PNW.
Ross Lake Floating Resort
Vibrant turquoise water surrounded by the North Cascade mountains makes Ross Lake one of the outdoor splendors of Washington. Which means a night at Ross Lake Resort is a ‘must’ for your PNW bucket-list. Built in the 1950’s, Ross Lake Resort consists of twelve individual floating cabins and three bunkhouses. With no road access, this remote resort is accessible only by ferry or via a 1-mile hike. Once there, you will have access equipment for many recreational activities including kayaking, boating, fishing, hiking and more.
There is no shortage of unique lodging experiences in the PNW. Didn’t find what are looking for here? Be sure to check out some of the other Northwest getaways featured on Actively Northwest!
Underground Hygge image used with permission from: Kristie Wolfe
Tags: floating resort, hobbit house, houseboats, lodging
