Written by Chelsey Pippin and originally posted on BuzzFeed.
1. Kasbah du Toubkal, Morocco
The luxurious Kasbah du Toubkal is nestled in Morocco’s High Atlas Mountains. The unique hotel features spectacular and unparalleled views, and is an easy commute to lively Marrakech.
2. Grootbos Private Nature Reserve, South Africa
Located on the edge of the ancient Milkwood Forest, the Grootboos Private Nature Reserve is a five star hotel with a five star view of South Africa’s awe-inspiring wilderness.
3. Kapari Natural Resort, Greece
Kapari Natural Resort combines tradition and luxury for a stunning Grecian getaway. The resort makes use of a 300 year old structure, recently restored but preserving the unique architecture and style of the Greek seaside.
4. The Brando, French Polynesia
The Brando is the crown jewel of Tetiaroa, a private island in French Polynesia. Twenty minutes by private jet to Tahiti, the property is exclusively accessible to hotel guests and researches.
5. Southern Ocean Lodge, Australia
This stylish resort on Australia’s Kangaroo Island offers a stunning cliffside view of the ocean. Southern Ocean Lodge is just a short distance from Kelly Hill National Park, and boasts a spectacular spa.
6. Pacuare Lodge, Costa Rica
Overlooking the Pacuare River, ranked among the most scenic rivers in the world, the Pacuare Lodge is made up of stunning private villas with dazzling rain forest views. Guests reach the lodge by raft and can enjoy the spa and leisure facilities or venture out into the rainforest for custom tours.
7. Fogo Island Inn, Canada
The sleek and minimal Fogo Island Inn in Newfoundland combines top-of-the-line design with local flair, boasting an attached art gallery and 29 suites designed by local artists.
8. Rubondo Island Camp, Tanzania
Local materials are the base for all of the luxury cottages at the Rubondo Island Camp on Lake Victoria in Tanzania. A haven for endangered species, the island offers a unique experience to engage with untouched wildlife while enjoying a comfortable and sustainable hotel experience.
9. Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge, South Africa
Safari in style at the Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge, a unique and gorgeous hotel on the South African plain. The area is full of free roaming big game – catch sight of lions, elephants, cheetahs, and more with just a glance out your suite window.
10. Sakau Rainforest Lodge, Borneo
The Sakau Rainforest Lodge overlooks the bank of Borneo’s Kinabatangan River, offering a front row seat to the area’s wealth of wildlife. Elephants and orangutans abound in the jungle just beyond this eco-conscious accommodation.
11. Nimmo Bay Wilderness Resort, Canada
The family-owned Nimmo Bay Wilderness Resort is nestled in the centre of the Great Bear Rainforest in British Columbia. Guests reach the resort via helicopter and enjoy an all-inclusive experience, from tours of the awe-inspiring forest to windsurfing to yoga in a state-of-the-art studio.
12. Sayari Camp, Tanzania
For an intimate and incredible experience on the Serengeti, look no further than Tanzania’s Sayari Camp. Located just beyond the Kenyan border, Sayari Camp blends luxury and adventure with its lovely tented suites.
13. Tswalu Kalahari, South Africa
South Africa’s largest private game reserve has everything: stunning scenery, amazing wildlife, and top-of-line accommodation. With a state-of-the-art spa on site, access to dedicated field guides, and an eco-friendly attitude, Tswalu Kalahari is a well-rounded and beautiful safari experience.
14. Lizard Island, Australia
The breathtaking beachside resort in Australia offers private beaches and access to the Great Barrier Reef. The location is heaven for divers, and even guests who don’t care to put a toe in the water can enjoy Lizard Island’s world famous spa and amenities.
15. Tierra Atacama, Chile
Built where an old cattle corral used to stand, the Tierra Atacama boutique hotel combines a taste of history with modern design elements for a truly unique getaway in Chile. The hotel promotes an “adventure spa philosophy,” and is all about encouraging guests to get out in the beautiful surrounding oasis area by day, and rewarding a hard day’s exploring with luxury amenities at the hotel.
16. The Ranch at Rock Creek, Montana
Located at the base of the jaw-dropping John Long Mountains with a spectacular view of the mountain range and surrounding area, The Ranch at Rock Creek is simply awe-inspiring. Outdoorsy guests can take advantage of the Ranch’s proximity to several National Parks, and return home to beautifully furnished private lodges.
17. Three Camel Lodge, Mongolia
The exceptional Three Camel Lodge began as a cooperative project between the Bulgan Sum Township and Gobi-Gurvansaikhan National Park authorities to supports onsite paleantology research, and is committed to reducing poaching in the area. Through hospitality services at the lodge, where guests have the opportunity to stay in a Ger, traditional Mongolian felt tents, the project is able to fund its efforts.
18. Mashpi Lodge, Ecuador
This one-of-a-kind rainforest hideaway brings modern design to the Ecadorian Rainforest. Remote and completely surrounded by dense wildlife, Mashpi Eco Lodge is a unique fusion of high-concept design and natural beauty.
19. Zhiwa Ling Hotel, Bhutan
The gorgeous architecture of the Zhiwa Ling Hotel was conceived by a local company in Bhutan, and expertly combines traditional beauty with top-of-the-line amenities, including heated floors during the cold months. With completely hand-made facade and interior design, the Zhiwa Ling keeps its modern influences underwraps but available, so that guests can enjoy both beauty and luxury in full.
20. Longitude 131, Australia
The unique and minimal pavilions of of Australia’s Longitude 131 give the stunning landscape centre stage for guests, who can enjoy understated luxury of the hotel’s open design without missing a single glimpse of the rich natural beauty of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park.
21. Tierra Patagonia, Chile
Located on the breathtaking coast of Patagonia, Chile the Tierra Patagonia hotel is the perfect place to stay while exploring Patagonia’s diverse landscape. Built into the hillside and looking out at the Torres del Paine, this boutique offers architectural and natural marvels.
All selections from National Geographic’s Unique Lodges of the World.