For an unforgettable night away from the ordinary, Petit Futé has put together a selection of the most surprising accommodations! In fact, some of our accommodations are quite imaginative when it comes to offering their guests out-of-the-ordinary bedtime experiences. Suspended in the air or in an exceptional building, there's something for everyone. And for those who want to wake up to a view of nature's most incredible animals, that's possible too. What if your next vacation in France was an opportunity to change your habits and turn your nights into unusual moments?
1- A cabin in the woods, Villalier (Aude)
On the outskirts of Carcassonne, in the heart of a 115-hectare estate, superb wooden cabins on stilts hide under the trees and appeal to our childlike souls. A perfect marriage of luxury and ecological spirit. All the comforts of home are provided, including a terrace area where you can enjoy a cup of coffee or read a book to the sound of the birds resting on the branches. Meals prepared with local produce can also be delivered to the cabin for lunch or dinner. The choice is yours: for two, as a couple or up to 4 with the kids.Click here for for rates and availability of this accommodation in the heart of nature.
Want to discover more things to do in Carcassonne? We recommend our article: Top 10 experiences in Greater Carcassonne!
2- Moulin de la Ganguise, Molleville (Aude)
Le Moulin de la Ganguise is an authentic, tastefully refurbished mill offering self-catering accommodation. Ideal for an unusual, almost self-sufficient stay, in an exceptional setting in the heart of the Occitan region. There's no doubt that time stands still here, and lovers of fine stonework will be delighted as they set down their suitcases in a rustically decorated room that follows the round shape of the mill. You'll also find everything you need to make a cup of tea or coffee, and simply enjoy the exceptional setting, between typical architecture and lush greenery. Many mills are no longer in operation in France today, but fortunately there are some who have the creativity to continue enjoying them to the full.
3- A transparent bubble in Allauch (Bouches-du-Rhône)
A special experience, with the chance to spend an unusual night under the stars in a peaceful, bucolic setting. The transparent bubbles offer every comfort, a little like sleeping in a soap bubble, with a perfectly unobstructed view of the sky and the pleasant surroundings. The site is set in the heart of a Provencal pine forest, and the colors and smells immediately put you in the vacation mood. What's more, Attrap'Rêves boasts a range of facilities and services to make your stay as rejuvenating as possible: swimming pool, spa, massage, the stuff dreams are made of.
4- Fougeret haunted castle, Queaux (Poitou-Charentes)
This 14th-century château, hidden by the forest, is said to be haunted by its former occupants... The owner recounts that those who sleep on the2nd floor hear murmurs and groans. Chills guaranteed, and no doubt you'll have to be ready for the experience! The concept is to settle into a room whose decor seems to have been frozen for centuries. No television, no wifi, here we go back to basics and fetch wood from the forest to build a fire. And when it's time to go to bed, you'll either fall asleep or keep your ears open for the slightest noise. So, are you ready?
Are you interested in castles? Discover our top 10 most beautiful castles in Europe!
5- A levitating bed at the Hotel Seven, Paris (Île-de-France)
Magic has happened, and the illusion is perfect! The levitating room in this concept hotel in the heart of the Latin Quarter features a suspended bed and a transparent, luminous, weightless shower. The different suites have their own unique atmosphere, with a choice of romantic, vintage, chic or sensual ambience, but the one that awakens all curiosity is the one where you feel as if the bed is flying through the air and David Copperfield is watching you from the corner of your eye. A place where magic and lightness await you... Are you interested in this unusual experience? Find out here about the hotel's rates and availability!
Not sure what to do in Paris? Discover the must-sees of Paris!
6- The dungeons of the Beauvoir Tower, Blois
Spend an unusual night in the comfortable "guest dungeons" of the Beauvoir Tower, France's oldest prison (11th century)! OK, so sleeping in a prison isn't exactly a dream come true, but in this case, it's an unusual experience that lets you immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the prisons of yesteryear, while enjoying all the comforts you need for a pleasant stay: sitting area and private bathroom. You can also enjoy breakfast on the terrace, with its superb panoramic view over Blois. And don't worry, you'll get out of there in the end!Click here for for rates and availability of this unusual hotel.
7- Kerbel lighthouse, Riantec (Brittany)
Become a lighthouse keeper for a night in Riantec. Climb the 125 steps of the ancient Kerbel lighthouse, perched almost 25 meters high, to admire the breathtaking view of the Brittany coastline, including the island of Groix, Quiberon Bay and Lorient. Lighthouses have a mysterious quality that fascinates all those who enter them, where you can feel the force of the sea and at the same time feel safe. Sleeping at the top of a lighthouse is an experience not to be missed, not only for the unusual aspect, but also because getting up high is a superb way to enjoy all the beauty of Brittany.
To find out more about Brittany, we invite you to discover Les incontournables de la région Bretagne!
8- An igloo in La Plagne (Rhône-Alpes)
Enjoy this atypical hotel made of ice and snow. A warm cocoon just a few meters from the ski slopes, with the added bonus of breakfast facing Mont Blanc! La Plagne is an ideal setting for all snow-related activities: cross-country skiing, downhill skiing, dog sledding, snowmobiling - there's something for everyone, and the setting is grandiose. So don't hesitate to take advantage of the icy atmosphere all the way, by becoming an Eskimo and sleeping in an igloo? For two or up to eight people, take advantage of the formula that will make your stay unforgettable.
See also our selection of must-sees in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region!
9- A bed on a cliffside in Annecy (Rhône-Alpes)
It's a truly unique and atypical experience for thrill-seekers! Suspended above Lake Annecy, the "portaledge" allows you to spend the night and have breakfast in complete safety, in front of a fabulous panorama. After a hike and a Savoyard fondue in the evening, it's time to settle into the vertiginous bed and simply enjoy the sun setting over the lake, and later the starry night. Everything is set up for optimum safety, and one thing's for sure: this is one night you won't forget.
10- A lodge in the heart of La Flèche zoo (Sarthe)
Since 2013, this zoo has offered several lodges with large panoramic windows , in close proximity to the animals. An invitation to escape! Comfort is optimal, with the sensation of being at the heart of a real safari in faraway lands, except that you're actually in the heart of the Sarthe, in a zoo renowned for the quality of its facilities. So rather than returning home after a day's visit, what could be better than waking up in the evening to a view of lions, cheetahs, Arctic wolves, white tigers or even polar bears swimming behind the bay window?
11- Bulles de Sologne
In the heart of the Sologne, these transparent bubbles plunge you into a unique experience of sleeping under the stars, while enjoying the comfort of a real cocoon. Isolated from each other, each bubble is positioned to offer total privacy, surrounded by the wilderness of the region. The transparent walls provide a 360-degree view of the starry sky and surrounding woods, creating a magical atmosphere from dusk onwards. In the morning, you're awakened by the sound of birdsong, with the opportunity to enjoy breakfast in the middle of nature, lulled by the tranquility of the surroundings. An extraordinary getaway, ideal for nature lovers in search of unforgettable moments.
12- Les Bulles de la Maison du Rocher
In the heart of the Fontainebleau forest, Les Bulles de la Maison du Rocher offers you the opportunity to spend an unusual night in total harmony with nature. These transparent, comfortably furnished bubbles let you sleep under the stars while staying warm and protected. Set amid lush vegetation, they offer a breathtaking view of the sky and the hundred-year-old trees that surround them. Total privacy and the silence of the forest envelop you for a night of complete disconnection. In the morning, wake up to the sound of birds and enjoy breakfast in the middle of nature, far from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. A rejuvenating and unforgettable experience, just an hour from Paris.
Find out more about the rates and availability of this exceptional accommodation and get ready for a magical night in the heart of nature.
13- Cottages Antoinette
Nestled in the heart of the Champagne vineyards, Cottages Antoinette offers a unique experience in a luxurious and intimate setting. These contemporary cottages, built in harmony with the surrounding countryside, combine modernity with rustic charm. Each cottage is equipped with all the necessary comforts, including a large bay window overlooking the vineyards, allowing you to take full advantage of the region's exceptional scenery. Inside, the meticulous decor blends wood and natural materials, creating a warm, soothing ambience. In the evening, after a day exploring the Champagne cellars, relax on your private terrace with a glass of local champagne. An ideal getaway for wine and nature lovers in search of serenity and refinement.
Click here to discover rates and availability for this exceptional venue, and treat yourself to an enchanted interlude in the heart of the Champagne vineyards.
14- Les Nids du Béarn
Perched in the trees in the heart of Béarn, Les Nids du Béarn invite you to enjoy an unusual experience in the heart of nature. These suspended wooden cabins offer total immersion in the surrounding forest, while providing all the comforts you need for a rejuvenating stay. Each nest, accessible by a small wooden bridge, is perfectly integrated into its environment and offers a breathtaking view of the Bearn mountains. Inside, a warm, uncluttered decor awaits you, with a sitting area, private terrace and sometimes even a Jacuzzi for ultimate relaxation. In the evening, you're lulled by the sounds of the forest, and in the morning, a breakfast basket is delivered to your door, ready to be enjoyed in peace and quiet. A perfect retreat for nature lovers in search of tranquility and escape.
15- Omira
Omira is a one-of-a-kind Love Room located in the heart of Bordeaux. This intimate, romantic venue is specially designed for couples in search of an out-of-the-ordinary experience. The decor, resolutely modern and sophisticated, blends contemporary design elements with sensual touches, creating a hushed and captivating atmosphere. Omira's highlight is its private Jacuzzi, ideal for two to relax in after a day exploring the city. The room is equipped with everything you need for a memorable stay, with soft lighting, a king-size bed and carefully thought-out details to create an atmosphere conducive to romance. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a romantic get-together, Omira offers an idyllic setting for an unforgettable night.
Find out more about the rates and availability of this exclusive Love Room and treat yourself to a romantic interlude in the heart of Bordeaux.
16- Lost in Sensations
Lost in the middle of the Gironde vineyards, Lost in Sensations offers an unusual and immersive experience in the heart of nature. The estate offers several types of atypical accommodation, from Mongolian yurts to transparent bubbles with a seventies design, to a lodge with an African feel. Each accommodation is carefully designed to offer optimum comfort while allowing direct connection with the surrounding nature. Whether you choose to sleep under the stars in a bubble or enjoy the warm atmosphere of a yurt, each option offers a total and exotic escape. When you wake up, let yourself be tempted by an open-air breakfast, surrounded by the tranquility of the wine-growing landscape. The perfect place for an original getaway, far from the hustle and bustle of the city, where a change of scenery is guaranteed.
17- La Petite Annick
Moored on the Bordeaux docks, La Petite Annick is a barge transformed into an unusual accommodation, offering a unique experience right in the heart of the city. With its carefully appointed interior, this barge combines nautical charm with modern comfort. The cabins are elegantly decorated with maritime touches, and the large portholes offer a breathtaking view of the water and surroundings. The lounge area invites you to relax, while the terrace on the upper deck is ideal for enjoying a glass of local wine while watching the sun set over the Garonne. La Petite Annick offers a quiet, romantic getaway, while remaining within easy reach of Bordeaux's main attractions. Whether for a night or a weekend, it's the perfect place to discover the city from a different angle.
Click here to find out more about the rates and availability of this exceptional barge and embark on an unforgettable night on the waters of Bordeaux.
18- Quai des Pontis
On the banks of the Charente, Quai des Pontis invites you to an unusual stay in a bucolic setting just a stone's throw from Cognac's historic center. The estate offers a variety of atypical accommodations, from tree houses to authentic roulottes, each with its own unique and charming atmosphere. Accommodations feature all modern comforts, with private terraces overlooking the river or surrounding gardens, perfect for relaxing in total serenity. The estate also boasts an outdoor swimming pool and a bicycle rental service for exploring the surrounding area. Quai des Pontis is a true haven of peace, where nature meets refinement, offering a complete change of scenery while being close to the famous Cognac distilleries.
Find out more about the rates and availability of this unique accommodation and treat yourself to an enchanted interlude on the banks of the Charente.
19- Domaine des Hauts de Rouquette
Domaine des Hauts de Rouquette, in Eymet (Dordogne)
Perched on the heights of the Dordogne, Domaine des Hauts de Rouquette offers you an extraordinary stay in the heart of an exceptional natural setting. The estate offers a variety of unusual accommodations, including perched cabins with panoramic views over the valley and luxurious lodges surrounded by greenery. Each accommodation is meticulously furnished, combining modern comfort with a rustic ambience, for total immersion in nature. The private terraces are ideal for enjoying breakfast with a view of the surrounding hills, or for admiring a sunset in complete tranquillity. The estate is also a perfect base from which to discover the riches of the Dordogne, with its picturesque villages and historic sites. Domaine des Hauts de Rouquette is an invitation to relax and get away from it all, far from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Click here for rates and availability of this enchanting estate, and get ready for an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Dordogne.
20- La Fontaine Airmeth
In the heart of the Breton countryside, La Fontaine Airmeth is an unusual accommodation that will delight lovers of nature and biodiversity. This unique 13.50 m² giant beehive invites you to an immersive experience close to bees, thanks to a glass wall that lets you observe a swarm in full activity from the comfort of your living room. The interior design is warm and nature-inspired, with eco-friendly materials and a soothing atmosphere. Set in lush green surroundings, this bed and breakfast also offers access to a peaceful garden where you can relax while listening to the buzzing of bees and birdsong. La Fontaine Airmeth is a true haven of peace for those seeking to reconnect with nature while enjoying an unusual experience.
Would you like to discover other places to spend an unusual night? Discover our article on the world's most unusual hotels!
Where to spend an unusual vacation by the sea?
Tree houses by the sea - Brittany, France
- Enjoy breathtaking views of the Atlantic coast from a tree house. Brittany offers many options, such as tree houses overlooking the Iroise Sea.
Stay in a lighthouse - Île de Ré, France
- Sleep in a historic lighthouse converted into accommodation. Île de Ré has lighthouses where you can stay, surrounded by the sea and the island's natural beauty.
Floating village - Venice, Italy
- Stay in a floating home in Venice or the surrounding lagoons. It's a unique way to explore the canals and live on the water in magical surroundings.
What to do for an unusual vacation as a couple?
Stay in a tree house
- Where: Anywhere in France, including Brittany and the Alps.
- Experience: Enjoy a romantic stay in a tree house, surrounded by nature, sometimes with breathtaking sea or mountain views. Some sites offer options with private Jacuzzis.
Overnight in a bubble under the stars
- Where: Provence, France or the Canaries, Spain.
- Experience: Sleep in a transparent bubble in the middle of nature, with a 360° view of the starry sky. This experience allows you to spend a magical night under the stars in comfort.
Stay in a Mongolian yurt
- Where: In the mountains of the Pyrenees or in Morvan, France.
- Experience: Live like nomads in a traditional Mongolian yurt, in the heart of nature, but with all modern comforts. Perfect for total immersion and a return to basics.
