Here at Cheapflights, we’re all about traveling on a budget — but that doesn’t mean we don’t appreciate a travel splurge every now and then. Although cheap flights and budget hotels can make it easier to travel to the destinations of your dreams, there’s no denying that some hotels are simply worth the splurge. From ancient castles to whimsical stays in the heart of Peru, these seven hotels are definitely worth the splurge — even if it’s just for one night.
Belmond Sanctuary Lodge, Machu Picchu, Peru
The ancient ruins of Machu Picchu have remained a mystery for centuries, and you can experience the wonder of this incredible Incan site for yourself with a private stay at the luxurious Belmond Sanctuary Lodge. Offering exclusive views of Machu Picchu unlike anywhere else, this private retreat is the only property to sit adjacent to the site. The stunning backdrop of the mountain’s structures and ruins surround you everywhere at Belmond Sanctuary Lodge, whether you’re sipping coffee on the terrace or taking a peaceful stroll through the private garden. Plus, you’ll have easy access to Machu Picchu — meaning you can wait for the tourists to clear out and stroll through this ancient wonder without the crowds. Between jaunts to the ruins of the Incan citadel, you can take jungle treks, take part in traditional ceremonies, enjoy an aromatherapy treatment or even have your cocoa leaves read in traditional fashion. If you’re going to do Machu Picchu, you might as well do it right by splurging on a night at Belmond Sanctuary Lodge.
Ice Hotel, Jukkasjarvi, Sweden
Take your love of winter to the next level with a one-night splurge at the incredible Ice Hotel in Jukkasjarvi, Sweden. Made completely of ice and snow, this chilly hotel is unlike any other, boasting in-room ice carvings, snow art and even beds and chairs made completely from ice. If you’re going to brave the cold, be sure to book the Art Suite or the Northern Lights Room. The former features incredible snow and ice sculptures by international artists, while the latter celebrates the beauty of the aurora borealis with a lighted art installation that replicates this natural phenomenon. If you really want to splurge during your stay, you can even sign up for one of the Ice Hotel’s forthcoming Space Journeys by Virgin Galactic. Back on planet Earth, you can always splurge a little closer to home with a drink or two at the hotel’s Ice Bar.
Hoshinoya Kyoto, Kyoto, Japan
How often does your commute to your hotel include a quaint boat ride up a tranquil river? At the waterside Hoshinoya Kyoto, the boat ride to and from sets the tone for a deeply relaxing introduction to this historic Japanese city. Once you arrive at this luxurious ryokan, you’ll be set for a zen-like stay along the river in your expansive room with sweeping views of the outstandingly manicured grounds. The food here alone is worth the splurge, as tradition meets sophistication in the seasonal menu (the Japanese breakfast is not to be missed). Even just one night at Hoshinoya Kyoto will have you recharged and ready to tackle the rest of your stay in Japan.
Ashford Castle, Ireland
Who wouldn’t want to live like a king or a queen for a day? Experience a taste of royal life for yourself with a one-night splurge at Ireland’s Ashford Castle, a five-star experience set on 360 acres of rolling greenery. As the home of Ireland’s first falconry school, it’s only fitting that guests are able to master this ancient art for themselves with a hands-on class. If falconry isn’t quite your cup of tea, you can always indulge in other well-to-do pastimes like horseback riding, tennis, golf, archery, fishing or clay shooting. Don’t forget to top it all off with a spot of afternoon tea.
The Library Hotel, New York City
Book lovers headed to New York City won’t want to leave before splurging on a night at The Library Hotel, where everything from the lobby to the rooms are fully decked out in a bibliophile’s fantasy. Floors are themed after the Dewey Decimal System, and even the wall behind the front desk is made to resemble an library’s book catalog. More than 6,000 books can be found throughout the hotel, and you can enjoy your pick of the library with a glass of Prosecco and a selection of cheeses and crackers during the evening receptions. For any book-lover, this is a must-splurge.
Hapuku Lodge, Kaikoura, New Zealand
It’s amazing how the region of Kaikoura can fit in so many natural wonders in such a relatively small space, but somehow, this New Zealand gem does. Snow-capped mountains, an abundance of marine life and grand views of the sea are Kaikoura’s calling cards, and if you’re making the trip, you can take it to the next level with a stay at Hapuku Lodge. Treat yourself to a tree house that immerses you in the region’s natural environment for a splurge you won’t soon forget.
Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, Hawaii
While it’s easy to see why Hawaii would top any travel bucket list, you probably don’t want to spend your entire time on the island surrounded by crowds of tourists. If you’re going to make the trip, make it unforgettable by splurging on a stay at the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai. Make one of their two-story bungalows your home base for a trip back in time to a quieter Hawaii, where the waves lap at your feet and you feel as if you have the entire island to yourself. Before tackling more crowded tourist attractions, splurge at the Four Seasons with a dip in the lava rock pool, a traditional class at the onsite cultural center, or dinner on the sand as you watch the sun set over the ocean.
(Main image: Belmond Sanctuary Lodge)
