Camping is a favourite holiday pastime for many travellers and families, but did you know there are some extra unique and quirky options out there?
Here are some destinations where you can pitch a tent and enjoy a camping experience – with a twist.
Waldseilgarten Höllschlucht, Germany
Nestled among picturesque mountains of Germany there is a place where you can camp overnight, suspended from majestic trees offering incomparable views and a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
How does it work? At the Waldseilgarten Höllschlucht, a sturdy rope is tied to a solid tree branch, and from it dangles your very own tent, swaying gently in the breeze. The beds are cosy and you'll get one of the most spectacular bedtime views in the world. Remember, you're not trapped up there – you can get down if you need to use any of the facilities below.
If you're not sure you want to brave this most extreme form of camping in the trees, there are also options to sleep amongst the branches on a secure wooden platform or amongst sturdy mountain rock.
The Waldseilgarten is less than two hours' drive from Munich, and is accessible via public transport, too.
Hotel Kakslauttanen, Finland
If you've ever wanted to know what it's like to sleep soundly ensconced in an icy igloo, now's your chance. At the Hotel Kakslauttanen in Finland, you can stay in a snow or glass igloo, a log cabin and even what's known as Santa Claus' very own home.
Those who opt for a stay in a glass igloo can look forward to beautiful views of the night sky, and during the wintertime, the awe-inspiring colours of the Northern Lights dancing above. Even if the temperature is icy outside, you'll be nice and warm with plenty of luxurious facilities. These glass igloos are available between August and April.
With a snow igloo, you can experience the true thrill of wilderness camping. A thick layer of packed snow will protect you from the elements. Even if it's below 40 degrees Celsius outside, your very own igloo's temperature will be between minus six and minus three. Don't worry, you'll have all the thick blankets and layers you need to stay toasty warm during this special adventure.
What's more, if you want to warm up even more at any point, you can always head to the hotel's sauna.
The closest airport to Kakslauttanen is the Ivalo Airport. This is just a 30 minute shuttle bus ride from the hotel.
Treehotel, Sweden
Sleep up high in the trees once again, this time in Sweden. Choose from five treerooms, each with their own unique design and special features, with more rooms to be added to the complex in the future.
You'll have access to your personal treehouse by ramp, bridge or electric stairs, so you can easily make your way to your dwelling, suspended between four and six metres above the ground. From there, you'll be treated to stunning views of the Lule River as well as surrounding trees and wildlife.
The largest treerooms can cater to four people, and you can expect each room to have its own distinct character with different decor. You'll also notice this establishment goes to great lengths to preserve its environmentally friendly credentials. Water efficient appliances, combustion toilets and other modern features mean the treerooms have a minimal impact upon the surrounding environment.
You can find the Treehotel approximately an hour from the Luleå (Kallax) airport by car.
These days, camping doesn't have to mean pitching a tent and cooking around a fire. With unique options springing up around the globe, you can choose from a whole range of experiences.
