5 Unusual Places to Stay In Europe... |
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Here five different ideas of places to stay in Europe that are not hotels. Most of them are a little less expensive than a regular hotel. Plus, you'll be seeing a different side of the country you're visiting.
How about spending the weekend in a light house? There is a tiny Adriatic island, Palagruza, halfway between Italy and Croatia. The lighthouse was built about 1875 and they rent out two two-bedroom apartments which are serviceable but basic. However, it's located in a nature reserve surrounded by beautiful pebble beaches and unbelievably clear water. As of this writing (Aug. '06), rent for one week, including boat transfers to/from the island of Korkula are less than $400 USD. (Visit www.lighthouses-croiatia.com for more information.) Next would be the Carbisdale Castle in Scotland, just 45 minutes from Inverness. Here you'll stay in a castle located in a crag-top location with ornamental stonework, an imposing tower, and a very impressive gallery of statues and paintings. Enjoy wandering through the old library, the dining room, and the ballroom. However, this is run by the Scottish Youth Hostels Authority, so you won't receive hotel-style service during your stay. Still, it would be great fun for one night. Only a short drive away, you'll find other castles, nature walks and tiny historic villages to explore. (For details check out www.carbisdale.org.) When in Rome, enjoy a relaxed stay in a nunnery. That's right, there are convents, "houses of hospitality," in Italy's capital that offer overnight accommodations and while not deluxe, you'll find pleasure in simple things - the panoramic views from a roof top garden, or a terrific location just steps away from the Spanish Steps. Le Suore di Lourdes on Via Sistina 113 is one possibility; call them at 06-474-5234. What about a European RV, compact rolling homes,also known as "roulettes?" Once used mainly by gypsies, they're now available in Provence, the gypsy's spiritual homeland, in spring and summer months. There are three models to select to stay in, and you may choose to stay parked in the garden of Le Mas du Pastre, or you may travel with it. This hotel was built in 1750 as a shepherd farmhouse; today, it has been totally renovated with air conditioning, Jacuzzi and heated pool. The same family which first built the farmhouse are direct descendants from that family now run this lovely hotel. If you wish to travel in your "rv," Roulotes du Padal will set you up with a horse and four-bedded caravan for less than $900 a week. (Please visit www.mastredupastre.com and www.roulottes-du-pradal.com for additional information.) If you're going to Prague, consider staying in a boat instead of the more expensive riverfront hotels. Admiral Botel is a boat-turned-into-hotel, permanently docked at the city center. Onboard there are 87 cabins, a restaurant, and nightclub. The staterooms were recently refurbished, have private bathrooms, and are shipshape with TVs and the like. At this time, double rates start at about $100 USD per night and include breakfast. (Since their website is not in English, please contact your travel agent to make. Enjoy a different sort of "hotel" stay on your next trip to Europe. Bon Voyage! |