Digging into Luxury: Where History Meets Hospitality
Nestled amidst breathtaking landscapes and steeped in rich history, cave hotels worldwide offer an unparalleled fusion of luxury accommodation and ancient charm. From the otherworldly landscapes of Cappadocia and Matera, Italy to the rugged cliffs of the American Southwest, these remarkable establishments beckon travelers seeking an unforgettable escape.
Whether carved into sandstone cliffs, nestled within historic cave dwellings, or repurposed from ancient structures, each hotel promises a journey back in time with modern comforts and awe-inspiring views.
Here are some remarkable cave hotels around the world:
- Cappadocia Cave Hotels, Turkey: Cappadocia is famous for its fairy chimneys and unique landscape. Many cave hotels in this region offer guests the opportunity to stay in beautifully restored cave dwellings, providing a unique blend of luxury and history. Some notable options include Sultan Cave Suites, Kelebek Hotel and the Museum Hotel.
- Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita, Italy: Located in the ancient town of Matera, this hotel offers guests the chance to stay in caves inhabited since prehistoric times. The rooms are beautifully restored, preserving the original cave architecture while providing modern comforts.
- Cave B Estate Winery & Resort, USA: Nestled in the scenic Columbia River Gorge in Washington state, Cave B offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Guests can stay in luxurious cliff-side suites built into the rock, enjoy wine tastings at the on-site winery, and explore the nearby hiking trails.
- Amangiri, USA: In Canyon Point, Utah, Amangiri is a luxury resort built around a central swimming pool that curves around a massive sandstone butte. Some suites are built into the rock and offer breathtaking views of the desert landscape.
- Gamirasu Cave Hotel, Turkey: In the heart of Cappadocia, Gamirasu Cave Hotel offers guests a unique experience of staying in cave rooms that Byzantine monks once used. The hotel combines modern amenities with ancient architecture, providing a peaceful retreat in a historic setting.
- Cave Hotel Sassi, Italy: Another gem in Matera, Italy, Cave Hotel Sassi offers guests the chance to stay in beautifully restored cave dwellings that date back to the Paleolithic era. The hotel’s unique architecture and rich history make it a remarkable destination for travelers seeking a one-of-a-kind experience.
- Kokopelli’s Cave Bed & Breakfast, USA: Located in Farmington, New Mexico, Kokopelli’s Cave offers guests the chance to stay in a cave-dwelling carved into the sandstone cliffs of the American Southwest. The cave features modern amenities and stunning views of the surrounding desert landscape.
- Les Hautes Roches, France: Situated along the Loire River in France’s picturesque Loire Valley, Les Hautes Roches is a luxury hotel housed in a series of troglodyte caves. Guests can enjoy gourmet dining, spa services, and wine tastings surrounded by centuries of history.
- Hotel La Claustra, Switzerland: Nestled in the Swiss Alps, Hotel La Claustra offers guests the chance to stay in a former military bunker carved into the mountainside. The hotel features cozy rooms, stunning mountain views, and access to outdoor activities such as hiking and skiing.
- Yunak Evleri, Turkey: Located in the historic town of Urgup in Cappadocia, Yunak Evleri is a boutique cave hotel that offers guests a unique blend of modern luxury and traditional charm. The hotel features beautifully restored cave rooms, a spa, and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Did you know?
The Kokopelli’s Cave Bed & Breakfast in New Mexico, USA, was originally intended to be a geological research office? However, after being completed in the 1980s, it was transformed into a unique underground hotel, offering guests a one-of-a-kind experience in the heart of the American Southwest.
A little history:
Cave hotels have a rich history dating back centuries, with some of the earliest examples found in regions like Cappadocia, Turkey, where ancient civilizations carved dwellings into soft volcanic rock. These caves provided natural shelter and protection from the elements.
Over time, as civilizations evolved, these caves were repurposed into hotels, offering travelers a unique place to rest and rejuvenate. In Matera, Italy, cave dwellings known as “sassi” have been inhabited since prehistoric times, and many have been transformed into boutique hotels, preserving their historic charm while offering modern amenities.
Cave hotels continue to capture the imagination of travelers worldwide, providing a glimpse into our ancient past while offering a truly unforgettable experience.
