Nathaniel Berman is founder of Housely, a design and real estate blog tracking trends in domestic architecture. In this article,he takes us through a stunning array of homes, cabins and castles that are not just for looking at, but also for rent through airbnb, the popular online marketplace that enables anyone in the world to rent out their property.
Airbnb has changed the way that people look for accommodations when they travel. By searching the website, people from all over the world can reserve spectacular homes, bed-and-breakfasts and other unique places that they would never be able to find through other means. Many facilities give you the ultimate in luxury and scenery, often at surprisingly reasonable prices. Located all over the world, you can find unique architecture and historic getaways that make for perfect vacation homes for design enthusiasts.
Most of the listings are available for longer stays if you will be visiting for more than one night, and there is something to interest just about everyone. These homeowners are proud to showcase their magnificent homes to the public, and they look forward to hosting your next vacation. If you haven’t explored Airbnb yet, then you are in for a pleasant surprise — Keep reading for some of the most spectacular listings on the site.
Dairsie Castle, Fife, Scotland
According to its owners, this 12th-century castle has been the home to countless secret meetings and has given refuge to fleeing royalty over many centuries. The magnificent property sleeps 13 people and has ensuite bathrooms in most of the bedrooms. The master bedroom features three beds and would be perfect for family use. Located very close to St. Andrews and about one hour’s drive from Edinburgh, the castle rents for $687 per night.
Aegean Island Villa, Styria, Greece
This breathtaking villa located in Styria, Greece, sleeps 11 and has nine beds and five bathrooms. Located on South Evvia, this secluded getaway has striking views of the Aegean Sea and is conveniently located near Athens. The property includes six buildings with two dining rooms, two kitchens and five bathrooms as well as a spectacular outdoor area featuring a saltwater swimming pool, Greek bread oven, steam room and sauna. There is also a barn conversion that sleeps up to eight additional guests. This villa rents for $572 nightly.
Schwartz House, by Frank Lloyd Wright, Two Rivers, Wisconsin, United States
This unique home was built in 1938 and was featured in Life magazine for being Frank Lloyd Wright’s embodiment of the perfect home. Located in Two Rivers, Wisconsin, this unique piece of history accommodates eight guests. The property is located in a small fishing town, and there is a private dock for fishing. This one-of-a-kind home rents for $425 per night.
Historic English Castle, Cumbria, United Kingdom
Built in 1841, this beautiful property features all of the ostentatious design features that you would expect from a classic English castle. This sprawling estate features 15 bedrooms and has evening meals available. Situated in scenic Northern England, the castle can be booked for groups of up to 30 guests, but individual bookings are also available for $193 per night.
Cubehouse, Rotterdam, Netherlands
Located in Rotterdam, South Holland, Netherlands, Piet Blom’s architectural marvel sports a 360-degree view room for relaxing as well as all the modern conveniences one could ask for. There are two bedrooms and one bathroom over three floors within the “cube.” The property is located next to the train station, and Amsterdam is a short train ride away. This unique house rents for $155 per night.
Via Airbnb
Palm Springs Retreat, Palm Springs, California, United States
This beautiful home was built in 1934 and was once owned by Bing Crosby. Situated in what is called the Old Movie Colony, the historic home can host eight people, with four beds and four bathrooms. The huge, 32,000-square-foot property includes a spectacular swimming pool and a full wet bar with provided accessories. With breathtaking views of the San Jacinto Mountains, this getaway rents for $675 per night.
Tile House, Twentynine Palms, California, United States
This one-of-a-kind house is located in Twentynine Palms, California. It sleeps four and has two bedrooms and one bathroom. There is a private courtyard and pet gate access. This fabulous getaway is private and quiet. There is also a pullout bed for an extra guest or a child. This house is made of a mosaic of tiles and ceramics. It has a one-of-a-kind design and has all of the modern conveniences including very reliable Wi-Fi. The deck has a fire pit and is great for relaxing in the evening. This house rents for $175.
St. Pancras Clock Tower Guest Suite, London, United Kingdom
This breathtaking guest suite provides a unique opportunity to spend the night in a British clocktower. The guest room is actually a mini apartment complete with an ensuite bathroom and connecting kitchen. This spacious facility is located in St. Pancras Station in London, United Kingdom, and sleeps up to four individuals. This space rents for $206 per night.
Via Airbnb
Cottage Close to Geysir, Uthlid, Iceland
This cottage is located near Uthlid, Iceland. The architecture and location of this home allows for breathtaking views and a relaxing retreat. The geothermal-powered house is located in one of the most popular destinations in Iceland, known as the Golden Circle; it is situated on an old lava field and was completed in 2010. The house is kept warm year round by geothermal pipes that run throughout the floor and rents for $220 per night.
The Seashell House ~ Casa Caracol, Isla Mujeres, Mexico,
Located in Isla Mujeres, Mexico, this extraordinary structure is a beautiful yet comfortable getaway. The owner and builders of the home act as hosts for the property, which offers facilities including a sculpted swimming pool and lots of space inside and out. Details throughout the house are inspired by seashells. The house rents for $308 per night.
Via Airbnb
Villa San Gennariello B&B, Portici, Campania, Italy
This spectacular villa is located in Portici, Campania, Italy. Its luxurious design combines classic architecture with historic antiques. Unlike many Airbnb rentals, this is an authentic B&B, and the owner lives on site to host your getaway. It is located in close proximity to Naples and the Herculaneum and Pompeii excavations. This large facility accommodates up to nine individuals but is available for single-room bookings at just $69 per night.
ElquiDomos Astronomic Hotel, Paiguano, Coquimbo, Chile
This breathtaking getaway retreat is located in Paiguano, Coquimbo, Chile. The hotel is one of a total of seven astronomic hotels in the world. It is comprised of seven geodesic domes and possesses unique architectural features. The property offers amazing views and is centered around the sky and nighttime activities. Hosting astronomical tours and nighttime horse rides, the hotel offers lodgings for $196 per night.
Container Home, Palma de Mallorca, Spain
This unique space is located in Palma de Mallorca, Balearic Islands, Spain. The container home has plenty of windows for great views and light and includes a private barbecue area and a small pool. This quiet little home is located 10 minutes walking distance from public transportation, is available for two people and has one bathroom. It rents for $160 per night.
Via Airbnb
Modern Glass Tree House, Atlanta, Georgia, United States
Located in Atlanta, Georgia, this stunning house is made from glass typical of Modernist architecture. The bright and spacious home has an open floor plan and is located within a mature hardwood forest. It has all the features of any modern-day home, boasts enough space for four guests and is available to rent for $500 per night.
Mushroom Dome Cabin, Aptos, California, United States
According to its owners, this geodesic dome home is the most popular Airbnb listing in the world. It is situated on 10 acres and has an array of farm animals to visit with. The property is situated in the trees and boasts a private deck. It sleeps two comfortably, but arrangements can be made for a baby or an extra adult. This unique cabin rents far in advance and can be yours for the night for $115.
Off-grid itHouse, Pioneertown, California, United States
This home is secluded and provides all of its own utilities. Located in Pioneertown, California, this home can provide a unique opportunity to experience life from a different perspective. This house has won many awards for its architectural design and is considered a top-notch stay in Southern California. It has all of the modern conveniences a guest could need and is located in a quiet area for peaceful enjoyment. The great home rents for $380 per night.
Via Airbnb
Secluded Intown Treehouse, Atlanta, Georgia, United States
This one-of-a-kind house is actually resting high above in the trees. It is located right outside of Downtown Atlanta, sleeps two and has one bathroom. This lovely house features the best possible linens and bedding and is very comfortable and spacious. The listing has been featured in magazines and television shows and is on the most-wished list on Airbnb. It rents for $350 per night.
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All images via Housely unless otherwise noted
