Sound nutty? Read on to learn about some of the most unusual places to stay in the UK. Feeling fruity? Book yourself into a 75-foot pineapple! At Dunmore Park, near Stirling in Scotland, guests can bed down in a giant pineapple-shaped stone folly, which was built for the earl of the region back in the 18th Century, when pineapples were considered the height of tropical sophistication. Rooms can be booked through The Landmark Trust.

Dunmore Pineapple, Scotland, UK by giannandrea

For a romantic stay that is a little less off the wall, how about a night in a lighthouse cottage? There are over 30 lighthouse cottages in the UK that have been converted for use as holiday lets and all enjoy incredible sea views, wonderful proximity to wildlife and a feeling of being alone in a rural retreat. Perfect for snuggling up to a partner on a chilly night with a bottle of wine.

Not lofty enough for your tastes? How about spending your holidays in a windmill? In Cley Village, Norfolk, a windmill has been transformed into a wonderfully romantic place to stay, with four-poster beds, log fires, hidden rooms and viewpoints that are perfect for bird watching. There are six bedrooms, making it a good choice for holidays with friends or family.

Cley Windmill, Norfolk, UK by Martin Pettitt

A night in a prison may sound like most people’s idea of a night out gone very, very wrong, but here in the UK a night in the cells can actually be a pleasure. Just check in to Malmaison Hotel in Oxford, a 19th-Century former correctional facility that now offers all the mod-cons that one could ask for, including a cocktail bar, flat-screen TVs and an acclaimed restaurant. To compare cottages take a look at this site.

Many original features, such as the metal prison landings, have been preserved, giving an almost eerie feel to the place. The prison-turned-plush-hotel lies in the grounds of Oxford Castle, whose history stretches back to 1701.

Malmaison – Oxford Castle, England, UK by Douglas Neiner

For less lavish accommodations, the scary-sounding House of Correction in Folkingham, Lincolnshire, offers limited-frills lodging for up to four in a building that is part of a former prison.

For something a little more fun, the Treehouse in Somerset is a wonderful place for small and big kids alike. Located in a rural Somerset idyll, it makes a great romantic retreat, with a wood stove and a spiral staircase leading to a comfy double bed and a vintage-style roll top bath.

There’s even a hot tub outside and in this remote setting guests are unlikely to be troubled by onlookers.

Treehouse in Somerset, England, UK by treehouseholidays.com

To really escape the madding crowd, head to Dent Station in Yorkshire. This Grade II-listed building is not open for overnight visitors (but exclusive accommodation can be booked in advance) and is four miles from the nearest village.

As unusual accommodation options go, spending the night in a train station is up there with the best of them and the views over the Yorkshire Dales are second to none.

Also in scenic Yorkshire, the Temple Flooy in Swinithwaite is an 18th-Century landmark and was built to allow local ladies to watch their men on fox hunts.

The expansive views take in mile after mile of glorious Yorkshire countryside and the two-room folly has its own kitchen, along with a balcony and a host of original features.

Written by John a Traveller and writer in the UK. He has written for many reputable publications including The TravelSupermarket Site.

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Located in the South Eastern region of Europe, Greece has earned a reputation as one of the most popular holiday destinations in the world. The country is actually an island in its own right. It is surrounded by the Aegean Sea on the eastern side, the Mediterranean on the southern and the Ionian Sea on the western border. A fifth of the country is mainly islands.

Greek Island of Thassos by Ronald Saunders

The reason the islands are popular is because they are so many of them that one is usually spoilt for choice as to which to visit. They all have beautiful beaches, breathtaking landscapes and support an array of fun activities. Visiting Greece may be one of the best things you ever treat yourself to. With a rich culture, wealth and good food, you can never get bored in Greece. Moreover, the natives are naturally friendly and will make you feel right at home!

The main highlight of Greek tourism is the ancient and rich civilization. The amazing landscape has also created a perfect tourist attraction feature. This is one of the countries that are exciting to tourists and this keeps them coming back for more.

Different islands

Each island in Greece has its own individual beauty and different tourist attractions. Some of the most revered islands by tourists are Paros, Santorini, Mykonos, Naxos, and Andros.

These islands are also popular among couples on honeymoon. They provide a quiet, fun and romantic place to be. Most hotels in the islands have honeymoon packages that make the couples’ stay easier. Travel agents also provide tourists with visits to several islands. Due to the moving around, Greece has been considered by many as an expensive holiday destination. However, with proper planning, it is a cost that is manageable.

Little Venice – Mykonos island, Greece by Allan Henderson

Other major attractions in Greece are the Parthenon on the Acropolis in Athens and the most popular Temple of Delphi. Another thing that attracts people in large numbers to this country is the beautiful serene sun kissed beaches with its white sands and the pine and palm forests. A holiday to Greece is not just refreshing, but totally incomparable and unforgettable. There are many hotels to choose from. Choose one that is within your budget but one with all the desirable amenities that will make your stay there fun. As you move from island to island, you can also change the hotels to widen your experience of the area.

Cuisine

Greece has one of the richest cuisines in the world. Their food is usually made from fresh ingredients that make the food more tasty and tantalizing to the taste buds. It is recommended that you eat in the local tavernas as these will have food at a cheaper rate, compared to the 3-star and 5-star hotels. There is food for everyone, even the vegetarians. Most of the hotels along the beach serve their food outside. This creates a perfectly romantic setting for those on honeymoon. Greece is a package that promises fun, fun, and more fun!

The next time you think you deserve a holiday, think Greece!

Touristorama is a Greece tourism website that specilaises in providing information about Greek isalnds such as Paros, Syfnos, and many more.

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