You’ve heard of the Seven Wonders of the World, now get ready for Contiki’s own version… our seven wondrous Europe Special Stays! These are not your average hotels or hostels, this accommodation is life changing (yeah, we said it). Traditional and classic, or just super cool, all of these special places are totally stand-out…
1. Château de Cruix, France
Our legendary 16th century Château in the Beaujolais of France is a rite of passage for many travellers. Since 1977, Contiki groups have been heading to the wine region to picnic in the hills, wander the vineyards, do yoga on the lawn, sample divine French cuisine and party in the bar and outdoor pool.
Stay there on: Lots of our trips! We recommend European Adventurer.
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2. Villa Lena Agriturismo, Italy
Experience Tuscany in an Italian villa that is like something out of a movie – and just so happens to be a very cool not-for-profit art foundation. Go truffle hunting in the wild forests, dine on fresh produce at the farm-to-table restaurant, relax under the warm Tuscan sun and learn a thing or two from the resident artists.
Stay there on: Italian Espresso.
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3. Castillo del Buen Amor, Spain
Want to live in a fairytale? This Spanish Castle outside Salamanca will help those dreams come true. With all the charm of the UNESCO World Heritage Old City of Salamanca, there’s plenty to explore inside and outside the castillo. Swim in the massive pool in the grounds and gaze up at the majestic 15th-century castle.
Stay there on: Fiestas and Siestas.
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4. Gasthof Schoneck, Austria
Surrounded by the snow-capped Austrian Alps, bubbling rivers and iconic vistas, our cosy, traditional Gasthof is exclusive to Contiki. It’s your gateway to the Austrian snowfields and endless adventures like hiking, biking and white water rafting. The beds are comfy, the restaurant serves traditonal pork rosti and the lounge room and bar are cosier than your favourite sweater.
Stay there on: Lots of our trips! We recommend European Whirl.
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5. Riad Africa, Marrakech
Okay, we know that Morocco isn’t in Europe, buuuuut Contiki includes Moroccan trips in some Europe itineraries. In fact, our Moroccan Riad is too good to miss out. This stunning hotel has rooms facing inwards to an open-air pool that is quite simply, bliss. Made from three traditional merchant houses, our riad has two swimming pools, a spa, a rooftop restaurant and a cookery school, not to mention gorgeous Moroccan design and decor throughout.
Stay there on: Morocco or Spain, Morocco & Portugal.
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6. Midgard Base Camp, Iceland
Imagine this: you’re relaxing in a spa under the night sky, you gaze up and there they are – the Northern Lights. Amazing right? Well, that can be a reality at the Midgard Base Camp we stay at in Iceland. Relax in the rooftop sauna and hot tub, take in the dramatic landscapes and silence of Hvolsvöllur in Iceland.
Stay there on: Fire and Ice
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7. Noah Surf House, Santa Cruz, Portugal
Surfing meets chill, Portuguese vibes meet an eco-conscious approach to travel. Noah Surf House on Portugal’s golden west coast is all about being at one with the sea. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach or get involved with surfing, skating or yoga, this is so much more than a place to stay. The hotel and hostel is super eco-friendly and has a range of measures in place that aim to make it as energy efficient as possible, watching all water usage and waste management.
Stay there on: Portugal City & Surf
Image source:Contiki
