The meaning of getting away has been diluted somewhat in recent years. With travel now accessible to millions, even some of the world’s most far-flung destinations are packed with tourists, making a much-needed reset even harder.
But fear not, because tucked away in the wee’er corners of the planet (and sometimes hiding in plain sight), there are still plenty of hidden escapes where the wilder inhabitants and natural world outweigh the human presence.
These are the most remote stays in the world.
High-Dollar Hideaways
Whichaway Camps Antarctica
Location: The Antarctic
Price: $40,000+
Vibe: Ultimate in adventure
The rundown: Antarctica represents the pinnacle of exploration. Never inhabited by more than a few scientists at any one time, the barren ice world is the subject of endless bouts of curiosity. Whichaway Camps offers a rare chance to experience the continent at its luxury campsites.
Prices are astronomical, but it’s understandable how complex a visit to Antarctica is. If you’re lucky enough to be able to afford it, you’ll be treated to remarkable luxury in the most hostile of climates, complete with a private chef and expert-led expeditions. Unbelievable stuff.
Deplar Farm
Location: Iceland
Price: $4,000+
Vibe: Luxury under the Northern lights
The rundown: The Scandinavians continue their run of astonishingly remote retreats with Deplar Farm. The picturesque hotel was converted from a sheep farm, blending in seamlessly with the bleak but sublime surroundings.
Adventure is at the heart of every stay at Deplar. Guided exploration of the area, mountain biking, whale watching, and of course, celestial gazing with a prime Northern Lights position. Back at the lodge itself, floor-to-ceiling windows make sure you never forget where you are, while the luxurious guestrooms are a guarantee you’ll get some good rest when your adventures for the day are done.
Pater Noster
Location: Sweden
Price: $1,200+
Vibe: Scandinavian sea escape
The rundown: Scandinavia’s breathtaking landscape lends to a sense of remoteness, even if you’re not too far from civilization. But this island escape takes things to new extremes.
Originally built in the 1800s as a lighthouse to guide ships through the treacherous waters off Sweden’s coast, the island was considered inhabitable. Instead, it now boasts a luxury hotel only accessible by boat or helicopter. The name Pater Noster literally means Lord’s Prayer, as seamen would whisper it to themselves as they navigated past the lighthouse. Despite the solitude and bleak surroundings, it’s a tremendously luxurious hotel. Also, the bed up top is a real option for sleeping there.
Mid-Priced Middle of Nowhere
Alyeska Resort
Location: Anchorage, Alaska
Price: $187+
Vibe: Northern hospitality
The rundown: If you’re staying in the US, it doesn’t get much more remote than Alaska. The country’s disconnected state is overwhelmingly big, so finding a piece of solace within its borders won’t be too hard.
As for a place to stay, you’ll be hard-pressed to find somewhere better than Alyeska Resort. Located about 40 miles from Anchorage, the resort was built as a basecamp for exploring the wilderness—at any time of year. While skiing is the premier attraction, there’s a vast array of activities and new pursuits to discover during your stay. And when you return to the hotel, you’ve got a world of luxury to kick back in. Perfect escape.
Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort By Anantara
Location: UAE
Price: $350+
Vibe: Bedouin fortress of solitude
The rundown: From one sea to another—this one made of sand. Housed in an ancient Bedouin fortress, the Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort rises from the desert in spectacular fashion. It’s already developed a reputation for luxury, offering a taste of the sublime in the most isolated of locations.
Stays incorporate aspects of the Bedouin culture, so expect nights spent under the stars, camel treks, and desert exploration to be the bread and butter of your experiences. Back at the hotel, you’ll fall back into opulent guestrooms, fantastic food, and top-tier service. You won’t forget your time here in a hurry.
Low-Cost Castaway
Likuri Island Resort
Location: Fiji
Price: $56+
Vibe: Budget Island without breaking the bank
The rundown: Prices are high for some of the properties on this list—not here. The stunning Likuri island Resort rates start at just $50 a night. You’ll need to wrangle a boat to get there, but once you do, you’re in paradise.
It’s Fiji, so you can anticipate its stereotypical pristine beaches and perfect water, while the resort will keep you busy with adventurous island activities. Being away from everything else will never look so good.
by travelers, for travelers.
