Staying in a cave hotel offers a unique lodging experience that blends ancient charm with modern comfort. This guide provides detailed information on ten exceptional cave hotels across Europe, ensuring a distinctive stay while keeping an eye on your budget.
1. The Cave Hotel – Matera, Italy
Location: Matera, renowned for its ancient cave dwellings.
Overview: Situated in the Sassi district, The Cave Hotel combines historical architecture with modern amenities. Rooms are carved into the tufa rock, providing a blend of authenticity and comfort.
Pricing: Rates start at approximately £80 per night. Off-peak travel (January or February) can reduce costs by up to 30%.
Pros: Unique historical setting with modern comforts and an on-site restaurant.
Cons: High demand during peak seasons can limit availability.
2. Sassi Hotel – Matera, Italy
Location: Matera.
Overview: Located within the historic Sassi district, Sassi Hotel offers a mix of cave and traditional rooms. The property is known for its comfort and proximity to key attractions.
Pricing: Prices begin around £90 per night. Booking during the off-season (November to March) can provide discounts of around 20-25%.
Pros: Excellent location and well-regarded service.
Cons: Some rooms may be smaller compared to newer hotels.
3. Hotel Cavusin – Cappadocia, Turkey
Location: Cavusin, Cappadocia.
Overview: Hotel Cavusin is nestled in the historical village of Cavusin, offering rooms carved into volcanic rock. It provides a rustic experience with modern conveniences.
Pricing: Rates start from around £50 per night. Travelling during off-peak months (November through March) may offer savings of up to 30%.
Pros: Close proximity to major Cappadocia sites like Göreme Open-Air Museum. Includes free Wi-Fi and breakfast.
Cons: Smaller room sizes and minimal sound insulation.
4. Argos in Cappadocia – Cappadocia, Turkey
Location: Uchisar, Cappadocia.
Overview: Argos in Cappadocia is a high-end cave hotel offering luxurious rooms integrated with historical architecture. It focuses on upscale comfort and stunning views.
Pricing: Prices start at approximately £150 per night. Off-peak travel (April-May, September-October) can offer savings of around 20%.
Pros: Luxurious interiors and extensive amenities.
Cons: Higher cost compared to other cave hotels in the region.
5. Cave Hotel – Granada, Spain
Location: Guadix, Granada.
Overview: The Cave Hotel in Guadix features traditional cave accommodations with modern amenities. Guadix’s cave houses offer comfort and unique style against the Sierra Nevada backdrop.
Pricing: Prices start at approximately £45 per night. Off-peak seasons can offer discounts of up to 30%.
Pros: Unique experience in a less tourist-heavy area, affordable pricing.
Cons: Limited availability of English-speaking staff.
6. La Casa del Miedo – Guadix, Spain
Location: Guadix, Granada.
Overview: La Casa del Miedo offers a distinctive cave hotel experience with charming and eccentric cave rooms. The property is known for its personal touch and local culture.
Pricing: Rates start at £40 per night. Discounts of up to 25% are available during off-peak months.
Pros: Authentic cave experience at a lower cost.
Cons: Less modern compared to other cave hotels.
7. Cave House Hotel – Santorini, Greece
Location: Oia, Santorini.
Overview: The Cave House Hotel in Oia features cave accommodations with modern design and spectacular views of the Caldera. The property combines traditional cave features with luxury.
Pricing: Rooms start at approximately £120 per night. Off-peak travel (March-April, October-November) may offer discounts of about 15-20%.
Pros: Stunning views and high-quality interiors.
Cons: Higher price point compared to more basic cave accommodations.
8. Cave Rooms by Oia – Santorini, Greece
Location: Oia, Santorini.
Overview: Cave Rooms by Oia provides stylish cave accommodations with impressive views of Santorini’s caldera. It offers a mix of traditional architecture and modern comforts.
Pricing: Rates start around £100 per night. Visiting during off-peak periods (March-April, September-October) may yield savings of up to 20%.
Pros: Scenic views and well-designed interiors.
Cons: Higher cost compared to other cave hotels.
9. Kea Cave House – Kea, Greece
Location: Kea Island, Greece.
Overview: Kea Cave House provides a serene cave stay on the less touristy Kea Island. It combines traditional cave features with contemporary amenities in a tranquil setting.
Pricing: Prices begin at £70 per night. Off-peak travel (April-May, September) can offer savings of up to 25%.
Pros: Quiet location with a unique cave experience.
Cons: Limited on-site amenities compared to larger properties.
10. Hotel Les Roches – Roussillon, France
Location: Roussillon, Provence.
Overview: Hotel Les Roches offers a distinctive stay in a cave hotel set amidst the ochre hills of Provence. The property combines rustic charm with modern conveniences.
Pricing: Rates start at approximately £90 per night. Off-peak travel (November-March) can provide discounts of around 20%.
Pros: Beautiful surroundings and unique cave setting.
Cons: Location may be less central for those looking to explore urban areas.
Conclusion
Europe’s cave hotels offer a unique lodging experience that marries historical charm with modern comfort. By considering off-peak travel and booking in advance, you can enjoy these remarkable stays while adhering to a budget. Each hotel on this list presents a different facet of cave dwelling, from luxurious options in Santorini and Cappadocia to affordable yet authentic stays in Spain and France.
