Where to stay is a pivotal part of any trip, sometimes just as important as the destination itself. The place you rest your head can dictate not just the quality of sleep you get but the kinds of activities you choose, the people you meet, and the way you engage with the culture around you.

That’s especially true at these accommodations, which are anything but ordinary—combining thoughtful design with unique entertainment and access to nature. From a secluded forest cabin to a lively circus camp, these places run the gamut from serene oases to bustling community hubs, catering to travelers of all ages and persuasions.

The cabin’s exterior mimics the horn of a tuba (hence its name). katnkx via Instagram / Used with permission

1. Tubakuba 📍 Bergen, Norway

This rabbit-hole-esque cabin, designed by students at the Bergen School of Architecture in 2014, overlooks the city from its perch on a forested cliff.…