Special Overnight Stays in 2025: Where Are Your Opportunities?

August 20, 2025

Unusual stays are rapidly growing in popularity. Guests are no longer satisfied with a standard holiday rental; they’re seeking experiences that truly stand out. Whether it’s sleeping in a treehouse or staying in a cosy tiny house by the water, how will your business set itself apart in 2025? In this post, we’ll explore the latest trends, showcase inspiring examples, and share practical tips to help you offer unique accommodations that your guests will adore.

What Makes an Overnight Stay Special?

A “special” accommodation typically stands out in three main ways:

The Location
A property with a stunning view or a unique setting, perhaps tucked away in the woods, right by the water, or perched high above it all, makes an immediate impression.
The Type of Accommodation
Think beyond the ordinary: church conversions, sky cabins, gypsy wagons, tiny houses, treehouses, or any unusual property that’s far from a standard bungalow. These quirky spots are the ones that truly capture attention.
The Interior
A themed, artistic, or historically inspired interior adds character and provides guests with a richer experience. Thoughtful details help create memorable stays and stories that guests are eager to share.

When these three elements come together, guests book an experience, not just a place to stay.

Trends in 2025: Experience, Sustainability, and Design

Guests, particularly younger generations, are increasingly seeking experiences over amenities. For many in their twenties and thirties, it’s not about extra space or luxury; it’s about something truly unique.

Sustainability is also a major priority for today’s eco-conscious travellers. They are drawn to properties built with circular materials, energy-neutral designs, and eco-friendly features such as solar panels and green roofs.

Finally, design plays a key role. Guests appreciate stylish interiors, whether minimalist, retro, or industrial. A well-designed space doesn’t just enhance their stay; it also encourages them to capture photos and share their experience on social media.

Inspiration from the Field: How Our Users Are Doing It

Many of our Booking Experts users are already embracing unique accommodation types. Here are some standout examples:

Wellness Stays: Accommodations featuring saunas, hot tubs, or outdoor showers, similar to those at Park Berkenrhode, Hof van Salland, TopParken, and Onthaasten in the Achterhoek, offer extra value to guests.
Tiny Houses: Small, cleverly designed spaces, often luxurious, like those at Vakantiepark Ackersate, Oesterdam Resort, and MarinaParken.
Sustainable Wrap Houses: Made from materials like cardboard or circular materials, these eco-friendly options are popping up at places like De Klepperstee and Beerze Bulten.
Waterfront Stays: Cottages right by the water, perfect for swimming, sailing, or fishing, are offered at spots like Tusken de Marren, Strandweelde, and MarinaParcs.
Themed Accommodations: From the Van Gogh chalet at Duinhoeve Recreation Park to farm-themed bungalows at Mölke Holiday Park, themed stays offer guests a fully immersive experience.
Sky-high Stays: Accommodations in sky cabins, treehouses, or on stilts provide a unique perspective of nature. You can find these at places like Camping de Koeksebelt, Vreehorst, Si-Es-An, and Sandberghe.

Why Special Accommodations Matter

Offering unique accommodations gives you a major visibility boost:

On your website and social media
In online ads and campaigns
On OTAs and tour operator platforms
Through affiliate blogs and influencers

Guests seeking something truly special are often willing to pay a premium, creating a win–win situation for both them and your business.

Maximise Your Reach with OTAs

Several OTAs focus exclusively on special accommodations, such as Vipio, Nature. House, and Special Villas. These platforms attract guests specifically seeking unique experiences, making them ideal for extending your reach beyond mass-market platforms.

Through Booking Experts, many of these OTAs are easy to connect with via the App Store. You can manage everything centrally while boosting your visibility on platforms that align perfectly with your unique offerings.

Getting Started

You don’t need a huge investment to offer exceptional accommodations. Start small, perhaps with a tiny house, a wellness upgrade, or a themed interior, and see how it enhances your rental results. High-quality photos, a compelling story, and smart distribution channels will help your property stand out.

Want to Chat About Your Options?

Curious how we can help you turn your park or campsite into a hub for unique stays? Reach out, and we’ll happily brainstorm ideas together!