This B&B Is Carved Into The Side Of A Cliff

Vacation like a hermit for $260 a night.

To some, dream vacations mean beach, sand, sun and endless partying. To others, dream vacations entail retreating into a cave for complete peace and solitude.

If the latter is more your speed, Kokopelli’s Cave will allow you to do just that—and better than anywhere else.

Named one of the world’s 10 most unusual hotels by National Geographic, the bed and breakfast in Farmington, New Mexico is one of a kind. Guests stay inside a man-made cave that’s carved into 65-million-year-old Tertiary Ojo Alamo sandstone. Located on a vertical cliff, the hotel overlooks the scenic La Plata river valley.

It’s the ultimate off-the-grid destination, whether you’re the adventurous type or just looking for a place to kick back and relax. (Seriously, just imagine the good night’s sleep you’ll get in a cave.) The suites are built around a large central sandstone pillar, and consist of a master bedroom, living area, replica Native American kiva (a room used for religious and political ceremonies), dining area, full kitchen and bathroom. If that doesn’t sell you, there’s also a waterfall shower, a Jacuzzi tub and a balcony with views of the desert landscape.

The hotel’s site advises guests to pack light, and after extensive research, I’ve concluded there are two things you should definitely bring: a good camera and walking shoes. The establishment is located 70 feet below the mesa surface. To enter, guests must walk down a sloping path made of steps cut into the sandstone, and if you’re clumsy like me, you’ll want to avoid slipping on the rocks. Plus, it’ll be worth going up to the cliff tops to see the picturesque southwest sunset over the river valley, and the Four Corners where Arizona, New Mexico, Utah and Colorado meet.

Several local points of interest around the bed and breakfast make for interesting day trips. The Aztec Ruins National Monument and Mesa Verde National Park are nearby if you’re interested in exploring the Navajo Nation. There are also casinos and golf courses around if you’re into that.

The bed and breakfast closes in December, January and February every year due to the weather, so be sure to plan your trip accordingly. Room prices begin at $260 a night, which is pretty amazing for top-notch scenery and solitude. You can learn more about Kokopelli’s Cave on their website.