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Sand In My Suitcase

🌎 Sleep in a cave... Really!

Published about 2 months ago • 1 min read

Hello again fellow travelers,

Have you ever stayed in a cave hotel?

We have — and they’re nothing like what you might imagine.

Now, we’re not talking about a damp hobbit hole or some Disney-esque cave hotel built as a gimmick.

We mean hotels built into landscapes where people have lived in caves for centuries — ancient dwellings now transformed into some of the world’s most extraordinary hotels.

Cappadocia, Turkey

Few places have wowed us quite like Cappadocia.

Its surreal landscape of fairy chimneys, ancient underground cities and rock-cut churches feels like nowhere else on Earth. Sleeping in a cave hotel here only makes the experience more magical.

We stayed at Argos in Cappadocia.

The hotel occupies a centuries-old monastery and cave settlement, with each room individually carved from the original caves. No two are alike, and some suites even have indoor plunge pools!

👉 You can read all about our experience here.

Santorini, Greece

Santorini has its own take on cave hotels. Many of the island’s traditional fishermen’s cave dwellings have been turned into some of Europe’s most romantic hotels.

Take the Grace Hotel (part of the exclusive Auberge Collection).

Perched dramatically on the edge of Santorini’s volcanic caldera, this adults-only boutique hotel serves up jaw-dropping views. And most suites have private heated plunge pools on their terraces.

Named the #1 resort in Europe in Travel + Leisure’s “World’s Best Awards” last year, it’s the kind of place where you even choose the fragrance for your in-room scent diffuser.

If you’re looking for a seriously romantic escape, it’s hard to beat.

👉 See why we loved the Grace.

Matera, Italy

In the UNESCO World Heritage site of Matera, you’ll find Sextantio Le Grotte.

Every room and suite oozes understated luxury — blending super comfy beds, minimalist décor and rustic vibes. Scented candles add a romantic glow. And breakfast is an absolute delight (think savory pies, delicious soft local cheeses, yogurt, fruit, pastries, crusty breads and preserves).

👉 Read why our stay here was so special!​

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Sand In My Suitcase

By Janice and George | Luxury travel with a twist of adventure!

Hi! We’re award-winning travel writers (and former lawyers), published in outlets like USA Today, The Globe and Mail and Toronto Star. In 2012, we launched "Sand In My Suitcase," our luxury travel blog. We've explored all 7 continents (even Antarctica!) and share trip itineraries, cruise reviews and hotel finds so you can travel smarter and in style. Join thousands of travelers who follow our adventures — and get exclusive tips and fresh inspo delivered straight to your inbox!

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