Unless you know your shit, wildlife-spotting can be a bit of a drag. You need to know where to look, what to look out for – and when to look out for it. You also need a helluva lot of good luck.
But here’s one guaranteed way to get your fill of nature on your next holiday. This hotel room is covered in bird boxes, which means the wildlife comes straight to you, rather than vice versa. Named the Biosphere, the surreal and no doubt rather noisy accommodation forms part of the sprawling Treehotel complex in northern Lapland, Sweden.
The interiors are peak Scandi chic – think sleek furnishings and stylish beiges, blacks and greys. But the floor-to-ceiling windows are what really matter. Just outside, you’ll be able to peep into a whopping 350 bird feeders, with guests likely to include everything from tiny chickadees to chunky jackdaws.
The room was designed by Danish architecture firm Bjarke Ingels Group, which collaborated with local ornithologists to ensure the birds were just as happy as humans. Ulf Ӧhman, who works in the area, said he hoped the hotel room would increase bird populations in the area (and inspire guests to install feeders at home, too).
So, want to really immerse yourself in nature next time you go away? The Biosphere is opening in May 2022, with a night’s stay for two, including breakfast, starting from 12,000 SEK (around £960 or $1,270). Find out more on the Treehotel website.
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