During its Golden Age, air travel was a treat. Sure, it might not have been cost-effective for everyone and safety standards were much less stringent, but there were insane amounts of leg room, you got a full meal that didn’t look like dog food, and the drinks were free.
Old-world travelers also looked at travel through a lens of pure adventure, even when flying for business purposes. Where once they had to drive or take a train, now they could arrive at their destination exponentially faster. Not only that, airplanes unlocked the map for adventure-hungry travelers who wanted to see parts of the world that had been inaccessible for past generations.
Today, some view flying as a chore. It’s not fast enough, the planes are too dirty, the food sucks, and there’s no free Wi-Fi. Have we lost our sense of adventure?
I don’t think so. I also think we need to be more mindful when traveling. That’s why I praise people like Anthony Bourdain for teaching us how to infuse some of this excitement, adventure, and luxury back into our travels. Specifically, his show The Layover really hits home for all of us at Luxpitality.
What strikes us most is the concept of making your layover part of the trip itself. Don’t look at it as a tedious and necessary stop. Instead, think how you might use it to break up your trip and spend a few spontaneous days exploring a new city. It’s like a trip within a trip (whoa, meta).
This is known primarily as the extended layover, and we’ve noticed it take center stage as a dominant trend for the year so far. Tools like Airwander help us “hack” our flight paths. And dozens of European airlines are now offering an extended layover as a service to travelers.
As you begin to explore options for your own trip, use the thought starters below to cook up something unique, exciting, and—of course—filled with luxury. Below, we’ll examine four popular airlines that offer the extended layover:
- Icelandair
- Finnair
- Air Portugal
- Iberia Air
Then, we’ll follow up with four recommendations for boutique luxury hotels in each destination. Fasten your seatbelt, this is going to be one hell of a trip.
Iceland
Blue Lagoon Iceland
In 1992, Blue Lagoon Iceland was officially opened, and over the years it’s become known to the world as a retreat sanctuary. The hotel has leaned fully into this mentality and offers guests a truly epic lineup of spa experiences in their Blue Lagoon, which was named one of the 25 wonders of the world by National Geographic in 2012 and was included in Time Magazine’s list of the World’s 100 Greatest Places (no big deal). It also made the list of our 10 best boutique hotel pools.
You can experience the mineral-rich, geothermal ocean waters by taking a low key soak , or get the full experience with The Blue Lagoon Ritual that cleanses the skin with silica, algae, and minerals. When you’re not basking the lagoon, there are plenty of options to explore the surrounding nature with hikes and motor tours.
ION Hotels Iceland
ION Hotels Iceland features two distinct offerings for travelers on an extended layover in Iceland. On one hand they have the city hotel in the heart of Reykjavík that’s filled with luxurious touches top-to-bottom, like movement controlled lighting, sound-proofed rooms, artistic accents throughout, and frequent tributes to Icelandic heritage and culture.
On the other hand, ION Hotels offers an adventure hotel that’s only an hour from the bustling city, laid against the mountainous lava fields. It’s located by the Golden Circle route, which makes it an ideal location from which to explore Thingvellir National Park, ancient glaciers, and peaceful rivers. When you’re done adventuring, you can end your day with a nice soak under the Northern Lights.
Deplar Farm
We couldn’t talk about Iceland without including one of our personal favorites, Deplar Farm. It’s a little bit further away from Reykjavík, but well worth the drive if you’re looking to squeeze as much out of Iceland as possible during an extended layover.
The somewhat remote location provides astounding views of mountains, streams, and lakes that the hotel seamlessly integrates with, thanks to it’s turf roofs. Aside from the insane photo-appeal, Deplar Farm is a hot spot for adventurers who want a great location to take their Icelandic travels a bit further. Go skiing in the winter, kayaking in spring, and surfing in summer: they truly offer it all.
Kvosin Hotel
If you’re a city-lover that wants to explore urban environments more than the wilds of rural Iceland, pay attention to Kvosin Hotel. It’s located in the city-center of Reykjavík, literally–the nearest buildings are Parliament and the Old Downtown Church.
It was built in 1900, but later refurbished to provide an elegant modern touch in 2013. And while there are only 24 rooms, you’ll love how spacious they are and the included amenities like full living room and kitchen. Make sure you hit up the 24-hour concierge to get the best local recommendations for your extended layover.
Finaland
Jávri Lodge
Jávri Lodge lies in the wilds of Northern Finland, surrounded by seemingly endless forests that are dotted with crystal-clear lakes. It once served as an escape for Finnish politician Urho Kekkonen (the namesake for Urho Kekkonen National Park) and his closest friends to experience the Northern Lights in winter, and bask in the never-setting summer sun.
Today, it stands as an adult-only property that only allows 26 guests at a time—make sure you plan ahead when booking your extended layover in Finland to ensure you get a spot. You’ll find that the chalet offers a presidential level of service, unparalleled dining options, and all the outdoor adventures you could want, no matter the season.
Arctic TreeHouse Hotel
Sometimes, you’ve got to appreciate a strong and simple name. Arctic TreeHouse Hotel is everything amazing you would expect to come with such a great name: the cozy rooms are positioned so that they feel as if they’re floating in the treetops.
It expertly blends luxury and comfort with meticulously designed nest-like rooms that provide panoramic views of the sky. Whether you’re staying in the Arctic GlassHouses, which has it’s own private sauna, or the Arctic Scene Executive Suite that sits proudly on a steep wooded hill, you’ll be able to catch the Northern Lights or Midnight Sun from the comfort of your bed.
Kakslauttanen
It’s a quick flight from Helsinki to Ivalo, and only 30 more minutes from Ivalo to the family retreat known as Kakslauttanen. In total, it will take about four hours to travel from city airport to the edge of the wilderness along the road to the Arctic Sea. One of the coolest things about this hotel are the igloo accommodations.
You can stay in a glass igloo which sleeps two, a kelo-glass igloo which is a hybrid of their chalet and glass igloo, or a true-to-form snow igloo—temperatures inside the igloo will stay around 27 degrees Fahrenheit , which is balmy compared to the -40 outside. For those who want the comfort of a traditional room, they’ve got plenty of luxurious options there as well.
Levin Iglut
Located only 15 minutes from Kittilä Airport by car you’ll find Levin Iglut, a small boutique hotel with glass igloos in the Finnish Lapland. During primetime season, you’ll be able to score one of several non-stop international flights directly to Kittilä as well as flights from Helsinki each day.
Founder Tauno Mäkelä ended up on the slope of Utsuvaara one day, and basking in the unforgettable view he decided this was something he should share with the world. So, four glass igloos were built in 2008. To date, it’s grown so popular that they’ve increased their igloos to 24 in total and the hotel prides itself on the personalized, heartfelt level of service that compliments the view near-perfectly.
Portugal
Casa Fortunato
The founders of Casa Fortunato wanted to bring a simple vision to life through the hotel that was elegant sophisticated, and simple. Moreover, they wanted to offer this kind of accommodation in the heart of Lisbon. Among the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Casa Fortunato offers guests space to dream, breathe, and live.
Plus, it’s only a 10-minute drive from the Lisbon airport, which makes it a top tier option during a shorter extended layover in Portugal. Each room offers floor-to-ceiling windows that frame unique views of the city, it’s energy, and excitement. In the heart of the action, you’ll be pleasantly surprised at how well this property washes all your worries away.
Areias do Seixo
About an hour North of Lisbon is Areias do Seixo, a hotel surrounded by ocean views, whispering sand dunes, and mighty pine forests. The hotel prides itself on the symbiosis they have with the land, from the beach driftwood that’s been incorporated into the design to building the rooms around the trees.
Geothermal and solar energy power the hotel, the food is made from the founder’s local home-cooked recipes, and each room has either wood-burning stoves or fireplaces. Spend your time walking through the gardens, visiting the spa, adventuring to the private beach, or relaxing while listening to live guitar music at night.
Quinta da Comporta
If you head about two hours South of Lisbon, you’ll find Quinta da Comporta located in the heart of the Comporta natural reserve. It was built to pay homage to the cultural heritage of Comporta, which lives on through the hotel’s architectural lines, connection to the natural environment, and proximity to the locals.
As you explore the area, you’ll find a sense of tranquility in the Sado River, the lush green rice fields, or the pine trees growing wildly. The staff will tell you to take time and journey inwards while visiting Quinta da Comporta, making time for your spiritual wellness while gazing out over the azure Atlantic Ocean waters.
Noah Surf House
Did you see this one coming? If you’re an avid reader of our blogs, you know how much we love Noah Surf House. And if you’re planning to touch down in Portugal in any capacity, we highly recommend building this hotel into your extended layover plans. It’s a one hour drive from Lisbon and offers a well-rounded experience for soulful wellness seekers and adventurous thrill seekers alike.
Plus, it’s a prime destination for those who are looking to capture some one-of-a-kind photos. From the on-site skatepark to beachside yoga, there’s never a dull moment. And you’ll love the view from inside the bungalows with windows that face the ocean and doors that open directly on to the sand.
Spain
Gran Hotel Ingles
When you inevitable end up in Madrid as you fly through Spain, start your explorations at the city’s heart: Puerta del Sol. When you’re ready to retreat for a siesta, go to the Gran Hotel Ingles.
Founded in 1886, it still holds true to the initial feelings of traditional elegance: the hotel is defined by the three concepts of art, luxury, and well-being. As you explore the hotel, you’ll notice that there’s a sense of Zen atmosphere that permeates everything, from the spa to private corners waiting for you and some friends to share a drink.
TÓTEM Madrid
Surrounded by Madrid’s sophisticated boutique shopping and top brands in the Salamanca district is TÓTEM Madrid. It stands as a focal point of fashion, culture, and food for everyone who passes through.
The hotel was designed to match its luxurious surroundings in interior design: you’ll find it’s laden with innovative character and detailed finishes. As such, it’s a great place for the style-obsessed to set up shop during an extended layover in Madrid. Enjoy the eclectic common areas, handsome wood paneling, and dark color palette that embodies the contemporary soul of the city so well.
URSO Hotel & Spa
You’ll find URSO Hotel & Spa tucked away in a private enclave between the Madrid’s central neighborhoods of Chamberí, Tribunal, and Chueca. Originally built in 1915, this historic building still stands to represent the stately character of the city’s 20th century architecture.
It’s anything but imperial and stuffy on the inside though. In fact, you’ll find it’s modern and decked out with comfortable finishes like plush bedding, rooftop sun lounges, and swanky bars with fantastic cocktails. Still, there are a few historic touches that remain in place, such as the original library, central courtyard, and stained glass windows.
The Principal Madrid
The Gran Via is one of the most popular destinations in Madrid, and The Principal Madrid is situated right in the middle of the action. That location affords it an iconic view of the famed walk that’s best enjoyed with a cocktail from the rooftop lounge La Terraza.
Staying in the center of the city means you can retreat from the bustling city dwellers whenever you need a quick break. Enjoy a peaceful view of the action from your room, share a private meal with your companions, or lounge in the sun as the city moves below
These are only a few of the airlines and destinations that offer an extended layover for travelers, so be sure to research other options out there. And the next time you’re planning a big whirlwind trip, make sure you build in extra time heading out, coming home, or on both fronts to experience a new city you might not otherwise have visited. If you’re looking for some great travel options or hotels, we’ve got you covered. Reach out to us below, we’d love to help you plan a perfect trip.