What to look for in the top lodges around the world

Many travelers like the idea of staying at the top lodges around the world. Some of these have been in existence for more than a century while others are newer. While people might connect this concept with hunting, not of these offer hunting or are in an area that features this activity.

History

Some of these places have historic ties of some kind. There have been ones that have been built by the so-called Robber Barons of the 1800s and early 1900s. These are often tucked away in the New England states or places in the West such as Wyoming, Colorado or even California. Many of these have been turned into unique bed and breakfast-style accommodations. Newspapermen, oil barons and captains of industry have all been known to build these properties, often copying the style of the classic European hunting lodge in all the details.

What makes a lodge different from a hotel?

Sometimes the design of a lodge makes it very different from a hotel. One feature that is commonly found is the great room. This was the area in which most of the action at the lodge took place. People would be able to sit in front of a large fireplace, gather at a table for feasting and generally mingle easily with each other. Today this same tradition holds true in many of the properties. These establishments are the place for fine food and beverages like wine in a relaxed and hearty setting.

There are some lodges that have the hunting theme as their main focus. These properties may take visitors on hunting expeditions in the U.S. for deer, elk or moose as well as bird hunting. Some work only with experienced hunters. There are also a variety of different lodges throughout the world including ones in Africa that feature hunting for large land animals that are native to the African continent.

People are often looking for rooms at this kind of property when they have other kinds of travel experiences in mind. Some people like to go to places like Santa Fe to shop or see the many artisan products available here. Others may want a place that has snow skiing in the winter or has tours or hiking in the mountains during the summer. One thing that most people would agree upon about lodges is that most of them are in a more rural or country setting unlike their city cousins. Communing with nature is often part of this experience.