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Unusual places to stay

Fire truck in Scotland

There is nothing about this converted 1956 fire truck that we don't love. It has an oak parquet floor from a Tudor mansion, slate from a snooker table to make the hearth, a huge Victorian double bed and a wood-burning stove. All in a cuddlesome little converted truck. Just one question... where's the loo? Ah! In an outhouse next to the main house. Phew!

Thomas the Tank Engine in Yorkshire

Does it count as train-spotting if you stay inside one? Full steam ahead to two converted train carriages in Yorkshire, with a well-equipped kitchen, shower and modern wooden flooring. Skipwith Common is also the largest wetland heath in the North of England, so say yes to your inner-geek and do a spot of bird watching while you're there.

Treehouse in France

When you were a kid, didn't you always dream of living in a treehouse? Well, now you can - for a few nights anyway. Montignac-de-Lauzun, in south-west France, is where you'll find a grown-up treehouse with a wrap-around balcony (boasting its own barbecue), an indoor shower, loo and cosy big bed.

Italian Watch Tower

Six-foot-thick circular stone walls and a breathtaking view of Italy's Positano Bay await you when you stay at the Torre Sponda. This romantic 13th century watch tower has a four-poster king-sized bed, fireplace and sea views, along with private access to the beach and a large sunbathing terrace.

Montreal

Launched this year, this new kid on the icy block is a little different from most other ice hotels as it's the only place in North America to get your urban igloo cool on. The Montreal Snow village is in the heart of the city in Jean Drapeau park, just a few minutes brisk walk away from the metro. Check out the hockey-themed room with its ice statue of a player at the end of the bed, and stadium seats.