Retro Retreat: 1960s space age Hotel Jested in Liberec, Czech Republic

If you're willing to travel a little off the beaten path, the Hotel Jested in Liberec, Czech Republic should be worth the effort.

It was the work of architect Karel Hubacek, who won a competition in the late 60s to design a communications tower and hotel. He managed to squeeze both into the same design - using carbon construction and motorcycle suspensions to support and protect the communications tower and the sloping exterior to create a 'space cabin' feel for the 20 rooms. It also offers superb views - Germany, Poland and the surround Czech countryside (which is popular with walkers) are all within eyeshot.

Sadly, the interiors were re-designed in the early 1990s, but it looks like a sympathetic job, with many of the now sought-after 1970s fittings still in use in the hotel, including a the light fittings and hanging egg chairs.

Prices start at £31 per night - check the website for booking details (as well as a superb gallery of images of the hotel's past and present).

Find out more at the Hotel Jested website