Explora: Atacama desert
Located on a breathtaking 17-hectare estate in the Atacama Desert, just 2km from the stunning Altiplanic Lagoons, and 4km from the historic Pukará de Quitor archaeological site, this all-inclusive luxurious lodge provides an ideal base for stargazing, given the Atacama Desert’s high altitude and minimal light pollution. Courtesy of the hotel’s observatory (one of Chile’s premier private observatories for stargazing enthusiasts) guests are offered some exceptional views of the night sky via the powerful Meade 16” telescope. Elsewhere, the very architecture of the hotel lends itself to quiet contemplation – the perfect vibe for studying the heavens.
Kakslauttanen, Finland
In the heart of Finnish Lapland, Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort has been celebrated for its stunning glass igloos – transparent geodesic domes that provide breathtaking, unobstructed views of the northern lights and which have become something of a symbol of astro-tourism in the region. (For those preferring something a touch, well, warmer, cozy log chalets are also available, through which you can also enjoy aurora-spotting in comfort.) The resort offers northern lights-excursions too, via horse-drawn carriage. When booking, just remember that you won’t be able to spot the northern lights in the summer, when the region gets a full 24 hours of sunlight – meaning those magical auroras remain elusive.
Hyatt Regency, Maui
This one comes with a thumbs-up from Nasa: for around 20 years, Nasa Solar System ambassador Edward Mahoney has led nightly rooftop sessions from Thursday to Monday at the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa, under the pristine night sky of Kā‘anapali Beach, Hawaii. The resort features two telescopes, in fact – including Hawaii’s only recreational 16-inch reflective telescope, affectionately called “Great White”. So, whether you’re an astronomy enthusiast or simply curious, Mahoney’s guided sessions should provide an unforgettable way to explore the cosmos, amid surroundings that were already pretty heavenly.
3100 Kulmhotel Gornergrat, Switzerland
Switzerland’s highest hotel at 10,170 feet, the 3100 Kulmhotel Gornergrat offers unparalleled access to the stars. And for more than a century, Gornergrat has drawn astronomers and scientists to its incredible observatory, which features a scientific research centre open to visitors on select days. With the area boasting minimal light pollution and stunning views of the Matterhorn and 28 other towering peaks, it’s the ideal location for a spot of stargazing. Here, guests can also tuck into a delicious meat fondue to accompany their astronomy lecture – followed by a visit to the observatory and its telescope. Check the event calendar for special stargazing programmes, including guided night viewings.
andBeyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge, Namibia
There’s a stargazer’s paradise to be found at the distinctively named andBeyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge, Namibia. Located beside Africa’s only International Dark Sky Reserve, each suite features skylights above the beds, allowing for stunning views of the Milky Way. And with the nearest town 87 miles away, light pollution is non-existent, ensuring clear, dark skies perfect for celestial observation. For a closer look, an on-site observatory, equipped with a Celestron CPC 1100 GPS telescope, invites guests to explore the night sky under the guidance of a resident astronomer.
Hotel Botanico, Tenerife
Tenerife, the largest of Spain’s Canary Islands, is renowned for its excellent stargazing conditions (the island also hosts the annual Starmus Festival, celebrating astronomy and space exploration). And Hotel Botanico makes a great, luxury base from which to access the stunning Teide National Park, home to the majestic Mount Teide, which offers high-altitude, often cloud-free skies, perfect for astronomical observations. At the heart of the park lies the Teide Observatory, one of the world’s top astronomical research centres, and here, visitors can take guided tours to explore its impressive telescopes and learn about groundbreaking research projects while drinking in the breathtaking views of the night sky.
Lysanne Currie is editor-in-chief of Meet the Leader. She also writes for Robb Report, Diplomat, Guardian, Influence, Tempus and Investor
