Astrotourism, a burgeoning trend among travelers seeking the beauty of the night sky, offers a unique opportunity for travelers to experience the cosmos while enjoying luxurious accommodations. Below you can find a list of the top destinations for stargazing and the exceptional hotels that make these experiences even more memorable.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Nestled along the mesmerizing Adriatic coast, Hotel Excelsior is a seaside accommodation in Dubrovnik ideally positioned for those seeking to witness the cosmos in all its splendor. Away from the light pollution of major cities, Dubrovnik's clear and dark evenings provide an ideal canvas for stargazing. Travelers can lie under the Adriatic's pristine night sky, where planets, twinkling stars, and meteors light up the skies. At Hotel Excelsior, guests can explore the mysteries of the universe while indulging in world-class resort facilities and services, all set within the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Dubrovnik.
Riviera Maya, Mexico
Embark on an astrological adventure at Grand Velas Riviera Maya. Guests at this ultra-luxury all-inclusive resort have the unique opportunity to stargaze as the Mayans once did, with an expert astronomer guide from the Astronomic Society of Quintana Roo (SAQROO). Set amidst the lush 206 acres of jungle and mangroves on the Yucatan Peninsula, this location is not only a celestial haven, but also the perfect gateway to explore Mexico's rich Mayan heritage, with the Tulum, Coba, and Chichen Itza ruins within easy reach. In ancient Meso-American culture, astronomy played a vital role, aiding the Mayans in agriculture, timekeeping, and the creation of their calendar while enabling communication with their gods. Under the starlit skies, set against the backdrop of the Caribbean Ocean, Grand Velas Riviera Maya's stargazing sessions uncover these profound connections. State-of-the-art telescopes provide clear views of celestial wonders such as Orion, Venus, and the moon, while SAQROO's experts unravel Mayan mythology and help you capture these celestial treasures through your lens, creating an enriching journey through the skies. In this idyllic setting, travelers not only revel in luxury, but also forge a meaningful link to Mexico's ancient past through the magic of the night sky.
Norway
Discover the magic of Norway with Up Norway, the country’s leading sustainable luxury travel curator, where travelers can embark on a celestial adventure under the Northern Lights. Guests venture into Norway's northern regions, including Tromsø, Kirkenes, and Alta, while being treated to prime viewing opportunities for the natural spectacle. Up Norway goes beyond traditional astrotourism, offering customizable journeys that encompass crossing the Arctic Circle, dog sledding, snowmobiling, arctic surfing, whale watching, and soft adventure experiences, all thoughtfully designed to complement the enchanting Northern Lights. This celestial display unfolds against the backdrop of Norway's stunning landscapes and vibrant culture, making it a dream destination for those seeking more than just the night sky. The sustainable luxury experience includes boutique hotels, lakeside yurts, and even tent igloos, where travelers can savor the beauty of the night sky while embracing local hospitality. With personalized digital chat support and expertly curated pre-planning guides, travel logistics are seamless, allowing travelers to focus on the Northern Lights and cultural immersion.
Rome, Italy
In the heart of the eternal city of Rome, stargazing enthusiasts are treated to a celestial experience that seamlessly weaves astronomical wonders into the iconic destination. Rome, with its rich history and architectural marvels, offers a unique backdrop for celestial exploration. ArcheoRunning, founded by Isabella Calidonna, a certified tour guide and running coach, provides private running and walking tours that reveal the city's celestial secrets as the sun sets over the historic streets. With Rome's ancient architecture and iconic landmarks, participants can not only rediscover the city's rich history but also engage in a journey through the cosmos, making Rome itself a stunning celestial destination. Sofitel Rome Villa Borghese, located in a former 19th-century Roman palazzo, provides the perfect base for exploring the Eternal City, offering proximity to cultural landmarks and parks, including the Trevi Fountain, Villa Medici, and Spanish Steps. The city's cultural heritage, combined with its clear evening skies, creates an ideal environment for stargazing and celestial photography.
Los Cabos, Mexico
For stargazing enthusiasts, Los Cabos on the Baja Peninsula offers exceptional celestial experiences. This pristine beach location is recognized by NASA as one of the top 20 places for night-sky research, offering unobstructed views of stars, planets, and constellations. Grand Velas Los Cabos offers guests "Dinner Under the Stars," a unique dining adventure set against the captivating backdrop of the night sky. During the experience two Michelin star chef Sidney Schutte transforms traditional dishes into contemporary masterpieces, many cooked over an open flame. After a scenic three-hour sunset cruise on the Sea of Cortez aboard the resort's Azimut yacht, diners return to Grand Velas Los Cabos for a gourmet journey enhanced by signature cocktails and premium wines. With a rich culinary background in prestigious kitchens worldwide, Chef Sidney adds a touch of sophistication to the celestial setting, combining both stargazing and fine dining.
Colorado, United States
Colorado, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, offers stargazing enthusiasts an opportunity to explore the wonders of the night sky. Mesa Verde National Park, nestled in the southwest corner of Colorado, has been recognized as the 100th certified International Dark Sky Park, making it an ideal destination for those seeking pristine celestial views. Visitors can marvel at millions of nighttime stars and galaxies, surrounded by the park's ancient cliff dwellings and stunning natural beauty. When looking for a place to stay in Colorado, travelers can choose to travel with HomeExchange Collection, a community for like-minded travelers to meet and exchange their luxury homes. With access to over 4,000 luxury homes in over 70 countries, this exclusive membership allows travelers to feel at home anywhere in the world while benefiting from locally curated travel recommendations. Combining the natural wonders of Mesa Verde National Park with the unique accommodation opportunities provided by HomeExchange Collection, Colorado becomes an alluring destination for astrotourism enthusiasts seeking celestial experiences while still feeling at home.
Mendoza, Argentina
Travelers can savor the celestial charms of the beautiful landscape in Argentina’s renowned wine region at SB Winemaker's House & Spa Suites. Founded by the celebrated winemaker Susana Balbo and her daughter Ana Lovaglio Balbo, the boutique hotel offers a unique blend of luxury and authentic wine experiences. Visitors can enjoy the clear night skies while savoring the region's world-class wines, showcasing the celestial pairing of vineyards and stargazing. With a range of amenities, including spa suites with integrated in-room spa features, a renowned restaurant serving Argentinian cuisine, and a private seaplane for exploring the surrounding regions, Mendoza and SB Winemaker's House & Spa Suites becomes a captivating destination for celestial enthusiasts looking to stargaze while sipping world class wine.
