If you thought that conventional camping was the only way to spend a dreamy night beneath the stars, you’re in for a stellar surprise. Spotlighting picturesque locations all over the world, this collection of cozy places to stargaze presents 12 alternatives to the traditional tent.
Spanning illuminated igloos, tropical bungalows, contemporary tree houses, and glass-encased accommodations, the starry selections each offer a one-of-a-kind experience in a unique environment, and guarantee a galactic glimpse of nature. Whether nestled in the snow, floating on the water, or elevated above the treetops, you’re sure to stargaze in style—and, of course, in cozy comfort.
Kakslauttanen Glass Igloos, Finland
At the Igloo Village in Kakslauttanen, Finland, you can observe the Northern Lights from the comfort of your luxury room. Comprised of thermal glass, each dome allows you to sleep under the stars and watch the snow fall while staying toasty warm.
Read more: Glass Igloos with Magnificent Northern Lights Views
7th Room Treehotel, Sweden
Nestled in Northern Sweden, Snøhetta’s 7th Room Treehotel invites nature lovers to sleep among the treetops. In addition to its cozy interior, the treehouse features a netted terrace that enables guests to comfortably lounge as they look to the stars.
Read more: Floating Cabin Lets Nature-Lovers Sleep in the Treetops of Sweden
Lion Sands Game Reserve, South Africa
This gorgeous getaway in South Africa’s Sabie Sand Reserve features sweeping views of nature and opulent amenities. Though the resort offers traditional indoor suites, more adventurous guests can opt to instead sleep outside—albeit in comfy 4-post beds!
Read more: Sleep Under the Stars at This Stunning South African Resort
Estate Bungalow, Sri Lanka
Tucked away in the rainforests of Sri Lanka, this minimalist and modern hut is the perfect place to star-watch in solitude. On top of its stunning views, this floating getaway is exceptionally eco-friendly; since it’s elevated above the jungle’s canopy, water can run and vegetation can grow underneath it.
Read more: Floating Bungalow Has Undisrupted View of Sri Lankan Jungle
ICEHOTEL, Sweden
While sleeping in the snow may not sound particularly appealing, Sweden’s iconic ICEHOTEL promises a pleasurable experience. Boasting 20 guest suites, a bar, an art gallery, and an amazing view of the shimmering Northern Lights, this icy inn is sure to set the tone for a one-of-a-kind holiday.
Read more: Sweden’s Iconic ICEHOTEL Is Now Open 365 Days a Year
The Starlight Room, Italy
Aptly named for its starry panorama, this cubic cabin offers unobstructed views of the skies above. Equipped with only a bed and a heater, the tiny glass room is free of distractions, enabling its guests to fully immerse themselves in nature.
Read more: Secluded Tiny Cabin on Skis Offers Incredible Views of Dolomite Mountains
Natura Vive Skylodge, Peru
If standard, grounded getaways don’t appeal to you, these sky-high pods may be a bit more enticing. Suspended along the cliffs of Peru, the glass-encased accommodations offer adventurers an awe-inspiring place to skywatch. Just don’t look down!
Read more: “Skylodge” Houses Adventurous Travelers in Glass Pod Clinging to a 400-Foot Cliff
Manta Underwater Room, Indian Ocean
While the main draw of Manta Underwater Room is its aquatic attributes, the floating bungalow also boasts an impressive observation deck. Accessible by a ladder and topped with a comfy bed, the terrace is the perfect place to soak up the sun or sleep under the stars.
Read more: Africa’s Multi-Level Floating Hotel with an Underwater Room
Nature House, the Arctic Circle
You may be surprised to learn that this striking dome isn’t a vacation house. Named the Nature House, it is actually the permanent residence of the Hjertefølger family. In addition to its spectacular views of the surrounding landscape and the starry skies, the three-story structure features a solar geodesic dome, making it strikingly sustainable.
Read more: Family Lives in the Arctic Circle by Building Cob House in a Solar Geodesic Dome
PurePods, New Zealand
Secluded in New Zealand’s picturesque countryside, the secluded bungalows offer an off-the-grid escape from everyday life. Each environmentally-friendly pod is made of glass, and—with WiFi and cell phone reception intentionally unattainable—beckons visitors to give their full attention to their starry surroundings.
Read more: Secluded Bungalows Made Entirely of Glass Provide Scenic Views of New Zealand’s Countryside
Oasis, Anywhere!
And, finally, for travelers who prefer the nomadic lifestyle, the Oasis dome is a portable way to sleep under the stars. Unlike traditional tents, the transparent shelter offers 360-degree views of the surrounding landscape. Finally, you can sleep under the stars anywhere in the world!
Read more: Transparent Dome Shelters Campers While Offering Uninterrupted Views of Natural Surroundings