These 8 night lodges will help you find wellbeing and serenity under a canopy of stars
For centuries, cultures around the world have looked to the stars for guidance, storytelling, and spiritual nourishment. Now, in an age dominated by screens and artificial light, the allure of the night sky is once again being recognized as a balm for the soul and a gateway to wellness.
“The sky is an ‘always on’ source of wellbeing,” says Paul Conway, a U.K.-based psychologist and researcher who coined the term “skychology” to describe the psychological effects of looking at the sky. “It’s immediately calming and promotes mindfulness, feeling present in the moment, stillness, and clarity.”
And stargazing isn’t merely about observing distant celestial bodies; it’s an immersive experience that taps into something deep within us—especially when you’re traveling. “Stargazing offers both reassurance and escape,” says Jennifer Willis, a columnist for Sky & Telescope who writes about the philosophy of stargazing. “It can be comforting when you are in a new country to look up into the night sky to see the same constellations above that you see at home. On the other hand, depending on how far you’ve traveled, stargazing can open up an entirely new perspective.”
In today’s fast-paced world, where stress and anxiety are rampant, finding moments of tranquility is essential for overall wellbeing. “Stargazing touches something primordial within us and reminds us of the connections we share, no matter who or where we are,” adds Willis.
Some people also call it star bathing—though you’re not in a body of water. Rather, you’re using mindfulness to absorb the beauty of the stars, like a cross between sunbathing and forest bathing. The result: mental clarity and an exceptional sense of wellbeing.
As urban areas are becoming increasingly illuminated, the importance of seeking out opportunities for stargazing is growing. “Research shows that humans are losing connection with nature, primarily caused by the unprecedented rise in global urbanization,” explains Conway. “It’s crucial that we rediscover our relationship with the sky.”
In response to this growing interest, destinations around the globe are offering unique experiences centered around stargazing and celestial contemplation. From remote desert resorts to secluded mountaintop lodges, these destinations provide the perfect setting for reconnecting with the cosmos.
Imagine soaking in luxurious hot springs at Explora Atacama Lodge surrounded by the wide-open beauty of the Atacama Desert. As day turns to night, the sky above transforms into a mesmerizing sea of stars, offering a moment of profound connection with the universe. Or perhaps you prefer the ethereal landscapes of Lapland, Finland, where Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort has glass igloos that provide unobstructed views of the Northern Lights dancing across the sky. For those seeking an even more immersive stay, check out Panorama Glass Lodge in Iceland, where all-glass rooms allow guests to stargaze from the comfort of their beds.
And the allure of stargazing isn’t limited to exotic locales. Locations closer to home are creating opportunities to connect with the heavens—like Alila Ventana Big Sur in California, where you can take astrophotography lessons and practice cosmic yoga under the stars.
So, the next time you find yourself feeling overwhelmed by the stresses of modern life, consider booking a stay at a night lodge, where you’ll find the peace and clarity you’ve been searching for—and where the stars are just within reach. Here are some of the best places around the globe.
Panorama Glass Lodge
Iceland
Experience the magic of Iceland’s rugged wilderness at Panorama Glass Lodge, which has transparent, eco-friendly cabins set in two breathtaking locations. The lodges in the southern part of the country are surrounded by stunning mountains and volcanoes, while the west coast lodges overlook mountains and ocean. Whether you’re soaking in a private hot tub or admiring the sky from your bed, Panorama Glass Lodge promises an unforgettable getaway in the pristine Icelandic environment.
To book a stay, visit panoramaglasslodge.com
Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort
Lapland, Finland
Set in the heart of Lapland, Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort is an extraordinary winter adventure. Guests can stay in glass igloos that provide unobstructed views of nature’s greatest spectacle—the Northern Lights. By day, immerse yourself in the beauty of the Finnish wilderness, from aurora hunting and ice fishing to reindeer safaris. Don’t miss the chance to unwind in a smoke sauna for a truly authentic Finnish experience.
To book a stay, visit kakslauttanen.fi
Alila Ventana Big Sur
Big Sur, California
Set on 160 acres overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Alila Ventana Big Sur is an adults-only retreat that caters to mind, body, and soul. Guests can enjoy al fresco activities like celestial-infused cosmic yoga sessions under the night sky, astrophotography lessons (where photography becomes a portal to the stars), and a circle of life meditation under 100-year-old redwoods. You can also bond with the universe via astrology readings, and for an even more intimate connection with nature, stay in one of Ventana’s luxurious glamping tents.
To book a stay, visit ventanabigsur.com
Finn Lough
Enniskillen, Ireland
Hidden in an ancient Atlantic rainforest on a secluded peninsula in northwest Ireland, Finn Lough is a starwatcher’s dream. You can stay in transparent bubble domes set in a forest or along a river. Sleep in a sleek four-poster bed under 180-degree views of the starry Irish sky and bathe in a roll-top tub overlooking the landscape. You’ll spend your days hiking or fishing or just chilling out with the multiple spa experiences. But the highlight is the cozy sky view from your bubble dome—the height of luxury and seclusion.
To book a stay, visit finnlough.com
Explora Atacama Lodge
Atacama Desert, Chile
At an altitude of 7,000 feet, Chile’s Atacama desert is one of the driest places on the planet, with clear, unobstructed skies that make it a prime destination for celestial enthusiasts. Explora Atacama Lodge features a private observatory (complete with its own cocktail bar right nearby), plus natural hot springs where guests can soak under the cosmos. Nightly hour-long astronomical tours are offered throughout the year and Explora guides lead explorations to local spots—including approximately places like Moon Valley and Mars Valley—led by knowledgeable guides who unveil the wonders of this vast desert.
To book a stay, visit explora.com
Soneva Fushi
Baa Atoll, Maldives
On a private island in the Maldives with pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, Soneva Fushi provides an unparalleled setting for celestial contemplation. Guests can bask in the serenity of this luxurious resort and explore the cosmos at a state-of-the-art observatory equipped with professional-grade telescopes. You can even indulge in an Astronomical Dinner Cruise, featuring a four-course meal and a guided stargazing session under the Maldivian sky.
To book a stay, visit soneva.com
Sandals Dunn’s River
Ocho Rios, Jamaica
Escape to the sunshine and stargaze from your private rooftop at the new Sandals Dunn’s River in Jamaica. The Coyaba Sky Villa Swim-up Rondoval Suites are equipped with state-of-the-art telescopes and unmatched views of the Ocho Rios skyscape. With personalized stargazing experiences arranged by the Stargazing Concierge, couples can enjoy romantic evenings under the stars. Indulge in moonlit cocktail hours and wine and cheese nights, accompanied by breathtaking views of the Jamaican night sky.
To book a stay, visit sandals.com
PurePods
New Zealand
Discover New Zealand’s rugged wilderness at PurePods, where glass cabins immerse you in Frodo’s legendary landscape. With windows at every turn and transparent roofs, guests can shower behind glass walls and sleep under a sea of stars. Each PurePod promises complete immersion in nature’s splendor. Don’t miss exploring the untamed beauty of New Zealand on scenic bush walks and nature hikes, while encountering native flora and fauna along the way.
To book a stay, purepods.com