As astrotourism gains popularity, hotels and resorts are making the night sky a central part of the guest experience, offering everything from private observatories and expert-led astronomy sessions to lunar storytelling and desert stargazing.
In Saudi Arabia’s
Hijaz Mountains, Desert Rock Resort is among the first resorts
certified under the DarkSky Approved Lodging & Resort programme.
Its Astronomy Centre offers views of planets,
constellations and meteor showers, while a mountaintop Observatory, reached by
a 120-metre suspension bridge, provides a secluded setting for stargazing.
Red Sea Global’s Akun also offers
guided experiences combining astronomy with Arabian culture, including lunar
nights exploring traditional stories, navigation and calendars.
At The Chedi
Hegra in AlUla, professional telescopes and expert hosts combine celestial
discovery with Arabian hospitality, fire pits, hot chocolate and marshmallows
beneath the desert sky.
Meanwhile, One&Only
Royal Mirage in Dubai takes guests beyond the city lights for guided
desert stargazing, offering a peaceful contrast to the illuminated skyline.
In
Montana, One&Only Moonlight Basin, set at 7,000 feet across 240 acres,
benefits from exceptionally dark skies and protected wilderness.
Its private
Observatory features a Stanford University-style telescope, with astronomers
guiding guests through immersive stargazing sessions. Guests can also view the
stars from private terraces and hot tubs.
In Rome, Hotel de
la Ville offers a more urban interpretation.
Its Panoramic
Penthouse hosts a private Stargazing Ritual, allowing guests to watch
constellations above the city’s historic landmarks. -TTN