These out-of-this-world Astro-tourism resorts are a must-visit
Looking up at the stars is a magical experience. The black night sky adorned with twinkling stars and celestial bodies can be a spiritual moment for some people. Regrettably, the urban rush keeps us from enjoying this natural beauty. That's precisely why you should consider going on an Astro-tourism trip. Plenty of astronomy-oriented resorts worldwide let you immerse in the world of celestial heavens.
Hotel Rangá, Iceland
Hotel Rangá in Iceland is a dream-come-true place for astronomy lovers. The hotel features a log cabin-style design with 51 rooms and an on-site astronomical observatory, which boasts a retractable roof and two computerized telescopes. Visit between September and April to join sessions led by astronomers. The best part is that you might see the northern lights around that time.
Elqui Domos, Chile
Elqui Domos in Chile stands as the only astronomic hotel in the Southern Hemisphere. Situated over 350 miles away from Santiago, offers rooms specially designed for stargazing. Its wooden cabins feature translucent fabric domes, providing the opportunity to view the night sky through roof hatches. They also offer astronomy tours and nighttime horse rides under the stars.
3100 Kulmhotel Gornergrat, Switzerland
Situated atop the Gornergrat ridge, the 3100 Kulmhotel Gornergrat claims the title of the highest hotel in the Swiss Alps. Beyond elegant rooms, it offers a celestial experience, with rooms crafted for stargazing, tent-like ceilings unveiling the night sky, and skylights above beds. Guests can partake in stargazing experiences, including buffet dinners with expert astronomers and guided tours.
Primland, United States
Primland, located along the East Coast of the United States, boasts an observatory dome with a powerful Celestron CGE Pro 1400 series telescope. Perched atop the hotel's turret, the observatory dome offers a special perspective to observe cosmic phenomena beyond our solar system. In-house astronomers deliver informative presentations, while a smaller telescope on the terrace lets guests connect more closely with the stars.
Astroport Sariska, India
Merely a 5-hour drive from Delhi, Astroport Sariska, located near Sariska Tiger Reserve in India's Rajasthan, offers a unique and immersive tourism experience centered around astronomy and nature. With its focus on astronomy education, adventure, and exposure to nature, Astroport Sariska offers a range of well-designed programs and activities set against a backdrop of clear skies. The resort also houses several high-end telescopes.