We’ve always enjoyed the idea of glamping because it gives us a chance to be in touch with our surroundings, while still having upscale amenities. But sometimes we’d like to take in the natural beauty around us in the comfort of a luxury hotel, and not in the middle of the wilderness. If you're the type who loves your scenery with a side of butler service and within steps of a bustling town, we found the perfect resorts for you to check out. Instead of sleeping under the stars via a tent, these four- and five-star properties offer the chance to catch a glimpse of the night sky right from your suite, no glamping required.
AKA Central Park — New York
During New York’s warmer months, AKA Central Park offers an al fresco accommodation for those who book the penthouse suite. The residence features a 1,000-square-foot, wrap-around terrace where the property will set up a queen-sized bed for guests to stargaze under the Manhattan skyline for an evening. To keep warm, enjoy the wood-burning fireplace and s'mores made with Jacques Torres gourmet chocolate. As you snuggle up with your loved one, use the complimentary telescope to catch a closer look at the sparkling show above.
L'Albereta Relais & Chateaux — Italy
Although the Cabriolet Suite at L’Albereta isn’t the largest accommodation at the property, it’s got one pretty impressive perk: a retractable roof. At the push of a button, the suite’s ceiling opens up to reveal the sky above, and thanks to the hotel being in a rural area, the stars are easily seen at night. The room features a four-foster bed and is decorated with scarlet tones, terracotta walls, Chinese ornamental dressers and a balcony that overlooks the surrounding vineyards and nearby Lake Iseo.
Gili Lankanfushi — Maldives
Located on a private island in the North Malé Atoll of the Maldives, Gili Lankanfushi is an eco-friendly resort with 45 overwater villas. Built using natural materials, bungalows feature open-air living rooms, sundecks with loungers and semi open-air private bathrooms with separate, glass-walled shower areas. Should you wish to dream under the moonlight, the staff can set up a bed for you on your private rooftop terrace. And in the morning, all you have to do is throw on your bathing suit and jump into the ocean right from your deck—it really is the dream.
Las Ventanas al Paraíso — Los Cabos
Considered one of the best destinations in the world to view the stars (by NASA), Los Cabos’ Las Ventanas al Paraíso made it easier for guests to enjoy the spectacle by offering guests the chance to fall asleep surrounded by the elements. Travelers can book the Sleeping Under the Stars amenity which comes with a flower display, bottle of Champagne and a king-sized bed set up on your penthouse suite’s rooftop terrace. You’ll also have use of a telescope and constellation guides to help you navigate the night sky.
Hotel 41 — London
The five-star Hotel 41 sits in the heart of London, overlooking the Royal Mews and the grounds of Buckingham Palace. Inside the aptly-named Conservatory Master Suite, guests can catch a glimpse of the starry sky via the master bedroom’s glass-enclosed ceiling. Should you wish to block the sun out in the morning, simply click a button to close your electric blinds to darken the room. The split-level suite decorated with black-and-white designs and rich mahogany accents also features a marbled bathroom and whirlpool bath.
Soneva Jani — Maldives
Previously, Gili Lankanfushi was a Soneva property, and when the brand began building their newest venture in the Maldives they looked to the Gili hotel as inspiration for the project. Because guests were consistently taking pillows out to their terraces to sleep under the stars, the property decided to create rooms which allowed for star-gazing right from their beds. Soneva Jani, which debuted this past November, features 24 overwater bungalows, all with retractable roofs in each master bedroom. Villas also come with private pools, open-air bathrooms, walk-in mini bars with private wine cellars, and outdoor decks with seating areas.
