nz-lake tekapo-dark sky observatory-people-family-see and do-easy going
nz-lake tekapo-dark sky observatory-people-family-see and do-easy going

Top 4 places to sleep under the stars

To us at TravelEssence ,an accommodation is much more than just a place to sleep. It is an experience all on its own. Would you like to join us and begin to dream? Here are four unique stays in Australia and New Zealand where you can sleep under the brightest stars.

1. Canoe and sleep under the stars in a traditional ‘swag’

Get off the beaten track and uncover the secrets of the Top End of Australia by canoe. As you paddle down the river, listen out for the trees swaying and birds chirping. Enjoy exclusive picnics in remote spots, go swimming in natural water holes and spot wildlife along the way. After an adventurous day, you will come ashore.

Spend your evening around the campfire and be treated to an authentic Aussie meal, created by your local guide. As the sun disappears and the river becomes black, you will witness endless stars appearing above you. The sky is so clear, that you can see the Milky Way with the naked eye. When it’s time for bed, take one more glance at the starry sky before turning in for the night in your ‘Aussie swag’, set under a canopy of stars.

Get ‘off the beaten’ track and uncover the secrets of the Top End

2. Spend a night in a glass house within an International Dark Sky Reserve

Nestled amongst native scrubs and tussocks on a hillside, this accommodation is ‘off the grid’ on a Mackenzie Country farm station. Float in your outdoor cedar bathtub and let the days turn into nights. Switch off all the lights and count the stars amongst an International Dark Sky Reserve. Ready for bed? Made predominantly of glass, your bedroom offers panoramic views, even from above.

Small-scale accommodation that becomes a highlight your journey
Switch off and feel like you have New Zealand all for yourself!

3. Admire the starry night sky from your wilderness tent

Discover a place where the outback meets the reef! Nestled in the dunes of Cape Range National Park, on the shores of Ningaloo Reef are luxury wilderness tents. Wake up to spectacular nature, canyons, colourful coral reefs and fall asleep under a stunning starry sky. Go swimming, snorkelling, kayaking, fishing, or take long walks down the beach.

Experience the seclusion of nature

4. Learn the ins and outs of the southern night sky

Your host Alastair is an astronomer and has special instruments to observe the night sky - the moon, stars, planets and galaxies. Hear stories of how local Maori and Polynesian voyagers used them to navigate across the Pacific Ocean. Bursting with enthusiasm, Alastair shares his knowledge during your stay at his lodge accommodation on the picturesque Coromandel Peninsula.

Be astounded by the Milky Way

Discover more

Comfortable, Premium, and Luxury

Accommodation in New Zealand

Comfortable, Premium, and Luxury

Accommodation in Australia

Adventure awaits you in Australia. Get the most out of your journey and experience our unique small-scale… read more

Get the most out of your journey and discover New Zealand through the eyes of a local. Dive deep into New… read more

Explore the land of great contrasts that is

New Zealand

Are you looking to make memories in the most magical country in the world? Then, New Zealand, a country right out… read more

Discover the wonders of

Australia

Are you in for the trip of a lifetime? Australia showcases a diverse array of landscapes - from lush tropical… read more

Ready for the holiday of a lifetime?

Discover a world beyond ordinary

At TravelEssence, we specialise in crafting custom-made holidays that take you off the beaten path and create memories to last a lifetime. We believe in connecting with the heart and soul of a place, introducing you to the locals who call it home. Engage in conversations with fascinating individuals who will share their stories, traditions, and way of life, leaving an indelible mark on your journey.