Latest news with #TheOberoi
Forbes
2 days ago
- Forbes
An Aesthetic Lover's Guide To Morocco
Lobby of The Oberoi luxury hotel in Marrakech, Morocco. The Oberoi, Marrakech There's magic in Morocco everywhere you turn. The site, sounds, and smells captivate the heart and mind. 'Morocco offers a rare blend of authenticity, natural beauty, and cultural depth. With over a thousand years of history, it's a destination where ancient traditions meet modern creativity. From the Atlas Mountains to the Atlantic coast, the landscapes are as diverse as the experiences. It's a country you can visit year-round, with each region offering something unique depending on the season. That said, spring and fall are generally the best times to visit, with ideal weather for exploring cities, coastlines, and the desert,' explains Siham Fettouhi, Executive Director of North America for the Moroccan National Tourist Office. For aesthetic lovers everywhere who relish in the beauty of their travels, here are ten of the best must-visit sights, sounds, and tastes you cannot miss out on. Imagine being greeted by this view every morning: this is the Grand Canal Morning lobby. The Oberoi, Marrakech The Oberoi Marrakech, Spa & Hammam This landmark and historic boutique property with 84 rooms and suites features design flourishes that echo the foundational heart of the country: think of ancient medina, souks, riads, palaces and perfectly groomed gardens. Marrying modernity with antiquity, every corner of this sprawling hotel is a sensual feast for the eyes. The spa in particular is where the true beauty resides. It is an oasis that spans over 21,000 square feet and whose site is hugged by 28 acres of fruit orchards and ancient olive groves. Featuring five treatment rooms and two Moroccan hammams, while relishing in their roster of signature treatments (that utilize local herbs, oils and clays to purify the body), the building itself is a majestic sight to behold: it's dotted with traditional Moroccan motifs, albeit reinterpreted through a modernist lens — think colors of the fabled 'Ochre City' — captured in bold, geometric patterns, and Berber tribal designs interspersed with rich marble tiling. The pinnacle of fine dining in Marrakech, Morocco. La Grande Table Marocaine of the Royal Mansour, Marrakech La Grande Table Marocaine of the Royal Mansour, Marrakech The country is known for its rich and intoxicating cuisine and respective flavors that stem from use of local spices and time-honored cooking techniques. Even more, this award-winning restaurant takes gastronomy to a whole new stratosphere. As proud culinary ambassadors, partake in their tasting menu (the Lixus Experience) with sumptuous creations like Méchoui (slow cooked lamb shoulder seasoned with cumin and salt) and Agadir caught pilpil prepared shrimp. The fare is bolstered by a convivial setting with the most opulent multilayered decor that includes Zellij mosaics, berber rugs, dramatic pendant light, and enriched silk and chenille furniture. Yves Saint Laurent: The Hamish Bowles Collection YSL Museum Musée Yves Saint Laurent Marrakech Running from now until January 2, 2026, the storied museum is showcasing Hamish Bowles's personal and curated couture collection. The English fashion historian and journalist takes visitors through his favorite bespoke items, with stories told through his point-of-view. The 53 vintage garments are one-of-a-kind and not on loan from a museum, but rather taken directly from his private collection — making the entire experience that much more tailored and sentimental. Woven into this sartorial journey are his nuggets of wisdom that span from fashion industry insights to garment construction. Aside from this limited-run exhibit, be sure to soak up the beauty of the museum itself, whose aesthetic vision was conceived by French architecture firm Studio KO. Erected in 2017 and composed of terracotta and Moroccan stone — the zen-inducing space feels like a soothing hug as it harmoniously blends in with the natural Moroccan landscape. What to experience in Agafay The White Camel is an exclusive Agafay Luxury Camp located a 30-minute drive outside of Marrakech. The White Camel The White Camel Lodge and Tents The eco-lodge is known for its Replenishment Packages, Wet Treatments, and self-care for families and children. The White Camel Lodge & Tents Situated in the Agafay Desert, the raw landscape features rocky dunes and starry-night skies. This luxury eco-hotelier boasts private tents and lodges to allow you to get in touch with nature. In additon to camel treks, stargazing, and immersion in Berber culture, here — the rest and relaxation is aplenty with the Agafay Desert serving as a serene backdrop to your spa/wellness journey. The property is known for their unique and customizable 'Wet Treatments': top recommendations include the tactile pleasures of the Berber Hammam; Royal Hammam Ceremony; and Scratching service that makes use of locally sourced Marigha Salt (a village situated in the mountainous High Atlas region in Marrakech). What to experience in Casablanca Le Rooftop at the Royal Mansour Casablanca Royal Mansour Casablanca Royal Mansour Casablanca The style/fashionista themed suite inside Royal Mansour Casablanca Royal Mansour Casablanca/ Cyrille Robin The vibrancy and buzzing excitement of Casablanca and its populace of over 3 million people is felt within the walls of this hotel, albeit with a layer of luxe contemporary sentiments. The hotel features 149 rooms, suites, private apartments, and four restaurants spread out over its 23 floors. There's also a lavish spa/wellness area and Hammam that curates local Moroccan products like marocMaroc — whose ethos honors the ancient beauty rituals of its countrywomen. Additionally, a regal and most sartorial experience awaits inside their plush fashion-themed, two-bedroom 2368 suite. In addition to sweeping city visas from your private balcony and an art-deco aesthetic, you're greeted with a mannequin wearing vintage couture (donning the likes of Dior, Chanel, and more) and fashion magazines (think Vogue, Elle, Harper's Bazaar) strewn about. Naturally, if it's kicked up a desire for retail therapy, the concierge team can organize a trip to popular spots like the Morocco Mall, the largest shopping venue in Africa with over 350 stores, 40 restaurants and its own souk (an artisan marketplace). Hassan II Mosque Pêcheur et Mosquée Hassan-II à Casablanca le 14 juillet 2021. (Photo by Francois LOCHON/Gamma-Rapho via Getty Images) Gamma-Rapho via Getty Images As the largest mosque in Africa and classified as the 7th largest in the world, it is stunning to behold. The structure is partially build over the Atlantic Ocean, making it appear like a pearly gem floating in azure waters. Whether you're capturing photos inside and out, its majestic features include a minaret tower that stretches over 650 ft. high into the heavens; an expansive library, an elaborate hammam in the basement; and much more. The architecture and design is exquisite and astonishing: it features intricate frescoes, zelliges tiles done in a signature geometric motif, wood carvings, ornate stuccos, and artistic calligraphy strewn throughout the space. There are guided tours all day with language interpreters. What to experience in Rabat Mausoleum of Mohammed V This shimmering monument is dedicated to the memory of the late monarch Mohammed V (a beloved Sultan and King of Morocco) Visit Rabat The capital city captivates with its harmonious blend of old and new worlds. And this glimmering structure is no exception. The memorial grounds pay tribute to this beloved Moroccan king through its mausoleum which holds the tombs of Mohammed V and his two sons — the late King Hassan II and Prince Abdallah. The interior and exterior architectural design features are some of the most entrancing and intricate structures you'll find (and that you're allowed to see up-close-and-personal). The use of white Marble, green tile roofing, moorish arches, Sebka motifs gives the building a sense of grandeur and elegance. Inside, you'll find hallmarks such as Zellij tile wood, carved ceedarwood, an onyx sarcophagus, all flanked by real Royal Guards. Au Grain de Sésame An artisan space that houses female-founded brands by local creators Au Grain de Sésame Founded in 2007 by Asmaa Benachir — her workshop has always been aimed at coupling sustainable development and respect for the environment with women's empowerment. In fact, in 2013 — she launched a training program with an emphasis on ecological and sustainable design to help women in need (especially those contending with challenging situations). These marginalized individuals acquire skills that not only foster cultural pride for Moroccan art but in the same vein, attain financial independence. As a result of this community building, visitors can explore this welcoming and beautiful space all while purchasing these exquisite handicrafts made by these strong ladies. What to experience in Tangier Cap Spartel Lighthouse at Cap Spartel. (Photo by: Carl Simon/United Archives/Universal Images Group via Getty Images) Universal Images Group via Getty Images Soak up views of this picture-perfect seaside promenade whose historical lighthouse has ignited dreamscape visions of anyone wandering through this area. Lap up the natural beauty of views that feature the Strait of Gibraltar, where the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean converge. In addition to the 1800s lighthouse (a national monument that you can tour and learn about the history of how it provided visual salvation to sailors at sea), there's also gardens, a museum on-site, and artisan vendors selling local handicrafts that span from kaftans to darbukas. Laure Welfling Laure Welfling has an incredible sartorial pedigree which includes working in fashion design in New York at Lords & Taylor, then in Paris at Christian Dior. Laure Welfling Sartorial sumptuousness awaits as you walk through the doors of luxury designer atelier Laure Welfling. Dividing her time between Paris and Tangier, her couture shop offers reimagined capes, jackets, and kaftans for women and men. All garments are made in-house by her team and bespoke fittings are available by appointment.
Elle
25-06-2025
- Elle
The Best Spas To Visit In Marrakech For Ultimate Relaxation And Rejuvenation
When Yves Saint Laurent first arrived in Marrakech in 1964 he was overwhelmed by the city's vivacity. 'Before Marrakech, everything was black,' he once said. 'This city taught me colour, and I embraced its light, its insolent mixes and ardent inventions. It was when I discovered Morocco that I realised my own chromatism was that of Moroccan caftans, zelliges, zouacs and jellabas.' The storied fashion designer eventually bought a home in the Moroccan city, and upon his passing, asked that his ashes be scattered in what is largely considered to be one of the Maghreb's most intoxicating cities. Sitting at the historical intersection between Europe, Middle East and Africa, Marrakech is a city uniquely placed like no other in the world. Sitting at the edge of the Sahara Desert, the Red City is busy, bustling and bursting-at-the-seams, while at the same time being a place that can provide serenity and sanguinity better than any other thanks, in large, to its coterie of stand-out spas. Once-upon-a-time, it was Europe that was renowned for being a hub of relaxation, but today Marrakech is following hot on its tails. Founded almost a thousand years ago, Marrakech is abuzz with innovation and modernity, but it's also firm and steadfast in its commitment to its heritage. A day spent exploring the city can bleed into an afternoon spent lounging by the pool, before a traditional Moroccan hammam prepares you for supper. It's little wonder that the city's popularity has soared in recent years, no doubt bolstered by its stable of world-class hotels and spas. And if it's precisely with these spas in mind that you are traveling to Marrakech, then allow us to enlighten you on the best spas for rest and recuperation in the Red City. The Oberoi Marrakech The Oberoi The Oberoi Marrakech For those unfamiliar with the wonder of The Oberoi, let us familiarise you. Set in 28 acres of impeccably — nay, flawlessly ! — landscaped gardens, citrus orchards and olive groves, the 84-room hotel sits at the foot of the snow-capped Atlas Mountains. If ever heaven on earth existed, it would surely be found somewhere on the grounds of The Oberoi Marrakech, among its 3,000 olive trees, perhaps. If the setting and three restaurants on the ground of the hotel aren't enough to convince you of that, then its state-of-the-art spa certainly ought to be. Set on its own private island within the hotel (naturally, it's also surrounded by a perfectly-manicured maze), the spa is the perfect place to unwind after a busy day spent soaking up the cultural mores of Marrakech. Alan Keohane alan@ The Oberoi Marrakech's spa therapy suite The Oberoi's signature hammam treatment is a true once-in-a-lifetime experience, though. From black soap with essential oils, to a whole body scrub with a Moroccan kessa glove, and wraps with ghassoul and rose water, the treatment embalms the body in a cocoon of relaxation. You'll emerge feeling ten years younger, brighter and more well-rested. BOOK La Mamounia Perhaps unsurprisingly, La Mamounia is a Moroccan institution for good reason. Not only did Laurent love the hotel, but former British Prime Minister Winston Churchill did, too (so much so, in fact, that there's a suite named after him on the fifth floor). If the hotel is divine though, its award-winning spa is even more so. Brimming with old-school charm, not only does the spa still retain some of the hotel's own magic, but it also has evolved to cater to its beautifully discerning guests too. There are now two traditional hammams, and one private hammam space, as well as ten treatment rooms (two of which can cater to couples), and a catered relaxation room. As if that's not enough, there's a nail and hail salon on-site, too. BOOK Royal Mansour Royal Mansour Royal Mansour Marrakech What Royal Mansour doesn't know about Moroccan spa treatments, frankly isn't worth knowing. The hotel was originally commissioned by King Mohammed VI as a sanctuary for visiting dignitaries, and it remains as such to this day. Illuminated with ambient lighting and sweeping Moroccan architecture, the spa at the 53-riad hotel features an indoor heated pool (perfect for if you're travelling to Marrakech in-between seasons when the weather can be more intermittent), and ten treatment rooms. One thing's for certain, whether you just opt to relax and recuperate in the spa's extensive space or book an authentic Moroccan hammam: you won't want to come home, and who in their right mind would? BOOK ELLE Collective is a new community of fashion, beauty and culture lovers. For access to exclusive content, events, inspiring advice from our Editors and industry experts, as well the opportunity to meet designers, thought-leaders and stylists, become a member today HERE . The Best Hotels In Marrakech The Very Best Spas In Europe Naomi May Acting News Editor Naomi May is a freelance writer and editor with an emphasis on popular culture, lifestyle and politics. After graduating with a First Class Honours from City University's prestigious Journalism course, Naomi joined the Evening Standard as its Fashion and Beauty Writer, working across both the newspaper and website. She is now the Acting News Editor at ELLE UK and has written features for the likes of The Guardian, Vogue, Vice and Refinery29, among many others.
The Hindu
04-06-2025
- Lifestyle
- The Hindu
Disfrutar's Chef Oriol Castro Hosts First-Ever Superclass in India
In less than 24 hours of landing in Delhi, Chef Oriol Castro went on a spin around the city, experienced its markets, tasted local food and sat through half a dozen interviews. Yet, there was no trace of fatigue on his face. It could be because of his trademark energy, or because he was really excited to be in India — a place, he says, he has been waiting to come to forever. 'I am so happy to finally be here! I have always wanted to see this land of great history and immense gastronomical culture,' quips the cheerful chef, who was at The Oberoi New Delhi courtesy of global culinary exchange platform Culinary Culture and Don Julio tequila. Incidentally, Oriol was not in the city to cook a meal but to teach people how to cook some of his signature dishes from Disfrutar, the three Michelin star restaurant in Barcelona, currently regarded as the world's best restaurant. And why is he not cooking for us? We are compelled to ask. 'Our cooking needs certain ingredients, equipment, technique, and labour, all of which is only possible in our own kitchen, but we do many collaborations like this where we teach our recipes,' explains the chef whose restaurant is endorsed by the who's who and sees over a year long waitlist for reservations. Creating a legacy A protégé of the iconic El Bulli, a restaurant that reinvented Spanish cuisine and put it on the world map, Oriol along with his co-owners, Chef Eduard Xatruch and Chef Y Mateu Casañas, is known to have taken revolutionary culinary techniques (like foaming and spherification) from El Bulli to new heights at Disfrutar. While they offer a 28-course classic tasting menu — and a 30-course option called the Festival Menu — it was Bulli that had introduced the concept of elaborate tasting menus. 'In the beginning tasting menus meant serving only two-three starters. In the 90s we began changing that by adding more tapas and small plates. Slowly, we made it to 10 courses — which was an important turning point in the history of tasting menus and something that has caught on since. Some of these courses change for regular diners to ensure there is no dining fatigue.' The idea behind the large menu, he explains, is to showcase a variety of techniques, flavours and tastes. 'Creating a tasting menu, I feel, is like making music — just as the combination of many notes make a song, many little things come together to make an experience like this.' Sharing knowledge Like Bulli, that openly shared and published all its recipes, Disfrutar has been documenting all its recipes too. Their cookbooks (they publish one every three years) also come with scannable codes that take you to videos showcasing the methodology behind each recipe. When questioned on whether he feels sharing their recipes openly might be a self-sabotaging practice, Oriol shrugs. 'Life is about being generous and sharing your knowledge, so no problem at all! C'est la vie!' he grins. Taking the philosophy forward, the superclass at The Oberoi New Delhi, focussed on showcasing the complex methodology of some of the signature dishes at Disfrutar. Participants, which included India's top chefs like Avinash Martins, Varun Totlani, Kavan Kutappa, Manish Mehrotra, young culinary students and food enthusiasts, got to witness the making of recipes such as The Goose That Laid The Golden Eggs, a dish with a shimmering golden egg yolk that is in fact a spherified, intensely savoury crustacean bisque made with prawn heads; Calçotada 2023, a dish made with sweet onions called calçots that sprout across Catalonia every winter; and Pizza Truffle, a flourless cocoa pizza with truffle, among several others. Impression of Indian food It may have been his first visit to India, but the chef's knowledge of Indian food is remarkable, something he owes to the Indian restaurant in front of his home where he and his children love to regularly dine, and to Indian chefs that work with him in his kitchens. 'There are so many bright young Indian students across culinary schools in Spain. Even at Disfrutar we have many Indian chefs and we learn so much from them everyday.' Oriol, who visited a host of wet markets in Delhi, also equates Indian markets to Spanish mercados, 'with fresh greens, potatoes, tomatoes, and a large variety of seasonal vegetables and meats just like our markets.' Having grown up by the sea on freshly made home cooked food, his fondness for seasonality relates with that of India just like he correlates the complexity of our cooking techniques to that of Spanish cuisine. So where does he see India fitting in the culinary map? 'Indian food is waiting to be the next big thing. It has flavours, it has technique and it has this vast cultural history backing it,' he says, adding 'I truly feel it is the time for India to shine.'
NDTV
25-04-2025
- NDTV
Caravans, Palaces, Kasbahs: The 10 Best Hotels And Resorts In Morocco
Morocco is on every travel lover's bucket list for all the right reasons. From the sandy dunes of the Sahara Desert to the colourful souks of Marrakech, it is a place full of life and adventure. If you are in India and planning to visit Morocco, you will usually need to fly in to the country. Major Moroccan cities like Casablanca, Marrakesh and Fes are connected to Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru, with a layover or two along the way. How To Get A Visa For Morocco? Getting a Morocco visa for Indian passport holders is pretty straightforward. Just head over to the official website - Once you fill in the details, they will ask for your email address and a confirmation link will be sent on it. Click on it and fill out the form with your personal info and passport details. Do not forget to upload a passport-sized photo and a copy of your passport. After you confirm everything, make the payment, and you are all set. The processing time for a Morocco tourist visa for Indians is usually around three working days. If you are in a hurry, there is an express option too - it can be done in just one day. Most-Visited African Country Morocco is not just popular - it is the most-visited country in all of Africa. According to UN Tourism data, 17.4 million international tourists explored Morocco in 2024, which is a solid 20% jump from 2023. Clearly, the world can not get enough of its charm, colours and culture. Where To Stay In Morocco While Morocco offers a range of stay options, from traditional riads to the best of modern hotels, here's a look at the most luxurious hotels and resorts across the country. 1. Royal Mansour, Marrakech View this post on Instagram A post shared by ROYAL MANSOUR MARRAKECH HOTEL (@royalmansourmarrakech) This ultra-luxurious stay is the real deal - it was built by and is owned by Morocco's King Mohammed VI. Think private riads, rooftop pools, lush gardens and gold-dusted everything. 2. The Oberoi, Marrakech View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Oberoi, Marrakech (@theoberoimarrakech) A peaceful paradise surrounded by orange orchards and olive trees. The Oberoi blends Indian hospitality with Moroccan beauty - expect grand architecture, serene courtyards and flawless service that makes you feel like royalty. 3. La Mamounia, Marrakech View this post on Instagram A post shared by ???????? ???????????????????????????????? ???????????????????????????????????? (@lamamouniamarrakech) An iconic hotel, La Mamounia oozes old-world glamour and charm. With its dreamy interiors and lush gardens, it is like stepping into a Moroccan fairytale with a luxury twist. 4. Fairmont Royal Palm, Marrakech View this post on Instagram A post shared by Fairmont Royal Palm Marrakech (@fairmontmarrakech) This resort is where elegance meets relaxation - imagine sprawling suites, mountain views, a giant golf course, and a spa that is basically a dream. It's a perfect blend of style, peace and pampering. 5. Nobu, Marrakech View this post on Instagram A post shared by Nobu Marrakech (@nobumarrakech) Trendy, stylish, and buzzing with energy - Nobu Marrakech is for the cool crowd. With its sleek design and world-famous cuisine, it is the ultimate hotspot for a luxe urban escape. 6. Caravan by Habitas Agafay View this post on Instagram A post shared by Caravan by habitas Agafay (@caravanhabitasagafay) Desert glamping with a soul! Set in the Agafay Desert, Caravan offers boho-chic tents, fire-lit nights, live music and a magical escape under the stars. It is perfect for adventurers who also love comfort. 7. Royal Mansour Casablanca View this post on Instagram A post shared by ROYAL MANSOUR CASABLANCA HOTEL (@royalmansourcasablanca) Bringing old-school glamour to the heart of Casablanca, this hotel is all about refined luxury. With plush interiors, fine dining and top-notch service, it is a favorite among travellers. 8. Four Seasons Casablanca View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kyub Restaurant (@kyubrestaurant) Wake up to the sound of waves and ocean views at this coastal stunner. Whether you're into beach walks, spa days or sunset cocktails, Four Seasons Casablanca is all about chic seaside luxury. 9. Kasbah Bab Ourika, Ourika Valley Set high above a valley, this eco-friendly hideaway offers jaw-dropping views of the Atlas Mountains. With charming rooms, earthy vibes and fresh farm-to-table food, it is a peaceful escape into nature. The 2024 Netflix movie Lonely Planet, starring Chris Hemsworth and Laura Dern, was shot at this retreat. 10. Fairmont Tazi Palace, Tangier View this post on Instagram A post shared by Fairmont Tazi Palace Tangier (@fairmonttazipalacetangier) Once a royal palace, now a luxury resort with serious style. Fairmont Tazi Palace is where heritage meets glam - think regal decor, lavish gardens, panoramic city views and a taste of Tangier's golden past.
NDTV
24-04-2025
- NDTV
A Jungle Resort In Madhya Pradesh To Atacama Desert In Chile, The World's Best Hotels For Stargazing
Astrotourism has become one of the most sought-after travel trends these days. This unique experience offers tourists the opportunity to observe starry skies and celestial events like auroras, meteor showers and eclipses. A destination with minimal light pollution is necessary for seeing these stunning celestial phenomena. From the secluded landscapes of Utah in the US, to the arid expanses of the Atacama desert in Chile, there are plenty of sites to enjoy astrotourism. In fact, several luxurious hotels and resorts have embraced this trend, offering their guests an unparalleled stargazing experience. If you are also willing to soak in the beauty of the cosmos without compromising on comfort, check out these top 10 upscale accommodations that will fit your requirements perfectly. 1. The Oberoi Beach Resort Mauritius View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Oberoi, Mauritius (@theoberoimauritius) Where: Turtle Bay, Pointe aux Piments, Mauritius Located off the coast of Madagascar, Mauritius is the prime spot for unobstructed stargazing. During the off-season (May and October), the island's cooler temperatures reduce humidity, paving the way for crystal-clear night skies. Visitors can enroll in the resort's Touching Senses programme to witness the superb display of constellations. The sessions are scheduled weekly. 2. Banyan Tree AlUla, Saudi Arabia View this post on Instagram A post shared by Banyan Tree AlUla (@ Where: AlUla, Saudi Arabia The Ashar Valley in Saudi Arabia is a picturesque destination, pulling globetrotters in in large numbers. Banyan Tree AlUla is located far from the city lights in a vast desert, presenting tourists with the world's most enviable clear skies. At Banyan Tree AlUla, an expert astronomer guides tourists through the constellations with state-of-the-art telescopes. 3. Como Cocoa Island, Maldives View this post on Instagram A post shared by COMO Cocoa Island (@comococoaisland) Where: Makunufushi South Malé Atoll, Maldives An idyllic retreat, the Como Cocoa Island provides unspoiled views of the night sky, and is perfect for stargazing enthusiasts. Situated far from urban light pollution, the resort provides clear, unspoiled views of the night sky, allowing guests to witness constellations from both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. The resort's overwater villas and beachfront areas serve as vantage points for observing celestial events, making it a serene haven for those seeking a cosmic connection. 4. The Kumaon, Uttarakhand, India View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Kumaon (@ Where: Gadholi, Uttarakhand Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, The Kumaon offers a celestial escape for stargazers. The resort's high-altitude terrain and low light pollution make it a stunning stargazing location. On cloudless nights, the Milky Way stretches vividly overhead, and constellations seem close enough to touch. The air is crisp, the surroundings serene, and the cosmic display uninterrupted - making The Kumaon a dream destination for astrophotographers and night sky enthusiasts alike. 5. Sao Lourenço do Barrocal, Portugal View this post on Instagram A post shared by MintaEats (@minta_eats) Where: Sao Lourenço do Barrocal, Portugal This Portuguese estate is tucked within meadows, vineyards and olive groves, emanating an old-world charm. The hotel is situated within Portugal's 3,000-square-kilometre Dark Sky Alqueva Reserve. Visitors can step inside their official observatory to explore the galaxies. The hotel allows guests to take a private astronomy lesson as well. 6. Primland, Auberge Resorts Collection, USA View this post on Instagram A post shared by Primland (@primlandauberge) Where: Meadows of Dan, Virginia Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains will bring you closer to nature than ever before. Nestled on a private 12,000-acre mountain estate, the lodge houses a special observatory where guests can marvel at planets, stars and nebulae in the clear skies. 7. Our Habitas Atacama, Chile View this post on Instagram A post shared by Our Habitas | Atacama (@habitasatacama) Where: Antofagasta, Chile Bestowed with the advantages of low population, high altitude, stable air and a dry climate, Chile's Atacama Desert makes up for clear skies almost all year-round. This hotel recently launched its five-night stargazing package, Explorer's Delight. The programme is designed to coincide with 2025's celestial occurrences. 8. &Beyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge, Namibia View this post on Instagram A post shared by andBeyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge (@andbeyondsossusvlei) Where: Namib-Naukluft Park, Namibia This lavish Namibian lodge has earned a gold-tier status, indicating that it is one of the darkest places in the world. Every evening, resident astronomers invite tourists to visit their observatory and use the Celestron telescope to satiate their quest for stargazing. 9. Longitude 131, Australia View this post on Instagram A post shared by Longitude 131° (@longitude131) Where: Yulara, Australia This wilderness camp in Australia's Red Centre provides unobstructed views of the southern night sky. Guests can relish scrumptious meals under the stars at Table 131. Guides will accompany them, offering valuable insights on the constellations and the Milky Way and Southern Cross. 10. Park Hotel Kenmare, Kerry Dark Sky Reserve, Ireland View this post on Instagram A post shared by Park Hotel Kenmare (@parkkenmare) Where: Kenmare, Ireland Tucked away in Ireland's mystical southwest, the Park Hotel Kenmare sits on the edge of the Kerry International Dark Sky Reserve, which is one of the few gold-tier reserves in the world. This luxurious retreat blends old-world charm with celestial wonder, offering guests a unique astrotourism experience. On clear nights, the sky above Kenmare transforms into a breathtaking dome of stars, planets, and the Milky Way, all visible without the aid of telescopes. The hotel even curates stargazing experiences, inviting guests to explore the cosmos in one of Europe's most pristine nightscapes, all while wrapped in the comforts of five-star hospitality. 11. Baghvan, A Taj Safari Lodge View this post on Instagram A post shared by Taj Safaris (@tajsafaris) Where: Pench National Park, Madhya Pradesh The Pench Tiger Reserve was named India's first Dark Sky Reserve in January 2024, and since then, astrotourism has seen an uptick in the area. Baghvan, A Taj Safari Lodge, is a collection of 12 colonial bungalows near a riverbed. The resort is a stone's throw from the Pench National Park. Baghvan has in-house naturalists who sit with you to tell you stories over a stargazing session.
