Sleeping outside
Escape the bustle, pack your bags and opt for an unforgettable experience: sleeping outdoors. A comfortable room in a small hotel is fine, but believe me: a night in the open air is even more special. It is not only relaxing, but you also see the most beautiful starry skies in many places, and you are surrounded by the sound of nature. And… sleeping outdoors is good for you!
But where should you go? We have selected the most special places:
#1. Tinyeleti Tree House, Kruger National Park, South Africa
One of the most famous national parks in the world – Kruger National Park. You can find big and small game, virgin nature and romantic hostels. But Tinyeleti Treehouse is surely the most special of all. In this luxurious tree house, you sleep directly under the stars (although luckily you have a mosquito net over the bed) in the heart of the lion preserve. In addition to a bed, the spacious deck also has a telescope, so you can admire the starry sky whenever you want.
#2. Treebones Resort, Big Sur, USA
At the Treebones Resort, you can reserve a cabin covered in twigs and branches. Ready to wake up to healthy sea air in a cabin no bigger than your body? The environment is beautiful, as soon as you open your eyes in the morning you will see the vegetation and the sea. If you don’t want to sleep only on the mattress, bring your own sleeping bag and pillow, and for rainy weather, a tent.
#3. Northern Territory, Australia
A few years ago I took a three day tour of the Northern Territory in Australia, with intense but beautiful walks on the red sand. Especially memorable: we slept in a thick sleeping bag in the middle of the desert. No showers, a hole for a toilet… just a big campfire, some food and a fantastic free feeling. It was one of the best experiences of my life. Such a feeling of freedom. And that starry sky… as if you were looking at a photoshopped galaxy.
#4. Nkwichi, Lake Malawi, Mozambique
A piece of paradise on earth, that is Nkwichi Resort on Lake Malawi in Mozambique. Choose a ‘star bed’ on the beach or among the rocks with a beautiful view of the sea. Enjoy the unforgettable sunrise and sunset and stay awake at night to admire the starry sky. Because there is no light pollution in the area, it is truly impressive. Also nice: taking a luxurious bath in nature!
#5. l’Albereta, Lake Iseo, Italy
Would you like a vacation in Europe? No problem, get outdoors there too! This resort features the Cabriolet Suite with retractable roof. Press a button from your comfortable bed and bam – you’ll be able to sleep under the (hopefully) clear sky. The balcony overlooks the surrounding vineyards and Lake Iseo. Very romantic!
#6. Waldseilgarten Hollschlucht, Pfronten, Germany
In this beautiful mountain area of Germany you can get back to nature. The cheapest (and most liberating) option is a 23-foot-tall wooden platform in the trees, where you can choose between a completely fixed or slightly mobile platform. Put down your sleeping bag and enjoy the fresh air. Another option is a pyramid-shaped tent on a sturdy tree branch overlooking the mountains. For the true adventurers, the area also has tents on a cliff, between 320 and 300 feet high! You dare?