Embark on a celestial adventure and discover the best stargazing accommodations around Sydney and New South Wales. From cozy cabins nestled in dark sky reserves to luxurious resorts offering telescopic views of the cosmos, our guide unveils the ultimate spots for astronomy enthusiasts and romantics alike.
Get ready to gaze upon the twinkling stars and explore the mysteries of the universe from the comfort of these breathtaking locations. Your unforgettable night under the vast Australian sky awaits!
At a Glance
Our list of best stargazing accommodations around Sydney and New South Wales goes like this:
- For a unique bubble tent experience: Bubble Tent Australia, Capertee Valley
- For an intimate encounter with the cosmos: Skywatch Observatory Domestays, Coonabarabran
- For the thrill of adventure under the stars: Warrumbungle National Park, Coonabarabran
- For a luxurious eco-friendly retreat: Paperbark Camp, Jervis Bay
- For a secluded escape in the Australian outback: Faraway Domes, Warialda
1. Bubble Tent Australia, Capertee Valley
Imagine a night under the stars, enveloped in the tranquility of nature, with nothing but the cosmos for company. Bubble Tent Australia in Capertee Valley offers just that—a celestial camping experience like no other. Perched on a secluded hilltop, these transparent, inflatable domes provide an unobstructed 360-degree view of the night sky, making it a stargazer’s paradise.
As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky transforms into a canvas painted with twinkling stars and wandering planets. Here, you can cozy up in luxury bedding, gaze at the Milky Way, and maybe even catch a shooting star. It’s not just about the night sky; by day, the surrounding valley offers breathtaking views and a chance to reconnect with nature.
- Website: https://bubbletentaustralia.com/
- Price starting from: $575-$715 Per Night.
- Address: The exact location is kept private and is sent to guests two weeks before their stay, but it is situated in Capertee Valley, roughly halfway between Mudgee and Lithgow.
- Distance and travel time from CBD: Approximately 200km outside of Sydney CBD, travel time is around 3 hours by car.
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/PEpgrWzZKLsc3cgQ9
2. Paperbark Camp, Jervis Bay
Escape to the serene Jervis Bay, where Paperbark Camp offers a luxurious eco-friendly retreat perfect for stargazing and unwinding in nature. Elevated timber platforms hold spacious safari tents, complete with wrap-around decking and full hotel amenities, all nestled within the eucalyptus and paperbark trees.
As night falls, the camp transforms into a stargazer’s dream, with the Southern Cross and other constellations visible to the naked eye. The camp’s Gunyah restaurant serves up delectable local cuisine under a canopy of stars. By day, enjoy the white sands and crystal-clear waters of Jervis Bay, or take a bushwalk and discover the local wildlife.
- Website: https://paperbarkcamp.com.au/
- Price starting from: N/A
- Address: Jervis Bay, NSW, Australia. Exact address not provided; refer to the website for directions.
- Distance and travel time from CBD: Approximately 190km south of Sydney, about a 2 ½ hour drive.
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/NmP1qmZDH6NerWHP6
3. Spicers Sangoma Retreat, Blue Mountains
For those seeking a luxurious escape with a celestial twist, Spicers Sangoma Retreat in the Blue Mountains offers the perfect blend of comfort and stargazing. This eco-certified retreat is enveloped by the natural beauty of the Australian bush, providing a tranquil backdrop for a night under the stars. Each suite is designed with relaxation in mind, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows that invite the outside in.
By night, the retreat’s secluded location offers pristine views of the starry sky, making it an ideal spot for an intimate stargazing experience. By day, indulge in the retreat’s many offerings, from gourmet dining to spa treatments, or explore the surrounding Blue Mountains National Park. It’s a place where luxury meets the wonders of the natural world.
- Website: https://spicersretreats.com/
- Price starting from: N/A.
- Address: Blue Mountains, NSW, Australia. Exact address not provided.
- Distance and travel time from CBD: Approximately 100km from Sydney CBD, about a 1.5-2 hour drive.
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/VfqhWkYMwRF9BwsN7
4. Sierra Escape, Mudgee
Escape to the rolling hills and clear skies of Mudgee, where Sierra Escape provides a glamping experience unlike any other. This luxury eco-glamping site is set amidst the breathtaking scenery of the Mudgee region, offering a unique way to connect with nature without sacrificing comfort. The tents are equipped with all the luxuries of a high-end hotel, including plush bedding, a fireplace, and even a freestanding bath.
As night falls, the lack of light pollution allows for some of the best stargazing opportunities in New South Wales. The expansive sky above Sierra Escape is a canvas of constellations, planets, and shooting stars, all visible to the naked eye. During the day, explore the local wineries, gourmet food producers, and historic towns of the Mudgee region. Sierra Escape is the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, set under the vast Australian sky.
- Website: https://www.sierraescape.com.au/
- Price starting from: N/A.
- Address: Mudgee, NSW, Australia. Exact address not provided.
- Distance and travel time from CBD: Approximately 260km from Sydney CBD, about a 3.5-4 hour drive.
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/tbepuWQm2eMho6oy5
5. Faraway Domes, Warialda
Venture off the beaten path and discover the Faraway Domes in Warialda. This unique glamping experience offers a secluded escape in the Australian outback, where the night sky is as vast as the surrounding landscape. The dome’s transparent front allows for uninterrupted views of the starry sky, making it an ideal spot for stargazing.
The dome is equipped with all the comforts of a luxury hotel, including a king-size bed, a fully equipped kitchen, and a private bathroom. The outdoor deck and hot tub provide the perfect setting for a night under the stars. During the day, explore the local area, known for its rich Aboriginal heritage and natural beauty. Faraway Domes offers a unique blend of luxury and adventure, all under the vast Australian sky.
- Website: https://www.farawaydomes.com/
- Price starting from: N/A.
- Address: Warialda, NSW, Australia. Exact address not provided.
- Distance and travel time from CBD: Approximately 580km from Sydney CBD, about a 6.5-7 hour drive.
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/XxGn5JWRLTZdprwG6
6. Warrumbungle National Park, Coonabarabran
For those who seek the thrill of adventure under the stars, Warrumbungle National Park in Coonabarabran is the ultimate stargazing destination. As Australia’s first Dark Sky Park, it offers some of the clearest night skies in the world. The park’s rugged landscape, dotted with ancient volcanic formations, creates a dramatic setting for night-time exploration.
Stargazers can camp under the stars and enjoy the park’s natural amphitheater for celestial shows. By day, the park offers a plethora of activities, from hiking the Breadknife and Grand High Tops walk to discovering the park’s diverse flora and fauna. It’s a place where the wonders of the universe and the beauty of the earth meet.
- Website: N/A
- Price starting from: Park entry fee is $8 per vehicle per day.
- Address: 4261 John Renshaw Parkway, Warrumbungle NSW 2828.
- Distance and travel time from CBD: Approximately 500km from Sydney CBD, about a 5-6 hour drive.
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/gymQTa3uuExE6eSX7
7. Milroy Observatory, Coonabarabran
Step into the heart of the astronomy capital of Australia and discover the Milroy Observatory in Coonabarabran. This observatory offers a unique stargazing experience, allowing visitors to peer into the cosmos through one of the largest telescopes available to the public. The night sky here is so clear, you’ll feel as though you can reach out and touch the stars.
The observatory hosts engaging night sky tours, where you can learn about constellations, planets, and deep space objects from knowledgeable guides. It’s not just about looking up; it’s about understanding what you’re seeing, making the experience both enlightening and magical. During the day, explore the surrounding Warrumbungle region, known for its breathtaking landscapes and rich Aboriginal heritage.
- Website: https://www.milroyobservatory.com.au/
- Price starting from: Night Sky Show – $30 per adult, $15 per child (aged 4-16), under 4 free, family (2 adults + 2 children) $80.
- Address: Coonabarabran, NSW, Australia. Exact address not provided; contact directly for details.
- Distance and travel time from CBD: Approximately 500km from Sydney CBD, about a 5-6 hour drive.
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/9wDdoZVmaVm61kbj9
8. Linden Observatory, Blue Mountains
Nestled in the lush, green heart of the Blue Mountains, the Linden Observatory is a hidden gem for stargazing enthusiasts. This volunteer-run observatory offers a quaint and intimate setting to gaze at the stars, away from the city’s light pollution. The observatory’s rich history and dedication to astronomy make it a fascinating place to visit, not just during the night but also as a day trip from Sydney.
Visitors can enjoy guided stargazing sessions, where passionate astronomers share their knowledge of the skies. The Blue Mountains themselves offer a plethora of activities, from hiking and exploring the stunning natural landscapes to visiting local art galleries and cafes. It’s the perfect getaway for those looking to combine a love for the stars with the beauty of Australian nature.
- Website: https://lindenobservatory.com.au/
- Price starting from: N/A.
- Address: Blue Mountains, NSW, Australia. Exact address not provided.
- Distance and travel time from CBD: Approximately 100km from Sydney CBD, about a 1.5-2 hour drive.
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/TwmTyAjkhwKxmTnk7
9. Skywatch Observatory Domestays, Coonabarabran
Nestled in the heart of the astronomy capital of Australia, Skywatch Observatory Domestays in Coonabarabran is a haven for celestial enthusiasts. This unique bed and breakfast not only offers a cozy stay but also an intimate encounter with the cosmos through their private observatory equipped with a powerful telescope.
Guests are treated to a guided tour of the stars, learning about constellations and celestial events. The dark skies of Coonabarabran provide the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable night of stargazing. During the day, explore the nearby Warrumbungle National Park, known for its stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity.
- Website: https://skywatchobservatory.com.au/
- Price starting from: N/A
- Address: 9 Koala Crescent, Coonabarabran, NSW 2357, Australia.
- Distance and travel time from CBD: Coonabarabran is approximately 500km from Sydney CBD, which is about a 5-6 hour drive.
- Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/vZsRfhW6LgQym2RS8
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time of year for stargazing in New South Wales?
The best time for stargazing in New South Wales is during the winter months from May to August when the skies are typically clearer and the center of the Milky Way is visible.
Can I visit these stargazing accommodations without staying overnight?
Some locations like the observatories offer night sky tours without the need to stay overnight. It’s best to check with individual observatories such as the Milroy Observatory for their tour schedules.
Are these stargazing spots suitable for beginners?
Yes, many of these locations cater to all levels of stargazing experience, from beginners to seasoned astronomers, and often provide guided tours and sessions.
How far are these accommodations from Sydney CBD?
Distances vary, with the closest being Tandara Glamping Tent in Lane Cove, about 10km and a 15-20 minute drive from Sydney CBD, and the farthest being Faraway Domes in Warialda, approximately 580km and a 6.5-7 hour drive from Sydney CBD.
Do I need to bring my own telescope to these accommodations?
No, it is not necessary to bring your own telescope as many of these accommodations provide telescopes and guided stargazing sessions. However, you are welcome to bring your own equipment if you prefer.
