Travel

The 7 Most Breathtaking Outdoor Hotel Rooms in the World

From a perch overlooking Manhattan to a luxe bed under Mozambique’s “Lake of Stars,” these accommodations are downright dreamy

By Corynne Cirilli

November 24, 2017

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There are hotel rooms—and then there are hotel room experiences. Offering the option of setting up a bed underneath a stunning, outdoor atmosphere, these seven hotels provide the out-of-this-world experience of falling asleep quite literally in nature. Camping this is not. From taking in the African stars to admiring the New York City skyline, you won’t regret having the chance to spend an evening outdoors at one of these truly incredible spots.

Photo: Courtesy of AKA Central Park
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AKA Central Park, New York City
Sleeping outside in New York City may not seem like a high-end option, but at AKA Central Park, it’s a real luxury. During the summer months, guests who book the Sky Suite at AKA can turn their terrace into an outdoor bedroom and sleep under the Manhattan skyline. stayaka.com/aka-central-park
Photo: Ken Hayden
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Amangiri, Canyon Point, Utah
Of the many indulgent options offered at Amangiri, the Mesa Pool Suite’s private sky terrace might be the most spectacular. Sprawl across the terrace’s daybed and take in the ever-changing colors of the desert canyon. aman.com

Photo: Courtesy of L’Albereta
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L’Albereta, Erbusco Brescia, Italy
With the touch of a button, the ceiling of the Cabriolet Suite at L’Albereta opens up, transforming the indoor room to an outdoor experience. Day or night, guests can enjoy a private outdoor experience right from their hotel room—and close up the open-air option when it’s time to cozy up inside. albereta.it
Photo: Courtesy of L'and Vineyards
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L'and Vineyards, Alentejo, Portugal
With two remote controls—one to open a blackout layer and the other to open the glass skylight—the sky-view suites offer ceilings that fully open up to the heavens. But, outdoor sleeping arrangements aren’t the only perk. The suites also offer a private indoor garden with a "plunge pool," a large terrace with fireplace, and a private patio. l-and.com

Photo: Blake Marvin / Courtesy of Rosewood Hotels
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Las Ventanas al Paraíso, Los Cabos, Mexico
If the sweeping views of the Sea of Cortez don’t fully satisfy your need for an outdoor experience, try booking the penthouse suites at this luxury hotel. Each one features a terrace, with a king-size bed, allowing guests to take in the sunset, sunrise, and everything in between. rosewoodhotels.com
Photo: Stevie Mann / Courtesy of Loisaba
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Loisaba, Laikipia, Kenya
Spending the night on one of Loisaba’s glorious “star beds” is on many a seasoned traveler’s bucket list. And for good reason. The 56,000-acre wildlife conservancy and working ranch, located in Laikipia (northern Kenya), offers guests the once-in-a-lifetime experience of sleeping on a handcrafted, four-poster bed under the African night sky. loisaba.com

Photo: Courtesy of Nkwichi
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Nkwichi, Lake Malawi, Mozambique
There’s not much that sounds more awe-inspiring than a “Lake of Stars”—except, perhaps, a “Lake of Stars Bed.” At the Nkwichi resort on Lake Malawi, guests can reserve an outdoor bed on the resort’s deserted, virgin beach or on a private rock island close to shore. You’ll be so amazed with the view above, you won’t want to close your eyes. nkwichi.com