Sleeping Outdoors

Escape the hustle and bustle, pack your bags and opt for an unforgettable experience: sleeping in the open air. A comfortable room in a small hotel is nice, but believe me: a night in the open air is even more special. It is not only soothing, but you also see the most beautiful starry skies in many locations, 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 Treehouse, 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, untouched nature, and romantic lodges. But Tinyeleti Treehouse is surely the most special of them all. In this luxury tree house, you sleep directly under the stars (although you have a mosquito net over the bed, luckily) in the heart of the lion reserve. In addition to a bed, the spacious deck also has a telescope, so you can admire the starry sky whenever you like.

#2. Treebones Resort, Big Sur, US

At the Treebones Resort, you can book a cabin covered in twigs and branches. Ready to wake up to the healthy sea air in a cabin no bigger than your body? The surroundings are beautiful, as soon as you open your eyes in the morning you will see greenery and the sea. If you don't want to just sleep 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 made a three-day tour through the Northern Territory in Australia, with intensive but beautiful hikes through the red sand. Especially memorable: we slept in a thick sleeping bag in the middle of the desert. No showers, a pit for a toilet... just a big campfire, some food, and a fantastic, free feeling. It was one of the best experiences ever. Such a feeling of freedom. And that starry sky... as if you are looking at a photoshopped galaxy.

#4. Nkwichi, Lake Malawi, Mozambique

A slice 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 sea view. 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 really breathtaking. Also nice: take a luxury bath in nature!

#5. l'Albereta, Lake Iseo, Italy

Would you like a vacation in Europe? No problem, opt for the open-air there too! This resort has the Cabriolet Suite with a retractable roof. Press a button from your comfortable bed and bam - you will be able to sleep under the (hopefully) clear sky. The balcony overlooks the surrounding vineyards and Lake Iseo. So romantic!

#6. Waldseilgarten Hollschlucht, Pfronten, Germany

In this beautiful mountain area in Germany, you can go all the way back to nature. The cheapest (and most freeing) option is a 23-feet high wooden platform in the trees, where you can choose between a fully-fixed or a 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 with a view of the mountains. For true adventurers, the area also has tents on a cliff, between 320 and 980 feet high! Do you dare?

*Have you ever slept in the open air? Or is it still high on your must-do list? Get inspired for your trip!