Since the dawn of time, humans have looked to the night skies in search of something bigger than ourselves. We have sought out direction, greater meaning, and contemplated our place in the universe. Astronomy, astrology, and religion have all been inspired by people who took the time to peer upward and search for the beacons of light softening the infinite darkness.
Tucked away from the largest city centers in areas where the night sky still celestially sparkles, these three homes feature stunning rooms to gaze at the stars and help you ponder life’s mysteries—or simply admire the spectacular views.
Private Reserve in South Africa
Kim Cooper – Sotheby’s International Realty South Africa
In Eastern Cape, South Africa, you can share space with an amazing array of animals in their natural habitats, such as lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and African buffalos. But it’s at night when shimmering views of the Milky Way are revealed —including the “Jewel Box” cluster, regarded as one of the loveliest sights of the southern skies.
Drink in the glorious expanse of the South African skies in this private reserve in Jansenville, which prompted international travel editor Lynette Botha to exclaim, “The stars, oh, the stars! There is definitely a different energy at play here… something supernatural.” This 16,700-hectare, 28-bedroom property comprises three lodges and one camp, all within a 30-minute private charter to the ocean and a 1.5-hour charter to Cape Town. Luxurious touches include multiple swimming pools and fire pits, spa facilities, and seven suites for guests.
Pacific Sunset Villa in Kamuela, Hawaii
Alethea Lai and Megan MacArthur – Venture Sotheby’s International Realty
On Hawaii’s Big Island, the sea dances with the sky and the sunsets are dreamlike in nature. It’s a reverie that continues into the night, where you’re honored with the privilege of watching for the exhilarating glitter of meteor showers, or spotting the glimmer of the Andromeda galaxy and the Iwakeli‘i and Kalupeakawelo constellations.
Gaze out over the endless horizon at this villa on Anaehoomalu Bay. The second-floor observatory offers views of island mountains, the Alenuihaha channel, and Maui in the distance. When you aren’t looking outward, this home’s seamlessly spacious layout will inspire you to look inward. Soak in the generous outdoor tub set in a private garden setting, float effortlessly in the ocean-view infinity pool, pamper yourself in the private hale, or wander among the fish ponds in this inviting open-plan space.
Mountain Modern Living in Jackson, Wyoming
Brett McPeak – Jackson Hole Sotheby’s International Realty
It takes a hearty, adventurous sort to thrive in Wyoming. After navigating the slopes at the world-class Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, or hiking amongst the raptors and migrating wildlife, the rugged terrain demands a restful evening—one that can be spent aside a telescope, gazing at the Orion Nebula, the Gemini constellation, and the Cassiopeia and Seven Sisters star clusters twinkling above the shadowy contours of mountain peaks.
This modernist Mies-inspired mountain home lies perched atop West Gros Ventre butte, 10 minutes from Jackson. The 5.6-acre property seamlessly integrates with the surrounding natural splendor, and is crafted with sustainable materials and biophilic elements throughout. The home’s great room also functions as an observatory, offering views of the Teton range, Snake River Valley, and expanses of protected ranch lands—all while safely ensconced in the warmth of the wood-burning fireplace. Or head outdoors for more views in the fresh mountain air, as the large north-facing deck is enhanced by infrared heaters, a gas fire pit, and an outdoor kitchen.
Taking the time to consider the expanse above us offers perspective on our own challenges. A home with a dedicated stargazing space nurtures this necessary contemplation. It facilitates transcendence of the whirlwind that is our daily life, encouraging a sense of wonder and possibility. In spaces like these three properties, it is a privilege to be stopped in your tracks by the sheer magnitude of the universe, spread out in a vast and glittering canvas above.
Looking for more inspiring homes in wide-open spaces? Explore Sotheby’s curated collection of luxury properties for country living.
