Pop into amazing bubble hotels around the world
These 10 see-through stays bring travelers closer to nature.
Orb-shaped accommodations are popping up all around the globe, allowing travelers unobstructed views of the night sky from the comfort of a proper bed. Spread across epic destinations from the emerald forests of Ireland to Jordan’s otherworldly landscape, these 10 spherical miracles are taking the world by storm.
Texas: The Bubbles at Basecamp Terlingua
Today it’s a typical ghost town, but Terlingua was once a booming mining district in southwestern Texas. Located by Big Bend National Park, its population counted just 58 residents during the last national census in 2010. Today curious travelers make the trek to sleep in one of Basecamp Terlingua’s two inflatable bubble suites. Each well-appointed, private suite accommodates two adults with a queen-sized bed, indoor bathroom, and temperature controls. (Dream of sleeping in the wild? Visit these historic lodges in national parks.)
Bolivia: Kachi Lodge
Kachi Lodge holds a crescent of geometric domes that look like a surreal space station framed against the lunar-like landscapes of Bolivia’s Uyuni Salt Flats. The six plush pods surround the central lounge and offer clear views of the striking topography. Designed to have a minimal environmental impact, the lodge implements a closed-loop water treatment system to reduce consumption and relies entirely upon solar energy. (Here's how to plan a trip to the world's largest salt flats.)
Tanzania: The Highlands Camp
The Highlands Camp in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area of Tanzania offers eight canvas-and-glass domed suites inspired by regional Maasai bomas. Perched within verdant canopies, the contemporary domes sit along the slopes of the Olmoti volcano. Here, guests can unwind by sipping cocktails in the bar, borrowing a book from the impressive library, or cozying up by the indoor fireplace while soaking in unforgettable views.
Finland: Harriniva Aurora Dome
Looking for the most jaw-dropping way to witness the northern lights? Head to the Aurora Dome, operated by Harriniva Hotels & Safaris. Located in Muonio, a city in Finnish Lapland, the igloo-inspired escape overlooks the frozen banks of Lake Torassieppi and offers unparalleled panoramic views of the starlit sky. The insulated dome is decked out with Scandinavian design details, and even provides a fireplace, adding a cozy touch and additional warmth to combat the Arctic winds. (Discover additional magical places to see auroras.)
Jordan: Bubble Luxotel Petra
After walking along Petra’s rose-colored pathways, stay under the desert stars in Bubble Luxotel Petra. The futuristic campsite houses 20 stylish domes; each includes two connected domes with 180-degree transparent walls and sweeping views of the surrounding mountains. Guests also love the en-suite bathroom and secluded sundeck (outfitted with a private hot tub).
Maldives: Finolhu Beach Bubble Tent
If a tropical getaway is more your speed, book a stay at Finolhu Beach Bubble Tent. Situated on a white sand stretch of Baa Atoll in the heart of the Maldives, the standalone tent looks as if a snow globe were plopped onto the shores of a secluded island. The romantic retreat features a plush canopy bed, bespoke furniture, ambient lighting, custom-fit wooden floors, and an adjoining bubble bathroom for a loo with a view. (Read how luxury hotels are going green in the Maldives.)
Ireland: Finn Lough Bubble Domes
Set on a private peninsula in Northern Ireland, the Bubble Domes at Finn Lough offer visitors a serene respite from the cacophony of everyday life. The concept aims to bring guests closer to nature without compromising high-end design. Fashioned from durable PVC, the basic forest dome feature a single bubble, while the premium option connects two spacious domes. The company plans to launch a second location in New Zealand later this year.
Canada: Dômes Charlevoix
Glamping in Canada will never be the same, thanks to these sleek-but-chic geodesic dwellings. Dômes Charlevoix is a new ecotourism concept in Québec that showcases the country’s raw and natural beauty without sacrificing the little luxuries of a traditional hotel. Sandwiched between Baie-Saint-Paul and Le Massif, the three domes hover high in the treetops, overlooking the Saint Lawrence River.
Mexico: Campera Hotel Burbuja
Forget a five-star hotel; Campera Hotel Burbuja shows off five million stars. The sustainable eco-resort is comprised of 10 bubble rooms and suites, spread over an extensive vineyard in Mexico’s famed Valle de Guadalupe wine region. Here, guests can hit the golf course, sip local wines, or sample Baja California’s celebrated cuisine before soaking in the ever-changing, star-studded night sky from their translucent hideaways. (See why Baja California is the ultimate road trip.)
Australia: Bubble Tent Australia
Bubble Tent Australia in New South Wales opened in 2017, marking the continent’s first inflatable hotel. Nestled between the scenic town of Lithgow and the Mudgee wine region (approximately 120 miles northwest of Sydney), the property sprawls over a 1,000-acre working farm and overlooks the iconic Capertee Valley.