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OUT OF THIS WORLD

Best stargazing spots to enjoy Dark Sky week – with stunning locations from just £12.25pp

Check into one of these starry spots for International Dark Sky week

THIS Sunday is the start of International Dark Sky Week (March 31 to April 7), which highlights the effects of light pollution around the world.

But it's also the perfect excuse to get out into the countryside and go stargazing yourself.

 The best locations for stargazing around the world
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The best locations for stargazing around the worldCredit: Canopy and Stars

There are hundreds of Dark Sky Discovery sites around the world where you can do this.

They are far from severe local light pollution and have good views of the sky.

Sun Online Travel has rounded up the best places to stay around the world in the best locations - and they are available from just £12.25 per person, per night.

UK

 Snowdonia is one of the well known locations in the UK for getting back to nature
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Snowdonia is one of the well known locations in the UK for getting back to natureCredit: CoolCamping.com

Snowdonia in Wales has some of the lowest levels of light pollution in the country, making it perfect for stargazing.

Coolcamping have these huts, nestled into the mountains, that don't break the bank.

They're essentially a collection of safari tents with a living space and beds for four people.

 The safari tent full opens out into nature
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The safari tent full opens out into natureCredit: coolcamping.com

In 2016, South Downs became a Dark Sky reserve.

Just an hour from London, you can camp or stay in a hotel, with one of the best options being a safari tent.

Overlooking the National Park, the open front of the Brocklands Farm tent makes it perfect for stargazing without needing to venture outside.

 The treehouse featured on George Clark's Amazing Spaces
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The treehouse featured on George Clark's Amazing SpacesCredit: Sky Den

Northumberland National Park is popular with astronomers, with 572 square miles of protected sky.

Featured on George Clarke's Amazing Spaces, the treehouse lodge is the perfect place for stargazing.

On calm days, it's even possible to open the entire roof for an unobstructed view of the sky.

 The Lake cabin is simple but perfect for stargazing
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 The Lake cabin is simple but perfect for stargazingCredit: Canopy and Stars

As one of the most southern Dark Sky spots in the UK , the Bodmin Moors in Cornwall are popular with those heading to the region.

A secluded cabin overlooking the lake allows an unobstructed view of the sky thanks to the glass sliding doors.

Rest of the World

 The domes offer an uninterrupted view of the sky
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The domes offer an uninterrupted view of the skyCredit: Cabanes & Bulles

One of the most unique stays is in a giant glass dome overlooking the Cevennes National Park.

Last year, the area became the second location in France to become a Dark Skies location.

With a hot tub as well as an outdoor dining area, the domes can be booked for one night at a time.

 Kissimmee Prairie Park in Florida is perfect for star fans
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Kissimmee Prairie Park in Florida is perfect for star fansCredit: floridastateparks.org

One of the best spots in Florida for a guaranteed clear sky is in Kissimee Prairie Park.

Just two hours from Orlando, there are cabins alongside camping and campavans spots, with some designated for astronomy.

According to the Florida State Park website, camping sites start from just $16 (£12.25) per night for an evening under the stars.

 Great Barrier Island is one of the few Dark Sky Sanctuary Islands
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Great Barrier Island is one of the few Dark Sky Sanctuary IslandsCredit: airbnb

New Zealand is known for having some of the clearest skies thanks to the low population and natural landscape, which is why it is home to the first Dark Skies Sanctuary island.

Great Barrier Island, just a 30 minute flight from Auckland, protects its status with no street lights. And every local resident generates their own solar and wind power.

This property is available from Airbnb and there are two walls that open out to a sea view.

 A view of the sea is easy to find on the small Japanese island
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A view of the sea is easy to find on the small Japanese islandCredit: airbnb

Another secluded island with little light pollution can be found in Japan -Iriomote-jima.

Stargazing canoe trips and tours are popular, and homestays are common, with the island remaining 90 per cent dense jungle.

Many homes are on the outskirts of the region, which make them perfect viewing platforms for the stars.

Other stunning glamping pods around the world include King Arthur's Cave and a pod shaped like a Dragon's Eye.

They are available to the public for £2,000 a week for a luxurious Welsh holiday.

Glass cabins and other treehouses are available from £34pp per night on rental website Glamping Hub.

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