We’ve spent decades flooding the world with light. Streetlights. Billboards. Neon signs. The bloke next door who insists his backyard needs stadium-grade floodlights.
So when somewhere decides to embrace the dark instead, it feels revolutionary.
Sun Valley Resort in Idaho has just become the first resort in the United States to receive certification through DarkSky International’s Approved Lodging & Resorts Program, recognising its efforts to reduce light pollution and protect one of the world’s most overlooked natural wonders: the night sky.
Perched beside the sprawling Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve, the mountain resort already has geography on its side. High elevation, crisp alpine air and very little artificial light mean the stars show off here. On the right night, you might even catch the northern lights making an unexpected guest appearance. It’s a refreshing reminder that not every holiday needs to revolve around doing more.
The itinerary can be as simple as grabbing a blanket, looking up and remembering the universe is mental breakdown-ingly big.
That said, if sitting still isn’t your thing, Sun Valley has plenty to keep you occupied before sunset. Skiing, hiking, mountain biking, fly fishing and concerts have long made it one of Idaho’s adventure capitals. Once the sun dips below the mountains, however, the resort is giving travellers another reason to linger outdoors.
New dark-sky experiences, including guided stargazing sessions, astronomy events and wellness programs centred around the night sky, are set to become part of the resort’s calendar, proving that sometimes you don’t need Wi-Fi, a ticket or even electricity to be entertained.
While everyone else is busy installing brighter lights, Sun Valley has worked out that the real spectacle was overhead all along.
Why It Exists
To remind us the night sky is still one of nature’s greatest attractions.
The Vibe
Mountain air, zero light pollution and a front-row seat to the universe.
Your Bed Tonight
Think a room with custom furnishings and warm textures.
The Thing You’ll Brag About Later
Seeing the Milky Way so clearly it made your phone wallpaper look embarrassing.
Eat / Drink This
A whisky by the fire after a night spent counting constellations.
Steal This Local Move
Ride the gondola before sunset, then stick around as the stars take over the mountains.
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