Once Upon a Dome is a pioneer in eco-conscious stargazing accommodation in South Africa. Launched in 2021 with its flagship location in Tsitsikamma, the company has expanded to unique destinations including Franschhoek and Gqeberha. Each transparent glass dome and teepee cabin is meticulously designed using sustainable materials to blend seamlessly into its natural surroundings while providing ultra-luxury amenities.

The Stargazing Experience

Guests can sleep directly beneath the night sky in high-tech, climate-controlled clear domes equipped with automated privacy curtains. Whether nestled in the dense Tsitsikamma forest canopy, overlooking lush Cape Winelands vineyards in Franschhoek, or tucked away in the Eastern Cape bushveld at Thunzi Bush Lodge, the immersive layout allows for uninterrupted celestial viewing and seamless outdoor immersion without sacrificing indoor comfort.

Features & Highlights

Panoramic Glass Domes: Architecturally crafted structures featuring 360-degree clear views, electric ceiling curtains for instant privacy, and secure keyless access.
Luxury Interior Amenities: Complete with king or queen beds, air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, motorized entertainment setups, and private en-suite bathrooms.
Freestanding Tubs & Outdoor Hot Tubs: Deep soaking tubs positioned for nature views, with select units featuring private outdoor hot tubs or decks.
Self-Catering Convenience: Equipped coffee stations, mini-fridges, fully appointed kitchenettes, and braai (BBQ) facilities for relaxing outdoor meals.
Prime Locations: Set across top tourism hubs, including partnerships with the Franschhoek Beer Company Farm, Thunzi Bush Lodge, and Misty Mountain Reserve.

Why Visit?

Unrivaled Romance: Designed specifically for couples, anniversaries, and honeymooners seeking an intimate getaway under the African night sky.
Eco-Friendly Luxury: Built with sustainable practices and minimal environmental footprint while preserving high-end comfort.
Unique Photogenic Stays: Combines boutique hospitality with memorable glass-dwelling architecture found nowhere else in the country.

The Stargazing Experience

Features & Highlights

Panoramic Glass Domes: Architecturally crafted structures featuring 360-degree clear views, electric ceiling curtains for instant privacy, and secure keyless access.
Luxury Interior Amenities: Complete with king or queen beds, air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, motorized entertainment setups, and private en-suite bathrooms.
Freestanding Tubs & Outdoor Hot Tubs: Deep soaking tubs positioned for nature views, with select units featuring private outdoor hot tubs or decks.
Self-Catering Convenience: Equipped coffee stations, mini-fridges, fully appointed kitchenettes, and braai (BBQ) facilities for relaxing outdoor meals.
Prime Locations: Set across top tourism hubs, including partnerships with the Franschhoek Beer Company Farm, Thunzi Bush Lodge, and Misty Mountain Reserve.

Why Visit?

Unrivaled Romance: Designed specifically for couples, anniversaries, and honeymooners seeking an intimate getaway under the African night sky.
Eco-Friendly Luxury: Built with sustainable practices and minimal environmental footprint while preserving high-end comfort.
Unique Photogenic Stays: Combines boutique hospitality with memorable glass-dwelling architecture found nowhere else in the country.

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