Stars or Moonlight? How to Choose the Best Winter Stargazing Nights in Tenterfield

Stargazing in Winter: How to Plan Around the Moon in Tenterfield

There’s something undeniably magical about winter nights in Tenterfield. The crisp, cool air. The stillness of the high country. And above all—the endless, star-filled sky. Whether you’re glamping in a Bubbletent or enjoying a cosy fire at our Mirumiru farmstay, this is a place made for slowing down and looking up.

Why Winter is Stargazing Season

Winter is the ultimate time to stargaze. With lower humidity, longer nights and clearer skies, the stars shine brighter and the Milky Way stretches boldly overhead. There’s little to no light pollution out here, so you can see more constellations, satellites, and maybe even a shooting star or two.

Should You Avoid the Full Moon?

Not necessarily.

If you want pitch-black skies and full Milky Way visibility, plan your stay around the new moon or the week before or after. That’s when the stars are sharpest and the sky is at its darkest.

But don’t rule out a full moon night—there’s a different kind of beauty to it.

The Magic of a Full Moon

Sleeping under a full moon in a clear-roof Bubbletent is its own special experience. The soft glow lights up the landscape, casting silver shadows over the hills and trees. It’s romantic, peaceful and a little otherworldly. It’s also perfect for moonlit walks, storytelling by the fire, and soaking in the landscape without needing a torch.

How to Plan It

Check a lunar calendar before you book to decide what kind of night sky you’re chasing. Want stars? Aim for a new moon. Want moonlight magic? Choose full moon dates. Either way—you’ll get something unforgettable.