Just in time for ski season, Ketchum, Idaho, welcomes a new chapter of luxury hospitality with The Observatory, A Viceroy Resort. Home to 73 guest quarters, each dedicated space invites guests to breathtaking mountain designs, intimate stays, delicious dining options and year-round adventure in one of America’s most storied alpine destinations.
© Tal Roberts
Holding true to its name, the property welcomes travelers to experience its rooftop observatory, located within Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve, the nation’s first Gold Tier reserve spanning more than 1,400 square miles.
The resort’s rooftop houses a rotating dome with a professional-grade, 17-inch PlaneWave telescope, giving guests an insight into distant planets, constellations and galaxies. Planned experiences with local astrophotographers and other local experts include private stargazing and astrophotography workshops, with programming timed to meteor showers, planetary alignments and changing lunar phases.
© Tal Roberts
“The Observatory was born from a longstanding love for Sun Valley and a desire to create something that is truly connected to the entire Wood River Valley community,” said Jack Bariteau, managing member, Harriman Ketchum Hotel. “From the materials and locally focused art throughout the hotel to the experiences that connect guests with the mountains, community and night skies, every element was considered with care.
The observatory is home to an expanded menu of flavors and traditions of the Mountain West. From signature cocktails to elevated bites, these venues create a vibrant gathering place for hotel guests and local communities to gather.
© Tal Roberts
“We wanted to create a place that feels at home in Ketchum and gives both visitors and locals a meaningful new way to experience the authenticity and history of the region,” added Bariteau.
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