Bliss & Stars Retreat

Astrophotography workshop

deep sky photography

capture the cosmos

Embark on a journey into astrophotography at bliss & stars.

Situated in a pristine environment far from light pollution, this workshop is designed to transform your understanding and skills in capturing the wonders of the night sky and deep space.

This workshop isn’t just about taking pictures—it’s about connecting with the cosmos. Through expert-led sessions on astronomy and astrophysics, you’ll deepen your understanding of the universe and gain an entirely new perspective on our place within it.

Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or a curious beginner, this is the perfect place to sharpen your skills and expand your mind. No previous knowledge required. This workshop is also an opportunity to see what your DSLR camera can do under the stars. Bring along that old telescope from the attic that newer saw starlight, or just enjoy the array of telescopes available at bliss & stars.

The only requirement is to bring along your curiosity.

THE DATES

24 - 27 APRIL 2025 | 21 - 24 AUGUST 2025

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you'll learn

Technical Mastery in Astrophotography: From setting up your DSLR or telescope to mastering long exposure techniques, learn everything you need to capture stunning images of the Milky Way, distant galaxies, and vibrant nebulae.

Hands-On Astronomy and Astrophysics: Engage in expert-led workshops that demystify the movements of celestial bodies and the fundamentals of the cosmos. Ideal for both beginners and seasoned enthusiasts looking to deepen their knowledge.

Practical Night Sky Exploration: Utilize professional telescopes provided at the retreat, or bring your gear to gain hands-on experience in a supportive environment.

Deepest thanks and gratitude to Heine for sharing his wonderful knowledge of the universe with us, I even looked at my plants in the garden in a different way this morning. I cannot wait to open the photos, it feels like a special present that I want to open slowly, like a young kid at Christmas time.
Milky Way
Lana
this retreat is for:
Amateur and professional photographers eager to explore or advance in astrophotography.

Astronomy enthusiasts interested in practical, scientific learning about the universe.

Anyone looking for a unique educational experience in a breathtaking natural setting.
your experience

INTERACTIVE SESSIONS

Each session is crafted to enhance your knowledge and photographic skills through practical, hands-on learning.

NATURE AND HISTORY

Explore the rich heritage, including ancient Khoi San rock art, linking the historical significance of the stars to their cultural impact.

COMFORT IN THE WILD

After a night of exploration, unwind in your secluded chalet equipped with luxury amenities and savor gourmet meals prepared with local ingredients.

PRICES & ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS

The entire experience is included in the stated prices. We never have extra “hidden” charges.
Eagles Nest Interior
CHALET DOUBLE

R33,500 | 2 PERSONS

Leopards Cave Chalet At Bliss Amp Stars Retreat In Cederberg

CHALET SINGLE

R24,500 |1 PERSON

Villa Weavers Nest At Bliss And Stars Retreat 1
VILLA DOUBLE

R39,000 | 2 PERSONS

Luxury Bath At Bliss And Stars Cederberg

VILLA SINGLE

R27,000 |1 PERSON

Dassies Spot

TENTED CHALET DOUBLE

R27,500 | 2 PERSONS

257 Figtree Blissandstars Teagancunniffe

TENTED CHALET SINGLE

R18,500 | 1 PERSON

MEET your GUIDE

Heine Rasmussen’s journey into the depths of the cosmos began at age seven with a single glance at the Pleiades cluster, also known as the “Seven Sisters.” That early experience of wonder set him on a path toward mastering astrophotography and delving into the complexities of astrophysics.

Now, with years of deep space photography under his belt and exhibitions in Copenhagen showcasing his work, Heine excels in distilling intricate astrophysical concepts into stories that resonate with clarity and simplicity.

More than just a photographer, he is driven by a profound desire to share his passion for the cosmos, helping others to see the universe with the same awe and intrigue that he feels.

THE PRICE INCLUDES

4 days | 3 nights private accommodation in our chalets or tented chalets

Daily breathwork practice (optional)

Daily mindful walks in the wilderness

Guided stargazing and astrophotography sessions + astronomy talks and workshops

Snacks and beverages served throughout the day

3 balanced and nutritious meals a day

Clean, biodegradable skin care products

Access to 1,350 ha of wild & pristine nature

Wizard Sverige
Just WOW!!! You two and your team blew us away! Thank you for an amazing experience, we will never be the same after that immersive experience. I particularly loved the simplicity of it all. Continue to shine, the world needs more stars like you.
Nebula
Butho & Dudu
Beetroot Flapjacks

CUISINE

Our meals: simple, plant-based, purely crafted. Each dish, prepared by our chefs, not only delights but restores—balancing your nervous system, grounding you, connecting you with Earth.

Ingredients? Only the freshest from our organic garden and local farms. Expect vibrant vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and seeds. We keep it clean: no alcohol, caffeine, or processed sugars.

Communal Dining: Gather around the table or under the open sky. Meals here are a shared experience, a moment to connect with fellow travelers. It’s more than dining; it’s a story sharing moment.

We accommodate most allergies and cater to most dietary requirements.
04 Mountain
COME AS YOU ARE. WE TAKE CARE FOR THE REST.
BLISS & STARS EXPERIENCE

Rest in spacious chalets that seamlessly mesh with nature

Be amazed by nature and observe the night sky through our state-of-the-art telescopes

Saunter in secluded mountainous areas

Relax and breathe deeply with mindfulness practices

Discover Bushmen cave paintings

Build bonds with others in small groups of a maximum of 10 people

Share the living space with eland, baboons, Cape leopards and many more beautiful animals

Travel light and use our daily laundry service

FAQ

It is a +- 4.5 hour drive from Cape Town to the Bliss & Stars meeting point. Bliss & Stars is 60km north of Clanwilliam in the Western Cape. It is a 45-minute drive on a gravel road from Clanwilliam to the meeting point however no 4 x 4 or raised vehicle is necessary. At the meeting point, you can safely park your car and will take you the last bit of the way in our vehicle.

 

You are welcome to drive all the way to Bliss & Stars however: after the meeting point the road is sandy and rocky so a high clearance vehicle and confident driving skills are needed.

 

If you need a transfer from CPT or Cape Town International Airport then let us know.

 

Please aim to check in before 2pm. On the last day the retreat ends at 11 am and you will be able to check out from 12pm onwards.

 

If you are flying back home: we recommend booking your flight after 4pm. Alternatively break your travel and stay in Clanwilliam before you head back. We recommend the Yellow Aloe guesthouse in Clanwilliam.

Once your reservation has been confirmed: you’ll be sent a welcome letter providing lots of useful information about the retreat, including a helpful guide on what to pack.

These experiences are designed to be more intimate. We limit the number of guests to 6 – 10 people to ensure you receive full attention from the team.

Yes, we are very happy to welcome couples at this retreat.

Bliss & Stars is not conducive to children. We have a minimum age requirement of 21.

Please arrive no later than 2pm and plan to leave no earlier than 12pm. Exact arrival and departure times can be arranged with us closer to the time. 

We cater to specific nutritional and dietary requirements including food allergies and food intolerances. Vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options are always available.

Everyone is welcome at all of our experiences regardless of the meditation and yoga experience or fitness levels. We cater for different levels, so that you will be supported, challenged and encouraged to learn.

No. You can pace yourself to find the perfect amount of activity that suits you. We support you in doing as much or as little as you’d like, depending on how you are feeling. Personally, we wouldn’t want to miss a thing!

Unfortunately not. We ask that you leave by 5pm on the closing day.

We unfortunately cannot accommodate disabled or mobility impaired people. Bliss & Stars is located in the Cederberg wilderness and the terrain doesn’t allow for such access.

For the benefit of everyone: we ask that all participants commit to attending the entire retreat from beginning to end. Your wholehearted commitment supports those in your group and expresses respect for the retreat staff.

We offer personalized payment plans for all our retreats up to 2 months before the start date of your stay.

Please read our terms & conditions for our cancelation policy

We always strive to make our experiences available to everyone and therefore we have a bursary program. Learn more here.

No, there is no mobile coverage or WIFI available. There is a computer with guest access available in case of emergency and you will be provided with a phone number should you need to be reached while staying at Bliss & Stars.

MAKE YOUR RESERVATION

Please answer the questions below so we can tailor the experience to meet your needs.

We require a 50% deposit to confirm your reservation.

If you are not committed to making a reservation yet and have some questions, contact us here.

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