This Surreal 'Invisible' Joshua Tree Home Is An Eco-Luxe California Retreat For Stargazing And Stillness

Resting about two hours east of the bustling City of Angels, Joshua Tree National Park is an otherworldly oasis in the heart of Southern California. Marked by its unique, spiky-leafed trees and surreal desert landscapes hanging under clear skies, its atmosphere conjures the feeling of stepping onto another planet. It's no wonder that locals revere it as one of the most incredible California spots to visit in your lifetime. Luring campers from near and far, its tranquil expanse is the perfect place to pitch a tent and sleep under starry skies. Or, if you prefer an effortless blend of nature and luxury, there are plenty of glamping destinations in Joshua Tree. 

However, none compares to the Invisible House. Set on 90 picturesque acres on the edge of the park, the sprawling, eco-luxe home offers a one-of-a-kind retreat. Shimmering in the lonely desert like a mirage, its mirrored exterior melts into its surroundings, betraying the reflection of the mountains in the distance and rendering it seemingly "invisible." And yet, it sparkles like a gem, hidden in plain sight.

Built by film producer Chris Hanley (whose famous projects include "The Virgin Suicides," "American Psycho," and "Buffalo 66"), the Invisible House was designed to emulate the monolith in Stanley Kubrick's "2001: A Space Odyssey," lending an extraterrestrial, cinematic appeal. Its rectangular form is 22 stories long, resembling a skyscraper tipped on its side. 

From the outside, you can't see in. However, from the inside, its glass walls grant panoramic views of the desert brush, blue skies, and breathtaking boulders surrounding the house. Opening the massive sliding doors in the main bedroom complements the picture-perfect vistas with a warm breeze, and a 100-foot indoor pool provides the perfect spot for a cool dip in the desert. At night, the home illuminates with dazzling LED colored lights, setting the mood for gazing at the dark, starry sky. You're almost guaranteed a night a celestial beauty, as the adjacent Joshua Tree is an International Dark Sky Park.

A delicate juxtaposition of man-made beauty and natural wonder, the solar-paneled roof provides an eco-friendly escape. Meanwhile, modern luxuries like a massive smart TV, a Bose Portable Home Speaker, and a transparent electric guitar (formerly owned by Aerosmith rockstar Joe Perry) offer endless entertainment. Relax in the free-standing soaking tub, and enjoy a luxuriant night's rest on a designer glass bed. You can leave your camp stove at home, too. The state-of-the-art kitchen is well-equipped with modern appliances, while a deluxe barbecue and fire pit grant ample opportunity for outdoor cooking.

You're probably wondering what the price tag is for such a glamorous retreat. If you're in the market to buy a four-bedroom, 5,500 square foot stunner in the desert, it'll cost you $18 million (so, start saving). Or, if you'd rather sample the luxury-filled desert life, the average rate is around $2,600 a night via Booking.com. If you book on Airbnb, the two-night minimum amounts to around $5,300 with fees.

If you can shell out the big bucks, you'll be joining a five-star list filled with the most illustrious guests. The Invisible House has hosted The Weeknd, Alicia Keys, Ariana Grande, and Demi Lovato — who claimed to see aliens during her stay – and a number of film crews as well, making cameos in Netflix's "Selling Sunset" and "The World's Most Amazing Vacation Rentals." The home sleeps up to eight guests, so if you can, talk your friends into an over-the-top luxury retreat that's worth the splurge, and melt into the unparalleled beauty of Joshua Tree National Park.