On top of the world

Top Mountain Star, Obergurgl, Austria

Next to the peak of the beautiful Wurmkogl, rooftop bar Top Mountain Star is perched some 3,080m above sea level and enjoys stunning vistas of the Tirolean Alps that stretch between Austria and Italy. Venture out to the tip of the observation point if you dare, or simply savour the views from the comfort of the covered wraparound observation deck.

While it’s a bit of a journey (via several ski lifts) from the nearby villages of Obergurgl and Hochgurgl, it’s definitely worth a stop. Ski resort huts are not normally known for their quality food and drink, but hotel-run Top Mountain Star offers delectable European cuisine that rivals the views on display. And when you’re done, all you have to do is hop on a cruisy blue run back down to your hotel.

Sky Bar, Tower Club at Lebua, Bangkok

While the Sky Bar may not be breaking any records, it is certainly grabbing more than its fair share of gongs for being best night spot and best rooftop bar, among others. Stepping out onto its 63rd floor viewing platform, with the glittering metropolis of Bangkok spread beneath your feet, it is easy to see why. The centre of attraction though is the iridescent island bar whose colour changes every 90 seconds, delivering an extra dose of glitz and glamour.

Though it has been a popular fixture in the Bangkok entertainment scene since 2001, the Sky Bar recently shot to fame when it was featured in several scenes in The Hangover Part II, which inspired the creation of one of its signature drinks - the Hangovertini. Dubbed Bangkok’s answer to the Singapore Sling, the cocktail features whiskey, sweet vermouth, green tea liquor, fresh green apple juice and rosemary-infused honey. Yum!

Rock Bar, Ayana Resort and Spa, Bali

While this bar is more rock-top than roof-top, it still boasts panoramic views that will take your breath away. Located on a natural rock outcropping amid the towering cliffs of Jimbaran, Bali, the Rock Bar is completely open to the elements. Soak in the fresh sea breeze, savour the roar of the pounding surf and take in ever-changing colours of the sky.

Sensitive design by Yasuhiro Koichi of Design Studio SPIN takes full advantage of Rock Bar’s surroundings, including thoughtful viewing platforms, one of which can only be accessed through a cave. Don’t miss the aquatic “fireworks” that go off at high tide as Bali’s world-famous surf breaks over a 100m-long coral reef just offshore. These are best enjoyed with one of the bar’s signature cocktails that feature ingredients grown at the resort’s organic farm.

Ozone, International Commerce Centre, The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong

Located 448m off the ground on the 118th floor of the Ritz-Carlton, this popular Hong Kong nightspot bills itself as the highest bar in the world. Designed by Tokyo designer Masamichi Katayama, the aptly-named Ozone sits perched above the smoggy streets of Kowloon and offers astounding views of the city and Victoria Harbour.

If you’re feeling brave, head out onto the balcony to take in the spectacle of clouds passing beneath you. Or if you need a little liquid courage first, award-winning mixologist Theresa Moon has put together a tasty cocktail list. Don’t miss their signature drink, the Basilic, which features gin, basil leaves, green apple, lime and yuzu foam.

At.mosphere, Burj Khalifa, Dubai

At.mosphere — the winner of the Guinness World Record for Highest Restaurant from Ground Level — sits atop the very impressive Burj Khalifa in Dubai, just two floors down from the observation deck. The sprawling restaurant and lounge is renowned not just for its eclectic take on modern European cuisine, but also for its unforgettable views of another Dubai wonder — the Dubai Fountain.

Hit the lounge for its famous High Tea (held during sunset hours), and enjoy the sight of the world’s largest choreographed fountain system. Set on the 30-acre Burj Khalifa Lake, the US$218 million (S$297 million) fountain shoots water more than 150m high and is illuminated by 6,600 lights — a truly breathtaking display.