As people search for different forms of wellness through travel, 2024 has given rise to the Astro Tourism trend, with events such as the Total Solar Eclipse taking place on 8th April and the significant peak in solar activity the world is set to receive this year.
Star-gazing or Star-bathing is said to provide several health benefits, encouraging relaxation and helping to regulate the body’s circadian rhythm with natural light. Read on to discover the top spots for crystal clear constellations in the French Alps to celestial yoga under the dark skies in California.
ASIA
See the stars at 2,156 metres above sea level, Gifu, Japan
In July and August, visitors can experience stargazing on a whole new level – from an altitude of 2,156 metres at the observation deck of the Shinhotaka Ropeway in the Gifu Prefecture. The first leg of the journey stops at Nabedaira Kogen, the site of the Visitors Center, several restaurants, a public bath and the entrance to a series of hiking trails. The second leg, to the upper station, is made in giant double-decker cable cars and rewards riders with stunning panoramic views of the Okuhida region and Kamikochi. This route runs special services in the summer months to allow intrepid stargazers the opportunity to enjoy the night sky.
EUROPE
Alpine Nights in Méribel, France
Méribel, sat in the heart of the French Alps, not only captivates with its snow-covered slopes but also offers enchanting spots for stargazing. The Saulire summit, accessible by cable car, provides an elevated vantage point to admire the night sky amid the crisp mountain air. Lac de Tueda, a pristine alpine lake, reflects the brilliance of the stars on clear nights, creating a serene setting for stargazers. For a cosy experience, the resort’s chalet-style accommodations offer an intimate atmosphere for observing constellations. As darkness falls over Méribel’s picturesque villages, the absence of city lights enhances the visibility, making it an ideal destination for those looking to escape amidst the breath-taking Alpine landscape.
Uncover galactic wonders in Valencia, Spain
Located just over an hour from the city of Valencia is Alto Turia, as a designated Starlight Destination it has been awarded this recognition for its suitability for astro tourism and its efforts to protect the incredible quality of the night sky. The area has many towns which are ideal locations for star-gazing, including Aras de los Olmos which boasts one of the clearest skies on the planet. Several nearby observatories allow for closer inspection of the stars, one of which, La Cambra is the headquarters of the Astronomical Association and runs talks and guided visits from April to September.
NORTH AMERICA
Admire the Silver States Dark Sky Sanctuaries, Nevada
Beyond the bright lights of the Las Vegas strip, Nevada is home to some of the darkest skies in the world. Thanks to the state’s lack of light pollution, unblemished, unbelievably crisp, clear starry night skies can be found in all corners of the state. There are 14 stargazing parks in total, free for visitors to use and telescopes are not essential. For those travelling by car head along the “Starry-est Route In America”, the route takes travellers from Death Valley National Park to Great Basin National Park via some of the least light-polluted spaces in the U.S.
Catch the Northern Lights, Olympic National Park, Washington
During the winter months on a clear night, visitors may be lucky enough to catch the Northern Lights in Washington’s Olympic National Park, 95% of which is designated as wilderness with a complete absence of human-caused light so the wonders of the night sky are clear to see. Hurricane Ridge is one of the best spots in the park to enjoy the stars. During the summer visitors can also join a Master Observer tour for an evening of professional astronomy and stargazing.
Cosmic yoga at Alila Ventana Big Sur, California
Embark on a class of celestial-infused yoga in the beautiful surroundings of Big Sur and breathe in the fresh sea air from California’s Central Coast. This class at Alila Ventana Big Sur provides the opportunity to connect with one’s inner self focusing on the attunement of the body and mind under the night sky. The experience also provides the chance to embrace the Bohemian routes of Big Sur connecting the individual to the land, the soul, and the universe while honouring the energy of the sky. Classes conclude with Savasana beneath the stars allowing for a regained appreciation and perspective.
Discover Dark Skies at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Colorado
Carved over millions of years by the Gunnison River, the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park boasts steep, narrow walls that plunge dramatically into the depths below. Daring travellers can hike along the rim trails, enjoy breath-taking vistas, and explore the wilderness routes of the Inner Canyon. One of nature’s greatest creations, visitors should also take advantage of the stargazing opportunities in this International Dark Sky Park. Throughout the year, The Black Canyon Astronomical Society conducts stargazing programmes in addition to an annual astronomy festival which takes place each September. Black Canyon of the Gunnison NP is one of ten International Dark Sky Parks and five International Dark Sky Communities in the State.
Discovering meteors in Yosemite Mariposa County, California
Yosemite Mariposa is a great place to spot Meteor showers. Every year during the cool winter nights in December, a series of Geminid Showers take over the skies every hour. Beginning around sunset, the show goes on all night with peak performance around 2 am. Book a spot at the recently opened Autocamp Yosemite offering luxury camping and glamping with heated tents, in addition to vintage airstream trailers and cabins.
Marvel at the glittering night sky in Flagstaff, Arizona
As the first International Dark Sky City, Flagstaff in Northern Arizona has lots to offer travellers seeking a spectacular view of the night sky. Hotels, homes and streets are lit in compliance with dark sky regulations, ensuring minimal light pollution. Travellers looking for a more in-depth experience can head to the iconic Lowell Observatory where telescopes are available and famous for the discovery of Pluto. In November 2024, Lowell Observatory will launch a new Astronomy Discovery Center where visitors can enjoy the city’s famous Dark Skies at the centre’s open-air rooftop planetarium.
Prepare to be starstruck in Julian, California
Head to San Diego County’s town of Julian which has been recognised for its International Dark Sky Community. The town is located an hour or so from San Diego and aside from being known for its incredible apple pies and orchards is known for its dark skies and star-centred events. Stay at the Observer’s Inn, an astronomy-themed bed and breakfast boasting three research-grade telescopes and also offers Sky Tours. The tours take place in the observatory and include great opportunities to spot comets, asteroids, star clusters, and more with an average of 12 objects being spotted an hour!
Spot the Stars above the Rock Stars, Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre, Denver
Not only is the all-natural Red Rocks Amphitheatre one of the most sought-after music venues, but it’s also an unexpected destination to spend an evening stargazing. With panoramic views of the Mile High city of Denver and the diverse setting of the mountain ranges, Red Rocks is a gift like no other. One of the most magical times to catch the stars is during one of the venue’s summer concerts or famed film nights.
SOUTH AMERICA
Experience a wellness retreat under the stars in San Pedro de Atacama, Chile
Escape to the enchanting Nambin yoga retreat in San Pedro de Atacama where yoga takes on a celestial twist. During this seven-day retreat, visitors can immerse themselves in the tranquillity of night-time yoga sessions beneath the glittering night sky, embark on a stargazing tour and nourish the body with carefully curated vegetarian and vegan dishes. Explore the natural wonders of Chile with guided nature trips in the renowned Atacama Desert to reconnect with the universe in a truly remarkable way.
OCEANIA
Blue Mountain’s Magic, New South Wales
Only an hour’s drive from Sydney, the Blue Mountains are one of the most dramatic landscapes in the whole of New South Wales with plunging valleys of eucalyptus trees and spell-bounding views. When the sun goes down, prepare to embark on a captivating space journey led by an Astronomer in the timeless beauty of the World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains dark skies. Blue Mountains Stargazing offers travellers a glimpse of the moon and its craters, Saturn’s rings and deep space objects including the Milky Way.
Under the Polynesian stars, The Islands of Tahiti
The Islands of Tahiti, renowned for their idyllic islands and crystal-clear waters, also offer some of the world’s most captivating spots for stargazing. One such celestial haven is the island of Maupiti, where minimal light pollution unveils a canvas of stars bouncing off the warm waters. Plage Arahoho on Tahiti’s east coast not only offers dramatic ocean views but, under the right conditions, a celestial panorama with the Southern Cross and Milky Way. Whether nestled on a pristine beach or atop a volcanic peak, French Polynesia’s diverse islands provide unparalleled celestial spectacles.
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