There’s something incredibly calming and beautiful about spending a night under the stars. Watching the night sky filled with stars has a way of putting life into perspective, showing just how small we are in the vast universe. We’ve selected some of the best spots in Europe where you can experience this magic and maybe even catch a shooting star, so get your wishes ready!
**Top Stargazing Locations in Europe**
**La Palma, Canary Islands**
La Palma is notable as the world’s first starlight reserve recognized by UNESCO in 2012. This island in the Canary Islands is perfect for stargazing, thanks to its volcanic landscape and numerous hiking trails. As darkness falls, you can find some fantastic spots on the island for stargazing. What makes La Palma special is its unique location near the equator, allowing you to view stars from both the northern and southern hemispheres.
**Alqueva, Portugal**
This hidden gem in Portugal, known as the first Starlight Tourism Destination globally, offers an ideal setting for stargazing. The remote Alqueva lake area provides stunning views of the twinkling night sky, making it a perfect spot. The nearby Dark Sky Observatory in Cumeada, Alqueva’s village, offers an excellent opportunity to see stars clearly.
**Hortobágy National Park, Hungary**
Hortobágy National Park is Hungary’s first national park and an excellent place for stargazing. With most of its land still pristine since the Ice Age, it offers a unique glimpse into Hungary’s rich culture and folklore during the day. At night, the vast sky is illuminated with countless stars, making it one of the best stargazing spots in Europe.
**Salzburg, Austria**
The picturesque city of Salzburg, Austria, close to the German border, provides stunning stargazing spots. Surrounded by the beautiful Alps and traditional Austrian homes, Salzburg’s clear night skies offer a mesmerizing view. It’s also the birthplace of the famous composer Mozart, making it an exciting destination for music lovers.
**Stevns Klint, Denmark**
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Stevns Klint in Denmark offers amazing stargazing experiences under its iconic white chalk cliffs. It’s one of Europe’s top stargazing destinations and even lets you see traces of the asteroid linked to the extinction of dinosaurs. So, you can combine asteroid hunting with your stargazing adventure here.
**Bavarian Forest National Park, Germany**
Germany’s first-ever national park, established in the 1970s, is a great destination for stargazing. The park features 350 kilometers of marked hiking trails, museums, and beautiful nature. At night, the sky comes alive with a canopy of stars, making it a remarkable spot for stargazers.
**Tuscany, Italy**
Tuscany isn’t just famous for its delicious pasta and pizza; it’s also fantastic for stargazing. Galicia invented his telescope here, contributing significantly to observational astronomy. Tuscany’s dry weather and distance from city lights make it an excellent stargazing location. Some famous astrophysical observatories here also offer insights into the night sky.
**Connemara, Ireland**
Connemara is perfect if you wish to stargaze surrounded by nature and historical buildings. This region experiences minimal light pollution, allowing clear skies most of the year. You can stay in cozy accommodations or camp out under the stars with your friends.
**Glencoe, Scotland**
Glencoe, a small village in western Scotland, is known for its stunning mountainous views. It’s popular among climbers and hikers but also offers excellent stargazing opportunities. The serene green hills and meadows provide a peaceful setting to gaze at the night sky.
These are some of the best spots in Europe for a magical stargazing experience with your friends. Have you planned your trip yet? Start packing your bags and get ready for an incredible adventure!