Lorraine Williamson
As temperatures rise, so does Spain’s profile as a hotspot for astrotourism. Beyond its sun-drenched beaches and buzzing fiestas lies another world entirely — one above our heads. From rugged mountain reserves to island observatories, more people are travelling by night, in search of silence, solitude, and stars.
According to Civitatis, the demand for stargazing experiences is soaring. Spain’s dry climate, low levels of light pollution, and multiple Starlight-certified reserves make it a dream destination for both seasoned astronomers and curious newcomers. So where should you head when the sun goes down?
Ciudad Rodrigo, Salamanca: Ancient skies and cultural myths
Start your star safari with a historical twist. In western Salamanca, Ciudad Rodrigo offers a rare blend of heritage and celestial exploration. Here, you can trace the footsteps of ancient civilisations who once looked up and shaped myths around the same stars. Night tours bring constellations to life through storytelling — linking the cosmos to humanity’s oldest questions.
Extremadura: Stargazing in the wild heart of Spain
Venture into the Villuercas-Ibores-Jara Geopark in Extremadura, and you’ll find some of the darkest skies in mainland Europe. In Guadalupe, local guides transform astronomy into an intimate experience, with meteor showers, planets and constellations viewed against a backdrop of unspoilt forest. This is slow travel at its finest — where cultural depth meets natural beauty.
Sierra de Grazalema, Cádiz: Andalucia’s natural planetarium
Hidden deep in the Andalucian mountains, the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park is a biosphere reserve that feels tailor-made for skywatching. At Tambor del Llano, an off-grid finca surrounded by silence, guests lie back under the Milky Way and watch the night unfold. With virtually no light pollution, this is one of the most immersive stargazing spots in southern Spain.
Los Molinos, Madrid: Cosmic calm on the capital’s doorstep
You don’t have to travel far to leave the city lights behind. In the foothills of the Sierra de Guadarrama, Los Molinos offers a surprisingly dark refuge just outside Madrid. It’s the contrast that makes it special — swapping the city’s fast pace for the hush of a starlit sky, only an hour away.
Arcos de las Salinas, Teruel: A family gateway to the stars
If you’re travelling with kids or just starting your astronomy journey, Galáctica in Arcos de las Salinas is the place to begin. This educational astro-centre offers hands-on experiences, guided by astronomers, in a peaceful setting far from urban noise. It’s accessible, interactive, and still provides the deep magic of a dark-sky experience.
La Palma, Canary Islands: Europe’s celestial capital
Few places in Europe rival La Palma for stargazing. Its Roque de los Muchachos Observatory, perched high above the clouds, is one of the most advanced in the world. Strict protections on light pollution have earned the island a Starlight Reserve designation. Observing the stars here — often guided by experts — feels like standing on the edge of the universe.
Tenerife: Sunset to stars on Mount Teide
End your journey in the dramatic landscapes of Teide National Park on Tenerife. As the sun dips below volcanic ridges, visitors ascend by cable car and settle in for a show like no other. Stargazing tours here combine science with awe, giving you front-row seats to constellations, planets and celestial phenomena in one of Spain’s most iconic settings.
Spain’s summer stars await
Whether you’re drawn to myths and meteor showers, mountaintop observatories or off-grid eco-retreats, Spain offers an astonishing variety of ways to explore the night sky. In 2025, as interest in astrotourism continues to rise, these destinations provide a rare invitation: step away from the screens, silence the noise — and look up.
Source: Europapress