Where to see the stars in Portugal

In the Peneda-Gerês National Park, classified by UNESCO as a World Biosphere Reserve, you will find wide areas of nature completely untouched by man. This, combined with the little light “pollution” of this territory, with an area of around 70 hectares, makes it an idyllic place to see the stars. We suggest a climb to Pico da Nevosa, the highest point in Gerês and the second highest in mainland Portugal, which rises to an altitude of 1546 meters and provides unique views of the entire Minho, Trás-os-Montes regions and neighboring Galicia. But following the trail is only for the more adventurous, as the route is difficult and poses some dangers. Those less prepared can try other trails in the area, even at night. Another good option is a swim under the moonlight, in one of the park's countless lagoons and waterfalls, which even if astronomy doesn't interest you, is always a good story to tell.

If during the day Serra da Estrela offers stunning landscapes, at night this area, located in a protected area away from urban lights and with an altitude that is often above the clouds (which obscure visibility), offers a unique night experience. With the growing interest in astronomy, by tourists and locals, there are more and more companies and municipalities offering events and programs around this activity, also captivating nature enthusiasts, mountain sports fans and, of course, in winter, snow lovers. It is a territory with so many charms, that the privileged starry mantle is just the icing on the mountain.

Despite not being far from Lisbon, on clear days, it is an unforgettable place to look into infinity... and beyond. It is known as the westernmost point on the European continent and offers an incomparable celestial experience, with the advantage of having an unobstructed horizon towards the Atlantic Ocean. If in the past it was a crucial lookout and defense point at the entrance to Lisbon, today it is a pilgrimage site for those looking for a place to see the stars or enjoy the comprehensive view over the Serra de Sintra and the coast. Enjoy and let yourself be lulled by the sound of the sea, while enjoying the stars.

Alqueva is the destination par excellence for astrotourism and one of the most privileged places in Portugal to see the stars. It has special dark sky certification, covering around 3000 square kilometers, which includes small cities such as Alandroal, Mourão, among others. It was the first Tourist Starlight Destination in the world and has several distinctions awarded by the World Travel Awards. Located in Cumeada, it is equipped with telescopes that allow you to see the craters of the Moon, galaxies and other phenomena in the universe. It offers other activities and programs, some more related to the cosmos than others, but all of them will make you see stars.

Still under the skies of Alentejo, in Montemor-o-Novo, this is a 5-star tourist village whose inspiration is wine, as its name suggests. Fully integrated into the natural landscape, here you can experience the luxury of sleeping “under the stars”, with all the comfort you are looking for, in one of the 10 Sky View Suites with a full roof opening that allows a panoramic view of the sky, so you can fall asleep counting stars, thus enjoying the simple things in life. All rooms also have a heated swimming pool in the private courtyard.

Any excuse is a good one to visit the extensive lava fields that mark the landscape of this territory and that form the Pico Island Vineyard Culture Landscape, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. One of them is that Pico Mountain is the highest point in Portugal and is the third-largest volcano in the North Atlantic Ocean. That said, climbing to the top is a tempting challenge, and a perfect place to see the stars, but be warned that it is not an easy task, and you have to be fit! But all efforts will be rewarded by fantastic and unique views, which on clear days provide an extra: a glimpse of the Graciosa and Terceira islands.