Travellers are increasingly seeking out the most peaceful stargazing spots in Europe, perfect for unwinding.
The International Dark Sky Parks (IDSPs ) has certified Dark Sky areas across Europe which are protected from light pollution. These areas, established in 2001, help to preserve the clear night’s sky, allowing travellers to enjoy star-filled nights.
While places like La Palma are not part of the IDSP network, they have their own laws in place to preserve the area from artificial lighting, ensuring stunning, starry night skies.
In Finland, where the skies are exceptionally dark, you may also be fortunate enough to witness the Northern Lights, adding to the magic of the experience.
Experts at WinstonsBeds are highlighting destinations with some of the darkest skies that offer a serene experience under the night’s sky.
This comes after research revealed 62 per cent of travellers said they are considering visiting darker sky destinations in 2025.
“Spending time in nature and stargazing isn’t only mesmerising but also offers great benefits for wellbeing, such as rebalancing the nervous system and creating a sense of relaxation," said Rebecca Swain from WinstonsBeds.com
“For those who love to explore and are looking for some calm, there are countless wonderful places across Europe where you can enjoy tranquility while having the experience of a lifetime."
Ten of the best stargazing spots in Europe
La Palma, Canary Islands
Light pollution laws on the Canary Island of La Palma ensure that environmental conditions allow for clear night skies, making it one of the best places for stargazing and relaxing under the stars.
Hella, Iceland
Hella is a remote town, tucked away from light pollution, offering some of the darkest night skies in Iceland, the perfect place to enjoy the tranquillity of a starry night.
County Kerry, Ireland
Find peace and stillness in County Kerry, home to Ireland’s first International Dark Sky Reserve, where unspoiled night skies offer breathtaking celestial views.
Ylläs, Finland
The Ylläs area in Finland is a popular destination for stargazing and viewing the Northern Lights. Its dark, starry nights offer a serene escape, allowing visitors to unwind and forget the stresses of everyday life.
Northumberland National Park, England
As another International Dark Sky Park, this area of England offers clear night skies where stars and galaxies shine brightly - perfect for relaxing and taking in the world.
Tuscany, Italy
Away from the light pollution of urban areas, Tuscany offers a beautiful display of astronomical wonders which allow you to unwind beneath the stars.
Haute-Pyrénées, France
The high altitude and dark skies of the Haute-Pyrénées create the perfect setting for stargazing. As an International Dark Sky Reserve, it is home to the Pic du Midi, which offers viewpoints for seeing celestial wonders.
Glencoe, Scotland
This Dark Sky area has minimal light pollution, making the starry night sky clearly visible for those who wish to explore designated stargazing spots and take in the magnificent view.
Stevns Klint, Denmark
Stevns Klint offers spectacular celestial views and is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, highlighting its significance to all of humanity and the need to preserve it for future generations.
Aenos National Park, Greece
Experience exceptional starry skies and other celestial wonders in Aenos National Park, a Dark Sky Reserve where you can relax and be mesmerised by the night’s beauty.
Bonus: Mayo Dark Sky Park
Closer to home, at night Wild Nephin National Park becomes Mayo Dark Sky Park, Ireland's first International Dark Sky Park. With free access, you can enjoy the Milky Way, the planets, meteor showers and the wonders of the universe from three signature viewing points and from short looped walks around the park.
