The set of stars, constellations and planets that we can contemplate in the sky offers us images and pictures of exquisite beauty. The magical phenomenon that the sun gives us when it sets and at nightfall gives way to infinite sparkles, making us enjoy a unique and special moment that transports us to another planet, never better said.
Much of the world’s population is unable to enjoy star gazing in all its splendour due to light pollution. However, the skies of Andalusia have exceptional conditions for enjoying this world, especially in the city of Cádiz, where it will seem as if we have it in our hands despite being so far away.
So, if you are an astrology lover, Cádiz is the perfect place for you. You will be able to enjoy and live unique moments surrounded by thousands of stars, galaxies and planets. Stay with us and we will tell you much more.
Where to enjoy star tourism in Cádiz?
Cadiz has very clear skies and very little light pollution, in which the natural darkness is preserved, thus allowing for a very high number of hours of useful observation per year. In addition, thanks to the good climate, there are many clear nights a year.
Stargazing is one of the best experiences there is, one that awakens many positive and beautiful sensations. You will look up at planets, galaxies, double stars and even think you can touch the Milky Way with your bare hands. You will also enjoy the silence of the night together with nature and you will be able to live a unique and special experience.
Here we are going to show you some of the best places in the province of Cadiz where you can enjoy star tourism in all its splendour. Are you ready?
The Sierra de Grazalema
The Sierra de Grazalema is considered to be the best place for stargazing in the province of Cadiz. In addition, this area has several areas that border on Starlight status, that is, ideal and optimal areas for astrology enthusiasts, being among the least polluted by light.
The area of Los Llanos, the Merenderos with football pitches between Benamahoma and Grazalema or the Puerto de las Palomas, among others, are some of the most outstanding areas in the Sierra de Grazalema and perfect for astrology lovers. Don’t miss them!
The Cork Oak Mountains
The Sierra de los Alcornoques is one of the best places to enjoy the stars in Cádiz. It has very clean and clear skies where you can reach an even more professional level in the world of astrology.
In particular, the Pico del Picacho, which is located near Alcalá de los Gazules, is an ideal area for observing planets, galaxies and nebulae. It is also far from the coastal towns, which avoids all light pollution.
Trebujena
In the surroundings of Trebujena, astronomy lovers have a Natural Park that is perfect for enjoying the sky away from the light pollution of the city. This area is located in the direction of Lebrija and although it does not reach such low levels of light pollution as the Sierra de Grazalema and the Sierra de los Alcornoques, it is undoubtedly an ideal area for beginners who want to get started in this world.
Melgarejo Tower
Torre Melgarejo is a hamlet located between the Jerez and Arcos speed circuits and is easily accessible from various points in the province. This district is very popular with astronomy enthusiasts and lovers of astronomy.
Except in specific cases when the circuit is active at night, the whole area is very dark, allowing you to observe star showers, comets, etc. You can’t miss it!
Navy Observatory, San Fernando
The Navy Observatory in Cádiz, apart from being a higher education centre for the scientific personnel of the Spanish Navy, is a fantastic astronomical and geophysical observatory where you can enjoy the stars.
This observatory even organises training sessions for anyone who wants to learn about the world of astronomy. In its facilities you can enjoy magnificent evenings, what are you waiting for?
Where to see the Perseids?
Every year between the end of July and the end of August, the most important meteor shower of the year, the Perseids, reaches the skies. This meteor shower is also known as the “Tears of Saint Lawrence”, due to its proximity to the feast day of Saint Lawrence, celebrated on 10 August.
Although the Perseids can be observed for almost an entire month, it has been found that the days with the highest visibility are between 11 and 13 August, between 00:00 and dawn on each of these three days.
These meteors can reach an activity rate of up to 200 meteors per hour together with a speed of up to more than 50 kilometres per hour. Therefore, such high activity and optimal atmospheric conditions make the Perseids the most popular and easiest meteor shower to see than the other meteor showers that take place throughout the year. Sounds great, doesn’t it?
The Cortaduras beach
The Cortaduras beach is located in the area of La Gallega, a space far from light pollution. Due to the almost total absence of artificial light, this beach is chosen every year by hundreds of people to observe the Perseids in August.
This beach is perfect for this occasion, as you can enjoy the sky at the same time as listening to the waves of the sea. It also has a car and caravan park right next to it, so don’t hesitate to come to this beach if you want to enjoy the Perseids!
The Salt Lagoon
The salt lagoon is located one kilometre from Aqualand Bahía de Cádiz, in the direction of the prison of El Puerto. This lagoon is an ideal place to observe the Perseids with the youngest members of the family and for astronomy enthusiasts.
It is advisable to bring some warm clothes in case it cools down and something to eat and drink, as the night is very long and you may get a bit hungry. Don’t hesitate to come along!
The Algaida Pine Forest
The Pinar de la Algaida is a perfect natural space to contemplate the star shower in the middle of nature and without light pollution.
In this pine forest every year from the end of July to the end of August an astronomy programme is carried out, in which workshops are held in order to observe the sky and the Perseids. It is a unique experience not to be missed.
Los Toruños Park
Los Toruños Park is the perfect place for an astronomy meeting to observe the Perseids. As every year, the astronomical group of El Puerto organises events in this park so that everyone who wants to can attend on the busiest days of the Perseids star shower.
All those interested in enjoying the sky on these nights can reach the meeting point through the interior of the park by walking along the main path. The ideal is to observe them quietly and in pleasant company.
The Vineyards Route
The route of the vineyards is located in Puerto de Santa María and is an incredible experience that combines astro-tourism and wine tourism. This route offers the possibility of travelling through an area of the countryside of Puerto de Santa María that maintains its natural charm in a rural landscape full of very unique elements.
So, if you want to see the Perseids surrounded by vineyards, this is the perfect place for you. Thanks to its low light pollution, you will be able to enjoy the star shower while sipping a good glass of wine.
Interesting if you visit Cádiz you can’t miss the following guided tours:
