Dark Sky®

Dark Sky® is a leading non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and protecting the night sky. As the first Starlight Tourism Destination in the world and the first cross-border initiative, Dark Sky® Alqueva spans 10,000 square kilometers around Lake Alqueva, encompassing both Portuguese and Spanish council areas. The organization is committed to safeguarding our night sky, a natural and human heritage, while offering diverse daytime and nighttime activities.

The Official Dark Sky® Observatory in Cumeada, near Reguengos de Monsaraz, provides unparalleled visual experiences with cutting-edge telescopes for solar and astronomical observations. From planets and moon craters to nebulae, galaxies, and star swarms, visitors can embark on cosmic journeys under some of the finest skies on Earth. Dark Sky® Alqueva complements sky observations with a wide array of activities, including sunset relaxation with cocktails, vineyard excursions, and mesmerizing blind wine-tasting under the starlight. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy nature walks, horseback riding by moonlight, and astrophotography workshops led by international experts.

The Dark Sky® Destinations Network in Portugal, including Alqueva, Aldeias do Xisto, and Vale do Tua, represents the South, Center, and North of Portugal's countryside. The primary mission of Dark Sky® is to protect the night sky as a resource for sustainable development, raising awareness about light pollution and preserving this precious heritage for humanity. We invite the management of Dark Sky® to enhance your presence by creating a customized and exclusive company showcase and product listing on our platform.