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Travel & Hospitality Awards - Europe 2022

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52<br />

Dark Sky ® Alqueva<br />

Portugal | Unique Experience<br />

Nestled away in rural Alentejo, in Portugal, is the seemingly ordinary area<br />

of Amieira e Alqueva. One the face of it the area reflects much of the<br />

beauty of Alentejo with lovely rolling hills, wide landscapes, and quaint local<br />

life. However, dig a little deeper and you’ll realise that this area is home to<br />

one of the most unforgettable and wonderful experience you could ever<br />

have, Dark Sky Viewing.<br />

Dark Sky viewing places in the world are few and far between<br />

even less so when you consider onle a small number of places<br />

that are Starlight tourism certified. Dark Sky ® Alqueva in fact<br />

is the world first ever starlight tourism destination.<br />

The rural setting, lack of light pollution, and low<br />

population have all contributed to the area becoming<br />

a Dark Sky destination. With Dark Sky ® Alqueva<br />

you can see the sky in all its starry might, enjoy<br />

the local area, learn about the importance of<br />

Dark Sky, and play your part in contributing<br />

to a sustainable tourism model.<br />

Observatory<br />

The official Dark Sky observatory<br />

in Cumeada villas if fully equipped<br />

with cutting-edge telescopes for<br />

solar and astronomical observation.<br />

You can observe planets, stars and<br />

even craters on the moon.<br />

What to Do<br />

There is so much more to the area<br />

than simply Dark Sky viewing and<br />

the observatory. You can take<br />

part in special astrophotography<br />

workshops, take a canoe tour at<br />

night, blind wine tasting, go sailing,<br />

or take part in a guided tour.<br />

https://darkskyalqueva.com/en/<br />

activities/<br />

Where to Stay<br />

There are several local<br />

accommodation options, ranging<br />

GET IN TOUCH<br />

Rua de Nossa Senhora da Conceição, s/n<br />

Cumeada Village, Reguengos de Monsaraz<br />

7200-071 Campo Rmz, Portugal<br />

T. +351 913 103 540<br />

from small local guest houses to<br />

boutique hotels to big private luxury<br />

villas. You could choose to stay<br />

within the confines of a small village<br />

or a go for a more private rural<br />

experience. You can find out more<br />

- https://darkskyalqueva.com/en/<br />

accommodation/<br />

Where to Eat<br />

Alentejo is Portugal agricultural<br />

heartland so food in the area is<br />

always fresh and prepared with<br />

local herbs. The dishes are hearty,<br />

simple, and satisfying. You should<br />

also try out the local wine and<br />

famed liqueur called medronho<br />

Here are some great<br />

recommendations for restaurants<br />

- https://darkskyalqueva.com/en/<br />

gastronomy/<br />

53

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