Astrotourism in Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro: A Practical Guide for Travelers

M. Araújo
Aug 1
4 min read

Discovering Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro at night is an unforgettable experience for those seeking authentic moments, far from the crowds and noise of the cities. Astrotourism, or stargazing, invites both families and adventurers to observe a brilliant night sky, virtually untouched by light pollution—all against a backdrop of olive groves, vineyards, and mountains.

What is Astrotourism?

For tourists, astrotourism is much more than pointing a telescope at the sky. It's about participating in guided activities, feeling part of the natural landscape, and listening to local stories while identifying the Milky Way, planets, and constellations. Many experiences also include astrophotography workshops, night hikes, and outdoor observations, in a safe and educational environment for all ages. 1 2.

Certified Locations and Starry Sky Highlights

In Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro there are two major highlights certified for astrotourism:

Dark Sky Tua Valley: Encompasses Alijó, Mirandela, Carrazeda de Ansiães, Murça, and Vila Flor. These municipalities offer strategic observation points, such as Crasto de Palheiros (Murça), Ansiães Castle, Ujo Viewpoint (Alijó), and Frechas River Beach (Mirandela). Activities can be planned independently or accompanied by local guides trained specifically to welcome tourists interested in astronomy.
Vimioso Municipality: Although less well-known, it is equally focused on astrotourism, offering stargazing sessions and nighttime events specially designed for all audiences.

Authentic and Accessible Experiences

Many tourists take advantage of their visit to enrich their daytime olive tourism program—exploring mills, olive oil tastings, or hiking among olive trees—with nights of astronomical discovery. Organizations such as Acushla and Casa de Campo dos Távoras promote joint activities, integrating the starry sky with the region's vibrant culture.

All you need to do is bring a warm coat and, if possible, binoculars or a camera. Activities are usually free or affordable, and you can find rural accommodations prepared to welcome astrotourists and programs adapted for children and families. 3.

Why Bet on Trás-os-Montes for Astrotourism?

Clear skies proven: The Tua Valley Regional Natural Park was the first in Portugal to receive the 'Starlight Tourist Destination' certification, officially recognizing the quality of its night sky for astrotourism observation 1.
Network of certified operators: More than 25 tour operators in the region have received specific training to support visitors in astrotourism, ensuring safe and enriching experiences 3.
Connection with local traditions: Astrotourism here is experienced in communion with the rural culture, flavors and people of Trás-os-Montes — making each visit genuine and memorable 5.

Practical Tips for Travelers

Check the lunar calendar and choose nights with a new moon to see more stars.
Choose organized experiences to learn more from trained guides.
Dress appropriately for cold nights and bring red-light flashlights.
Combine astrotourism with daytime activities like olive tourism for a complete and unforgettable trip.
You can see some relevant dates in 2025 for this activity at the end of this post.

“Anyone who has never contemplated a sky filled with stars between centuries-old olive trees does not truly know the meaning of the deep Trás-os-Montes.”

If you're looking for authenticity, tranquility, and a journey through the stars without leaving Portugal, Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro are a surprising choice — recognized nationally and internationally for the quality of their astrotourism experiences.1 5 3.

Dark Sky® Vale do Tua. In 2020, the Tua Valley Regional Natural Park became Portugal's first protected area to be certified as a Starlight Tourist Destination. Located in northeastern Portugal, the park encompasses five municipalities of Porto e Norte: Alijó, Carrazeda de Ansiães, Mirandela, Murça e Vila Flor.

The Tua Valley is a calling card in itself, with its stunning landscapes and infrastructure for activities surrounded by nature. Once one of Portugal's most beautiful train routes, part of the Tua Line, it is now a stunning pedestrian trail. The region's cultural heritage and megalithic monuments are another attraction of this Dark Sky®.

in: https://www.visitportugal.com/pt-pt/content/astroturismo, visualizada as 12H30, de 01/08/2025.

Major Astronomical Events in 2025

Perseid Meteor Shower (Peak: August 11-12, 2025) This is the most popular astronomical event of the summer in Portugal. During its peak, up to 100 meteors per hour can be observed under ideal conditions, making the Perseids an impressive spectacle for tourists and families. The dark skies of Trás-os-Montes, with low light pollution, offer privileged conditions for observing this phenomenon.
Planetary Alignment (August 11, 2025) On this date it will be possible to see up to six planets (Mercury, Venus, Jupiter, Uranus, Neptune and Saturn) aligned in the sky before sunrise.
Total Lunar Eclipse (“Blood Moon,” September 7, 2025) In this phenomenon, the moon takes on a reddish hue, easily visible with the naked eye or binoculars. Total lunar eclipses are always a time of great interest and attract many visitors seeking unique viewing experiences.
Supermoons (October, November, and December 2025) Supermoons are larger and brighter full moons due to their closest proximity to Earth. They provide especially bright nights and unforgettable views over valleys and olive groves, ideal for night photography and outdoor events.
Geminid (December) and Leonid (November) meteor showers Although less popular than the Perseids due to the cooler temperatures, these phenomena continue to attract enthusiasts for observing nights in the fall and winter months.
Planetary Conjunctions and Occultations On various dates throughout the year, close approaches and “encounters” in the sky between planets and the Moon can be observed, phenomena that are always valued in astrotourism sessions, as they are easily explained and identified by guides.

These events are recommended for observation in places with low light pollution, such as Dark Sky Vale do Tua and the municipality of Vimioso, both in Trás-os-Montes.

Sources: