Top 10 Dark Sky Parks in Europe

Europe boasts expansive natural areas with low population density, making them ideal for stargazing. As a result, numerous Dark Sky Parks have been established, showcasing the beauty of the night sky.

Below, we have compiled a list of Europe's Top 10 Dark Sky Parks. Each park offers a distinct combination of natural wonders, cultural significance, and unforgettable stargazing opportunities.

Albanyà, Spain

Albanyà, located in the beautiful region of Girona, Catalonia, is a captivating Dark Sky Park that offers breathtaking stargazing opportunities. Nestled in the northern part of Spain, close to the border of France, and embraced by the Mediterranean Sea, this celestial haven spans an area of approximately 94 square kilometers. (...)

Bodmin Moor Dark Sky Landscape, United Kingdom

Bodmin Moor, located in the picturesque region of Cornwall in the very south of England, is a remarkable Dark Sky Park that offers unparalleled stargazing experiences. Renowned for its outstanding natural beauty, this rugged moorland is a haven for those seeking a pristine and untainted night sky. (...)

De Boschplaat, Netherlands

De Boschplaat, located on the eastern side of the Dutch island Terschelling, is a charming Dark Sky Park that offers an exceptional stargazing experience. Covering an area of approximately 40 square kilometers, this small park has been designated as a Dark Sky Park since 2015, showcasing its commitment to preserving the beauty of the night sky. (...)

Elan Valley Estate, United Kingdom

Nestled in the enchanting landscapes of Wales lies the Elan Valley Estate, a mesmerizing International Dark Sky Park that invites us to explore the wonders of the night. Located approximately 120 kilometers west of Birmingham, this extraordinary park has been designated as a Dark Sky Park since 2015, making it the first privately owned but publicly accessible park of its kind in the world. (...)

Galloway Forest Park, Scotland

Nestled in the captivating landscapes of Scotland, Galloway Forest Park stands as a testament to the pristine beauty of the natural world. Established in 1947, this remarkable park has garnered recognition for its commitment to preserving the dark skies above. In 2009, the park was named Gold Tier park and was designated as a Dark Sky Park, cementing its status as one of the best places in the UK to observe the celestial wonders. (...)

Hortobágy National Park, Hungary

Nestled in the heart of Hungary, Hortobágy National Park stands as a testament to the breathtaking beauty of Europe's largest continuous native grassland. Spanning an expansive area of 800 square kilometers, this vast expanse of almost flat landscape has captivated the imaginations of visitors for centuries. But there is more to Hortobágy National Park than meets the eye. (...)

Aenos National Park, Greece

Nestled on the picturesque Ionian Island of Kefalonia in Greece, Aenos National Park is a beacon of natural beauty and tranquility. This hidden gem, designated as a Dark Sky Park since 2023, offers visitors a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the wonders of the night sky. (...)

Mayo Dark Sky Park, Ireland

Located along the rugged northwest coast of Ireland, overlooking the majestic Atlantic Ocean, Mayo Dark Sky Park beckons stargazers and nature enthusiasts alike. Spanning an expansive area of approximately 150 square kilometers, this remarkable park is dedicated to preserving one of the largest expanses of peatland in Europe. (...)

Eifel National Park, Germany

In the western part of Germany, near the border of Belgium, lies the enchanting Eifel National Park. This remarkable natural haven, designated as a Dark Sky Park since 2014, holds the distinction of being the first Dark Sky Park in Germany. (...)

Attersee-Traunsee Nature Park, Austria

Situated in the north of Austria lies the Attersee-Traunsee Nature Park, a haven of natural beauty and tranquility. Since 2021 it proudly holds the distinction of being Austria's first Dark Sky Park, dedicated to preserving the pristine darkness of the night sky. (...)

Further information

If you wish to delve deeper into the realm of Dark Sky Parks, abundant resources are at your disposal to expand your knowledge. The International Dark Sky Association (IDA) offers a comprehensive list of Dark Sky Parks across the globe, which you can access here.

Whether you are a seasoned astronomer or an enthusiastic novice, venturing into the realm of Dark Sky Parks promises a gratifying expedition. So gather your stargazing gear, prepare your camping essentials, and set off on an enchanting quest to uncover the marvels of the universe in these unspoiled havens of nature.

Written by Marc Mayr Published June 23, 2023