Tourism under the stars

A view of a starry night sky. The Milky Way crosses the image from top to bottom. On the horizon, some trees are silhouetted. Image by Freepik.

Did you know that the planets are the brightest stars in our night sky? The nights of August and September are a good time to admire Venus, Jupiter and its moons, or Saturn. You can also admire the so-called Summer Triangle, which unites the constellations of the Swan, the Lyre and the Eagle. Enjoy the summer nights under the stars.

The sky of Albanyà

If you’re interested in astronomy, don’t miss a visit to the Albanyà Astronomical Observatory, which has the largest telescope in the province of Girona. The facilities are accessible to wheelchair users. A ramp leads to the observatory seats and, next to the stands, there is a space reserved for vehicles. Please contact Reservations on 972 54 20 20.

At night, seated on a tier coloured with beams of light of various colours, a person observes the night sky. The logo of the Albanyà Astronomical Observatory is projected on a platform at the foot of the stand. Image by Juan Carlos Muñoz Robredo.

One of the observatory’s activities is the night-time astronomical baptism, an audiovisual tour of the firmament. The content is adapted to the meteorological circumstances of the moment and the time of year. The proposal becomes a unique sensory experience. And if you want to live the experience at home, the observatory also offers astronomical sessions with a portable telescope.

The Albanyà Astronomical Observatory is recognised by the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA), a world authority for the protection of the night sky. It is also certified with the Starlight seal, which accredits spaces with excellent sky quality and which represent an example of protection and conservation.

Starry night in l’Escala

If you want to enjoy a natural planetarium, on 1^st September the Astronomical Association of Girona Astrogirona is offering an astronomical observation in l’Escala. If the weather conditions are optimal, it will be held from La Punta. You can ask for information at cultura@lescala.cat.

At sunset, a panoramic view of the promenade linking l'Escala and Sant Martí d'Empúries. The path, covered in wood and surrounded by pine trees, runs parallel to the beach. Image by Lola Akinmade. — At sunset, a panoramic view of the promenade linking l’Escala and Sant Martí d’Empúries. The path, covered in wood and surrounded by pine trees, runs parallel to the beach. Image by Lola Akinmade.

And while you’re in l’Escala, you can take the opportunity to discover accessible sailing at the l’Escala Sailing Club or enjoy a nice stroll along the seafront. The seafront promenade that links Riells beach with the old town is wheelchair accessible. The promenade linking l’Escala and Sant Martí d’Empúries is also adapted. It is 2.5 km along the beaches of Empúries.