In the tranquil landscapes of rural Wales, a burgeoning interest in astrotourism is drawing stargazers from across the UK. With the night sky obscured by artificial lighting for much of modern life, the pristine darkness of areas like Llanddewi-Brefi offers a rare opportunity to reconnect with the cosmos. As urban dwellers seek refuge from light pollution, guided experiences are emerging that allow participants to immerse themselves in the celestial wonders above.
A Cosmic Revelation
After hours of anticipation, the first stars pierced through the clouded night sky, revealing a breathtaking panorama. Accompanied by Siân and James Harrison, two enthusiastic stargazers from Cardiff, I found myself in the Ceredigion countryside, ready to embark on a unique stargazing experience. Our guide, Dafydd Wyn Morgan, the founder of the astrotourism venture Serydda, was poised to lead us through the celestial tapestry.
Lying on blankets, we were mesmerised as Wyn Morgan illuminated the night sky with a green laser, effortlessly pointing out the prominent features. His passion was palpable as he highlighted Orion’s Belt, a constellation rich with stories of stellar birth and cosmic history.
“I’ll focus on something and it’ll be 150 million light-years away,” James remarked, his awe evident. This sentiment resonates with many who find themselves gazing into the vastness, feeling a profound connection to the universe that our ancestors once knew intimately.
The Allure of Star Bathing
Wyn Morgan’s star bathing sessions transcend traditional stargazing. By combining elements of wellness, akin to the Japanese practice of forest bathing, he encourages participants to relish the emotional resonance of the moment. “It’s about how it makes you feel emotionally,” he explained, emphasising that the experience is less about scientific precision and more about fostering a connection to the cosmos.
Since its inception in January 2025, Serydda has attracted considerable interest, hosting over 107 attendees for its workshops. The popularity of these sessions is mirrored by recent survey findings from Booking.com, which revealed that 72% of participants are keen to explore dark sky destinations for similar experiences.
The journey took us to Llyn Teifi in the Cambrian Mountains, where Wyn Morgan invited us to breathe in the crisp night air, remarking on its refreshing purity. “Breathing in the night sky is something totally different,” he reflected. It is a sensory experience that evokes a child-like wonder, particularly as shooting stars streak across the heavens, igniting joy among attendees.
The Threat of Light Pollution
Despite the allure of these celestial experiences, the threat of light pollution looms large. Dani Robertson, a dark skies officer for Snowdonia National Park, highlighted that 98% of the UK population resides under light-polluted skies. This phenomenon denies many the chance to view the stars, creating a generation that has grown up in artificial light, disconnected from the natural world above.
Wales boasts two of the UK’s six International Dark Sky Reserves, making it a beacon for those seeking to escape urban glare. Robertson’s initiatives, including mobile observatories and night hikes, cater to those yearning for a glimpse of the cosmos. “I can’t run enough events to keep up with demand,” she shared. The emotional impact of seeing shooting stars is profound, often leading to tears of joy for those experiencing it for the first time.
Nature’s Healing Touch
Research underscores the psychological benefits of connecting with nature. Annalisa Setti, a senior lecturer in applied psychology at University College Cork, noted that observing natural phenomena can foster a state of optimal arousal—neither bored nor overstimulated—resulting in what she describes as “positive relaxation.” This state of mind is particularly beneficial for those grappling with urban stressors.
However, as light pollution continues to escalate, the chance to experience such therapeutic encounters diminishes. Robertson advocates for practical solutions such as using dark-sky friendly bulbs, turning off unnecessary lights, and drawing curtains to preserve the night’s magic.
Standing amidst the Cambrian Mountains, the Milky Way unfurled before us, its vast collection of gas, dust, and countless stars leaving us in hushed reverence. “To appreciate the beauty, the majesty and the scale of it—it’s just amazing,” James expressed, encapsulating the essence of our shared experience.
Why it Matters
The resurgence of interest in astrotourism and stargazing is more than a fleeting trend; it reflects a deep-seated human need to reconnect with the universe. In an age dominated by technology and urbanisation, these experiences offer a crucial opportunity for reflection and emotional rejuvenation. As we face the increasing encroachment of light pollution, initiatives like Serydda and the efforts of dark sky advocates become essential not only for preserving our night skies but also for fostering a sense of wonder that has the power to inspire generations to come.
