In a groundbreaking initiative that merges wellness with celestial exploration, Wales is emerging as a premier destination for astrotourism enthusiasts. With its vast expanses of dark sky, the region offers an extraordinary opportunity to connect with the cosmos, allowing visitors to experience the celestial wonders that have inspired humanity for centuries.
A Journey into the Cosmos
On a recent night in Llanddewi-Brefi, Ceredigion, darkness enveloped the landscape, shrouding it in mystery. After several hours of anticipation, the clouds dispersed, revealing a breathtaking panorama of stars. Accompanied by Siân and James Harrison, avid stargazers who journeyed from Cardiff, I was eager to delve into this extraordinary experience. Our guide, Dafydd Wyn Morgan, the founder of Serydda, an astrotourism venture, was set to lead us on a voyage through the cosmos.
Lying on a blanket beneath the vast expanse, we directed our gaze towards Jupiter, one of the most radiant planets visible from Earth. With a green laser pointer tracing patterns in the night sky, Wyn Morgan highlighted Orion’s Belt, sharing his enthusiasm for the constellation. “It’s my favourite,” James chimed in, captivated by the region’s significance as a stellar nursery. “I can’t quite fathom that I’m gazing at something over 150 million light years away,” he remarked, his voice filled with awe.
The Art of Star Bathing
Wyn Morgan’s innovative approach to stargazing—dubbed “star bathing”—is reminiscent of forest bathing, a wellness practice originating in Japan during the 1980s. His sessions involve not only observing celestial bodies but also immersing participants in the myths and legends associated with them. “It’s about the emotional experience in that moment,” he explained, emphasising the subjective nature of the encounter rather than an academic exploration of astronomy.
Since launching Serydda in January 2025, following years of organising stargazing events alongside the late astrophotographer Alyn Wallace, Wyn Morgan has attracted considerable interest. His workshops have seen 107 participants, with many returning for additional sessions at various dark sky locations. A recent Booking.com survey revealed that 72% of travellers expressed interest in visiting dark sky destinations for star bathing experiences, highlighting a growing trend in astrotourism.
Enhancing Wellbeing Through Nature
As we ventured into the Cambrian mountains, Wyn Morgan invited us to inhale the night air. “Breathing in the night sky is something entirely different,” he noted, describing the cool, crisp atmosphere as reminiscent of fresh spring water. This communion with nature evokes a child-like joy, especially upon witnessing shooting stars streaking across the sky.
Dani Robertson, a dark skies officer for Snowdonia National Park, elaborated on humanity’s intrinsic bond with the cosmos. She pointed out that 98% of the UK population lives beneath light-polluted skies, resulting in a generational disconnect from the stars. Wales stands out with two of the six UK national parks designated as International Dark Sky Reserves, drawing visitors from urban environments seeking genuine encounters with the night sky.
Robertson’s initiatives include mobile observatories and meteor watch parties, catering to a growing demand for these unique experiences. “I can’t run enough events to keep up with demand,” she lamented, noting the substantial waiting lists that accompany her stargazing activities.
The Psychological Benefits of Stargazing
Recent studies underscore the positive effects of nature on mental wellbeing. Annalisa Setti, a senior lecturer at University College Cork, explained that engaging with the natural world can facilitate a state of “positive relaxation,” reducing the activity of brain areas associated with negative rumination. This phenomenon reinforces the therapeutic benefits of stargazing and similar outdoor experiences, offering a respite from the stressors of daily life.
However, these benefits face a looming threat. Robertson cautioned against the increasing prevalence of light pollution, which disrupts human circadian rhythms and adversely affects wildlife. She advocates for simple remedies such as using dark-sky-friendly lighting and adopting practices to minimise unnecessary illumination at night.
Witnessing the Wonder
As the night deepened, a luminous cloud formation graced the sky—the Milky Way unveiled itself in all its glory. The collective excitement of Siân and James was palpable, underscoring the transformative power of this celestial spectacle. “To appreciate the beauty, the majesty, and the scale of it—it’s just amazing,” James articulated, capturing the essence of our shared experience.
Why it Matters
This burgeoning interest in astrotourism not only reconnects individuals with the cosmos but also fosters a greater appreciation for the natural world and its preservation. As urban populations continue to become increasingly detached from the night sky, initiatives like star bathing provide vital opportunities for rejuvenation and inspiration. By cultivating a deeper understanding of our universe, we not only enrich our lives but also galvanise efforts to safeguard the starry skies for future generations.
