In the heart of Ceredigion, west Wales, a rising trend in astrotourism is captivating both locals and visitors alike. With the allure of pristine dark skies, adventurers are flocking to experience the vastness of the universe, reconnecting with the cosmos in ways that resonate deeply within the human spirit. An evening spent stargazing in Llanddewi-Brefi reveals not just celestial wonders, but also a growing appreciation for the natural world.
A Starry Welcome
The night begins with an enveloping darkness, obscuring the stars behind a thick blanket of clouds. However, patience is rewarded as the evening progresses. After four and a half hours, the clouds part, revealing a breathtaking tapestry of stars stretching infinitely above. Accompanied by Siân and James Harrison, two passionate stargazers from Cardiff, I find myself in the capable hands of Dafydd Wyn Morgan, founder of Serydda, an astrotourism initiative dedicated to enhancing public engagement with the night sky.
As we settle on blankets laid out on the ground, Wyn Morgan employs a green laser pointer to illuminate the celestial sphere, expertly guiding our gaze towards Jupiter, one of the most luminous planets visible from Earth. He shares his fascination with Orion’s Belt, a cluster of stars that holds a special significance for many stargazers, including James, who expresses his awe at the region’s active star formation.
“I often focus on a point 150 million light years away,” James reflects. “It’s hard to comprehend such immense distances.” This moment fosters a sense of tranquillity, evoking the same wonder that our ancestors would have experienced under the same starry expanse.
The Essence of Star Bathing
Wyn Morgan’s innovative approach to stargazing, termed “star bathing,” mirrors the principles of forest bathing, a wellness practice rooted in Japanese culture that encourages immersion in nature. During these sessions, participants lie back and absorb the sights and sounds of the cosmos, while Wyn Morgan recounts the myths and legends intertwined with the stars above.
“It’s about the emotional connection to the moment,” he explains. “While the scientific aspects are fascinating, it’s the feelings evoked that truly matter.” For many participants, this experience serves as a gateway to further exploration of the night sky, igniting a desire to delve deeper into the science and beauty of astronomy.
Since launching Serydda in January 2025, Wyn Morgan has conducted workshops that have attracted over 107 participants, with many returning for repeat experiences at various dark sky venues. A Booking.com survey indicates that a remarkable 72% of respondents are considering visits to darker sky destinations, highlighting the growing interest in astrotourism.
The Call of the Dark Sky
Our journey continues in the Cambrian mountains, where we find ourselves standing on a bridge surrounded by rugged terrain and marshland. “Can you smell that?” Wyn Morgan asks with enthusiasm. “Breathing in the night sky is a unique experience—it’s cool, fresh, and pure, akin to drinking from a well.”
The allure of the night sky has deep historical roots. Dani Robertson, a dark skies officer for Snowdonia National Park, notes that the overwhelming majority of the UK population now resides beneath light-polluted skies, limiting their exposure to the celestial wonders. As a result, many individuals are seeking out the opportunity to witness the stars—a rarity for urban dwellers.
Robertson orchestrates stargazing events in her mobile observatory, as well as night hikes and meteor watch gatherings. She recounts a poignant story of a man who, celebrating his 50th birthday, was moved to tears upon witnessing shooting stars for the first time. “For those living in cities, this is often a once-in-a-lifetime chance,” she remarks. Demand for such experiences is soaring, with events consistently oversubscribed.
The Science of Connection
Research indicates that nature has a profound impact on mental well-being. Annalisa Setti, a senior lecturer at University College Cork, explains that immersing oneself in nature fosters a state of “optimal arousal,” balancing between boredom and overstimulation. This connection to the natural world can significantly reduce the activity of brain regions associated with negative thoughts, promoting a sense of positive relaxation.
Yet, this connection is threatened by increasing light pollution, which not only obscures our view of the stars but also disrupts human circadian rhythms and affects wildlife. Robertson advocates for practical solutions, such as using dark-sky-friendly lighting, turning off unnecessary lights, and closing curtains at night to protect the beauty of the night sky.
As we stand on the mountainside at around 2:00 AM, a breathtaking sight emerges: the Milky Way. Its ethereal glow captivates us, a stunning display of gas, dust, and countless stars. “To appreciate the beauty and scale of this is truly astonishing,” James exclaims, encapsulating the profound impact of this shared experience.
Why it Matters
Engaging with the night sky not only fosters a sense of wonder but also nurtures a deeper connection to our environment. As urbanisation continues to encroach upon our planet, the opportunity to experience the cosmos in its full glory becomes increasingly precious. Initiatives like those led by Wyn Morgan and Robertson not only provide a gateway to understanding the universe but also encourage a collective responsibility to protect these dark skies for future generations. In a world where light pollution threatens our connection to the stars, the call to preserve and appreciate our natural heritage has never been more vital.
