**
In the remote landscapes of rural Wales, the allure of the night sky is drawing an increasing number of enthusiasts eager to escape the urban light pollution that obscures celestial wonders. Under the guidance of astrotourism pioneers, visitors are discovering the profound beauty of the cosmos, with experiences designed to foster a deeper connection to the universe.
A Dazzling Display Unfolds
As twilight descends, the initial obscurity of the night sky can be disheartening. However, after several hours of anticipation, the darkness gives way to a breathtaking canopy of stars. I join Siân and James Harrison, passionate stargazers from Cardiff, in Llanddewi-Brefi, a village nestled within the picturesque Ceredigion countryside. Our objective is to immerse ourselves in the celestial spectacle with the help of an expert guide.
Lying on a blanket spread across the cool grass, we peer upward at the majestic sight of Jupiter, one of the most luminous planets visible from Earth. Dafydd Wyn Morgan, the owner of the astrotourism enterprise Serydda, employs a green laser pointer to illuminate the night sky, directing our attention to three stars that form Orion’s Belt. “It’s my favourite constellation,” James expresses, captivated by the stellar nursery surrounding it, a region where new stars are continuously being born. “I’ll focus on something, and it’s 150 million light years away,” he marvels. The enormity of such distances brings a profound sense of calm, connecting me to the same sky that has inspired countless generations before.
The Rise of Star Bathing
Wyn Morgan’s star bathing sessions blend the serenity of nature with the ancient practice of stargazing. Participants lie back on the ground, observing the celestial wonders while engaging in conversations about the myths and legends associated with the stars. This experiential approach is reminiscent of forest bathing, a concept originating in Japan during the 1980s, which has now evolved into a segment of astrotourism and wellness initiatives.
“It’s all about the emotional experience at that moment,” Wyn Morgan articulates. “It’s not merely a scientific exploration; it’s about how the night sky makes you feel.” This emotional engagement may, in turn, inspire participants to pursue further astronomical knowledge, encouraging a lifelong passion for the stars.
Wyn Morgan established Serydda in January 2025, drawing on years of event organisation alongside his late friend and renowned astrophotographer Alyn Wallace. Since its inception, over 107 individuals have participated in his workshops, with many returning multiple times to explore various dark sky locations. A recent survey conducted by Booking.com revealed that 72% of travellers are interested in visiting destinations that offer dark sky experiences, indicating a growing trend towards nocturnal tourism.
The Impact of Urbanisation on Stargazing
As we journey to Llyn Teifi in the Cambrian Mountains, the air is infused with the fresh essence of the wild. “Can you smell that?” Wyn Morgan asks, relishing the purity of the night sky. “Breathing in the night sky is something totally different; it’s like drinking water from a well.” This connection to the natural world resonates deeply, particularly as Dani Robertson, a dark skies officer for Snowdonia National Park, highlights that 98% of the UK population resides beneath light-polluted skies. Consequently, we are entering a third or fourth generation of individuals who rarely, if ever, witness the majesty of a star-filled sky.
Wales boasts two of the UK’s six national parks that hold International Dark Sky Reserve status. People are travelling from urban centres such as London to partake in these stargazing events, seeking out rare opportunities to witness the stars and experience genuine darkness. Robertson arranges a variety of activities, including stargazing from her mobile observatory, night hikes, and meteor watch parties. One participant, celebrating his 50th birthday, was moved to tears upon finally witnessing shooting stars, highlighting the profound emotional impact of such experiences.
The Science Behind the Serenity
Research underscores the psychological benefits of engaging with nature. Annalisa Setti, a senior lecturer in applied psychology and sustainability at University College Cork, notes that observing nature can lead to a state of “positive relaxation.” This occurs when individuals become absorbed in their surroundings, striking a balance between boredom and overstimulation. When immersed in natural beauty, the brain’s areas associated with negative thought patterns become less active.
However, the increasing threat of light pollution poses a significant challenge to these experiences. Robertson warns that the encroachment of artificial light affects not only human circadian rhythms but also disrupts the lives of various species. Simple solutions exist, such as utilising dark-sky-friendly bulbs and minimising unnecessary lighting, which can help preserve the clarity of the night sky for future generations.
Witnessing the Wonders of the Milky Way
In the stillness of the mountains, as the clock strikes 02:00, a celestial marvel reveals itself: the Milky Way. This awe-inspiring sight, a swirling mass of gas, dust, dark matter, and billions of stars, captivates the senses. The palpable excitement of Siân and James serves as a reminder of the wonder that the universe holds. “To look at these things and appreciate their beauty and scale—it’s just amazing,” James remarks.
Why it Matters
The resurgence of interest in stargazing experiences represents more than just a fleeting trend; it underscores a collective yearning for connection with the cosmos and a desire to escape the confines of urban life. As more individuals seek to reconnect with the night sky, the potential for fostering a deeper appreciation for our universe grows, alongside a heightened awareness of the need to protect these precious dark spaces. By engaging in such experiences, we not only enrich our own lives but also contribute to the broader movement advocating for the preservation of our natural heritage.
