Ávila: A paradise for star lovers
Why choose Ávila for astrotourism?
- Dark skies: The low population density and the absence of large cities in the province of Ávila guarantee skies with little light pollution, ideal for astronomical observation.
- Variety of landscapes: From the vast plains of Moraña to the peaks of the Sierra de Gredos, Ávila offers a wide variety of landscapes to enjoy astrotourism.
- Activities for everyone: Whether you are an astronomy fan or simply want to enjoy a night under the stars, in Ávila you will find activities for all tastes.
- Infrastructure under development: The province of Ávila has a growing offer of accommodation, restaurants and companies specialized in astrotourism.
The Sierra de Gredos viewpoint: A privileged place to observe the stars
How to get to the Sierra de Gredos viewpoint?
- By car: The easiest way to get to the viewpoint is by car. There are several roads that can take you there, such as the N-110 or the AV-931.
- By bus: There are also several bus lines that can take you to the viewpoint, such as line 14 of the Avanza company.
- On foot: If you like hiking, you can reach the viewpoint on foot from several towns in the area, such as Hoyos del Espino or Navarredonda de Gredos.
The viewpoints in the Sierra de Gredos
San Martín del Pimpollar, Navarredonda de Gredos, Hoyos del Espino, Navalperal de Tormes, Santiago de Tormes, Zapardiel de la Ribera, Navatejares, Puerto Castilla, Umbrías and Nava del Barco, among others, have created stellar viewpoints.
These privileged observation points allow tourists to enjoy new ways of enjoying nature and the environment through Active Tourism. The star viewpoints include a B1 type panel, observation platform, terrain conditioning, and basic astronomical information designed for a non-specialized family audience.
Tips to enjoy astrotourism in Ávila
- Choose a night with clear skies: It is important to choose a night with clear skies to be able to enjoy the experience to the fullest.
- Bring appropriate clothing: Nights in the Sierra de Gredos can be cold, so it is important to bring warm clothing.
- Use a telescope or binoculars: If you want to observe the stars in more detail, you can use a telescope or binoculars.
- Respect the environment: Do not leave trash at the viewpoint and respect the flora and fauna of the area.
Portable telescopes for your excursion
Transporting a telescope requires certain care and space. If what you also want is a portable, lightweight device that is quick to assemble and provides an adequate observation experience, here we have some recommendations for all audiences and budgets.
80/400 Refractor Telescope with Carrying Backpack
This telescope allows you up to 160x magnification, it is lightweight, comes on a photographic tripod and best of all, it fits inside a backpack included in the purchase.
The telescope is delivered with eyepieces and a Barlow lens, to achieve up to 130x magnification, therefore we are talking about a perfect device for lovers of stargazing.
With the 80 mm aperture and 400 mm focal length refractor, you can observe the deep sky, such as the Orion Nebula (in winter), the Pleiades and Messier objects. Additionally, it offers a stunning view of lunar craters, the bands of Jupiter and the transit of its moons, as well as Saturn and the rings.
Advantages and disadvantages:
✅ It is a starter telescope, quick to assemble, requires little maintenance and is transportable. It allows you to have the first contact with the deep sky and planets.
❌ The stability of the tripod. To make it as portable as possible, the designers have developed a lightweight and compact tripod, but that means less stability.
Compact and perfect MAK 90 telescope for observing planets
The MAK 90mm and 1250 mm focal length is a planet observer. You will be able to see the phases of Venus, rich details of the lunar surface, the atmospheric bands of Jupiter, its moons and Saturn with its rings.
The focal length of this telescope has the minimum necessary for planetary observation. You can also get started in basic astrophotography.
Advantages and disadvantages:
✅ Clear image, lightweight telescope, easy assembly, view of the planets. You can take your first steps into planetary astrophotography by purchasing some additional accessories.
❌ It does not have good performance in deep sky observation. Carrying backpack sold separately.
SeeStar 50 compact astrophotographer
114mm reflector with 500mm focal length, compact and powerful
It is undoubtedly your option if what you are looking for is to observe the deep sky mainly. The 114 mm aperture and 500 mm focal length provide a wide and clear image of the sky.
Walking through the Pleiades or Orion's belt is an incredible experience.
In addition, with the purchase of the telescope an approved filter for solar observation and a support for your smartphone is included with which you can take snapshots.
The aluminum tripod and fork mount provide the mobility that a beginner needs in their first steps into astronomical observation.
Advantages and disadvantages:
✅ Compact telescope with excellent observation features. With the 230 maximum magnification that this telescope allows you will be able to observe all the Messier objects. Includes solar filter for safe observation of the Astro King.
❌ Does not include carrying backpack, sold separately. The eyepieces are basic range and it is recommended to purchase better ones over time.
