Astrotourism in the Settlement Za górami za lasami. The best place to observe stars in the Kłodzko Land.

Astrotourism is gaining popularity all over the world. Some people from Poland are closer to the stars recently thanks to the visible aurora borealis. Nevertheless — space attracts to the Kłodzko Land more and more people interested in the night sky.

Astrotourism is a unique type of tourism that combines a passion for astronomy with traveling. For many star lovers, Osada Za górami za lasami is the perfect place for such experiences. Today we will tell you why!

What is astrotourism?

Astrotourism is a form of tourism whose main goal is observing the night sky. Away from city lights, in places with low light pollution, tourists can admire stars, planets, meteors, and even phenomena such as eclipses or auroras. Can you imagine a better combination of education with relaxation and contemplation of the beauty of space?

Astrotourism in the Śnieżnik Massif — why is it worth choosing our Settlement?

The settlement Za górami za lasami, located in the heart of the Śnieżnik Massif, is a unique place in many ways. Its location away from urban agglomerations ensures minimal light pollution, allowing for clear and unobstructed views of the night sky. The high location of the Settlement, clean air and the surrounding mountains and forests additionally enhance the visual experience. Here, astrotourists can enjoy exceptional transparency and clarity of the sky.

Where can you admire the stars in the Settlement Beyond the Mountains Beyond the Forests?

It doesn't take much - just look up at night to see how magical the sky above Osada is. But for your convenience, we have a special place, perfect for observing the cosmos - the terrace of the cottage for your exclusive use. Each of the cottages in Osada has a separate terrace from which you can admire the stars. A comfortable and intimate place provides comfortable conditions for setting up a telescope or lying on a deckchair without worrying about an unexpected visit from forest animals. Here, both amateurs and experienced astronomy enthusiasts can enjoy amazing views.

2024 Observing Calendar — What can you see in the sky from Osada?

We have prepared a special observation calendar for 2024, which includes: the most interesting deep sky objects visible from the terraces of the cottages of the Settlement Za górami za lasami and the nearest area. You will find there specific shows in the sky and exact dates, times and geographical directions. For example, looking at the sky in June, you will see the RHO Ophiuchi nebula complex, the Cygnus constellation or the center of the Milky Way. Detailed information about other objects visible this year from the Settlement Za górami za lasami can be found here.

Astrotourism for beginners - How to prepare for observations?

To fully enjoy admiring the night sky, it is worth preparing for it in advance. Catch some practical tips for starters!

  1. Choose the right clothing. Even in summer, nights in the mountains can be cold. That's why every astrotourist always has warm clothes; hat, gloves (you'll thank me for them when you set up the telescope) and warm socks.
  2. If you have the opportunity, take it sky observation equipment. While it’s certainly worth taking a telescope, other equipment will also work. So if you’re just starting out in astrotourism, even binoculars might be enough.
  3. Prepare yourself in terms of knowledge. Read about the phenomena that will be visible in the sky at a given time. It is worth having a sky map or an installed application on the phone, which will help identify stars and planets.
  4. Make sure you are comfortable while enjoying the spectacle. Bring a blanket or a lounger so you can comfortably observe the sky.

Why look at the sky at night? Solid arguments for stargazing.

Observing the night sky is not only a great way to relax and unwind, but also a great way to learn and expand your knowledge about space. For many, stargazing is a way to reflect. It is a kind of a form of getting away from everyday worries. In addition, joint observations can be a great opportunity to spend time with family and friends, share impressions and joint discoveries.

PS Stargazing is a great idea for a date. And in the Settlement Za górami za lasami we have perfect conditions! We are just suggesting…

Workshops on landscape astrophotography in the Sudetes

If you are interested in astrotourism, but apart from admiring the sky, you want to discover secrets of photographing stars (even without specialist equipment), we invite you today landscape astrophotography workshops. When? September 9-11. Where? A settlement beyond the mountains beyond the forests.

The workshop will be led by Marcin Slipko. An extremely talented photographer who is the author of, among others: NASA Astronomy Picture of the Day from January 31, 2024. Marcin will share with us his knowledge on how to do outdoor sessions and teach us how to process photos of the night sky. So how about discovering the beauty of the stars over the Kłodzko Land from behind the camera lens?