The Dark Sky Alqueva reserve, located in the Alentejo region, was distinguished at the awards ceremony, consolidating Portugal's position among European and global references in the astrotourism sector.

The region benefits from low light pollution and high atmospheric quality, making it an excellent place to see stars, planets, meteors, and even the Northern Lights, when they appear in Portugal. The award also recognises the project's innovation, sustainability, and tourism impact, which is located around the Great Alqueva Lake.

Dark Sky Alqueva has been accumulating international distinctions. In 2025, according to Executive Digest, the project was awarded at the World Travel Awards, one of the main global references in tourism.

In addition, the region was the first destination in the world to receive the Starlight Tourist Destination certification, an international seal that scientifically verifies a location's quality for astronomical observation.

Leading Astrotourism

Portugal benefits from a geographical location conducive to stargazing, as well as a favourable climate, particularly during certain nights.

In the Alqueva region, in particular, low light pollution is a crucial factor for stargazing and the subsequent development of astronomical tourism. In Alqueva, according to Executive Digest, an average of 286 clear nights is recorded per year, demonstrating the region's natural potential.

Vast observation area

The area certified by the Starlight seal covers more than 10,000 square kilometres, encompassing several Portuguese municipalities, such as Alandroal, Barrancos, Estremoz, Moura, Mourão, Redondo, Reguengos de Monsaraz, Portel, Évora, Mértola and Serpa.