Stargazing in the Hohe Tauern National Park region

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A special place...

Two of the darkest places in Europe. In the middle of nature, surrounded by mountains, trees and lakes. The things that are hidden during the day become particularly visible here at night. In an age full of restlessness due to constantly shining lights, you can retreat to these places and discover the spectacle in the sky at night.

Guided starry sky tour in the Astental valley

The starry sky tour in the Astental valley is a real highlight. Accompanied by a national park ranger, you go on a nocturnal hike to the Astner Moosalm - one of the darkest places in the region. There, where the Milky Way stretches across the sky, constellations are explained, planets are tracked down and, with a bit of luck, even shooting stars are spotted. 

Distant galaxies and planets are difficult to see with the naked eye, so the rangers use modern optical devices to make them visible.

Tip: The tour takes place regularly in the summer months - it's best to book early, as places are limited. 

Astronomy up close on the Emberger Alm

You can look even deeper from the Emberger Alm in the Drau Valley - one of the best-known observation sites for amateur astronomers in Central Europe. At around 1,800 meters above sea level, there is a public observatory where guided tours and sky observations are regularly offered. Professional telescopes can be used to observe Saturn's rings, lunar craters and distant galaxies - an unforgettable experience for young and old alike.

The night - more than just bedtime

In order not to disturb the natural protective mantle of the night, the protection of the night is very important to the Hohe Tauern National Park. Because the night is not only good for observing the stars. No, it is vital for many animals and plants. It is important to preserve the natural rhythm of the world's organisms.

Sight at the limit - on the night hike

At night, the sense of sight cannot be fully utilized, so we perceive much more with our ears. Every step out of the group becomes a spectacle of sound. If you are lucky, you may hear the wild animals of the national park jumping over hill and dale.

If necessary, they do not walk through the night with flashlights, but with a soft red light. This is less harmful to the eyes of nocturnal animals and does not attract as much attention.

Likewise, the considerate treatment of nature, whether animal or plant life, is a MUST! So please do not pick any plants or make any loud noises!