INCREASINGLY ATTRACTIVE SKY-BOUND TRAVELS IN THE REGION FOR TOURISTS

Astrotourism and nocturnism are rapidly gaining popularity worldwide, including in our region. Nature and stargazing enthusiasts are increasingly seeking destinations with minimal light pollution, where they can fully enjoy the stars, planets, and celestial phenomena.

PHOTO: Vladimir Tadić

The countries of the region are rich in places ideal for this type of tourism, and the growing awareness about the protection of the night sky further encourages its development.

Astrotourism refers to travel with the goal of observing celestial bodies, astronomical phenomena, and educating people about the universe. This form of tourism typically takes place in areas with little light pollution, where the visibility of stars and other celestial bodies is optimal.

Nocturnism, on the other hand, is a broader term encompassing all activities related to nighttime tourism, including moonlit walks, night hiking, wildlife watching, and enjoying the silence of nature. These activities attract adventurers, romantics, and those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Some of the best locations for astrotourism in the region include:

Fruška Gora National Park, Serbia

Fruška Gora is not only rich in historical and natural beauty but is also one of the best places in Serbia for stargazing. Far from large cities, this park offers ideal conditions for astronomical observations.

Zlatibor and Tara, Serbia

The Zlatibor and Tara mountains are popular destinations for vacationers and astrotourists alike. Their distance from major light sources allows for spectacular views of the Milky Way and other celestial bodies in their full splendor.

Rtanj – The Mysterious Mountain, Serbia

Known for its legends and mystical shape, Rtanj is also an excellent destination for astrotourism. The night sky above this mountain offers a spectacular view of constellations and meteor showers.

Durmitor National Park, Montenegro

Durmitor National Park in Montenegro is another location with an exceptionally clear sky. Its high altitude and low population density make it the perfect place for nighttime sky exploration.

Lastovo, Croatia

The Lastovo Archipelago is one of the darkest places in Europe, with an almost untouched night sky. The Lastovo National Park provides perfect conditions for stargazing, and astronomical workshops are often organized here.

Velebit Nature Park, Croatia

Velebit is known for its wild beauty and exceptionally clean air, while also being one of the best locations in Croatia for astrotourism. This mountain, far from large urban centers, offers an unobstructed view of the starry sky.

Triglav National Park, Slovenia

Triglav National Park, located in the Julian Alps, offers a crystal-clear sky that is ideal for astrotourism. This park is home to some of Slovenia’s most beautiful natural landscapes and regularly hosts astronomy camps.

Golte, Slovenia

Golte, a mountain center known for its winter sports, is also a perfect place for stargazing. Due to its high altitude and distance from urban light sources, conditions for astronomical observations are exceptionally favorable here.

Astrotourism and nocturnism are on the rise and represent a unique way to experience nature from a different perspective, as TU Magazine reports.