Astronomy Tourism Boosts Remote Regions in Spain
The regions of Extremadura and Castile and León, often overshadowed by Spain’s popular coastal destinations, are gaining attention due to an astrotourism initiative called Extremadura Buenas Noches. These areas, part of what is known as “Empty Spain”, are characterised by low populations, unpolluted skies, and natural beauty, offering unique attractions for both residents and visitors.
Stargazing in Unexplored Territory
Moving away from the crowded tourist circuits, Extremadura and Castile and León provide expansive spaces perfect for stargazing. These regions, sharing borders with Portugal, offer a network of ideal locations for observing the night sky. Sites such as La Siberia and the historic Corral de los Lobos are renowned for their pristine nocturnal views, promising sightings of celestial bodies like Jupiter and the Milky Way.
The appeal of this area is enhanced by its remarkable biodiversity. Nature guide Alberto Garzón Fernández highlights that the absence of light pollution also reflects in the environment’s purity, with clean air indicated by the lush lichen growths in places like the Garganta de los Infiernos nature reserve. The resurgence of species such as the Spanish imperial eagle and the re-emergence of the Iberian lynx and wolf underscore successful conservation efforts in the area.
Rural Communities and Changing Climates
Despite the ecological stability, the regional economy faces challenges. Sara Cudero Morcuende, owner of a grocery shop in Valverde de la Vera, notes population decline and economic strain, exacerbated by climate-related events like the 2025 wildfires that damaged 20,000 hectares of the Jerte Valley’s cherry orchards. These events impact the vital cherry harvest, one of the few tourist draws to the locality.
While the sparse population and historical settings may appeal to some, they also signal economic difficulty. Valverde de la Vera’s minimal hospitality offerings highlight the region’s struggle to attract more visitors and compete with more bustling locales.
Cultural Riches and Hidden Culinary Delights
Tourists discovering these outposts are often surprised by their rich cultural and culinary offerings. Spanish state-owned paradores provide accommodation in historical buildings, with cities like Cáceres, Trujillo, and Plasencia serving as convenient bases for exploring the regions.
A culinary journey into the Sierra de Francia introduces travellers to gastronomic treasures from locally sourced produce. La Alberca and nearby villages offer a taste of tradition, from jamón ibérico to locally-picked mushroom dishes that rivet even seasoned culinary enthusiasts. This affordability and quality make dining in these regions an unexpected delight.
While tourism promotion efforts from initiatives like Turismo Extremadura and Turismo Castilla Y León are currently helping to draw attention to these hidden gems, the challenge remains to balance economic development with the preservation of the regions’ pristine natural environments and cultural heritage.
Reporting based on coverage first published by theguardian.com.