If there’s one thing we especially like in summer, it’s the evenings. As well as enjoying festivals, terraces, going out until the early hours of the morning… one of the most popular activities are walks under the stars. The skies are usually clearer, due to the more pleasant weather and because we are usually on holiday in places like the beach or the mountains, where there is usually less light pollution than in the cities.
August is one of the most eagerly awaited astronomical events: the Perseids star shower. Undoubtedly, Andorra offers an unbeatable position for observing them. If you are also waiting for them, here we tell you all about it.
What are the Perseids?
The Perseids is one of the most eagerly awaited events of the month of August. Every year around this time, the comet Swift-Tuttle passes very close to the Earth, ejecting tiny dust particles. When they enter into combustion with the atmosphere they shoot out as a shower of shooting stars and are visible from all over the northern hemisphere.
The most eagerly awaited star shower in August
We will be able to see this magnificent spectacle from 17 July to 24 August, but this year they will be seen at their best on 12 August.
Enjoy the star shower in the mountains
Take advantage of our location to choose a good place to see the Perseids. The Hotel del Tarter, which is located at an altitude of approximately 1,700 metres, is far from large cities. This makes it ideal, as there is little light pollution in the surrounding area. You also don’t need any technical equipment such as binoculars or a telescope. All you need is a good dark place and to lie down on the grass and watch the sky. It is an original activity to do with the whole family, without crowds, surrounded by nature and with pleasant temperatures, and your children are sure to remember this experience forever!
Where can you see the Perseids from?
– Andorra is a Starlight destination
The Comapedrosa Natural Park and other natural areas in La Massana offer one of the darkest and starlit skies in the Pyrenees, ideal for astronomical observation. The low light pollution, combined with the low population density and the territorial organisation in small and medium-sized towns, has led to the recognition of these areas as a Starlight Reserve and Destination. This prestigious international seal, endorsed by UNESCO and the WTO, is awarded to places that meet strict night sky quality criteria, thus highlighting this area as an astronomical destination of excellence.
– Other places to see the Perseids
In Andorra there are many places to observe the stars, some accessible ones are the Engoslasters lake, where even the electricity museum organises a special night. You can also go to the Sorteny valley in Ordino, or, close to the hotel, the Roc del Quer, which, although closed at night, has a good option for viewing them from its parking area, with spectacular views of the Montaup Valley and, above all, the open sky.
– Some recommendations
Don’t go into the mountain if you don’t know the trail. Take binoculars with you to see the spectacle. And lastly, dress warmly, as the nights are cool in Andorra.
You can book your room now to enjoy one of the most magical nights of the summer in peace and quiet, and don’t forget to make a wish every time you see a shooting star!