Experience Dark Skies Stargazing in the Cairngorms National Park

Did you know that Grantown-on-Spey is located very near to the first International Dark Sky Park in the Cairngorms National Park in the Scottish Highlands? Not only is it the Darkest Sky Park in the UK, it’s also the most northern Dark Sky Park in the world. So, what does this mean for you? Well, astro-tourism in this remote rural area is a great way to spend your evenings on an autumn or winter night from September to March. Always enhanced by returning to a cosy log fire and a glass of local Speyside malt.

Grantown is ideally based for night excursions to go stargazing and seeking the Northern Lights. The dark sky with very little light pollution from towns and cities makes an incredible site of billions of stars and constellations; some well known such as the Plough and Orion to lesser-known ones. The planets Jupiter, Saturn, Mars and Venus can also be seen at various times of the winter and the Milky Way stretching across the sky is a site to behold. A spectacular canvas on which is painted one of the greatest views our planet has to offer.

If you are staying in Grantown or surrounding villages, I can take you to one of several locations about half an hour to 45 min away. The sites are well chosen for their darkness and ease of access. No special equipment is required and a good pair of binoculars can be provided. Instruction in taking photographs with mobile phones can be given and a guided tour of the dark sky with tales of myths and legends.

• Easy access

• 1-1.5hrs

• Can take groups of up to eight people to some locations

• Tour of the night sky

• Chance to take photographs with mobile phones and more advanced cameras. Instruction given

• Chance to see the Northern Lights or Aurora Borealis

• Notice of cancellation will be given if weather unfavourable.

So why not contact me to discover the wonders of the night sky. To infinity and beyond!