Join the growing band of star trekkers and astro tourists …

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For a growing number of astrotourists, this summer is big news. Not only is there a total solar eclipse, but also a chance to see Perseid meteor showers, until August 25. This rare phenomenon has been driving bookings to destinations noted for their dark-sky conditions. Teranka retreat in Formentera, the smallest of Spain’s Balearic islands, will host “A Rare Alignment” experience – a three-night stay centred around stargazing, guided viewing, storytelling, sunset dining and other island experiences.

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In Tenerife, stargazing lookout points are found across the island, the best being in Teide National Park, a designated Starlight Reserve. From there, 83 of the 88 officially recognised constellations can be seen, including the misty band of the Milky Way and the Summer Triangle – a unique formation of three bright stars which reign over the top part of the sky. Stay in the Gran Hotel Taoro in Puerto de la Cruz, which has just reopened after a 50-year hiatus. It blends old school glamour with contemporary luxury, ocean views, a spa, two pools and an Agatha Christie-themed library – the author wrote part of The Mystery of the Blue Train there.

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Menorca is the only Mediterranean destination to be certified as both a Starlight Reserve and Starlight Tourist Destination, where a trio of newly opened properties offer guests the opportunity to experience the island’s dark skies. At Son Vell, Son Ermità and Binidufà – all part of the Vestige Collection – guests can explore the night sky through guided telescope sessions with local astronomers. Son Ermità and Binidufà celebrate the solar eclipse on August 12, with a special evening of dining and live music.

Located on a 780-hectare working estate of olive groves, vineyards and wildflower meadows, São Lourenço do Barrocal in southern Portugal is a restored 19th-century farmstead within the Alqueva Dark Sky Reserve. Guests can join local astronomers in the estate’s former apiary to observe the Milky Way, spot shooting stars, learn about constellations, and observe planets like Mars and Saturn through telescopes. Close to the estate, Alqueva Lake Observatory offers a dome, solar telescope and a platform to set up personal equipment. Visitors can also explore the Dark Sky Alqueva Official Observatory, where a museum housed in a former school building features an exhibition of Miguel Claro’s astrophotography.

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Pristine mountain air and elevated vantage points make stargazing a magical, almost cinematic experience at the five-star Cyprianerhof in the Dolomites. After a day of hiking (or skiing in winter), guests can enjoy the view from terraces and balconies. Wellness is a way of life here – a multitude of natural bathing ponds, steam baths, saltwater whirlpools and infrared loungers – are complemented by signature treatments and massages.

In Tromso, Norway, special lodges and cabins designed for aurora watching have private decks that face the fjord and the open sky. The fjord provides a natural mirror for the aurora, doubling the spectacle when conditions are right. Visit lygenexperience.com for more information.

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Off The Map specialises in tailor-made journeys into some spectacular wilderness regions, including the Finnish and Swedish Lapland, Iceland and Northern Norway. These high-latitude locations are renowned for very dark nights and minimal light pollution, making them ideal for witnessing brilliant star fields. Guests have the option to stay in cabins and remote lodges, while itineraries maximise the chance to experience stellar skies.

On Scotland’s Ayrshire coast, Glenapp Castle is a gorgeous retreat where lack of light pollution results in clear nights perfect for stargazing. In addition to using the castle’s telescopes, a local astronomer is on hand to guide guests through the constellations, best viewed from its Victorian Walled Garden, originally designed by Gertrude Jekyll, or on one of its luxury island glamping adventures.