Mention of the Algarve might conjure up images far from the quiet pursuit of uninterrupted stargazing but this southernmost region of inland Portugal offers exceptional conditions for a little amateur astronomy, provided you steer clear of the tourist-heavy, built up areas.

COAA is a self-proclaimed ‘astronomy holiday centre’, situated in Poio, which gives amateur astronomers a chance to observe using professional standard equipment including a 0.5m, f4.5 Newtonian telescope amongst others. All the telescopes are equipped with both for photography and CCD imaging and make this an excellent place for those amateurs looking to get a bit serious.

Just around the corner and close to the beautiful town of Tavira is CDEPA another lodge that specialises in astronomy focused holidays with a number of smaller telescopes and an excellent location for binocular observing or simply taking in the stars with the naked eye.

The combination of blissfully sunny days and clear, dark nights and the proximity of other entertainment make the Algarve an ideal place for those whose passion for stargazing isn’t perhaps mirrored quite as strongly in their travelling companions.

Written by  Anna Dejardin.

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