One of Powys' top national parks has been named as one of the best stargazing spots in the world.
The list which has been put together by StressFreeCarRental.com has named the famous Bannau Brycheiniog national park, formerly known as the Brecon Beacons, as one of the top spots in the world to see the cosmos.
They say that Astrotourism has become “a growing trend with tourists willing to travel around the globe to witness extraordinary astronomical events”.
The Milky Way is no longer visible to one-third of humanity because of light pollution, so many are choosing to escape to remote locations to experience space.
READ MORE: Part of Powys named first International Dark Sky Place in Wales
The Bannau Brycheiniog National Park was included on the list as it gave great views of the Milky Way, major constellations, meteor showers and bright nebulae, which are a common view for stargazers.
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The pristine dark skies mean visitors can catch a glimpse of galaxies such as “M81, M82, and the Leo triplet”.
John Charnock, CEO of StressFreeCarRental.com said: “With interest in the stars, skies and space growing, many are switching out beaches and sun loungers for dark skies and meteor showers.
“We expect that Astrotourism will be a huge trend in 2024, and more people than ever will flock to remote spots to witness celestial events like the northern lights and a lunar eclipse.
“Spectacular locations to indulge in Astrotourism include New South Wales in Australia where tourists can sleep under the stars and the Brecon Beacons in Wales where visitors can catch a glimpse of sparkling galaxies.”
The world's top astrotourism destinations
- Galloway Forest, Scotland
- Churchill, Canada
- Northumberland, England
- Malin Head, Northern Ireland
- Brecon Beacons, Wales
- New South Wales, Australia
- White Desert, Egypt
- La Palma, Canary Islands
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