Stargazing with a telescope

The Sierra del Segura has Starlight certification for the quality of its night sky, and is one of the most outstanding astrotourism destinations in the country. Mundo Aventura Riópar organises, with NaturSky monitors, two hours of guided observation for all ages: you do not need to know anything about astronomy or bring any equipment.

What the night is like

It begins with a participatory workshop to understand what will be seen that night, because the sky changes with the months. It explains how the solar system works and why it is so important to reduce light pollution. Then comes the part about finding your way by the stars and constellations, with the help of stories and mythology, which is the part that hooks children most.

With a long-range laser pointer, the guide points out the planets, the Milky Way and the colours of the stars. And at the end, with a powerful telescope, you look closely at stars, planets, nebulae, star clusters and galaxies. The company includes a local guide with Starlight certification, the telescope, a red-light torch so you are not dazzled and insurance.

Price and booking

It costs €25 per person; children under 10 do not pay. The minimum group is three people, although if there are one or two of you, you can open a group by paying the minimum of three; that supplement is not charged if someone else joins on the day of the activity. The company works with a single group of up to seven people a day, so whoever books later joins yours. They can also put you down without a reservation and let you know whether a group goes ahead, but with no guarantee. Book on its website or by phone. The activity's page on its website marks on a map where it takes place.

What to bring

Comfortable shoes and warm clothes, even in summer: in the mountains it gets very cold at night. They also recommend a folding chair and a blanket or mat to be comfortable lying down looking at the sky. The physical level is low. Moonless nights are the best for seeing the Milky Way; if you are interested in something specific, such as a planet or a meteor shower, ask when you book which dates fit.

On your own

If you prefer to go on your own, the Town Hall has a Starlight viewpoint in Riópar Viejo, next to the castle ruins, with a panel and a planisphere to recognise the constellations. It is a good complement to the guided activity: first you learn to find your way and another night you repeat it alone. By day, the same company runs guided visits of Riópar Viejo and the Source of the river Mundo.