Another place to go stargazing in Europe is County Kerry in Ireland, where you’ll find the Kerry Dark Sky Reserve, which has been granted Gold Tier status by Dark Sky International. There are only three reserves in the world at this level, and this is the only one in the Northern Hemisphere. On a clear night, you’ll be able to glimpse the Milky Way, the Andromeda Galaxy, star clusters and nebulas, all without any special equipment.
The famous Ring of Kerry is a stop on the Wild Atlantic Way, so you can combine your nocturnal adventuring with a scenic road trip, travelling all the way from Cork up to Donegal.
Where to stay Within a 45-minute drive of the Kerry International Dark Sky Reserve, Park Hotel Kenmare is a country-house hotel that has been welcoming guests since 1897. The Relais & Chateaux property has plenty to keep you busy as you wait for your after-dark adventure, including tennis, croquet, falconry, walks down to the bay and a cocktail bar with a vast whiskey collection.
