Discover hidden gems in France & Spain: Dark Sky Camping.
In France, the Pic du Midi Observatory stands out as a premier dark sky destination, offering exceptional views of the cosmos from its lofty perch in the Pyrenees Mountains. Additionally, the Cévennes National Park boasts pristine night skies, making it an ideal spot for stargazing enthusiasts. Meanwhile, Alt Empordà, located in Catalonia, Spain, is recognised for its remarkable dark sky conditions, making it a prime destination for stargazing.
France International Dark Sky Places
Whether you're exploring the rugged terrain of the Alps, the dramatic landscapes of Vercors, or the tranquil forests of Millevaches, each of these regions provides a unique opportunity to marvel at the wonders of the cosmos.
Alpes Azur Mercantour International Dark Sky Reserve
Alpes Azur Mercantour IDS Reserve
Alpes Azur Mercantour Location Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, France Status International Dark Sky Reserve Year of Designation 2019 Area 2300km2
Located at the southwest end of the Alps, the Alpes Azur Mercantour and Mont Mounier (2,817m) are renowned for their exceptional natural heritage, which blends Alpine and Mediterranean influences. The unique cultural heritage is shaped by natural boundaries and a favourable climate, and it has been attracting tourists since the 19th century.
Astronomy has played a significant role in the region, with Mont Mounier serving as one of the first mountain observatories in the late 19th century. Today, the Calern Plateau Observatory continues this tradition, offering both professional and amateur astronomers an unparalleled view of the unspoiled night sky.
Alpes Azur Mercantour International Dark Sky Reserve Campsites
For those seeking a quiet, family site set in most spectacular scenery, Camping le Haut-Verdon is ideal. It is on the banks of the Verdon, an excellent trout river, which flows through the spectacular gorge. The river can be fast flowing. Surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, it is on the doorstep of the Mercantour National Park. Set amongst the pines, the 109 pitches are mostly on the large size but are rather stony. With 66 for touring units, all have electricity (6/10A) but some require long leads. There is a small village nearby and the town of Saint André is 23 km. away.
Cévennes National Park International Dark Sky Reserve
Cévennes IDS Reserve
Cévennes National Park Location Languedoc-Roussillon, France Status International Dark Sky Reserve Year of Designation 2018 Area 3089km2
Cévennes National Park spans 2,973 square kilometres across sparsely populated French départements, characterised by rugged terrain and deep river valleys. Steeped in history, it was the heart of the Camisard revolt in the early 18th century. Today, it's home to over 71,000 inhabitants across 250 villages, with farming occupying much of the park's territory.
Despite its rebellious past, Cévennes offers tranquillity and outdoor activities like hiking, mountain biking, and fishing. Its limited development preserves its status as one of southern France's darker regions, attracting visitors for its pristine night sky, carefully developed by park authorities for public outreach and sustainable tourism.
Cévennes National Park International Dark Sky Reserve Campsites
Le Pont du Tarn, just outside Florac and close to the River Tarn, is an excellent base for touring this beautiful Cévennes region of France. There are 181 pitches with 28 occupied by mobile homes and chalets (available to rent). The pitches are large, level, grassy and well shaded. All have electricity (10A) and 36 are fully serviced. Access to this site and on-site is good for large outfits. Leisure amenities include a swimming pool, a paddling pool, minigolf and a sports area. A children’s club is also operated in peak season. Only gas and electric barbecues allowed on site (communal one available).
You can be sure of a warm welcome at this traditional, family run site, set in the heart of the Cévennes and its magnificent gorges. Le Jardin des Cévennes is well kept and run with young families in mind. The 90 slightly sloping grass pitches, 66 for touring, are mostly shady and hedged. All have electricity (6/10A) but some may require long leads. The site is ideally situated only a few minutes walk from the picturesque market town of Meyreuis with its narrow streets, colourful shops and Wednesday market. The area has some narrow, winding roads, which may be challenging for large and underpowered units.
Pic du Midi Location Pyrénées, France Status International Dark Sky Reserve Year of Designation 2013 Area 3112km2
The Pic du Midi International Dark Sky Reserve, or Réserve Internationale de Ciel Étoilé du Pic du Midi, is situated in the mountainous region of southern France and attracts 1.5 million visitors annually. It encompasses the UNESCO World Heritage Site Pyrénées-Mont Perdu and the Pyrénées National Park.
The designation has spurred research into land use policy, tourism business models, and resource sustainability at the University of Pau and Pays de l’Adour. A dedicated team from the university oversees the Dark Sky Reserve project, installing and maintaining scientific instruments in the Pic du Midi region to monitor the quality of the night sky.
Pic du Midi International Dark Sky Reserve Campsites
In the heart of the Pyrenees, Sites et Paysages Camping Pyrenevasion has panoramic views of the mountains and the town of Luz-Saint Sauveur in the valley below. This welcoming, family-run site has 68 well laid out touring pitches, all with electricity (3-10A), on level, grassy hillside terraces partially shaded by young trees. There are 20 modern chalets for rent (all year), ideal for the nearby skiing, and in summer guided walks are arranged, with one free weekly walk. There is an outdoor swimming pool and a new indoor pool with a sauna. In July and August, activities are organised for 4-12-year-olds and weekly entertainment for adults.
Pyrénées Natura, at an altitude of 1,000 m. on the edge of the national park, is the perfect site for lovers of nature. The 66 pitches (47 for tourers), all with electricity (3-10A), are in a landscaped area with 75 varieties of trees and shrubs – but they do not spoil the fantastic views. A traditional-style building houses the reception, bar and indoor games/reading room.
Regional Natural Park of Millevaches International Dark Sky Reserve
Millevaches IDS Reserve
Regional Natural Park of Millevaches Location Limousin, France Status International Dark Sky Reserve Year of Designation 2021 Area 3350km2
The Regional Natural Park of Millevaches in Limousin (PNRML) boasts pristine landscapes and an exceptional night sky visible throughout its 3,350 square kilometres.
Collaborating with various programs and local energy authorities, PNRML has modernized lighting, saving significant energy. It also hosts artists' residencies to raise awareness of nocturnal landscapes, enriching its cultural heritage and ensuring the preservation of its natural beauty for generations to come.
Millevaches International Dark Sky Reserve Campsites
La Plage is situated 3 km. from Treignac across the road from Lac des Bariousses. There are 146 large grassy pitches, 94 for touring most with 6A electricity. The site is well shaded and the flat pitches are terraced down the slope. All have easy access and many have views across the lake. Swimming and fishing are possible from the sandy beach. In high season there is a lifeguard on duty and all of the site’s activities are centred on the beach and lake.
A pleasant scenic drive brings you to this spacious and well-maintained site. It is set in a wooded valley beside a pretty river where, we are told, the locals still pan for gold. You will find a warm welcome and a relaxing atmosphere here in this lesser-known area of the Auvergne.
Regional Natural Park of Vercors International Dark Sky Reserve
Vercors IDS Reserve
Regional Natural Park of Vercors Location Rhone Alps, France Status International Dark Sky Reserve Year of Designation 2023 Area 1600km2
The Regional Natural Park of Vercors, nestled in the Rhone Alps, features high mountain plateaus, limestone cliffs, and lush valleys, reflecting a rich cultural heritage. Its southern three-quarters form the Vercors International Dark Sky Reserve, spanning 1600 square kilometers and encompassing 39 communities, a Natura 2000 site, and a core zone of about 245 square kilometers—the High Plateaux Natural Reserve, France's largest metropolitan reserve.
Recently designated as a Dark Sky place, the park will collaborate with local authorities and communities to support lighting renovations and develop nighttime tourism initiatives. These efforts will include dark-sky training for local professionals and educational campaigns targeting residents, children, and park visitors.
Run by a friendly English-speaking family, this small, rural site is off the beaten track in the beautiful Vercors mountains. At an altitude of 1200 m, nights here can be quite chilly. The site is open for both the summer and ski seasons and is ideal for lovers of nature. There are 85 sunny, slightly sloping, stony/grassy pitches with 77 for touring. Most have electricity (6/10A) and are set out on terraces with a special area for tents. All have wonderful views over the surrounding mountains and wooded hills. On site access is not easy for those with walking difficulties.
Camping Gouffre de la Croix. If you are a nature lover, do you dream of a friendly holiday in an authentic and unspoiled setting? If you do this site by the river, facing the Presles massif at just 240 meters above sea level, it is close to many hiking trails and sites for climbing or white-water sports. There are 46 terraced touring pitches with electric hook-up point 6amp, some by the river close to the services offered by the site or others in the higher area from which the view is breath-taking. There are also 4 mobile homes available to hire. You could also experience Glamping in one of the lodge tents, as close as possible to the nature.
Whilst not registered Dark Sky Places, the Sierra Morena region offers exceptional dark sky conditions, providing stargazers with pristine views of the cosmos away from light pollution. Additionally, spots like the Cabañeros National Park provide designated areas for stargazing enthusiasts to observe the night sky in all its splendour.
Albanyà International Dark Sky Park
Albanyà IDS Park
Albanyà Location Girona, Spain Status International Dark Sky Park Year of Designation 2017 Area 94km2
Albanyà, nestled in the Alt Empordà region of Catalonia, Spain, boasts dark night skies owing to its rural setting and proximity to the French border. Recognising the potential of astrotourism, locals have initiated efforts to revitalise the region's economy. Bassegoda Park serves as a focal point for stargazing activities, offering formal nighttime interpretive programs and hosting the largest telescope in the province of Girona.
Accredited by the Starlight Foundation in 2015, Bassegoda's conservation endeavours have positioned it for International Dark Sky Association certification, drawing hundreds of visitors each summer to witness the wonders of the night sky.
Hidden away in the foothills of the Pyrenees, Camping Maçanet de Cabrenys is tranquil, calm and well ordered. The enthusiastic owner, Sergi, and his family established the site eight years ago in a clearing created in the pine forest by felling 1,000 trees. Twenty-nine touring pitches occupy the lower slopes of the clearing and more are being created on the edge of the woods below. All have 10A electricity, including some of the 29 tent pitches which are among the trees, on terraces. Reception, bar and snack bar are in a wooden chalet above the pool and playing field.
This is a delightful, small family site where everything is kept in pristine condition. Jordi and Nuria, a brother and sister team, work hard to make you welcome and maintain the superb appearance of the site. Flowers and shrubs abound, with 90 pitches on attractively landscaped and carefully constructed terraces or on flat areas overlooking the pool. All but ten are for touring units with 6A electricity available throughout. A tranquil atmosphere pervades the site and it is a delight to enjoy drinks on the pleasant restaurant terrace, or to sample the authentic menu as you enjoy the views over the Alta Garrotxa. There is much to see in the local area between the Pyrenees and the Mediterranean.
