Wine and stargazing evening comes to Noudar Castle

One of Portugal’s darkest skies will provide the backdrop for an evening of wine, gastronomy and astronomy when Sob as Estrelas de Noudar (Under the Stars of Noudar) takes place at Noudar Castle on July 18.

Running from 6pm until 1am, the event combines local food and wine with guided stargazing in the heart of the Alentejo, where exceptionally low levels of light pollution offer ideal conditions for observing the night sky.

Hosted at the medieval castle in the municipality of Barrancos, within the Noudar Nature Park, the programme has been designed to showcase the region’s natural, cultural and gastronomic heritage.

Guests will be able to enjoy a guided tasting of wines from the Baixo Alentejo, sample regional flavours and attend talks focusing on the Sun and the wonders of the night sky.

As dusk falls, the experience shifts from gastronomy to astronomy. Visitors will take part in a sunset activity before joining the Dark Sky Alqueva team for a guided observation session featuring the Moon, Venus and the stars.

The area around Noudar is recognised for its exceptionally dark skies, free from the levels of artificial light found in urban areas. These conditions make it possible to observe thousands of stars with the naked eye, identify constellations and enjoy clear views of planets.

Set against the dramatic backdrop of Noudar Castle, surrounded by the unspoilt landscapes of the Alentejo, organisers say the event offers a rare opportunity to experience the region after dark while discovering both its culinary traditions and its natural heritage.

Tickets, priced at €30, can be purchased online. The event is expected to appeal to both astronomy enthusiasts and visitors looking for a different way to experience the Alentejo during the summer.

Source: NiT

Inês Lopes

Newspaper editor at The Portugal Resident