The Porto and North region joins the Portuguese territories whose skies have already been certified for stargazing.

In the north-east, the banks of the River Tua are framed by slopes and mountains that have had little impact from human intervention. From its viewpoints it is possible to enjoy breathtaking landscapes, but the secret that the hidden corners of the Tua Valley Natural Park hold, apart from the beauty of nature’s green when you look straight on, is the beauty of the stars and skies when you look up.

After Alqueva and Aldeias do Xisto, Dark Sky® Vale do Tua was the third Portuguese destination and the first protected area in the country to receive the "Starlight Tourist Destination" certification from the Starlight Foundation. The certification was given to the five municipalities included in the Park: Alijó, Carrazeda de Ansiães, Mirandela, Murça and Vila Flor.

The region offers wide range of nature activities for its visitors. There are several circuits and walking routes prepared for all types of hikers, particularly the one that follows part of the old Tua railway line. Its rich fauna makes this destination an excellent place for birdwatching and animal observation.

Castro de Palheiros ©Miguel Claro - Dark Sky® Vale do Tua

In the Tua Valley Natural Park, gazing at the stars is a different way of appreciating a territory rich in archaeological remains and megalithic monuments. The aim is to bridge the gap between the theme of Dark Sky® Vale do Tua and archaeoastronomy. Historically, megalithic monuments were built with the intention of making use of the position of the sky and the stars. Although we do not know the specific symbolism of the monuments in this Park, you can visit the Fonte Coberta Dolmen, the Vilarinho Dolmen, the Zedes Dolmen, the Old Freixiel Gallows and the Alto das Madorras Megalithic Necropolis in the Tua Valley.

To better admire the stars on a clear night, the Park has identified five exceptional sites, one for each municipality in the Tua Valley. In Alijó, head to the Ujo viewpoint and enjoy the view of the River Tua. In Carrazeda de Ansiães, the chosen location was Ansiães Castle. If you prefer to see the stars by the water, the best place in Mirandela is the Frechas River Beach. In Murça, you can go to Castro de Palheiros to observe the sky from a structure with traces of previous occupations. The suggested place in Vila Flor is near the Freixiel Gallows.