Kerry Dark Sky

The Kerry Dark Sky Reserve is an ideal destination for those looking to immerse themselves in nature without contributing to its degradation. The area is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including native species like red deer and otters, making it an exceptional spot for wildlife enthusiasts. The Reserve’s commitment to preserving its dark skies helps protect nocturnal wildlife, ensuring a natural balance between the land and its creatures.
One of the Reserve's key eco-tourism attractions is stargazing. The clear, unpolluted skies offer unparalleled views of the Milky Way, shooting stars, and celestial events. This dark-sky status allows visitors to engage in astronomy in a way that is not possible in more urbanised areas. Visitors are encouraged to use eco-friendly products, like low-impact lighting and sustainable gear, when participating in these activities.For those seeking a more active experience, the Kerry Dark Sky Reserve offers a range of outdoor activities, from hiking and cycling to kayaking and wildlife watching. These activities are designed to connect visitors with nature while promoting eco-friendly practices.

By visiting the Kerry Dark Sky Reserve, tourists support the preservation of the area’s natural beauty while promoting sustainable travel practices—making it a destination where eco-tourism and stargazing go hand in hand.
Keen astronomers visiting the Kerry Dark Sky Reserve will find some of the clearest, most unpolluted skies in the world, making it an ideal location for stargazing. One of the most striking sights is the Milky Way, which can be seen stretching across the sky in all its glory on clear, dark nights. Its bright, misty band is an unforgettable experience for anyone passionate about astronomy.

The Reserve also offers excellent opportunities for viewing meteor showers, such as the Perseid and Geminid showers, where dozens of meteors can be seen streaking across the sky in a short period of time. Planetary observation is another highlight, with planets like Mars, Venus, Jupiter, and Saturn visible depending on the time of year. These planets stand out due to their distinct brightness and position in the sky, making them easy targets for keen astronomers.
Star clusters, like the Pleiades (Seven Sisters) and the Hyades, are also a stunning feature of the dark skies. These clusters of stars shine brightly and are especially mesmerising when observed through binoculars or a telescope. The Andromeda Galaxy, the nearest spiral galaxy to our own, is also visible, appearing as a faint smudge of light. With the aid of binoculars or a telescope, astronomers can see more detail in this remarkable galaxy.

Nebulae, like the Orion Nebula, where stars are born, can be observed through telescopes as colourful clouds of gas and dust. For those interested in tracking the passage of man-made objects, the International Space Station (ISS) occasionally passes over the Reserve, appearing as a bright, fast-moving object crossing the sky. It's always an exciting sight to witness.
Finally, the Reserve offers clear views of prominent constellations, such as Orion, Ursa Major, and Cassiopeia, each with its own rich mythology and distinctive star patterns. For the best stargazing experience, keen astronomers should bring binoculars or telescopes, check the moon phase (as a new moon is ideal for clear skies), and make use of the Reserve’s stargazing facilities and dark sky guides to enhance their visit.
Sneem Hotel and Apartments is an ideal place for astronomers to stay during their adventures beneath the Kerry Dark Sky Reserve. For more information, please contact us.