High-altitude observatory draws tourists

Perched at 3,000 metres on a remote mountain, an astronomical dome allows visitors to observe stars, galaxies, planets, and nebulae through a telescope under one of Europe’s clearest skies.

The observatory, one of the continent’s highest, requires a climb of nearly 1,000 metres and several hours of walking. The site was chosen for its isolation, minimal light pollution, gentle slopes for access, and stable atmospheric conditions, or low turbulence.

Access is by car for about four months a year; during the rest of the year, visitors reach the dome on foot, skis, or snowshoes. The observatory provides an opportunity for tourists to explore deep-sky objects and celestial structures usually invisible to the naked eye, combining high-altitude adventure with educational astronomy experiences.