wecamp Cadaqués Shines Shining with Starlight Certification
The picturesque campsite wecamp Cadaqués, nestled in the charming Portlligat region overlooking the breathtaking Cap de Creus, has been awarded the prestigious Starlight certification. This international recognition, endorsed by UNESCO and granted by the Starlight Foundation, celebrates places that champion the protection of the night sky, promote astronomical knowledge, and foster sustainable local economic development through astrotourism.
“At wecamp, we are dedicated to creating a tourism experience that harmonizes with the environment and local communities,” said Albert Montesinos, CEO and co-founder of wecamp. “This certification exemplifies our commitment to sustainable tourism and ensuring the well-being of the destinations we operate in.”
The campsite’s location, coupled with the region’s minimal light pollution, provides an ideal setting for stargazing. The Girona Campsite Association,recognizing this unique advantage,has lauded wecamp Cadaqués as a prime spot for celestial observation.The Starlight certification is bestowed upon structures that actively engage in activities promoting astronomical awareness and sustainable tourism practices. wecamp Cadaqués offers a range of family-friendly stargazing sessions and themed activities for children, collaborating with the local Girona-based company Astro Experiències to deliver these enriching experiences.
Beyond stargazing, the campsite provides facts on Starlight certification, astronomical observation equipment, and actively contributes to the dissemination of astronomical knowledge through designated spaces for nighttime observation.
this prestigious recognition marks a significant milestone for wecamp Cadaqués, becoming the second campsite in the Girona region to achieve Starlight certification, following Bassegoda Park in Albanyà. The Girona Campsites Association views this distinction as a crucial step towards diversifying the tourist season within the camping sector.
Time.news: [Starlight Certification] shines on wecamp Cadaqués: A Conversation with [Expert’s Name]
Time.news: We’re excited to speak with you today about wecamp Cadaqués receiving the prestigious Starlight certification. Could you tell us why this is such a significant achievement for the campsite and for the region?
[Expert’s Name]: Absolutely. The Starlight certification is a testament to wecamp Cadaqués’ commitment to responsible tourism and its recognition of the importance of preserving dark skies for future generations. This certification validates the campsite’s efforts to create a tourism experience that harmonizes with the surroundings and local communities,as highlighted by CEO Albert Montesinos.
Time.news: Could you tell us more about the Starlight Foundation and what this certification means for a location like wecamp Cadaqués?
[Expert’s Name]: The Starlight Foundation is an organization dedicated to promoting, preserving, and protecting the night sky. Their Starlight Certification program recognizes destinations that actively work to minimize light pollution, promote astronomical awareness, and develop lasting tourism practices centered around astrotourism.
For a place like wecamp Cadaqués, nestled in the Portlligat region with minimal light pollution and stunning views of the Cap de Creus, this certification is a powerful magnet. It attracts visitors who seek authentic experiences beyond typical tourism, encouraging them to discover and appreciate the beauty of the night sky.
Time.news: wecamp Cadaqués offers various stargazing activities. How do these contribute to fulfilling the Starlight Foundation’s mission?
[Expert’s Name]: These activities are crucial to the Starlight certification’s essence! By offering stargazing sessions, themed activities for children, and providing access to astronomical observation equipment, wecamp Cadaqués goes beyond mere astrotourism. They actively educate visitors about the wonders of the night sky, foster recognition for the cosmos, and inspire a sense of wonder and obligation towards preserving this precious resource.
Time.news: What broader implications might this certification have for the region’s tourism industry?
[Expert’s Name]: The impact could be transformative. The Girona Campsite Association recognizes this certification as a key step towards diversifying the tourist season within the camping sector. Astrotourism offers a unique selling point, attracting visitors year-round and boosting the local economy beyond peak seasons.
This also positions the region as a leader in sustainable tourism, demonstrating a commitment to preserving the natural environment while promoting responsible economic development.
Time.news: What advice would you give to other campsites or businesses looking to pursue Starlight certification?
[Expert’s Name]: The journey towards Starlight certification requires genuine dedication and a long-term vision. It is indeed about integrating dark sky preservation and astronomical awareness into the core of the business model.
Several key steps include:
- Conducting a light pollution audit: identifying areas where light pollution can be minimized.
- adopting sustainable lighting practices: Utilizing shielded fixtures and warm-toned lights that minimize light spillage.
- Developing educational programs and activities: Engaging visitors in learning about the night sky through stargazing sessions, talks, and guided walks.
- Collaborating with local organizations: Partnering with astronomical societies, universities, and other stakeholders to enrich the experience and contribute to the local astronomy community.
Remember, it’s about more than just getting the certification; it’s about creating a lasting legacy of responsible and inspiring tourism.