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Embark on a Journey Through the Stars!
The Stellar Retreat is an immersive four-day workshop designed for anyone with a passion for the night sky, from complete beginners to seasoned stargazers. Gain hands-on experience with telescopes, astrophotography, and celestial navigation while learning from expert astronomers in a serene, off-grid setting.
Immerse yourself in a breathtaking off-grid experience at Finca Astronomica. Witness the wonders of the universe with expert-led astronomy workshops under pristine, dark skies
Stay in cozy heated yurts and glamping pods surrounded by nature or join us for activities and meals only. Relax by the pool, explore scenic trails, and enjoy delicious meals in a serene rural setting.
Master telescope observation, capture stunning celestial images, and navigate the night sky. No experience needed—just curiosity and a love for the stars!
Unwind each evening by a crackling bonfire, share stories under the stars, and engage in fun activities like archery, darts, and farm animal encounters.
Why join the Stellar Retreat?
Comprehensive Workshops:
Covering theoretical and practical aspects of astronomy, including the history of the cosmos, telescope operation, astrophotography techniques, and astronavigation.
Unique Learning Experience:
Participants will practice using manual and robotic telescopes, identify celestial objects, and capture stunning images of the Universe.
Certification:
Receive a certificate from the Astronomy and Science Centre Foundation upon completion.
Open Event Experience:
Apply your newfound skills during a live stargazing session with other guests.
Location:
The Location: Finca Astronomica
Nestled in rural Cartagena, Finca Astronomica offers pristine, unpolluted skies ideal for stargazing. Surrounded by vegetable fields and mountains, this sustainable, off-grid retreat provides a perfect balance of comfort and connection with nature.
Accommodations:
Choose between cozy wooden glamping pods or spacious yurts, both equipped with heating for a comfortable stay.
Facilities:
On-site bar with delicious meals and drinks, two toilets, and a shared bathroom conveniently located.
On-Site Activities:
Between workshops, enjoy our small pool, archery, airsoft shooting, billiards, darts, nerfs for kids, or interact with our friendly farm animals.
Workshop Highlights:
Theory Sessions:
- History of Astronomy
- Telescope construction and operation
- Understanding celestial motion and the Universe's structure
- Introduction to astronomical software and apps
Practical Training:
- Hands-on telescope use (manual and robotic)
- Identifying objects and constellations
- Astrophotography
- Astronavigation techniques
- Sharing astronomy knowledge during a live event
Food and Dietary Accomodations:
All meals are provided, including options for special dietary requirements. Enjoy nourishing, locally sourced meals in a relaxed, communal setting.
Choose between cozy wooden glamping pods or spacious yurts, both equipped with heating for a comfortable stay.
In your free time, explore the local surroundings:
- Within Walking Distance: Beautiful mountains and expansive vegetable fields.
- Short Drives (Up to 30 Minutes): The historic city of Cartagena, Murcia, picturesque villages, Mediterranean beaches, Mar Menor, and the unique La Manga strip.
Cycling enthusiasts are welcome to bring their bikes for additional adventures
Day 1: Thursday, 1st May 2025
10:00 am - 12:00 pm: Guest arrival and check-in
2:00 pm: Lunch
4:00 pm: Solar Workshops
- Telescope observations of the Sun (optical and astrophotographic)
- Capturing solar images via telescope
- Visualizing solar activity and understanding the Sun’s structure
8:00 pm: Dinner and bonfire
9:30 pm: Nighttime Astronomy Workshops:
- Observing constellations and celestial movement
- Basics of astronavigation (e.g., finding the North Star)
- Telescope use for viewing the Moon, distant galaxies, and more
- Star trails photography
Day 2: Friday, 2nd May 2025
9:00 am: Breakfast
Morning: Free time or optional guided visit to a local traditional farm. Guests may also explore nearby attractions such as Cartagena, Mar Menor, or the city of Murcia.
2:00 pm: Lunch
4:00 pm: Theory Workshops
- History of astronomy, telescope construction, and basics of astrophotography
- Introduction to astronomy software and apps
8:00 pm: Dinner and bonfire
10:00 pm: Telescope Observations:
- Hands-on telescope practice (manual and robotic)
- Deep space observations
- Astrophotography with cameras and phone apps
Day 3: Saturday, 3rd May 2025
3:00 am: Night Quest
Photographing and filming the Milky Way
Coffee provided for early risers
10.00am: Late breakfast
Morning: Free time
2:00 pm: Lunch
7:30 pm - 12:30 am: Astronomy Night Event
Workshop participants can assist in guiding activities or practice privately with telescopes
8:30 pm: Dinner and bonfire
Day 4: Sunday, 4th May 2025
9:00 am: Breakfast
10:30 am: Certificate Ceremony
Completion certificates from the Astronomy and Science Centre Foundation
12:00 pm: Departure
The price for Stellar Retreat (226€ per adult and 164€ per child) includes:
- 4 days in the Finca
- all activities described in the itinerary
- telescopes
- meals and drinks
- attractions of the Finca (like pool, archery etc.)
- parking place. Those who decide to stay in a Campervan, will need to use campervan parking area, not provided by Asronomy Tours (various camper parks are available in the area)
If chosen with night stay, participants stay in yurts and glamping pods. Beddings are provided.
Prices for night stay are for all three nights.
If chosen without night stay, participants are welcome to appreciate all activities and meals, but can't stay in the Finca during the night after evening events.
Participants don't have to participate in all activities and if choose not to, are free to enjoy the Finca or surrounding areas.
- transport
- bicycles, quads, etc.
- campervan parking - there are various camper parks within 5-15 minute drive from the Finca
- alcoholic beverages (available for extra purchase)
- individual astrophotographic cameras. Participants are welcome to bring their own cameras
