The Dark Sky Alqueva Reserve (source in Portuguese), a Portuguese reference in astrotourism, was honoured at the 5th edition of the Tourism Leaders Awards 2026, winning in the Tourism Experience category. This recognition highlights the region for its creation of innovative tourism products.
Located in the Alentejo, Dark Sky Alqueva plays a leading international role in the observation of stars, planets, meteors and even the northern lights. The growth of astrotourism, combined with low levels of light pollution, high atmospheric quality and a continued commitment to preserving the night sky, were decisive factors in securing this award.
The Tourism Experience category of the Tourism Leaders Awards 2026 distinguishes projects considered relevant for their innovation, sustainability and impact on the tourist experience. In this way, it once again recognises the potential of Portugal’s interior in developing innovative tourism projects capable of attracting visitors from all over the world.
The conditions at the Dark Sky Alqueva Reserve have led to dozens of awards in recent years. In 2025, it was distinguished at the World Travel Awards, an international prize that recognises excellence in the tourism and travel sector.
