Discover the breathtaking wonders of The Cévennes national park, UNESCO biosphere reserve in southern France under the mystical dark sky.
Celestial enchantment collides with natural beauty under the night sky of the of this designated International Starry Sky Reserve (RICE)
The Cévennes and RICE:
The Cévennes region, located in southern France, is renowned for its exceptional natural beauty and is designated as an International Starry Sky Reserve..
This prestigious status is awarded to regions with minimal light pollution and exceptional nighttime visibility. The Cévennes, with its pristine environment, offers a unique opportunity to witness the magnificence of the night sky in all its glory.
From June 23rd to August 22nd, an exclusive event series, "Summer Under the Stars," will captivate your senses with a range of nocturnal experiences.
A carefully curated summer program offers a wide range of exciting activities that connect the exploration of the International Starry Sky Reserve, the discovery of local heritage and the opportunity to experience moments of relaxation with family or friends.
Summer Under The Stars Program Highlights:
Storytelling Evening:
A storytelling evening in the Musée du Desert Gardens, by Laetitia Bosche.
From the bottom of the chestnut groves to the murmurs of the animals, the stories resonate loudly in the Cevennes valleys... Traveling over the mountains, galloping through the streams to the plain, they made their way to our ears. We meet loggers, old princesses, twisted fig trees and large carts of courage in these stories with rural roots and universal echo.
Wine Tasting at Dusk:
The Mas Dervenn welcomes you for a wine tasting evening in the light of dusk in their vineyards, in the middle of the Garrigue scrubland. The discovery of their different cuvées will be accompanied by a board of local products.
Simon & Michaela Le Berre, owners of the Mas Dervenn, operate wine plots in organic and biodynamic agriculture. They work mainly in animal traction. Some of their cuvées benefit from the "IGP Cévennes" label. Their plots are located in the middle of the scrub, in a place free of light pollution and conducive to the observation of the Cevennes celestial canopy. An opportunity to discover the Cévennes International Starry Sky Reserve (RICE) in another aspect!
A similar event is hosted by Mas de Justes and La Maison S. Delafont.
Celestial Hike:
Lace up your hiking boots and embark on a celestial adventure through the picturesque trails of The Cévennes.
Discover a unique experience at the “Refuge of the stars” in Saint Sébastien d'Aigrefeuille!. Accompanied by the members of L'Etoile Cévenole, the Alès astronomy school, walk hiking trails at nightfall to appreciate the fauna and its nocturnal environment.
The departure is from the town hall of Saint Sébastien d'Aigrefeuille and the arrival is at the Refuge aux étoiles, where you can admire the vault with amateurs and astronomy enthusiasts. An opportunity to discover the starry sky reserve of the Cévennes
The Sky of The Camisards:
Immerse yourself in the historical significance of the region as you learn about The Camisards, a Protestant resistance movement. Discover their struggle for religious freedom while stargazing in a serene setting that echoes their story.
The Night of The Stars:
Witness the peak of the Perseid meteor shower, a celestial spectacle that promises to mesmerise. Join fellow enthusiasts in an evening dedicated to stargazing, where you can make wishes upon shooting stars and revel in the wonders of the universe.
The Summer Sky at the Château de Portes:
Uncover the secrets of the night sky with the guidance of seasoned astronomers. Through telescopes and expert explanations, gain a deeper understanding of constellations, planets, and celestial phenomena while surrounded by the historic charm of Château de Portes. The Château de Portes, also called "Seau des Cévennes" is an impressive castle of medieval origin that offers an incredible view of the mountains and surrounding landscapes.
Astrophotography Evening:
Capture the ethereal beauty of the night sky with the guidance of professional astrophotographers. Learn the art of photographing stars, nebulae, and the Milky Way, creating stunning images that will forever preserve your memories of this celestial journey.
Accommodation at the foothills of The Cévennes National Park, UNESCO Biosphere Reserve:
Historic Stone Sanctuary 15km from the fashionable market town of Uzès in the Languedoc region of Southern France.
Recently renovated self-contained apartment on the ground floor of a traditional 17th c. Provençal village house.
• PERFECT FOR COUPLES
• A RETREAT FOR CREATIVE SOLOS
• STYLISH BOLT-HOLE
• FOODIE DESTINATION
• SUITABLE FOR ALL AGES
Instant booking via AirBnB
STAYS COOL NATURALLY!
This ancient building stays nice and cool in the summer months due to the very thick stone walls.
