Why You Should Experience Denmark's Distinct Starry Dark Sky
Møns Klint in South Zealand is one of the top attractions in Denmark and widely known among tourists. The white chalk cliffs stretch 120 metres above sea to create awe-inspiring scenery that leaves visitors astonished. What most people don’t know, though, is that the breathtaking landscape is equally beautiful at night and one of the few designated ‘Dark Sky Parks’ in Europe.
What is a Dark Sky Park?
Those who are lucky enough to have spent a night at Møns Klint have noticed that the sky is so clear that thousands of stars are visible. In fact, the islands of Møn and Nyord are, according to the International Dark-Sky Association, one of the best stargazing locations all over the world. After the inhabitants’ and several organizations’ efforts to preserve the dark night skies in the area by reducing light wastage and implementing a quality outdoor lighting ordinance, in 2017 Møn and Nyord were designated as Scandinavia’s first International Dark Sky Park and International Dark Sky Community. There are 44 locations around the world, nine of which are in Europe, that have exceptionally natural darkness and unpolluted clear night skies, which are the criteria an area must meet in order to be recognized by IDA as a ‘Dark Sky Park’.
The executive director of IDA, J. Scott Feierabend, stated that the islands of Møn and Nyord ‘have achieved something truly unique in the history of the IDA International Dark Sky Places Program and that their nomination reflects a globally unprecedented protection of the natural night habitat’.
Why Møns Klint is worth a visit by day as well
If you’re visiting Møns Klint you don’t have to wait for nightfall in order to be enchanted by the scenery. The imposing cliffs will leave you breathless even under the daylight while the hundreds of fossils that have lain on the beach at the foot of the cliffs for more than 70 million years prove the historical significance of the area. Visit Geo Møns Klint and learn through numerous exhibitions and interactive installations how Denmark was born millions of years ago. Explore every corner of Klinteskoven Forest on the top of the cliffs by foot or bike and dive into the Baltic Sea with your snorkeling mask on and discover the fascinating seabed.
Møns Klint Resort is the ultimate place to stay while you’re visiting Møn’s cliffs and Nyord Island, and it offers many different types of accommodation. Whether you want to set your own tent among the woods or you prefer to rent a cabin or a fully equipped house, the great surroundings and the truly spectacular night sky will make your holidays unforgettable.
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