Mandø becomes the first Dark Sky Park in Denmark

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Danish tidal island named the first Dark Sky Park

The small Danish tidal island of Mandø, nestled in the Wadden Sea UNESCO World Heritage Site, receives a remarkable honour: it becomes the first part of the Wadden Sea to officially bear the title of a Dark Sky Park.

Dark Sky Parks are regions with exceptionally dark night skies where the natural darkness is protected from light pollution. Mandø, with an area of only about 8 square kilometres and a population of 26 inhabitants, is increasingly focusing on sustainable activities for stargazers, especially during the low season when the Milky Way and stars are at their brightest. The opening of a Welcome Centre with numerous telescopes is planned for next autumn to offer visitors an unparalleled stargazing experience.

Mandø's unique ecosystems and special accessibility

As part of the Danish Wadden Sea and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mandø is of particular ecological importance. The island, which also has the status of a wildlife and nature reserve, is home to diverse wildlife that must be protected from light pollution. During the breeding and migratory season, Mandø is a paradise for birdwatchers, in summer the sandbank "Koresand" attracts seal watching, in autumn visitors can experience the fascinating phenomenon of the "Black Sun" - an impressive dance of thousands of starlings in the sky. Even in winter, the island attracts visitors with oyster safaris.

Mandø, the only inhabited Danish island that can only be reached at low tide, is not only characterised by its natural beauty, but also by its unique accessibility. The public path, Låningsvejen, is flooded by the tide twice a day, but in the summer months visitors can cross the mudflats by tractor bus. For those who prefer to travel in their own car, it is important to note the tide times in order to drive along Låningsvejen. Information about the tides can be obtained by calling the supermarket or restaurant on the island.

Mandø's designation as a Dark Sky Park is not only a milestone for nature conservation, but also offers the opportunity to experience the unique beauty of the night sky in its purest form..

More on Mandø and the Dark Sky Park.

Header: © Lars Roed / Visit Denmark