Astroturismo: una propuesta sostenible para el Valle de Fornela (El Bierzo, León)

Abstract

The new forms of tourism that have emerged in recent decades reflect a shift towards greater concern for the environment and sustainability. This article proposes an astrotourism (or ‘star tourism’) project for the Fornela Valley in the Bierzo region of León, a spectacular location situated far from any large urban centres and ideally suited to observation of the night sky owing to absence of light pollution. The project also includes a series of astronomical tourism activities based around existing accommodation in the area. All aspects of the project take into account the preferences of the local population, as assessed through a system of questionnaires and interviews. The ultimate aim of the project is to have the Fornela Valley officially recognised as a Starlight Tourism Destination.