Stargazing by the North Sea
Here you’ll find information about the best spots for stargazing along our area of Denmark's west coast.
The North Sea is renowned for its impressive coastlines, dramatic landscapes and tranquil atmosphere – but did you know that Denmark’s west coast also offers a unique nature experience under the stars?
Stand atop Sidselbjerg, where the stars stretch endlessly above you, or head to Skallingen, where the darkness meets the sea’s waves and the sky is filled with stars. Here by the North Sea, you’ll enjoy an uninterrupted night sky – just you and the universe.
Visit the west coast to experience the true, unspoilt night sky – a perfect way to connect with nature, whether you’re an experienced stargazer or simply want to discover the North Sea in a whole new light.
As you stand beneath the starlit sky, you’ll see the lights of stars, distant planets, and perhaps even a comet or two.
©VisitVesterhavetPhoto:Sarah Green
Come prepared
It’s a good idea to come prepared when heading out to stargaze in the dark. Bring a good torch (preferably with a red filter, so you don’t ruin your night vision), and keep in mind that evenings can get chilly. So pack a blanket or a warm jacket so you can stay out longer and enjoy the starlit night sky.
Check the weatherThe sky should be clear, so head out on an evening or night when it’s not cloudy, and ideally when the moon isn’t visible. Bring binocularsTake binoculars and/or a telescope with you to get a clearer view of objects in the sky. The more light-sensitive it is, the better. Dress warmlyStargazing is a stationary activity, so wear or bring warm clothing, something to sit on, and perhaps a coffee or hot chocolate. Give your eyes timeYour eyes aren’t used to the dark – it takes about 15–20 minutes to fully adapt to night vision. Avoid switching on a bright torch – use one with red light instead. Keep some know-how handyYour guide to finding stars and planets Stellarium |
Great Places for Stargazing
Discover the best spots to watch the stars along our are of the North Sea coast.
Shelters by Røjklit Havn
Experience nature up close at the shelter site at Røjklit Harbor. Spend the night in one of the tipi-like shelters and wake up to the chirping of birds and the whistling of the wind.
Bird tower in Skjern Enge
The bird tower at Skjern Enge on Skjernåvej is a popular vantage point for nature lovers and birdwatchers.
What you can see in the sky during different times of the year
Meteor Showers
Several times a year, you can witness periods when the sky is filled with more shooting stars than usual. These events are known as meteor showers and occur when Earth moves through the remnants of a comet or asteroid on its orbit around the Sun. These orbits contain small particles and dust left behind, which burn up in Earth’s atmosphere and create the visible streaks of light.
Because Earth completes its orbit in one year, we pass through the same areas of space around the same time each year – meaning meteor showers return at regular intervals.
| Time of Year | Name | Meteors per hour (at peak) | Characteristics | Radiant |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Early January | Quadrantids | Up to 120 | Short peak (~6 hours) | Near the Big Dipper |
| Mid/late April | Lyrids | Medium (active for several nights) | Fireballs possible | Lyra |
| Mid July–mid August | Capricornids | Few (but often fireballs) | Long-lasting, low frequency | Capricornus |
| Mid August | Perseids | Up to 100 | One of the strongest of the year | Perseus |
| Early October | Draconids | Up to 10 | Short-lived, minor shower | Draco |
| Late October | Orionids | Up to 20 | Variable activity, linked to Halley’s comet | Orion |
| Mid November | Taurids | Approx. 5 | Slow meteors, fireballs | Taurus |
| Mid November | Leonids | Up to 15 | Best after midnight | Leo |
| Mid December | Geminids | Up to 120 | Most active shower of the year | Gemini |
| Late December | Ursids | Up to 10 | Small but consistent shower | Ursa Minor |
www.planetarium.dk
Photo:Kilian Rüthel