Stargazing is something that has always been a part of the human experience.
For countless years, our forefathers were able to see the night sky unobstructed by light pollution.
They gained an understanding of their positions in the universe as they gazed at the Milky Way and the other nighttime sky wonders.
It tends to deflate our egos and humble us about our place in the grand scheme of things when we stare at the night sky in all its clarity.
In Australia, you might be able to view Jupiter, Mars, Saturn, or Venus if you look up at the night sky at the proper time of year. It’s also possible to see the Southern Cross and a few other close or extremely bright stars like Sirius, Antares, or Alpha Centauri.
Because, let’s face it, that’s what they are, Australia is full with dark locations where you can feel actual astonishment at the number of glittering gas balls in the sky. the Milky Way’s natural splendor, planetary clouds, colorful star clusters, and the galaxies that are close by.
Check out our list of the best places to stars in Victoria!
The Best Stargazing Places In Victoria
Below we’ve listed our 3 best places to look at the stars in VIC.
Mount Arapiles – The Grampians
In addition to being a well-known spot for rock climbing, Mount Arapiles in Victoria’s Grampians is a genuinely exceptional position for observing the splendor of the southern Milky Way. You may practically drive up to the overlook, where you can see the stars clearly in all directions.
Go to Lake Tyrrell if you want to travel further. To get to this now-famous spot, drive 350 kilometers northwest of Melbourne on the Calder Highway. Although there is some light pollution due to the area’s proximity to Sea Lake, it is still a fantastic viewing position. Native Boorong people who once inhabited this area told several tales about the stars, which were exquisitely reflected in the quiet waters.
ASV Leon Mow Dark Sky Site – Ladys Pass
The ASV (Astronomical Society of Victoria) is home to the two biggest telescopes in Victoria. She’s almost in the middle of nowhere and needs specific directions to get there, yet the stars here are brighter than pretty about everywhere else in Australia. This one is accessible twice a year, in March and December (there is also on-site lodging if you want to stay for more than a few hours).
Lake Tyrell – Sea Lake
The breathtakingly gorgeous Lake Tyrrell, whose name comes from the Indigenous word “Tyrille” for sky, is located northwest of Melbourne. You may spend days observing the Southern Cross, the Milky Way, and the lunar-like landscape from this spot.
Sometimes it’s impossible to leave the city or you simply lack the time to travel to another planet. I periodically get together with astronomer friends at the Ricketts Point Marine Sanctuary on Beach Road in southeast Melbourne. Continue south past the final lamppost rather than staying in the well-lit parking lot.
You can enjoy a beautiful view of the southern sky and a place that is rather dark for a suburban area there.
The next best thing is a Galaxy Star Projector for your house if you have a strong urge to look at the stars but are unable to travel to one of our recommended stargazing locations in NSW listed above. Though not quite the same, they do allow you to unwind in a wonderful setting full with stars.
