La Magdalena in 1 Day for Couples - Open-air buffet dinner at sunset
In Collaboration with Astronomy Tours. Updated on February 3, 2026.
An adults-only, intimate 5‑hour evening at Finca Astronómica (La Magdalena, Cartagena). Enjoy arrival and free time on the rural finca, open-air buffet dinner, an astronomy talk, bonfire with marshmallows, laser-guided constellation tour and guided telescope observations. Optional glamping or yurt overnight and breakfast are available for guests who wish to extend the evening.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Astronomy Tours, inspired by the tour Adult Only Astronomy Night - Stargazing Experience in Finca Astronomica. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Open-air buffet dinner at sunset
- Laser-guided constellation tour and live astrophotography
- Bonfire with marshmallows and optional glamping pods/yurts
Itinerary
Day 1
Main evening program (5 hours) starting at the May seasonal start time (19:45): arrival, dinner, talk, bonfire, guided observations and Q&A. Optional overnight guests may check into pods/yurts after the program and enjoy breakfast next morning.
1. Arrival & Free Time at Finca Astronómica — Relax and explore
Meet at the finca entrance and settle in. Stroll the gardens, meet friendly farm animals, or find a quiet spot to watch the sunset colours as the site darkens — a gentle beginning to the evening.
Tips from local experts:
- For a romantic sunset moment, walk toward the small garden terraces (near the welcome area) and bring a light blanket — the colours at dusk are perfect for a quiet photo together.
- If you want a quieter corner, ask staff about a tucked-away bench by the animals — it’s intimate and usually less busy.
- Path notes: low-light paths are unlit by design for astronomy — wear closed shoes and bring a small red headlamp (red light preserves night vision).
2. Dinner — Open-air buffet under the sky
Seasonal, locally inspired buffet served outdoors — relax with wine/soft drinks and share the first stories of the night before the astronomy program begins. Special dietary needs can be accommodated with prior notice.
Tips from local experts:
- Request a quiet table away from the service flow when you arrive if you want a more intimate dining spot.
- Try local seasonal items first — the finca focuses on regional flavours that pair well with a glass of wine (additional premium alcohol may be charged).
- Dinner seating is outdoors — bring a light wrap or jacket (May evenings can be breezy) so you stay comfortable during the meal and the early presentation.
3. Astronomy Talk — An engaging pre-observation briefing
A short, engaging presentation by the astronomer introducing that night’s sky: highlights to watch for, how the telescopes will be used, and safety/observing etiquette.
Tips from local experts:
- Sit near the front if you want to ask more detailed questions and get closer views of the demo equipment.
- If you’re celebrating a special occasion, quietly let staff know before the talk — they can sometimes offer a small celebratory touch later at the bonfire.
- Listen for the astronomer’s suggested photo tips (angle, settings) — they’ll point out good targets for couple portraits under the stars.
4. Bonfire & Marshmallows — Cozy interlude
Gather at the bonfire to toast marshmallows, enjoy a drink, and warm up before telescope observations — an atmospheric pause perfect for couples.
Tips from local experts:
- Claim a spot on the bench nearest the fire for the warmest, coziest view — staff rotate fuel, so it stays comfortably warm.
- For a romantic touch, bring a lightweight picnic blanket to sit together; keep it compact so staff can easily guide you to permitted areas.
- Remember: no white flashlight near observing areas — use a red light if you need to move around during this period.
5. Guided Astronomical Observations — Telescopes & live astrophotography
The evening highlight: laser-guided constellation tour, optical and robotic telescope sessions, and live astrophotography streamed to a screen so you both can enjoy detailed close-ups of planets and deep-sky objects.
Tips from local experts:
- Stand together at the first telescope to share the first view — staff typically rotate couples so you’ll have a private moment at a scope early in the run.
- Use portrait mode on your phone (no flash) during the live-imaging segment — capture candid starry-sky shots while preserving the experience.
- If one of you is prone to cold, bring an extra warm layer — observations can feel colder than the bonfire area due to longer stillness and wind exposure.
6. Q&A, Final Bonfire & Nightcap — Wind-down with astronomers
After formal observations finish, the astronomers stay for extra questions while the bonfire remains available — a relaxed time to reflect, swap stories, and enjoy a nightcap.
Tips from local experts:
- This is the best moment to ask for tailored target recommendations for future visits — astronomers are relaxed and more available.
- Order a hot drink or extra soft beverage (bar open briefly after the program) to sip together by the fire before heading to your pod or vehicle.
- Gate/closing note: the finca closes for general visitors roughly one hour after finish time; if staying overnight, staff will direct you to your pod/yurt and the night gate procedure.
7. Optional — Night Stay: Glamping Pod / Yurt Check-in (if booked)
Guests who booked the glamping pod or yurt may check into their unit after the program; pods are simple, cozy and off-grid — bedding provided, limited electricity, no showers on site.
Tips from local experts:
- Pods and yurts are rustic and cozy — bring small personal items (toothbrush, light towel) as there are no hotel-standard amenities.
- Limited night electricity: charge essential devices before arrival; staff provide basic lighting and access to hot water but not full hotel facilities.
- Gate opens at 08:00 for morning guests; check-out is at 10:00 — plan any morning transport accordingly (taxis should be booked in advance).
8. Optional — Breakfast for Overnight Guests
For those staying overnight: tea/coffee available from 08:00 and breakfast served from 09:00 — a calm morning to enjoy rural sunrise colours before checkout.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask for a sunrise spot recommendation on arrival — a short walk on the eastern side of the finca gives lovely morning colours for a quiet couple moment.
- Breakfast is simple and local — request any dietary needs the evening before to ensure selections are available.
- If you plan a morning photo together, bring a lightweight wrap or shawl — mornings can be cool even after warm days in May.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 3 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Couples |
| Transfers | - |
| Restaurants | 2 |
| Total Activities | 8 |
| Total Places | 8 |
| Activities Types | Outdoor, Meal, Experience, Break, Hotel |