Iceland

The island in the beautiful North attracts nature lovers and adventurers. One reason for that are the colorful auroras, magically floating across the sky. The beautiful island is one of the top destinations to watch the gorgeous natural spectacle. The best time to do so is between September and April. Rule of thumb: the darker it is, the better you can see the bright colors. It is always a good idea to check the aurora forecast first. If the conditions are favorable, the auroras can be witnessed from any location in Iceland. Secluded places however, away from light pollution, are recommended. The search for a view of the aurora borealis is particularly romantic on a guided boat tour. Part of the breathtaking landscape of Iceland, the magical lights are reflected on the surface of the water. Those who are in luck might see a whale or two as well. 

Hotel Tip:

ION Luxury Adventure Island
Nesjavellir vid Thingvallavatn, 801 Selfoss, Iceland
E-mail: reservations@ioniceland.is
Web: ionadventure.ioniceland.is

© Ragnar Th. Sigurdsson / ARCTIC IMAGES

Less than an hour's drive from Reykjavík and set against the backdrop of majestic lava fields, ION Adventure Hotel is a memorable, temporary home away from home. The hotel's location on the Golden Circle route makes it the perfect home base for exploring Iceland's rich heritage as well as natural treasures. The cozy yet stylish rooms, excellent service, and a unique ambience - a stay is highly recommended. At the restaurant Silfra and the award-winning Northern Lights Bar, guests are invited to indulge. Both venues are committed to the philosophy of creating their menus with fresh, local ingredients in mind. A soothing Lava SPA is available as well.

Alaska

The state located all the way up North is one of the best places to see auroras. Anchorage, Alaska's largest city, serves as basis for Northern Lights tours. The "Eagle River Nature Center" just outside the city is considered the perfect spot for this. Just as in Iceland, the best time to witness the colorful magic is the Winter time including March. However, since you can never fully predict nature, there is no guarantee for an aurora borealis sighting. A tip for travelers: The railroads of the state offer exciting travel models for an aurora sighting. The "Polar Express" turnes into an exciting adventure and offers a variety of activities apart from the chase for the Northern Lights such as dog sledding, hiking, and cross-country skiing.

Hotel Tip:

Alyeska Resort
1000 Arlberg Ave. Girdwood, AK 99587, Alaska/USA
Tel: 1-800-880-3880
E-mail: info@alyeskaresort.com
Web: alyeskaresort.com

© 2023 Alyeska Resort

Hotel Alyeska is a romantic resort in the forests of Girdwood. With over 300 rooms, excellent restaurants, an extensive Nordic wellness arial, and nearby ski area and bike park, it is a very attractive destination. Whether Summer or Winter, Alyeska is considered the ideal base camp for endless adventures as well as relaxation in Alaska. The luxurious accommodations have a modern touch and reflect the history and diversity of the state. The design concept of Alyeska Resort is based on the integration of indigenous element.

Canada

The spectacular wilderness of Alaska is an ideal destination for a Northern Lights sighting. However, neighboring Canada is, too! Its proximity to the North Pole makes it a great location to witness the Northern Lights. The Northwest Territories are considered the best spot for an aurora sighting. For about 240 days per year, the mystical lights are visible here. Beyond the borders of the Northwest Territories, the two national parks Jasper-National Park and Wood-Buffalo-National Park are recommended as destinations, particularly because no light pollution will get in the way of enjoying the aurora borealis in these secluded areas.

Hotel Tip:

Aurora Village
4709 Franklin Ave, Yellowknife, NWT, Canada
Tel: +1 (867) 669 0006
E-mail: booking@auroravillage.com
Web: auroravillage.com

 

 

 

 

 

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Located by the Ingraham Trail near Yellowknife in Canada's Northwest Territories, Aurora Village is a place where visitors can experience the magical North. The fairytale-like tipi village is considered a great location for enjoying the tranquility of the surroundings, and catch a view of the aurora borealis. In addition, the tipi village offers a variety of daytime activities. The 21 cozy tents with their own stove and a menu of hot drinks offer coziness and serenity to its guests. True Canadian delicacies at a three-course Aurora dinner are a real treat, too. 

Sweden

The twinkling Northern Lights are visible in Sweden from early September to late March. Swedish Lapland is the perfect destination for a trip to see the aurora borealis. Those who want to combine this wonder of nature with a little adrenaline will find fun things to do, from dog sled excursions to snowmobile tours. Abisko National Park is highly recommended among aurora hunters. While light pollution might be an issue in Lapland from time to time, in the area around Lake Torneträsk the skies are usually clear. The national park, which lies about 160 kilometers north of the Arctic Circle, offers a chairlift that leads to the Aurora Sky Station. At There is a restaurant on top that offers a breathtaking view of the landscape.

Hotel Tip:

Arctic Bath
Ramdalsvägen 10, 961 78 Harads, Sweden
Tel.: +46 928 70 30 40
E-mail: booking@arcticbath.se
Web: arcticbath.se

© The Arctic Bath

The design hotel Arctic Bath is based in a unique solitary location directly on the river Luleå in Swedish Lapland. The individually and minimalistically designed cabins are located either on land or directly on the water. The Arial has a restaurant as well as a bar. A soothing spa and wellness center are available as well. Between 09:00 and 22:00, guests have unlimited access to a unique sauna world, two outdoor Jacuzzis, and an open-air cold pool. Guests can book revitalizing treatments. 

Norway

While Sweden offers great destinations for a Northern Lights adventure, Norway does, too! The many islands, deep fjords, and steep mountains are an incredible backdrop. Particularly popular for such a trip is the North of Norway, particlularly the Lofoten archipelago or Spitsbergen. The city Tromsø as well! The vibrant city in the north has the right infrastructure for a successful aurora expedition. The city is located in the auroral oval and in Norway's northern lights belt, which stretches along the coast of the Lofoten Islands to the North Cape. Tromsø has its own airport, too. Hence, nothing can get in the way of a trip to witness the aurora borealis!

Hotel Tip:

Hattvika Lodge
Hattvikveien, 8373 Ballstad, Norway
Tel.: +47 930 28 887
E-mail: post@hattvikalodge.no
Web: hattvikalodge.no

© Visuals of Julius Michelle

Nestled into the spectacular surroundings of Lofoten, Hattvika Lodge is located in the small fishing village of Ballstad and is basically the entrance to the Vestfjord. Cabins -recently renovated - offer the best comfort in a modern Norwegian ambience. The hillside accommodations of the house are particularly spectacular. An accommodation in perfect harmony with mountain and sea. Relaxing in the hotel's wellness area after outdoor adventures is a lovely way to end the day. Local delicacies at the hotel's restaurant are a real treat, too.