Witnessing the aurora borealis pulse across the dark skies of the Arctic region is a bucket list phenomenon. As sightings can never be guaranteed – even when conditions are perfect – combining your search for the northern lights with other must-do experiences is the best way to make the most out of your winter escape.
Read on for a selection of our favourite ways and holidays to see the northern lights…
Wildlife and Aurora
Whale Watching
What better way to spend your days in enchanting Iceland or Norway, than by getting up-close to orca, humpback, fin and sperm whales with expert guides! The perfect choice for cetacean fans, immerse yourself in the fascinating world of whales, followed by an evening searching for the spectacular phenomena that is the aurora borealis.
Holiday at a glance
- ICELAND Orcas and Aurora – Mar | 4 nights
Specialist night-sky viewing
Aurora Sky Station, Abisko National Park
Brave the thrilling chairlift right to the Aurora Sky Station and we’re sure it will be the highlight of your journey through Swedish Lapland! Once you’re at the top, stop and spend a moment to take in the sheer beauty of your surroundings on the large outside deck, or head inside to sit by the log fire. You can even book a 4-course dinner at the summit for the ultimate experience of Swedish cuisine and decadent views.
Holidays at a glance
- SWEDEN Northern Lights, Abisko and Icehotel – Dec-Mar | 3 nights
- SWEDEN & NORWAY Tromso, Abisko and the Icehotel – Dec-Mar | 7 nights
Enchanting experiences both inside and out
Unique properties in Swedish Lapland
The world-famous Icehotel – the original hotel – made of ice is on many a discerning traveller’s bucket list. Constructed entirely of ice each year, and located in the heart of Swedish Lapland – staying here is truly an incredible experience. A stay at the Icehotel gives you the chance to see the northern lights, whilst enjoying the hotel’s fantastic facilities such as a spectacular Icebar, a fine restaurant and a host of winter activities.
A truly magical place to spot the northern lights, Sweden’s Treehotel features a collection of unique ‘rooms’ set within the verdant forest – giving you the feeling that you’re staying in a ‘grown-up treehouse’ with incredibly chic interiors. Unique room types include Mirror Cube (pictured), UFO, The Blue Cone and The Dragonfly.
Holidays at a glance
- SWEDEN Icehotel Break – Dec-Apr | 3-4 nights
- SWEDEN Brandon Lodge and Treehotel – Jan-Apr | 4 nights
Icelandic Style
A perfect choice for spotting the aurora, Hotel Ranga is a one of Iceland’s finest hotels offering ranch-style luxury in the heart of the Icelandic countryside, close to two popular waterfalls: Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss. A real highlight of your stay here are the outdoor hot tubs that make a wonderful spot for aurora seeking. If you want to chase the aurora in style, you could book a table at gourmet Restaurant 4 which features panoramic views – or to really bring the sky to life, head to the roll-off roof observatory for uninterrupted views of the night sky.
Holidays at a glance
- ICELAND Aurora Nights – Oct-Mar | 3 nights | Self drive
- ICELAND Northern Lights Special – Oct-Mar | 3 nights | Escorted
It’s all about the journey
By Sea
Travel between Bergen and Kirkenes on a coastal voyage and watch from deck. With a northern lights ‘alert system’ on board you won’t miss out on the phenomena, and with the sky stretching to the horizon, the views out at sea are stunning.
Holidays at a glance
NORWAY Havila Coastal Voyage – Sep-Apr | 7-13 nights
Start planning your trip
Talk to our team of dedicated Travel Specialists or make an enquiry online.
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