The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis can be experienced in some of the most stunning destinations in the world. They provide a backdrop to spectacular scenery, including glaciers, dramatic mountain ranges all covered in glistening snow. With all of this on offer it’s not hard to see why visiting the northern lights in on most people’s bucket list.
The best time of year to take in this breathtaking wonder is between September and April, as this is when the summer sun will not inhibit your view. We have put together a list of the best locations to witness this truly breathtaking phenomenon, allowing you to plan this once in a lifetime trip to your perfect destination.
Northern Canada
This vast land has a number of destinations on offer to view the northern lights, as the majority of the country is covered by the ‘Aurora Oval’. Some of the best spots can be found in Nova Scotia, the north of British Columbia, Yukon, Newfoundland and the NorthWest territories.
The best time of year for experiencing the lights in Canada are between October and March as this offers the most hours of darkness, something that is essential when viewing this wonderful display. Whilst there you could also take in the beauty of the Rockies, giving you a stunning backdrop to your northern lights experience.
Finland
Finland offers dark enough nights to view the northern lights between August and April, however, you are more likely to observe them the further north you venture. Finland offers many of these hot spots for breathtaking views and provides some unique and stunning accommodation to truly take in the wondrous lights.
Check out the glass cabins offer a warm and cosy retreat whilst boasting stunning light shows that can be seen from the comfort of your cabin all night long. You could also opt to stay in a real igloo, these beautiful structures complement the natural landscape and allow visitors the opportunity to experience the landscape in a more traditional way.
Iceland
The capital of Iceland Reykjavik, is one of the most popular destinations when it comes to chasing the northern lights. Although most people arrive and stay in the city, to view the lights you must travel away from the city and the light pollution. When it comes to tracking down the northern lights the darker the better.
If the lights manage to elude you, there are still plenty of things on offer in this beautiful country. You could explore the rugged volcanic landscape or relax in one of the many geothermal heated pools.
Norway
Norway is another great spot to visit the northern lights, November through to March offers the best opportunity as this is when the nights are longest, with darkness setting in from early afternoon until late morning. Northern Norway offers great variety, from cities with a lively night scene to vast, tranquil spaces boasting no light pollution. This not only allows for great viewing of the northern lights, it would also be perfect for star-gazing with or without a telescope.
Norway also offers many coastal beauties such as fishing villages and multiple islands, ensuring that there is always something to explore.
Nina Smith