Our tip picks of where to see the Northern Lights

The Northern Lights, also known by their more scientific name Aurora Borealis have fascinated people for centuries. Legend has it, Galileo Galilei discovered this incredible spectacle in 1619 and named it after Aurora, the Roman goddess of the dawn, and Boreas, the Greek god of the north wind.

The technical explanation … the lights occur when charged particles from the sun (thanks to solar winds) interact with Earth’s magnetic field. As these particles hit the atmosphere, they collide with gases like oxygen and nitrogen, causing them to emit light in a range of colours lighting up the night sky.

And in layman’s terms … the Aurora Borealis are an otherworldly lightshow, a watercolour painting of vivid colours— greens, pinks, purples, and sometimes reds that light up the night skies and astonishes anyone lucky enough to stand beneath

1. Iceland

Iceland’s location, just below the Arctic Circle and close to the North Pole, and with its vast open spaces and minimal light pollution, the chances of witnessing the lights are enhanced due to the optimal viewing conditions. While the Northern Lights can theoretically be seen from anywhere in Iceland, it’s best to get away from the bright city lights of Reykjavik

2. Canada

Yellowknife, located in the heart of the aurora zone, boasts over 200 clear nights a year, making it one of the best places on the planet for aurora viewing. Whitehorse, the capital of the Yukon, also offers excellent sightings, and you can enjoy winter activities like cross-country skiing or enjoy a soak in the Takhini Hot Springs.

3. Alaska

Alaska is one of the best viewing places in North America and the town of Fairbanks, with its dedicated Aurora Ice Museum, is a prime spot. For a truly indulgent experience watch the lights dance above your head whilst sitting in the soothing natural hot springs rock lake at Chena Hot Springs Resort. Or head to the top of Charlie Dome Mountain where you’ll have 360° unobstructed views from your Mongolian style yurt.

4. Finland

Finland’s Lapland region is one of the most magical places to witness the Northern Lights. The town of Rovaniemi, known as the ‘official‘ hometown of Santa Claus, offers a blend of Christmas magic along with top-tier aurora viewing. You can stay in cozy glass igloos or wilderness lodges, where you can watch the lights from the comfort of your bed—no need to freeze outside!

5. Sweden

Sweden’s Abisko National Park, known for its ‘Blue Hole,’ a patch of sky that tends to stay clear even when surrounding areas are cloudy, is the place to be! Or choose to stay in the famous ice hotel in Jukkasjärvi or the small town of Kiruna, surrounded by wilderness, is another good option and offers plenty of other activities like snowmobiling and ice fishing.

6. Norway

Norway is another top spot, and Tromsø known as the ‘Gateway to the Arctic,’ is a favourite offering some of the most reliable Northern Lights sightings. Tromsø is perfect for aurora hunters who are looking for both convenience and adventure – highly recommend taking the Fjellheisen cable car for panoramic views of the lights.

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