The aurora borealis, or Northern Lights, are caused when solar wind particles collide with air molecules in the earth’s atmosphere, transferring their energy into light. It’s one of the world’s most magical sights and here’s the best place to have a good view.
Finland
What: Kilpisjarvi in the country’s far north is the top spot to see the colourful light show, especially if you like getting off the tourist trail. If you’d prefer not to stray so far off the beaten track, check into a glass igloo at Kakslauttanen Holiday Village, 80km from the Russian border, and watch the northern lights from the comfort of your bed.
Get more info: visitfinland.com
Iceland
What: From October until April, the northern lights can make an appearance. Spend the night at Hotel Ranga, which enjoys a backdrop
of volcanoes, mountains
and glaciers, and watch the northern lights from naturally heated outdoor hot tubs.
Get more info: visiticeland.com
Alaska
What: Alaska’s Fairbanks can be found within the ‘aurura oval’ where the red, green, blue and violet lights make the most regular appearance. The best time
to make a trip here is from December until March when the sky is clear and dark.
Get more info: travelalaska.com
Sweden
What: Abisko Mountain Station is hailed the best place in Europe to spot the Northern Lights. Its sky station is open from December until March and is reachable via a chair-lift. Visitors can spend the night here or at the nearby Ice Hotel.
Get more info: visitsweden.com
Norway
What: Search out the northern lights by taking a cruise along Norway’s spectacular coastline. Alternatively, head to Tromso, go snowmobiling or dog sledding at moonlight while keeping your eyes peeled for a light display.
Get more info: visitnorway.com
– Janine Kelso
