The Northern Lights are an often elusive, endlessly spectacular natural wonder of the Scandinavian skies. Seeking the Northern Lights is a must-do for adventure-seekers, but a trip like this doesn't require braving the elements or orienteering across unchartered wilderness. Consider this collection of destinations a starting point for your next luxury break. From Finland to Norway; Sweden to Iceland; each curated location offers the best chance of viewing the aurora in style.
There are a vast number of experiences to be had in Sweden, but if you're chasing the Northern Lights, there are plenty of unique and unforgettable places to stay. Northern Sweden lies under the auroral oval, making the region one of the best places for viewing the display on a clear night. At the world-famous ICEHOTEL, you'll have the option to seek the lights on a thrilling snowmobile tour, before returning for a drink in the ICEBAR and to sleep atop a bed carved from ice. Sweden's Treehotel offers seven treetop rooms with their own distinct styles and designs, as well as the chance to picnic in the snow under the stars and the magical aurora. Finally, the traditional log-cabin design of the Arctic Retreat offers a back-to-nature feel with more than a touch of luxury, with a private fire pit and outdoor hot tub perfect for sky-gazing.
Luxury Swedish Holidays
The Treehotel, Sweden
Norway has it all, from bustling cosmopolitan cities to untouched Arctic wilderness. When it comes to planning a trip to see the lights, heading away from the cities is your best option, to the wilds of northern Norway or away from the mainland to the remote archipelago of Svalbard. Deep in the Arctic circle sits the chic Lyngen Lodge, remote enough for a true getaway, but with the added luxury of an open fireplace, world-class Nordic dining, and an outdoor jacuzzi, a perfect vantage point to view the Northern Lights. Or, head to Svalbard, home to polar bears and walruses, for a stay at the intimate Funken Lodge. From here you can take a trip to the remote Camp Barentz to view the lights away from any light pollution and with the help of an expert guide.
Luxury Nordic Holidays
Lyngen Lodge, Norway
Iceland is largely defined by its unique landscape, punctuated by lava fields, geysers, glaciers and mountains, and sewn together by a network of glacial rivers that flow straight into the sea. Your experience is limited only by your imagination; this is a world where you can spend your days summiting volcanos, scuba diving between tectonic plates, or soaking your cares away in thermal hot springs. The minimalist ION Adventure Hotel, at the foot of Mount Hengill, boasts a spectacular Northern Lights bar with a vast expanse of glass for unobstructed viewing of the night sky. If you feel like spoiling yourself, Deplar Farm is the ultimate retreat in the wild, kitted out with luxe furnishings, "grown up" toys such as snowmobiles and off-road vehicles, and the chance to see the aurora in almost total solitude.
Luxury Icelandic Holidays
ION Adventure Hotel, Iceland
Finnish Lapland is a fairytale destination of snowy forests, frozen tundras, and some of the most unique luxury accommodation in Europe. The remote locations of our favourite hotels make for perfect Northern Lights viewing, as well as days spent spotting wildlife, adventuring with huskies, or immersing yourself in Sami culture. A stay at the Arctic TreeHouse Hotel gets you closer to the aurora than ever with panoramic views from your treetop chalet, while the boutique adults-only Beana Laponia offers the choice of viewing the Northern Lights from the welcoming warmth of the hotel or a more remote Sami lavvu tent beside a roaring campfire. The Wilderness Hotel Nangu is another favourite, nestled on the shores of Lake Inari with expert guides to help you seek the aurora, while the Levin Iglut Glass Igloos allow for uninterrupted viewing throughout the night from the cosiest of vantage points.
Luxury Finnish Holidays
Beana Laponia, Finland
If you're feeling inspired to take a trip to one of our Northern Lights destinations, speak to one our dedicated travel experts. Drawing on first-hand experience, they will tailor your luxury break to suit your travel tastes, and get you one step closer to seeing the majesty of the Aurora Borealis. It's truly a holiday to remember.