Svalbard in Norway is the ultimate aurora destination. Photo / 123RF
Svalbard in Norway is the ultimate aurora destination. Photo / 123RF
Hit Europe's far north for spellbinding views of the Aurora Borealis
Svaalbard, Norway
You can't get much further north that Svaalbard, the archipelago between Norway and the North Pole. Its location makes it one of the best places to view the northern lights — and it's the only place inthe world where you can experience the Aurora Borealis in the daytime.
Luosto, Finland
At Luosto's Hotel Aurora, you can rest assured knowing you won't miss the northern lights during your stay. On arrival, you'll be presented with an "Aurora Alarm" that goes off whenever they appear. As well as great views of the aurora borealis, this tiny resort town has plenty to offer, including wilderness trips, skiing and snowshoeing.
This small village in Swedish Lapland has been scientifically proven as an ideal viewing spot due to its unique microclimate — surrounded by mountains, it's known for clear skies. If you're undertaking winter activites, you might see the lights along the way — but for the best chance, head up the chairlift to the Aurora Sky Station in Abisko National Park.
The northern lights in Abisko, Sweden. Photo / 123RF
Caithness, Scotland
When the weather cooperates, the Aurora Borealis can be seen in the northernmost areas of Scotland. In the county of Caithness, you're never far from an area with no light pollution and the Castlehill Heritage Centre is the most northerly 'Dark Sky' spot in Scotland to stargaze. When the northern lights make an appearance here, it's truly breathtaking.
Thingvellir National Park, Iceland
The northern lights blazing over Thingvellir National Park in Iceland. Photo / 123RF
A short drive from the capital Reykjavik, the open plains of this Unesco World Heritage Site are one of the best places in Iceland to view the Aurora Borealis. The country's biggest lake is also located here and makes for some breathtaking reflections — get your camera ready. Unlike other countries, the northern lights can be viewed almost everywhere in Iceland, outside of Reykjavik.
