The Northern Lights are set to be visible again in a month's time in the far north and throughout the Autumn and Winter we are expecting some incredible displays in Iceland and both Finnish and Swedish Lapland. With over 20 years of experience in designing tailor made Northern Lights holidays we have carefully selected Our Holiday Ideas to bring you the best opportunities for enjoying the Aurora Borealis and winter activities.
As the northern hemisphere bids farewell to the endless summer days and prepares for the cold dark days of winter, a beautiful season lies between. It’s when the landscapes turn into a tapestry of rich autumnal hues, the afternoon twilight hours ooze a unique and relaxing aura and the nights draw in offering you an opportunity to witness some amazing autumn auroras.
The first auroras usually arrive in late August and as the daylight hours reduce throughout September and October your chances of seeing stronger displays of the Northern Lights increase. As October approaches, temperatures begin to drop, and the first snow may start to fall in more northern regions.
If a snow adventure is not your thing, then autumn presents the perfect time to travel and Iceland ticks all the boxes. Whether you wish to combine your aurora hunting with a city break in Reykjavik or head into the spectacular countryside and discover some of Iceland’s fantastic geological features, we can design the perfect holiday for you.
Wellness, Romance and Auroras in Iceland is a great example combining the best of both the city and the South Coast. Additional aurora hunting can be arranged by boat, Super Jeep or you may choose to simply awake to an aurora alarm from a luxurious countryside hotel. Heading further north may increase your chances and Northern Lights in the North brings not only fantastic aurora borealis opportunities but breathtaking beauty and spectacular nature to boot.
Finnish and Swedish Lapland provide different holiday opportunities. Here outdoor living and getting back to nature is key with hiking, biking and berry picking all on the agenda during the autumn days. As night falls you can seek the northern lights in a multitude of ways and one of our favourites is by horseback. In order maximize viewing opportunities during your time in the north the Finns have created some ingenious and rather unique accommodations from glass igloo’s to glamping domes and all with stunning views to the northern night skies.
Our latest addition, Arctic Retreat in Swedish Lapland, offers an unforgettable short break and is perfect for autumn aurora viewing. Just south of the Arctic Circle and far from any light pollution, a secluded cluster of luxurious log cabins beckon guests away from the stresses of everyday life and transports you into a world of simple pleasures, where good food and conversation are complimented by stunning nature and amazing aurora opportunities.
A similar experience awaits in the treetops of Harads at the iconic Treehotel. Ideal as a short weekend break, here you can spend your days exploring the forest trails by mountain bike or Segway and at night join a guided Northern Lights tour or soak up the panoramic views of the river valley from your private treehouse and await the captivating northern lights.
Whatever your destination this autumn, please remember we can never guarantee sightings of the aurora borealis, so you should always travel in hope rather than expectation. However, what you certainly can expect is a fantastic autumnal adventure tailored to your wishes.
Photo credit. Graeme Richardson.