Glamping under the Northern Lights
Witness the sky dance in unique glamping stays.
The Ultimate Northern Lights Glamping Guide: Top 7 Destinations in Scandinavia
1. Arctic Tiny House, Harstad, Norway
Nestled just outside Harstad, the Arctic Tiny House offers more than just a roof over your head; it presents an invitation to marvel at the Northern Lights through its stargazing roof window. While snug in your bed, take in the 360-degree mountainous panorama. What makes this an exceptional Northern Lights haven is not just the glass ceiling but the solitude that amplifies the experience. For creature comforts, a private jacuzzi awaits on the terrace—perfect for those chilly nights. And if you drive an electric vehicle, there’s free charging—making this stay both luxe and eco-conscious.
2. Aurora Igloo Boat, Lapland, Sweden
Secluded and free from artificial light, this aquatic oasis whisks you away to a protected area via snowmobile sled. Here, a cozy, high-tech sky observatory awaits. Your host can guide you through various Arctic experiences tailored to your interests. At night, relish a 360-degree Northern Lights display from a state-of-the-art capsule. By day, choose from skiing, snowshoeing, reindeer encounters, or ice fishing. It's not just accommodation; it's your personal Arctic observatory in Europe's last wild frontier.
Book Aurora Igloo Boat in Jokkmokk, Sweden
3. Northern Lights Cabin Village, Lapland, Finland
Nestled in the serene landscape of Saariselkä, Aurora Cabin Village offers a front-row seat to nature's most spellbinding show: the Northern Lights. With a laser-heated glass roof situated directly above your bed, you're guaranteed an unobstructed celestial spectacle, no freezing toes involved! But the experience extends far beyond the cabin walls. Nearby, you can dive into traditional Finnish activities like husky safaris and snowmobile tours, making your stay an adventurous one from dawn to dusk. Don’t forget to try the local finnish delicacies at the restaurant Kota!
4. Northern Lodge, Piteå, Sweden
Atop a ski slope in Piteå lies a geodesic dome that promises an off-the-grid Northern Lights encounter. Apart from the celestial view through the skylights, you'll find solitude with no neighbors around. With no TV and no neighbors, all you have is a panoramic window to nature’s splendor, a private wood-burning sauna, and the Northern Lights beaming through your skylights. Time stands still, leaving room only for relaxation. Plus, private transfers from parking to this mountaintop retreat ensure your journey is as unique as the destination.
5. Family Aurora Treehouse, Trondheim, Norway
A treehouse perched on the rock, north of Trondheim, offers not just comfort but an intimate familial experience. Whether it’s grilling on the fire pit on the terrace or simply enjoying a book in the built-in hammock, you get a panoramic view of both the Byavatnet and the Trondheimsfjord. The architecture itself is awe-inspiring, designed to make you feel like you're floating above the terrain. With minimal light pollution and a sky-view loft, your chances of catching the Northern Lights are high despite being below the Arctic circle, look North for a while if the sky is clear and the Aurora forcast is high. Here, you're not just closer to the stars but also to each other.
6. Aurora Mirror Cabin, Northern Norway
This arctic Mirror Cabin takes the classic cabin experience and adds a twist—its exterior is clad in mirrored glass, reflecting the stunning surrounding landscape. But the real magic happens when the Northern Lights come out to dance, casting their glow on the mountainous backdrop. Enjoy this from your bed or step into your private terrace jacuzzi for an even more luxurious experience. Adding to the amenities is an eco-conscious touch, with electric vehicle charging available. If you want to see the Arctic in its full glory, the mirrored cabin amplifies the experience in a way that’s unforgettable.
7. Norwegian Wild Lighthouse, Senja Island
Discover a retreat that stands as the pride of Norwegian Wild, a lighthouse suite offering 360-degree views of untamed Senja. Imagine watching the Northern Lights or Midnight Sun dance across the sky right from your double bed. Modern amenities like electrical heating, a well-stocked kitchen, and complimentary toiletries ensure a comfortable stay, while a star telescope elevates your sky-gazing adventures. Perfectly positioned at the doorstep of Ånderdalen National Park, it's an invitation to explore Norway's natural wonders. Breakfast and checkout cleaning are included, allowing you to fully immerate yourself in the island's untamed beauty.
Insider Tips: Maximize Your Northern Lights Sightings While Glamping
Gear Up & Be Patient for the Lights
Your glamping haven is all about comfort, but the real Northern Lights magic happens outdoors—and it's a game of patience. Gear up in thermal layers and robust boots for extended periods outside. Don't forget your insulated hats and gloves. With a thermos of hot cocoa, patience isn't just a virtue; it's a cozy way to wait for that once-in-a-lifetime sky show.
Your Eyes Need Time to Adapt
Stepping out of your lavish glamping accommodation, you're greeted by a blanket of stars above. Before you become entranced by the sky, give your eyes about 10 to 15 minutes to adjust to the dark. This little wait will make the colors of the Northern Lights pop even more when they finally dance across the sky.
Watch Out for the Kp Index and Clear Skies
Before venturing out, check the Kp-index and local weather forecasts. Your remote glamping location, will offer a pristine backdrop if the skies are clear and the geomagnetic activity is high. You also have better chances if you go to a viewpoint. We suggest using the My Aurora Forecast as it gives you notifications of coming and current aurora activity in your location.
The More North, the Better (your bet)!
Northern Scandinavia, particularly from Lofoten to the North Cape, sits within the planet's auroral zone and offers the world's most frequent aurora sightings. Situated 100-300 km above Earth, the Lights are visible over vast areas, reducing the need for a perfect spot. Choose a glamping site in these regions to maximize your awe-inspiring experience.
Best Around March or October
Move over, winter months! March and October are hidden gems when it comes to Aurora viewing. These equinox months have the highest frequency of northern light occurrence, as well as having more stable weather conditions and fewer tourists, making it the ideal time for glamping and Northern Lights chasing.
Real life is Not Picture Perfect
Pictures and cameras have long-exposure settings and pick up colors that might be subtler to the naked eye. So, as you venture out from your cozy, photo-ready dome or treehouse, adjust your expectations. Enjoy the spectacle for its real-world wonder, and remember, sometimes the best memories are the ones you can't capture.
Frequently asked questions about glamping under the northern lights
