Our World Travel Bucket List // Northern Lights with the family

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The Northern Lights. It is one of the most sought after natural phenomenons, the most unpredictable and yet, one of the most breathtaking sights in the natural world. It’s an experience every family should have on their family bucket list. To see such a natural light show above your heads as you witness Mother Nature’s most incredible sights, it’s surely a holiday to remember.

What are the Northern Lights?

The Northern Lights, also known as Aurora Borealis, occur when particles (that are electrically charged) are released from the sun. They enter the Earth’s atmosphere and collide with gases such as oxygen and nitrogen.

There’s a range of colours that can be displayed up in the night sky with green aurora on display thanks to oxygen molecules above the earth at heights of up to 60 miles. Nitrogen molecules produce blue or purple Aurora and the rare red auroras are produced by high-altitude oxygen (200 miles above earth).

Where can you see the Northern Lights?

Typically found in the Northern Hemisphere, the Northern Lights are seen around the magnetic north pole of the earth. You won’t be surprised to learn that there are Southern Lights in the Southern Hemisphere too! Northern European countries such as Finland, Sweden, Iceland and Norway all experience the delights of the Northern Lights. These make them all fascinating destinations to visit for family holidays. Each country has it’s own unique pull and you should consider this when thinking about where to visit for a family holiday hunting out the lights.

Holidays in Finland

There’s a huge choice of family holidays to be had in Finland with over 338,000 square kilometres to explore. In the most northern tip of the country, Utsjoki is suitable for those wanting a slower paced holiday. Inhibited by the indigenous Sámi people, the pace of life here is much simpler than southern Finland. In the west, Torassieppi is a popular choice for glamping holidays. These holidays can help you experience life under canvas in the snow. Some glamping tents even have transparent sides so you can enjoy the northern lights from the warmth of your own bed. Other popular destinations in Finland include Luosto, Muotka and Nellim where you can enjoy a range of activities. These include husky safari, snowshoeing and enjoying a reindeer experience.

Holidays in Sweden

Sweden is a very popular country for northern light watching as it is one of the few countries with minimal light pollution. The best way to experience the lights is on a clear night. However with pitch-black skies and only the stars for company. Sweden is a country with many natural wonders of it’s own including the Luleå Archipelago (a group of Swedish islands) which are icebound during the winter making Aurora viewing on the ice, a mighty attraction. Winter cabin holidays in Sweden are a popular choice.

Holidays in Norway

Continuing the search for holidays in Scandinavia, holidays in Norway are also a popular choice. When you think of Norway, you might think of Fjords and Mountains or Whale spotting and Polar Bears, it has so much to offer. It’s important to remember, the towns are far too populated to see the lights in the night sky. You may wish to consider the cities of Norway as a base but be prepared to travel to hunt down the lights. Check out Aurora Zone holidays to book your next incredible trip.

Holidays in Iceland

Aurora hunting holidays in Iceland have become a very popular choice for families who wish to get outdoors and explore the natural world. Iceland has it all, with it’s volcanoes, glaciers and hot springs, visitors to the country can enjoy these natural wonders. Take an excursion around the Golden Circle and experience some of the most beautiful landmarks you could only dream of. Watch the Geysers at Haukadalur erupt and the magic of the Gullfoss waterfalls. During the winter months, parts of the waterfalls maybe covered in snow and ice adding to their dramatic landscape. There is so much to see and do in Iceland, you’ll have the most incredible time.

When’s the best time to visit?

The most popular time to visit the above countries on the Aurora hunting trail is January to March. However, that’s not to say you won’t see the lights during other months. To see the best views of the Northern Lights, you’ll want minimum light pollution and very dark starry skies. Typically you’ll want to go out in search late at night between 9:30pm and 1am. As they’re natural wonders your hunt for the lights is completely at the mercy of one of the biggest stars, the sun.

Aurora hunting holidays can be the ultimate winter holiday on your family bucket list. During the day, there are lots of winter excursions and sightseeing trips to enjoy. You can also enjoy all the snow-based activities us Brits crave. By night, wrap up warm and head outside to hunt down the spectacular sights of the Northern Lights. You won’t regret it.