With solar activity peaking in 2025, this winter offers one of the best opportunities in over a decade to witness the Northern Lights.
For UK travellers seeking a blend of natural wonder and refined comfort, now is the moment to plan a luminous escape north.
When to Go
The aurora borealis is most visible between late September and March, with peak viewing conditions from December to February. This year’s solar maximum is expected to crest in July, bringing heightened geomagnetic activity throughout the season and increasing both the frequency and brilliance of displays. For optimal visibility, aim for dates around the new moon and venture away from artificial light sources.
Where to See Them
Two standout destinations for aurora chasers are Iceland and Swedish Lapland. Reykjavik offers a cosmopolitan base with easy access to dark skies just beyond the city. Stay at the Hilton Reykjavik Nordica for sweeping views of Mount Esja and the bay, or opt for the boutique Reykjavik Konsulat Hotel for proximity to museums and fine dining. For a more remote experience, Hotel Ranga in southern Iceland provides aurora wake-up calls, outdoor hot tubs, and unspoiled celestial vistas.
In Sweden, the Arctic Bath Hotel in Harads is a design-forward retreat floating on the Lule River. With just 12 rooms—six floating and six land-based cabins—this intimate sanctuary boasts a circular spa with saunas, outdoor Jacuzzis, and cold bath therapy. Guests can enjoy sustainable Nordic cuisine and curated excursions such as snowshoeing, Sámi cultural encounters, and forest meditation walks beneath the stars.
How to Get There
Direct flights from London to Reykjavik take under three hours, making Iceland a convenient long-weekend option. For Swedish Lapland, fly via Stockholm to Luleå, followed by a scenic 70-minute drive to Harads. Both destinations offer private transfers, with options for bespoke aurora-viewing tours.
What to Do Beyond the Lights
While the aurora is the headline act, these destinations deliver rich daytime itineraries. In Iceland, explore Thingvellir National Park, marvel at the Golden Circle, or soak in the Blue Lagoon, which has reopened with updated safety protocols following recent seismic activity (open daily from 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM). In Sweden, try ice fishing, dogsledding, or unwind with a Nordic spa ritual overlooking a frozen river.
Why Book Now
With demand surging ahead of the solar peak, early booking is essential to secure the most atmospheric accommodations and immersive experiences. Many properties now offer aurora alerts, tailored photography sessions, and guided stargazing—perfect for those looking to blend business with a touch of magic.
For travellers craving a restorative break with a celestial twist, this winter’s aurora season promises both spectacle and serenity. Whether you’re sipping cloudberry cocktails in a Swedish spa or watching green ribbons ripple above Iceland’s volcanic plains, the Northern Lights are calling – and in 2025, they’re set to shine brighter than ever.