Monday newsletters always feature top 10 travel lists to inspire.
Today: Top 10 Best Hotels for Viewing the Northern Lights
Also known as the Aurora Borealis, the Northern Lights are one of nature’s most mesmerizing phenomena. These colorful displays of light are created by solar storms and powerful solar flares that release streams of charged particles into space. When these particles collide with Earth’s atmosphere, they create the vivid, glowing colors we associate with the Aurora Borealis.
For many travelers, witnessing the Northern Lights is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, often making it a bucket-list destination. However, the conditions for seeing this natural wonder must be just right—clear skies and high solar activity are essential for the best viewing. While sightings can never be guaranteed, the period from December to March offers the best chance to see this awe-inspiring spectacle.
If you’re ready to chase the lights, here are the 10 best hotels in the world offering prime views of the Northern Lights. Think I missed a hotel? Leave a comment!
10. Eliassen Rorbuer, Norway
Nestled in the heart of the stunning Lofoten Islands, Eliassen Rorbueris the oldest fisherman’s cottage resort in the region, rich in history and charm. Offering a unique blend of traditional and modern accommodations, the resort features both classic fisherman’s cottages and cozy sea house apartments. Guests can immerse themselves in the breathtaking natural beauty of the area, surrounded by serene silence, the midnight sun, and, of course, the Northern Lights. The resort offers panoramic views of the famous Reinefjord, with its majestic sea, fjord, and mountain landscapes. Picture the iconic red fisherman’s cottages, fishing boats dotting the shoreline, and a landscape that captures the authentic Lofoten atmosphere. Some of the cottages were once used by fishermen from all over Norway during the world’s largest annual cod fishing event, held in Lofoten from January to April. Many of these traditional cabins have been thoughtfully renovated, preserving their original character while offering modern comforts. For a taste of local flavor, guests can enjoy high-quality cuisine with an Italian twist at Gadus, the resort’s newly renovated restaurant.
9. Treehotel, Sweden
What if you could experience nature like never before—suspended high among the treetops, in a one-of-a-kind accommodation that blends seamlessly with its surroundings? This vision led Scandinavia’s leading architects to create Treehotel, located in Harads, Sweden. Here, rooms are elevated 4-6 meters (13-20 feet) above the ground, offering guests spectacular views of the Lule River valley, expansive forests, and a powerful river below. Among the hotel’s most iconic offerings is the Mirrorcube, a truly unique accommodation camouflaged with mirrored walls that reflect the natural environment, making it almost invisible from a distance. The design of Treehotel was inspired by the film The Tree Lover by Jonas Selberg Augustsen, combining artistic innovation with a deep connection to nature. For those visiting between September and March, Treehotel offers an unforgettable experience: the chance to witness the Northern Lights lighting up the sky above. In the summer, guests enjoy an entirely different magic—endless daylight, where the sun never fully sets.
8. Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort, Finland
Located in the heart of North Lapland, Kakslauttanen is a 4-star resort that has earned its global reputation as the ‘Igloo Village’. Known for its iconic snow and glass igloos, this unique resort offers an unforgettable stay surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of Lapland’s wilderness. The resort’s famous glass igloos are made from special thermal glass, ensuring a cozy and warm interior, even as the winter chill surrounds you. Whether you’re lying in bed, gazing out at the mesmerizing Northern Lights, or simply enjoying the tranquility of your surroundings, these glass igloos provide a one-of-a-kind experience. The snow muffles sounds, offering a peaceful night’s sleep, while the views of the aurora borealis create a magical atmosphere. Beyond the igloos, Kakslauttanen also features a restaurant offering delicious local cuisine, and a charming chapel that sets the stage for fairytale winter weddings in this enchanting winter wonderland.
7. Icehotel, Sweden
Icehotel is a world-renowned hotel and art exhibition made entirely from ice and snow sourced from the Torne River, Sweden’s largest national river. Established in 1989, it has become a symbol of winter creativity, reborn each year in a new and breathtaking design. Located in the village of Jukkasjärvi, 200 km (125 miles) north of the Arctic Circle, Icehotel offers an unforgettable, one-of-a-kind experience in the heart of Sweden’s frozen wilderness. Every winter, once the first snow blankets Jukkasjärvi, artists from around the world gather to transform the hotel into a spectacular art exhibition of ice, snow, and light. The result is a stunning blend of art, architecture, and nature—a place to immerse yourself in tranquility and beauty. Guests can discover the serene silence of the snow-covered landscape, marvel at the Northern Lights dancing overhead, and explore the glistening snow-clad forests. The region also offers unique local experiences, from reindeer encounters to tasting cloudberries and sipping kettle coffee by a crackling fire.
6. Ion Adventure Hotel, Iceland
Once an abandoned inn, Ion Adventure Hotel is now a boutique hotel where contemporary design blends seamlessly with Iceland’s unparalleled natural beauty. Located in the town of Selfoss in south-western Iceland, Ion is strategically positioned near a national crossroad, offering easy access to various parts of the country. This prime location allows guests to experience the best of Iceland, from the volcanic wonders of Mount Hengill to the cosmopolitan charm of Reykjavik, just a short drive away. The hotel’s design is inspired by the unique Icelandic landscape, with an emphasis on sustainability and using natural elements of the island. The striking architecture features a perfect balance of modern concrete chic and earthy warmth. Throughout its 45 rooms, guests will find a mix of sleek, minimalist design and rustic charm, enhanced by locally sourced materials like driftwood and lava stone. All of this is thoughtfully curated by the renowned design studio Minarc.
5. The Retreat at Blue Lagoon, Iceland
In 2018, Iceland’s iconic Blue Lagoon unveiled its highly anticipated expansion, introducing The Retreat at Blue Lagoon Iceland. This exclusive sanctuary features a subterranean spa, a geothermal lagoon, a restaurant that reimagines Icelandic culinary traditions, and a 62-suite hotel surrounded by the lagoon’s mineral-rich waters. The Retreat is designed as a tranquil escape, where guests can disconnect from the outside world and immerse themselves in nature’s healing power. The hotel’s design elegantly blends modern luxury with natural elements. Public spaces feature sleek concrete walls, matte black pendant chandeliers, and leather seating, which contrast beautifully with warm wood paneling, creating a cozy yet sophisticated atmosphere. This aesthetic flows seamlessly into the guest rooms, each thoughtfully designed to complement its surroundings. Rooms on the ground level, with direct views of the lagoon, are decorated with calming blue accents, mirroring the shimmering waters. Meanwhile, the second-floor rooms, offering views of the olive-hued moss-covered landscape, are adorned with green accents, further enhancing the connection to Iceland’s stunning natural beauty.
4. Arctic Bath, Sweden
Set in a breathtaking wonderland, Arctic Bath offers a unique escape that perfectly blends modern design with the natural beauty of its surroundings. From the spa’s open-air bath to the restaurant showcasing local ingredients, every element of the hotel taps into its stunning Arctic setting. The striking cabins, modern architectural marvels, appear to float above the ground—or even the water—blurring the lines between indoors and outdoors. Glass walls, floating walkways, and sky-gazing decks create a seamless connection to nature, elevating the concept of loft living to new heights. The interiors are a masterful mix of Scandinavian chic, featuring natural materials like wood and stone, complemented by tactile “touch me” textiles that invite guests to truly experience the space. Located in Northern Lights territory, the hotel is the perfect spot to witness the aurora borealis during winter. The colder months bring exciting adventures, from sledding and snowmobiling across the frozen landscape to wildlife encounters.
3. Hotel Ranga, Iceland
From its outdoor geothermal hot tubs overlooking nearby volcanoes to the wraparound glass windows in its gourmet restaurant, Hotel Rangá is designed to showcase Iceland’s awe-inspiring landscape at every turn. The hotel even features its own observatory—complete with resident astronomers—making it one of the best places in Iceland for stargazing and Northern Lights viewing. Whether you arrive during peak aurora season or in the warmer months when wildflowers blanket the countryside, you’ll be welcomed with genuine Icelandic hospitality at this one-of-a-kind boutique retreat. Styled as a cross between a luxurious log cabin and a classic hunting lodge, Hotel Rangá offers a cozy yet elevated atmosphere. Guests can unwind in the inviting lounge and bar with a hot chocolate or hot toddy, or spend the evening in the games room—complete with a stag-horn chandelier, pool table, and puzzles—perfect for relaxed or competitive nights in.
2. Arctic Treehouse Hotel, Finland
Located in Rovaniemi, in the heart of Finnish Lapland, the Arctic TreeHouse Hotel is one of the world’s most luxurious spots for observing the Northern Lights. This unique retreat combines Arctic nature, local Lappish traditions, and sleek Scandinavian design to create an unforgettable experience. Accommodations range from the cozy, nest-like Arctic TreeHouse Suites and the Arctic Glass Houses with private saunas, to the luxurious Arctic Scene Executive Suites, set in a peaceful location on a steep wooded hill. Each space is meticulously designed for comfort while maintaining a warm, intimate atmosphere. The panoramic windows provide breathtaking views of the surrounding forest and Arctic skies, allowing guests to watch the Northern Lights in winter or the Midnight Sun in summer from the comfort of their bed. The hotel’s excellent restaurant serves a menu inspired by Arctic ingredients, offering a refined culinary experience in stylish surroundings.
1. Sheldon Chalet, Alaska, USA
Sheldon Chalet offers an all-inclusive wilderness experience unlike anything else in Alaska—or the world. Before the chalet, the only way to spend a night in the heart of Denali National Park was as a climber: sleeping in tents, eating freeze-dried food, and braving the elements. Now, guests can enjoy the raw beauty of Alaska in unmatched comfort and style. This five-bedroom chalet combines pure luxury with a majestic setting, featuring plush bedding, gourmet dining, and relaxing saunas—all framed by some of the most dramatic vistas in the Alaska Range. Every detail is designed to provide an immersive yet indulgent wilderness escape. A stay at Sheldon Chalet is a premium experience, with rates starting around $75,000 USD per four guests for three nights. The price includes helicopter flightseeing tours to and from Talkeetna or Anchorage, all meals prepared by a world-class chef, guided adventures in the Don Sheldon Amphitheater, and access to top-quality adventure apparel and gear.
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