Many travellers from around the world head to their favorite destinations for various reasons. One of these is to witness natural phenomena in the flesh. One of these is the Northern Lights, otherwise known as the Aurora Borealis

Few natural spectacles inspire as much awe and wonder as the Aurora Borealis, the mesmerising dance of light that paints the Arctic sky. The shimmering curtains of emerald, magenta, and sapphire are more than just a celestial phenomenon. They’re a gateway to a world draped in myth and magic.

What’s Behind the Northern Lights Phenomenon?

The Northern Lights can actually be explained by a number of interesting natural interplays. The sun constantly throws charged particles our way in a stream called the solar wind. When these particles encounter Earth’s magnetic field, they’re funneled towards the poles. Earth’s atmosphere, primarily the thermosphere high above, is the stage for the spectacle we see. 

These energetic particles collide with atoms and molecules in the atmosphere, transferring their energy and exciting them. Excited atoms and molecules release this energy as light, producing the colorful spectacle we see as the Northern Lights. Different gas types emit different colors: green from oxygen, pink from nitrogen, and purple from a mix of gases like oxygen and nitrogen.

The Best Places to View the Northern Lights

If you’re yearning to witness this breathtaking display, the Schengen Zone offers a smorgasbord of destinations. Each of them promises a unique perspective on the celestial ballet. 

Iceland: Land of Fire and Ice

Iceland, perched precariously on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, boasts pristine landscapes where glaciers sculpt valleys, volcanoes belch plumes of fire, and geothermal pools beckon weary travellers. It’s also a prime playground for aurora borealis hunters. With minimal light pollution and a location in the auroral oval, Iceland offers spectacular sightings from late September to mid-April.

Base yourself in charming Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital, and venture out on organized aurora tours that whisk you away from city lights to secluded spots like Thingvellir National Park or the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon. For an extra dose of magic, book a stay in a glass-igloo or a cozy cabin. You can gaze up at the dancing lights from the comfort of your bed.

Norway: Arctic Adventures Await

Norway, with its jagged fjords, snow-capped peaks, and charming fishing villages, is a Nordic wonderland beckoning adventure seekers. And when it comes to aurora borealis, Norway doesn’t disappoint. Tromso, dubbed the “Gateway to the Arctic”, is a popular base for hunting the lights, thanks to its location well within the auroral oval. Head here between September and April, and you might be rewarded with dazzling displays over the Lyngen Alps or shimmering reflections on the glassy fjords.

For a truly unforgettable experience, venture farther north to Lofoten Islands, an archipelago bathed in otherworldly beauty. With dramatic mountains plunging into the sea and quaint fishing villages scattered across the islands, Lofoten offers both aurora borealis spectacle and raw, untouched nature. During the long polar nights, when darkness reigns from November to January, the chances of witnessing the aurora soar.

Sweden: Lapland’s Enchanting Embrace

Sweden’s northern reaches, where snow-laden forests stretch as far as the eye can see, are synonymous with Lapland, a mythical land teeming with reindeer and Sami culture. In this winter wonderland, the Northern Lights take on an ethereal quality, weaving their magic across the vast wilderness. Kiruna, Sweden’s northernmost city, boasts clear skies and minimal light pollution, making it a haven for aurora chasers. The nearby Abisko National Park offers pristine vistas and dedicated aurora observatories for a truly immersive experience. Visit between late September and mid-April to maximize your chances of witnessing this celestial tango.

For a touch of luxury, try your luck at Camp Ripan, an exclusive ice hotel near Kiruna, where you can snuggle into cosy sleeping bags beneath the dancing lights.

Finland: Myth and Mirrie Dancers

Finland, the land of Santa Claus and endless forests, promises an encounter with the aurora borealis steeped in folklore. The Finns call the Northern Lights “Revontulet“, meaning “fox fires”, a tale woven from ancient beliefs about fiery foxes lighting up the night sky. Head to Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Santa Claus, and embark on an aurora chase through the snow-blanketed Lapland wilderness. Between late September and April, skies come alive with vibrant curtains of light, often reflecting off frozen lakes and adding to the fairytale atmosphere.

For a truly unique experience, venture further north to Inari, near the border with Russia. Here, under the vastness of the Arctic sky, you might catch a glimpse of the rare “korona”, a crown-like formation of aurora borealis said to bring good luck.

Fun Facts about the Northern Lights: Dancing With Mystical Spirits

Beyond the scientific explanation of charged particles and excited atoms, the Northern Lights have sparked awe and wonder for millennia, weaving themselves into myths and legends across cultures. So, let’s delve into some fascinating facts about the aurora, including their mystical interpretations:

1. Cosmic Cacophony

Did you know the Northern Lights aren’t silent? While the sound doesn’t travel to Earth due to the thin air, some astronauts have reported hearing crackling and hissing sounds during auroral displays. Imagine that, a celestial light show accompanied by its own cosmic soundtrack!

2. Dancing Spirits

The indigenous Sami people of Scandinavia have a beautiful legend about the Northern Lights. They believe they are the spirits of their ancestors, dancing and playing in the night sky. Perhaps you’ll catch a glimpse of a playful reindeer or a wise elder among the shimmering curtains next time you witness the aurora.

3. Viking Valkyries

Norse mythology paints a more dramatic picture of the aurora. They believed the lights were reflections of the Valkyries, fierce warrior maidens who carried fallen heroes to Valhalla. So, when you see the Northern Lights, imagine valiant souls soaring through the sky, escorted by these celestial warriors.

4. Solar Kisses

In some cultures, the Northern Lights are seen as a display of affection from the sun. The vibrant colors are believed to be the sun’s way of kissing the Earth goodnight, leaving behind a celestial masterpiece. So, feel the sun’s cosmic embrace as you watch the aurora dance across the sky.

Conclusion

Iceland, Norway, Sweden, and Finland – each destination offers a unique lens through which to witness the breathtaking wonder of the Northern Lights. Whether you seek adventure in untamed landscapes, cozy comfort in charming villages, or a touch of luxury amidst the wilderness, the Schengen Zone’s Arctic regions offer something for every kind of aurora borealis enthusiast.

These countries are also part of the Schengen Zone, which looks forward to some changes in travel and tourism soon. Starting in 2025, citizens from over 60 visa-exempt countries like the UK will be required to apply for a special travel authorisation: the ETIAS (Electronic Travel Information and Authorisation System). This online system aims to streamline border crossings and enhance security, ensuring a smoother journey for travellers like yourself. Keep the ETIAS authorisation in mind as you dream of your next European odyssey, ensuring a seamless entry into the land of dancing lights and beyond.