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Top 12 Hotels for Experiencing the Northern Lights

Barbara Griffin026 mins

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See the northern lights without getting out of bed at one of these hotels.

In This Article

Seeing the northern lights is an experience most travelers have on their wish lists. The sky turning into a Technicolor show of swirling green, fuchsia, and indigo isn’t just a great photo opportunity; it’s a phenomenon that captivates anyone, showcasing the beauty and power of nature.

The northern lights are famously elusive, necessitating travel close to the Arctic Circle during winter months, with ideal weather conditions being paramount. Fortunately, numerous hotels in Scandinavia, Iceland, Canada, and Alaska are specifically designed to give guests a comfortable viewing experience, whether from a warm bed or hot tub. These northern lights hotels often come equipped with guided tours and excursions that help guests immerse themselves in their stunning natural surroundings.

Whether you’re seeking an elevated glamping experience in Swedish Lapland or an extravagant Alaskan adventure, here are the best northern lights hotels around the world.

Best Northern Lights Hotels of 2022

Editor’s Pick: Arctic Bath, Sweden

The Arctic Bath Sweden
Courtesy of The Arctic Bath Sweden

Why We Chose It

Located in a pristine stretch of Swedish Lapland, the floating Arctic Bath hotel is sure to delight both design and wellness lovers.

Key Specs

  • Free Wi-Fi: Yes
  • Resort fee: No
  • Room rate: $$$$

Notable Amenities

Complimentary breakfast, full-service spa, tours, and outdoor activities

Hotel Description

Arctic Bath truly must be seen to be believed. The floating hotel in Swedish Lapland resembles a giant bird’s nest, composed of jumbled pine logs arranged in a circle atop the Lule River. Guests can experience the thrill of a polar plunge into the icy river or visit one of the three saunas or the full-service spa for relaxation.

Featuring only 12 rooms and suites, all equipped with sustainable materials, panoramic windows, and spacious bathrooms, guests enjoy breakfast and spa access included in the room rate. At check-in, guests receive a spa kit containing a bathrobe, swimwear, and bath products. Throughout the day, participants can take part in various outdoor activities, enjoy guided tours, and savor an Arctic Culinary Dinner Experience before retreating to their luxurious accommodations.

Arctic TreeHouse Hotel, Finland

Off The Map Travel Aurora Floating Northern Lights Experience Finland
Courtesy of Safartica

Why We Chose It

With a prime location in Rovaniemi, Finland, the Arctic TreeHouse Hotel offers luxe accommodations, local cuisine, and views of the northern lights right from bed.

Key Specs

  • Free Wi-Fi: Yes
  • Resort fee: No
  • Room rate: $$$

Notable Amenities

Underfloor heating and “aurora alarms” that notify guests when the northern lights are visible.

Hotel Description

This luxurious retreat features TreeHouse suites with panoramic windows, allowing guests to gaze upon both the natural Arctic landscape and spectacular night skies. Cozy faux-fur chairs, plush blankets, and abundant pillows enhance the warm ambiance. Upgrade to an executive suite for more space or choose an Arctic GlassHouse with two bedrooms and an en suite sauna.

The on-site Rakas Restaurant & Bar serves delectable regional cuisine using traditional Lappish ingredients, providing guests an authentic taste of the area. With a breakfast buffet and à la carte dinners, you can savor the culinary delights of Finnish culture while surrounded by breathtaking views.

Hotel Rangá, Iceland

Northern Lights over Hotel Rangá in Iceland
Courtesy of Hotel Rangá

Why We Chose It

Among Iceland’s unique accommodations, Hotel Rangá shines with its themed suites and on-site stargazing observatory.

Key Specs

  • Free Wi-Fi: Yes
  • Resort fee: No
  • Room rate: $$$

Notable Amenities

An on-site observatory with a visiting astronomer, geothermal hot tubs, and complimentary breakfast.

Hotel Description

Located approximately 65 miles southeast of Reykjavik, Hotel Rangá is renowned for its amenities devoted to experiencing the northern lights. The property features outdoor benches with warm blankets, snowsuits available at reception, and an aurora wake-up service to ensure you don’t miss the show. The stunning surroundings also mean you’ll enjoy minimal light pollution, making the geothermally heated hot tubs a perfect place for starry night gazing.

Guests can choose from various accommodations, including standard rooms and thematic suites that add a touch of uniqueness. Dining options include Nordic dishes like cured salmon and reindeer carpaccio at Rangá Restaurant, alongside an impressive whiskey collection at the Rangá Bar. Excursions such as ice cave tours and snowboarding can be arranged through the hotel.

Sorrisniva Arctic Wilderness Lodge, Norway

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Why We Chose It

Overlooking the Alta River in northern Norway, Sorrisniva’s Arctic Wilderness Lodge offers incredible views from its spacious rooms and suites.

Key Specs

  • Free Wi-Fi: Yes
  • Resort fee: No
  • Room rate: $$

Notable Amenities

Complimentary breakfast, river-facing balconies, and two dining options.

Hotel Description

Best known for hosting a seasonal igloo hotel, Sorrisniva’s Arctic Wilderness Lodge is the go-to choice for upscale accommodations and remarkable views. Situated alongside the scenic Alta River, each of the 24 rooms features large windows, allowing guests to appreciate the water by day and the northern lights by night. Additionally, each room is equipped with a balcony, modern amenities like walk-in showers, and Vakinme bath products.

Dining options include two on-site restaurants that focus on locally sourced ingredients, offering both fish and vegetables from nearby farms. Outdoor activities like snowmobiling, reindeer sleigh rides, and guided northern lights tours can also be booked.

Aurora Safari Camp, Sweden

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Why We Chose It

Aurora Safari Camp provides a glamping experience deep in Swedish Lapland, complete with tented rooms and communal campfires.

Key Specs

  • Free Wi-Fi: No (Wi-Fi not available)
  • Resort fee: No
  • Room rate: $$

Notable Amenities

On-site sauna, snacks and warm drinks, and transportation to and from the airport.

Hotel Description

If an African bush camp was set amid Swedish Lapland, it would resemble Aurora Safari Camp. Reaching the retreat is part of the adventure: guests fly into Luleå Airport, take a shuttle to reception, and then ride a snowmobile over a frozen river to their tent, a warm drink waiting for them. The authentic Sami lavvu tents allow for optimal northern lights viewing.

Inside, wood-burning stoves provide heat, while communal amenities include a lounge and bar. Additionally, nightly rates encompass outdoor activities such as snowshoeing, Nordic skiing, and sauna sessions combined with invigorating plunges into the river.

Borealis Basecamp, Alaska

Borealis basecamp in Alaska
Courtesy of Borealis Basecamp

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Why We Chose It

Borealis Basecamp is easily accessible from Fairbanks, yet feels remarkably remote with its 100 acres of trees, dark skies, and secluded bubble igloos.

Key Specs

  • Free Wi-Fi: Yes
  • Resort fee: No
  • Room rate: $$$

Notable Amenities

Transportation to and from Fairbanks, free dogsledding tour, and clear-roofed igloos.

Hotel Description

Located just 25 miles from Fairbanks, Borealis Basecamp offers stunning dark skies for incredible northern lights viewing. Guests can experience the auroras from various accommodations, including cube cabins with floor-to-ceiling windows or igloos with clear ceilings.

Rooms feature comfortable beds and en suite bathrooms, plus a beverage bar for hot coffee or tea. While cooking facilities are not available, dining options at the delicious in-house restaurant, Latitude 65, offer lunch, dinner, and continental breakfast with sustainable Alaskan seafood and local produce. Guests can add on full-day adventures such as snowmobile rides and helicopter tours for an additional fee.

Sheldon Chalet, Alaska

Northern Lights over Sheldon Chalet, in Alaska
Chris Burkard/Courtesy of Sheldon Chalet

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Why We Chose It

It may come at a high price, but Sheldon Chalet offers world-class service, stunning location, and luxurious amenities.

Key Specs

  • Free Wi-Fi: No (Wi-Fi not available)
  • Resort fee: No
  • Room rate: $$$$

Notable Amenities

Round-trip helicopter rides, private chef, and oysters with champagne upon arrival.

Hotel Description

A stay at Sheldon Chalet is undeniably a lavish affair, with rates starting around $75,000 per four guests for three nights. The exclusive experience boasts exceptional service, gourmet meals by a world-renowned chef, private sauna usage, and majestic views of Denali and the northern lights. Arriving via helicopter, guests are welcomed with celebratory oysters and champagne.

The hexagonal chalet accommodates up to 10 guests and features five bedrooms, with a recommended minimum stay of four nights to fully relish all that this experience entails.

Hotel Arctic, Greenland

northern lights hotel
Courtesy of Hotel Arctic

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Why We Chose It

Hotel Arctic presents itself as an inviting four-star hotel boasting views of Disko Bay and offers a variety of excursions.

Key Specs

  • Free Wi-Fi: Yes
  • Resort fee: No
  • Room rate: $$

Notable Amenities

Complimentary breakfast, round-trip airport shuttle, and rooms with water views.

Hotel Description

Sitting right by the Ilulissat Icefjord, Hotel Arctic is the world’s northernmost four-star hotel. The establishment comprises 90 rooms, ranging from single options to suites, each featuring comfy beds, stylish bathrooms, and glacier views. The Umiaq Outdoor rooms boast private terraces and direct mountain access.

Guests can dine at two restaurants: Brasserie Ulo and Arctic Fine Dining & Wine Bar, both celebrating local ingredients alongside views of Disko Bay. Guided excursions include kayaking among icebergs, helicopter rides over the fjord, and of course, pursuing the northern lights.

Aurora Village, Finland

Glass cabins under northern lights
Aurora Village Ivalo in Finland. Courtesy of Aurora Village Ivalo

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Why We Chose It

Located three hours north of Rovaniemi, Aurora Village’s glass-roofed igloos provide excellent viewing opportunities and glorious seclusion.

Key Specs

  • Free Wi-Fi: Yes
  • Resort fee: No
  • Room rate: $$

Notable Amenities

Complimentary breakfast and dinner, outdoor equipment use, and saunas.

Hotel Description

While Rovaniemi receives most of the tourism buzz in Finnish Lapland, the village of Ivalo is equally stunning yet less crowded. Its location more than three hours north of Rovaniemi increases the chances of witnessing the aurora. The glass-roofed igloos at Aurora Village offer a cozy retreat for guests, complete with blankets and views of the sky.

If the northern lights don’t grace the skies at bedtime, guests can participate in resort tours, including snowshoe and snowmobile adventures, husky safaris, and ice swimming. Private sessions in the glass-roofed sauna and outdoor hot tub can also be reserved, accompanied by traditional dishes such as mushroom soup and reindeer steaks at the restaurant.

The Retreat at Blue Lagoon Iceland, Iceland

View of the Retreat at Blue Lagoon hotel on Iceland's Blue Lagoon
Courtesy of Blue Lagoon Iceland

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Why We Chose It

The Retreat at Blue Lagoon Iceland not only offers exclusive access to Iceland’s most famous hot spring, but it also features a world-class spa and rooftop deck for optimal northern lights viewing.

Key Specs

  • Free Wi-Fi: Yes
  • Resort fee: No
  • Room rate: $$$$

Notable Amenities

Complimentary breakfast and afternoon tea, exclusive Blue Lagoon skincare products, and morning yoga sessions.

Hotel Description

Opened in 2018, the Retreat at Blue Lagoon quickly established itself as one of Iceland’s most luxurious hotels. Its proximity to the geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon is a significant draw, but there are various amenities for guests to enjoy when not soaking. The rooftop deck offers exceptional views of the northern lights, while hotel guests also enjoy exclusive access to a private section of the lagoon for a more serene experience.

The 62 suites are tastefully designed, featuring contemporary furnishings and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking stunning natural landscapes. The Lagoon Suite even boasts its own private pool, filled with healing water from the Blue Lagoon. Guests can indulge in various treatments at the full-service spa and savor gourmet dining options at Moss Restaurant, recognized by the Michelin Guide in 2022.

Northern Lights Resort & Spa, Canada

Northern Lights Resort and Spa in Canada
Courtesy of Northern Lights Resort and Spa

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Why We Chose It

Located in Canada’s Yukon Territory, Northern Lights Resort & Spa’s setting and all-inclusive amenities are second to none.

Key Specs

  • Free Wi-Fi: Yes
  • Resort fee: No
  • Room rate: $$

Notable Amenities

Complimentary meals, airport transfers, and guided nightly aurora viewing excursions.

Hotel Description

With a longer than average northern lights season stretching from August to mid-April, the family-run Northern Lights Resort & Spa is just 20 minutes from Whitehorse. The resort features stunning glass-front chalets for stargazing and offers various aurora viewing packages, complete with accommodations, guided northern lights tours, photography lessons, and equipment rentals.

Guests also enjoy access to a spa, outdoor hot tub, lounge, bar, and dining room for a comprehensive experience.

Lyngen Experience Lodge, Norway

Lyngen Experience Lodge
Courtesy of Lyngen Experience

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Why We Chose It

Lyngen Experience Lodge is the most affordable option on this list, but its modern accommodations and expert-led tours feel anything but second-rate.

Key Specs

  • Free Wi-Fi: Yes
  • Resort fee: No
  • Room rate: $

Notable Amenities

Airport transportation, guided northern lights tours, and whale watching safaris.

Hotel Description

Situated at Norway’s Lyngen Peninsula, Lyngen Experience Lodge is about 50 miles northeast of Tromsø. Its prime location above the Arctic Circle makes it a hotspot for aurora watchings, with multiple options for guests to fully appreciate the spectacular displays. Accommodations include stylish guest rooms and modern apartments with large windows, along with an aurora hut—a glass-walled igloo offering panoramic aurora views from the comfort of your bed.

Guests can take part in a three-hour northern lights tour, which includes a cozy drive into the woods to a heated tent, complete with warm clothes, snacks, and drinks. Additional excursions may include whale watching, fishing, dogsledding, and skiing the Lyngen Alps. The lodge’s restaurant serves delicious seafood and whiskey, providing the perfect way to unwind after a day of adventure.

Final Verdict

For a luxurious chase of the northern lights, Arctic Bath in Sweden stands out with exquisite design and premier amenities. The Arctic TreeHouse Hotel in Finnish Lapland offers glass-walled villas that allow you to take in the views comfortably. For a more immersive experience, consider the Aurora Safari Camp in Sweden or Borealis Basecamp in Alaska, both of which provide unique accommodations and an array of excursions in breathtaking remote settings.

Know Before You Go

  • While the best aurora season varies by location, the ideal time for northern lights viewing is typically between September and March.
  • Planning your trip around the new moon enhances visibility, so schedule your visit for the week leading up to and the three days following the new moon.
  • For capturing stunning aurora photos, consider using a DSLR camera on a tripod for the best results, and familiarize yourself with northern lights photography techniques beforehand.

How We Chose These Hotels

Our selection process involved evaluating over two dozen of the best northern lights hotels. Key factors included each property’s reputation, quality of service, architectural beauty, proximity to the Arctic Circle, dining variety, and the range of guest experiences available, such as skiing and wilderness tours. We analyzed customer reviews and took into account any recent accolades the properties have received.

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