IMAGINE standing beneath an Arctic sky as ribbons of green, pink and violet light dance overhead.
For many Australians, seeing the Northern Lights is the ultimate bucket-list experience, and Scandinavia is calling.
The Northern Lights, or aurora borealis, are one of nature’s most spectacular displays.
For Australian travellers accustomed to sunshine and warm weather, the contrast of snow-covered landscapes, crisp Arctic air and a sky illuminated by the aurora creates an unforgettable travel experience.
But a Scandinavian holiday is about much more than chasing the lights.
The Northern Lights season generally runs from late August or September through to March or early April, depending on your destination.
The darker nights of winter provide excellent conditions for aurora viewing, while the months around the autumn and spring equinoxes can also offer good opportunities.
Northern Norway, Swedish Lapland and Finnish Lapland are among the most popular regions for aurora adventures.
While sightings can never be guaranteed, with nature always having the final say, staying several nights and travelling away from city lights can give you more opportunities to witness the spectacle.
One of the great advantages of a Scandinavian holiday is the incredible range of experiences you can combine with your Northern Lights adventure.
In Norway, explore dramatic fjords, visit Tromsø, take a whale-watching cruise or discover the spectacular Lofoten Islands.
In Finland, experience the magic of Lapland with husky sledding, reindeer encounters, snowmobiling, traditional Sámi culture and cosy accommodation beneath the Arctic sky.
In Sweden, visit Abisko and Kiruna, ski through pristine landscapes or experience the extraordinary ice hotel.
You can also add time in Scandinavian capitals such as Stockholm, Oslo, Copenhagen or Helsinki, creating a holiday that combines Arctic adventure with European culture, cuisine and history.
Planning a Northern Lights holiday involves more than booking a flight.
Choosing the right destination, timing your trip, selecting suitable accommodation and arranging excursions can make all the difference.
Talk to your local travel experts at Helloworld Travel Carindale or Helloworld Travel Capalaba.
The team can help turn your Northern Lights dream into a carefully planned Scandinavian adventure, from flights and accommodation to tours, experiences and the little details that make a big trip memorable.
Don’t just dream about seeing the Northern Lights – start planning your Scandinavian adventure today.
