Introduction
Few experiences rival the magic of standing beneath a sky illuminated by the dancing waves of the Aurora Borealis. Iceland, with its vast and dramatic landscapes, is one of the best places on Earth to witness this natural phenomenon.
But as thrilling as the Northern Lights are, catching them takes careful planning – choosing the right base can make all the difference. Enter our incredible Hill Hotel (I know we would say that…but we also have processes at the hotel to help ensure no traveller misses this iconic celestial dance), an idyllic retreat perfectly positioned near the Golden Circle, offering breathtaking views, unparalleled access to Iceland’s iconic landscapes, and even a Northern Lights wake-up call service to ensure you don’t miss the show.
Whether you’re seeking isolation from light pollution or convenient access to Iceland’s most photogenic spots, The Hill Hotel is the ultimate place to stay.
This travel guide dives deep into why, where, and how to maximise your chances of seeing the Northern Lights during your Icelandic adventure.
Why Iceland is Perfect for Northern Lights Viewing
The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, are caused by solar particles colliding with Earth’s atmosphere, creating shimmering curtains of green, purple, and pink light across the polar skies. Thanks to its location just below the Arctic Circle, Iceland provides a front-row seat to this spectacle.
But what makes Iceland truly special isn’t just the lights themselves, it’s the landscapes beneath them.
Picture towering glaciers glowing faintly under emerald skies, waterfalls cascading in the moonlight, and black sand beaches kissed by the Northern Lights’ ethereal glow. From mid-September to mid-April, when the nights are long and the skies dark, Iceland transforms into an Aurora hunter’s paradise – did we mention our team is full of Aurora nerds also?
1. The Golden Circle: A Perfect Northern Lights Hub
The Golden Circle is a must-visit destination for any traveller to Iceland, known for its trio of iconic landmarks: Þingvellir National Park, Geysir, and Gullfoss Waterfall. But beyond these daytime wonders, the Golden Circle is also one of the best places to catch the Northern Lights.
Why the Golden Circle?
The region offers vast, open landscapes far removed from city lights, making it ideal for Aurora viewing. On a clear night, you can see the lights dancing across the sky, reflecting off snow-covered plains or the rushing waters of Gullfoss. Þingvellir National Park, with its unique geology and historical significance, doubles as a dark-sky sanctuary perfect for Aurora photography.
The Hill Hotel: The Ideal Base
The Hill Hotel is conveniently located near the Golden Circle, allowing guests to explore these attractions by day and enjoy unobstructed views of the Northern Lights by night. Its proximity to Reykjavik also makes it easy to start or end your trip in Iceland’s capital while enjoying the best of rural tranquility.
2. The South Coast: Iconic Landscapes Under the Aurora
Iceland’s South Coast is a land of dramatic contrasts, where black sand beaches meet towering cliffs, and icy glaciers sit beside roaring waterfalls. When the Aurora Borealis graces this region, the scenery transforms into something out of a dream.
Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss Waterfalls
Few sights are as captivating as the Aurora framing the cascading waters of Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss. These iconic waterfalls are especially striking at night, their mist catching the faint glow of the Northern Lights.
Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
The famous black sands of Reynisfjara, paired with the basalt sea stacks rising dramatically from the ocean, create a hauntingly beautiful backdrop for the Aurora. The reflective sands amplify the light, creating photo opportunities that are second to none.
Stay Close, Stay Comfortable
The Hill Hotel’s location provides seamless access to the South Coast, allowing you to explore these wonders by day and return to a warm, welcoming retreat. With its tranquil surroundings, you’ll have an ideal vantage point to watch the skies come alive from some of these iconic spots, or even after a day if discovery from our cosy courtyard of hot tubs.
3. West Iceland: Hidden Gems for Northern Lights Seekers
For those seeking lesser-known spots to witness the Aurora, West Iceland offers an array of hidden gems. This region is quieter than the Golden Circle or South Coast, making it a fantastic choice for travellers who prefer solitude.
Borgarfjörður
Known for its geothermal activity and glaciers, Borgarfjörður also boasts wide-open skies perfect for Aurora hunting. The Krauma Geothermal Baths, set against the backdrop of steaming hot springs, offer a relaxing way to combine stargazing with Northern Lights viewing.
Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Often referred to as “Iceland in Miniature,” the Snæfellsnes Peninsula offers dramatic coastlines, lava fields, and the striking Snæfellsjökull glacier. Watching the Northern Lights here feels like stepping into another world.
Also, for the Game of Thrones geeks among you, a night under the dark skies by the “arrow-head mountain” of Kirkjufell can offer the most incredible sights you’ll cherish for a lifetime.
Why Base Yourself at The Hill Hotel?
From The Hill Hotel, West Iceland’s treasures are just a short drive away. Its central location allows you to experience the best of Iceland without the need for constant relocation, giving you more time to focus on the night skies.
4. Why The Hill Hotel is the Best Place to Stay for the Northern Lights
When it comes to choosing accommodation in Iceland, location is everything. The Hill Hotel stands out as the perfect base for several reasons:
Prime Location
Nestled in amidst the Golden Circle, The Hill Hotel is surrounded by wide-open landscapes free from light pollution, ensuring you have the best chance to see the Northern Lights. Its strategic location also makes day trips to the South Coast, West Iceland, and Reykjavik hassle-free.
Northern Lights Wake-Up Call
One of the biggest challenges of Aurora hunting is knowing when they’ll appear. The Hill Hotel offers a Northern Lights wake-up call service, so you can sleep soundly and still catch the lights when they grace the skies while we monitor the skies for you while you slumber.
Comfort and Convenience
After a long day of exploring Iceland’s rugged terrain, retreating to a cozy, well-equipped hotel is a luxury you’ll appreciate. The Hill Hotel combines comfort with easy access to Iceland’s top attractions, ensuring your stay is both restful and adventurous.
5. Tips for Maximising Your Chances of Seeing the Northern Lights
While the Northern Lights are never guaranteed, following these tips can greatly increase your odds:
Check the Aurora and Weather Forecasts
Websites like Aurora Reykajvík provide real-time Aurora forecasts, including KP indices (which measure solar activity) and cloud cover predictions.
Seek Out Dark Spots
Avoid areas with artificial light. Fortunately, in Iceland, with only one city, escaping to the countryside near our hotel is all you need to position yourself for a perfect viewing opportunity.
Dress Warmly
Icelandic nights can be frigid, especially in winter. Pack thermal layers, insulated jackets, and sturdy boots to stay comfortable while sky-gazing.
Bring the Right Equipment
A good camera, tripod, and wide-angle lens are essential for capturing the Aurora if you’re planning on bringing your DSLR camera for that perfect shot. Don’t forget extra batteries, as cold temperatures can drain them quickly.
What Are Dark Spots? And Why Are They Ideal for Viewing the Northern Lights?
Dark spots are areas with minimal or no artificial light pollution.
These locations provide a clearer and more vivid view of the night sky, making them ideal for stargazing and viewing natural phenomena like the Northern Lights.
Urban areas with streetlights, buildings, and other sources of light significantly diminish your chances of seeing the Aurora Borealis in all its glory. Even faint light from a nearby town can wash out the vibrant colors and details of the Aurora.
Dark spots not only offer optimal visibility but also provide an immersive experience. When you’re in a truly dark area, the night sky comes alive with stars, constellations, and sometimes even the faint glow of the Milky Way. This pristine darkness enhances the drama of the Northern Lights, making the experience truly magical.
Where Are the Dark Spots in Iceland?
Iceland is one of the best countries in the world for finding dark spots, thanks to its vast, sparsely populated landscapes. Here are some of the top dark spots to consider for Northern Lights viewing:
1. Þingvellir National Park
Located within the Golden Circle, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers wide-open spaces far from artificial light. The park’s geological features, such as fissures and lava fields, provide stunning foregrounds for Aurora photography.
2. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
This iconic spot on the South Coast is not only famous for its floating icebergs but also its remote location, making it an excellent place to catch the Aurora reflected on the icy waters.
3. Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Known as “Iceland in Miniature,” this peninsula is home to remote beaches, dramatic cliffs, and the Snæfellsjökull glacier. The lack of nearby settlements ensures minimal light pollution.
4. The Highlands
If you’re willing to venture into Iceland’s remote interior, the Highlands offer complete isolation and unparalleled darkness. However, you’ll have to plan to come in late-August/early September before this region closes for the winter season.
5. The Hill Hotel
Strategically located near the Golden Circle, The Hill Hotel provides an ideal base for exploring Iceland’s best dark spots. Its surroundings are naturally shielded from light pollution, giving guests a front-row seat to the Northern Lights.
What Else Do I Need to Know to Be Able to See the Northern Lights in Iceland?
Catching the Northern Lights is part science, part patience, and part luck. Here’s what you should know to maximise your chances:
Timing Is Everything
The Northern Lights are most active between September and mid-April, when Iceland experiences long, dark nights. The best time to spot them is usually between 9 PM and 2 AM, though they can appear at any time during the hours of darkness.
Check the Forecasts
To improve your odds, monitor both the Aurora forecast and the weather forecast. The Aurora forecast indicates solar activity and the likelihood of seeing the lights, often measured by a KP index (higher numbers mean more activity). Clear skies are essential, so look for areas with low cloud cover.
Be Patient
The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon and don’t follow a strict schedule. It’s not uncommon to wait several hours, or even multiple nights, to catch a glimpse. Dress warmly, bring snacks, and make the waiting part of the adventure.
Choose the Right Location
Even in Iceland, not every spot is equally good for viewing the Northern Lights. Prioritise dark, open areas with unobstructed views of the horizon. Avoid valleys or places with nearby mountains that can block your view.
Stay Flexible
Aurora hunting often requires adaptability. Be ready to move if cloud cover rolls in, and leverage the hourly forecast to increase your chances of finding clear skies. Renting a car gives you the freedom to chase clear skies.
Take Advantage of Services
Accommodations like The Hill Hotel offer a Northern Lights wake-up call service, so you won’t miss the lights if they appear while you’re sleeping. This service is invaluable for those who don’t want to stay up all night sky-watching.
Manage Expectations
While the Northern Lights are often vibrant, they can also appear faint or diffuse, depending on solar activity and weather conditions. Even if the Aurora is less dramatic than expected, the experience of being under Iceland’s vast, starlit skies is unforgettable.
By understanding what dark spots are, where to find them, and how to prepare, you’ll be well-equipped to make the most of your Northern Lights adventure in Iceland. Remember, it’s not just about seeing the lights, it’s about immersing yourself in the raw, untouched beauty of Icelandic nature.
With the right planning, patience, and position, your Aurora dreams can become a reality.
6. Other Hidden Gems if You Have Time
If your itinerary allows, consider exploring these lesser-known spots for a quieter and equally stunning Northern Lights experience:
Hrunalaug Hot Springs
Nestled in the countryside near Flúðir, this charming geothermal pool offers a peaceful setting for stargazing. Soaking in the warm waters while the Northern Lights dance overhead is an unforgettable experience.
Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon
This stunning canyon, carved by a glacial river, offers dramatic views and a sense of serenity. Under the Aurora’s glow, the canyon takes on an otherworldly beauty.
Kvernufoss Waterfall
Often overshadowed by its neighbour, Skógafoss, Kvernufoss is a hidden gem worth exploring. Its secluded location makes it a fantastic spot for a quiet Aurora-viewing experience.
Conclusion
Iceland’s allure lies in its ability to captivate visitors with its raw, untouched beauty, and witnessing the Northern Lights here is a life-changing experience. Choosing the right place to stay can make all the difference, and The Hill Hotel offers the perfect combination of location, comfort, and convenience.
From its prime position near the Golden Circle to its Northern Lights wake-up call service, The Hill Hotel ensures you won’t miss a single moment of Iceland’s magic. Whether you’re exploring the South Coast’s iconic waterfalls, West Iceland’s hidden gems, or the Golden Circle’s legendary landmarks, you’ll have the ideal base to rest, recharge, and revel in the Aurora’s glow.
Pack your warmest clothes, bring your camera, and prepare for an unforgettable journey under Iceland’s star-studded skies. The Hill Hotel is waiting to welcome you to the adventure of a lifetime.