Aurora Borealis aka the Northern Lights! This miracle marvel has been captivating human beings for years. They are nothing short of magical.
When the vast northern skies come alive with flickering neon ribbons, it is common for a hush to fall across the entranced watchers.
Today, of course, we know what makes this incredible sight. Energetically charged particles from the sun collide with atoms high in the atmosphere and create the dancing light show. Although watching the aurora flicker, it is easy to understand why humans have ascribed myth and magic to it throughout history. It truly is a once-in-a-lifetime travel experience.
Deciding the best way to set out in search of them can be daunting. There are various places in the Northern Hemisphere where you can see the lights close to the Arctic circle, from late August until late April, with countries such as Finland, Norway, Sweden, Iceland, Canada and Greenland all considered to provide good vantage points.
I am not sure there are many things more romantic than heading off with a partner to watch this natural phenomenon and there is one special way to do it that I highly recommend that will create a lifetime of memories.
Imagine snuggling up together under the fleeciest of blankets in the warmth of your very own glass-roofed igloo out in the remote Arctic wilderness and simply waiting for the aurora. When it arrives, you will have a front-row seat and you won’t even have to put on a snowsuit.
The Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort is a stunning hotel located 250 km north of the Arctic Circle in northern Finland. It benefits from excellent air and land transport connections. Most visitors arrive at Ivalo airport by flights from Finland’s capital Helsinki, and Kakslauttanen is a 30-minute transfer away. You can spend a few romantic days here or combine your stay with a city break in Helsinki.
The resort occupies two sites on either side of the main northbound Lapland highway to the North Cape, so spectacular and extreme winters are practically guaranteed.
The most fantastic accommodation from igloos to traditional log chalets are available, and for an anniversary, honeymoon or special birthday, why not upgrade to the majestic Queen Suite with its own private hot tub, or even the extraordinary Wedding Chamber. Be sure to ask me about these when discussing your holiday options.
The igloos have thermal glass domes that provide the magic of sleeping outside without having to brave the elements. All come with reclining beds for the optimal viewing experience creating the perfect space to share watching the dancing lights.
Most clients elect to stay in the igloo for a one night only experience and then switch to either a picturesque log cabin or suite, dotted around the forest for the remainder of their trip. With the roaring log fire and private sauna, take full advantage of this special time for a digital detox and to shut out the world behind you. Sidenote: wi-fi is available if you really do need it.
Try your hand at the traditional Sami mode of transport and guide a team of energetic husky dogs on a course across the frozen wilderness or be guided on a reindeer safari. Horse riding and sleigh rides also allow you to take in the natural surroundings, one of the cleanest you can find and will leave you feeling exhilarated and refreshed after a snowy excursion.
If you are feeling more courageous, you can head to the world’s biggest smoke sauna before jumping into a frozen river; or, for a more laidback experience, try your hand at ice-fishing, one of the many activities available to book once we have established your interests and priorities.
There are two dining experience options depending on where your accommodation is located.
The traditional Kelo restaurant or the West Village Aurora complete with glass igloo bar both offer a comprehensive buffet breakfast of fresh breads, fruit, porridge, fish and cereals and à la carte dinner menus packed with local Lappish cuisine.
Kakslauttanen is situated in the most breath-taking surroundings with the freshest air and the purest water and is, without doubt, one of the most perfect, romantic breaks in nature available.
If your interest is piqued, please get in touch and let’s get planning.
