The land of the Northern Lights and the Midnight Sun

As the Earth tilts on its axis, relative to the sun, the seasons evolve. Above the Arctic Circle the seasons are more profound, as out of the darkness of winter comes the light of an endless summer. This is the land of the polar nights, northern lights and of the midnight sun. It is a land of alpine mountains, narrow fjords with thriving fishing communities, arctic tundra and large open spaces that are a photographer's dream at anytime of year.

The Northern Lights:

The Lofoten

The 100km chain of the Lofoten archipelago hums with life throughout the winter months. For millennia fishermen have come to these waters in search of the annual catch and their wooden red rorbu’s are symbolic of the region. Snowshoe treks, horse riding, kayaking, boat trips on the Trollfjord and sea eagle safaris are on offer.

Tromso

When you think of Norway and the Aurora Borealis it is likely that the university city of Tromso will spring to mind. Directly under the Aurora oval, the city and its surrounding region offer the highest probability of seeing the northern lights in the country. You can observe the colourful waves of the aurora from the city itself although a more emotive and exhilarating experience can often be enjoyed when coupling a hunt with a winter activity such as a snowmobile, dog-sled or reindeer tour.

Alta

The city of the northern lights and one of the most northerly cities in the world. Its connection with the aurora goes back over 200 years. In fact, one of the world’s first northern light observatories was built just outside of the city. A choice of small group and private Aurora experiences are available. The Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel is located here.

Kirkenes

At 70-degree latitude the frontier town of Kirkenes is as far north as Point Barrow in Alaska and situated directly under the Aurora oval. It is the easternmost town on the Norwegian mainland - just 15km from the Russian border and further east than Istanbul and St Petersburg - and is also the most culturally diverse. Light pollution is minimal in the Kirkenes and the Aurora Borealis can be enjoyed from within the city limits.

The Midnight Sun:

The Lofoten: 28 MAY TO 14 JULY

The landscape of the Lofoten is one of the most dramatic and breathtaking in the whole of Norway: rugged peaks, picturesque fishing communities, white sandy beaches and sheltered ports. Add to this 24 hours of daylight and you have one of the most beautiful island destinations in the world and a geological masterpiece.

Tromso: 20 MAY TO 22 JULY

There is always something happening in Tromso and the period of the midnight sun is no exception. The city hosts midnight concerts and a midnight sun marathon, as well as offering guests the opportunity to join a selection of outdoor activities. Take the cable car to the mountain ledge Storsteinen and watch the midnight sun hover over the city and the peaks of Ringvassoya island.

Alta: 17 MAY TO 26 JULY

The cultural landscape of Finnmark stretches far beyond Alta’s city limits. Here the Sami and their reindeer have lived for thousands of years, observing the skies and nature and using their readings to determine their migratory routes and seasons. The Komsafjellet mountain in Alta rises 212m from sea level and offers a dramatic setting for watching the midnight sun.

Kirkenes and the Hurtigruten: 18 MAY TO 26 JULY

Many of the guests choose to travel to Kirkenes by Hurtigruten during the summer months. On passing the Arctic Circle at 66.32 degrees the opportunity to experience the midnight sun is available on every step of your voyage. You can even visit the North Cape, the northernmost point of mainland Europe.