• The Glass Igloos – Finland
• The Aurora Sky Station – Sweden
• The Ion Adventure Hotel – Iceland
• The SnowCastle of Kemi – Finland
• The Northern Lights Observatory at Haldde – Norway
• Planning Your Visit
• Conclusion

The Northern Lights or Aurora Borealis are among the most stunning natural effects on the Earth, enchanting the viewers with their dazzling movements across the sky. Around the world, architects and designers have risen to the occasion, designing buildings not only with viewing platforms for this natural phenomenon but also with pleasing designs that will accompany the event. From some of the beautiful hotels in the Arctic Circle to some of the fascinating observatories built at high altitudes, these are not mere buildings, but an experience in themselves. 

Here?s a guide to the five best architectural sites for Aurora Borealis, offering more than just a glimpse of the northern skies.

The Glass Igloos – Finland

Located far from the hustle and bustle of the central Arctic, these stunning Glass Igloos will let you watch the Northern Lights in style. Some of them are made of a glass dome which provides a 360-degree coverage of the sky ensuring a good view. The igloos are an embodiment of Northern Lights architecture, where it is possible to have a comfortable night?s sleep with the dream of watching Northern Lights from your bed. These igloos are perfect examples of unique buildings to see the Northern Lights.

The Aurora Sky Station – Sweden

Located on Mount Nuolja in Abisko, the Aurora Sky Station is one of the prime Northern Lights viewing spots. It is located in a region with low light pollution and where auroras are frequently seen. From the structural point of view, the station is an ideal architectural site for Aurora Borealis as no structures obstruct the view of the night sky. For tourists, there are guided tours, photography, and even stars-up-in-the-sky quality dining.

The Ion Adventure Hotel – Iceland

This splendid hotel is located all alone in the desolate volcanic landscape, which is ideal for catching a glimpse of the Aurora Borealis. The interior and exterior design of the hotel also comprises large windows that are floor length and enable visitors to have a view of the aurora from inside their rooms. It has one of the most modern exteriors among the Northern Lights architecture and offers the guests lots more than just a room ? an experience of the auroras.

The SnowCastle of Kemi – Finland

The SnowCastle of Kemi is reconstructed every winter and it is one of the most beautiful Arctic Circle landmarks for the Northern Lights and Ice architecture. The castle is equipped with a snow hotel, restaurant, and chapel to create the feeling of a fairy tale and the Northern Lights. Ice also reflects light and therefore makes the experience of the aurora even more special and enchanting at this location.

The Northern Lights Observatory at Haldde – Norway

This particular observatory is a historic structure constructed on Mount Haldde to solely provide a vantage point for watching the Aurora Borealis. It is situated north of the Arctic Circle and the design includes large open, clear skies perfect for making it a Northern Lights viewing spot. The centre offers a historical view of how Northern lights have been seen throughout history thus enriching the visitors? experience.

Planning Your Visit

Visiting architectural marvels designed for viewing the Northern Lights requires careful planning, particularly due to the natural unpredictability of this celestial phenomenon. Here are some essential tips to help ensure a memorable experience:

• Book During Aurora Season: The ideal time to see the Northern Lights is during autumn, winter, and early spring which runs from September to March respectively. They have the longest nights in this period and therefore there are more night lights to view.
• Check Weather and Aurora Forecasts: Check the local weather forecast and predictions of aurora activity daily. The possibility of getting a good view is high during clear and non-cloudy nights and the northern lights activity.
• Explore Night-time Activities: A lot of places have activities that are unique to the period of the night because they help make the experience of watching the northern lights better. These may include night guided tours and photo-shoot tours among others.
• Consider the Architectural Experience: Note that others are chosen not just for their visibility but also for the architectural characteristics of the area. Find a location that you think will suit your personality as well as your level of ease.
• Prepare for the Climate: Weather used to be observed from the best vantage points that are usually in cold and inaccessible places. This includes putting on heavy clothes and ensuring one has adequate clothing and gear for the Arctic climate.

Conclusion

As we explore these five architectural marvels designed for viewing the Northern Lights, it’s clear that each site offers more than just a chance to witness the ethereal beauty of the Aurora Borealis. They provide a unique blend of innovation, luxury, and accessibility that transforms a simple natural phenomenon into a profound, holistic experience. These destinations not only serve as gateways to viewing one of the world’s most awe-inspiring sights but also stand as testaments to human creativity and ingenuity in harmonizing architecture with nature.

Whether you’re wrapped in a blanket in a glass igloo, perched on a mountain observatory, or nestled in an ice castle, the journey to see the Northern Lights at these sites promises to be as breathtaking as the lights themselves. Each visit offers a profound reminder of the wonders our world holds, waiting to be explored through paths less travelled.

Source

• https://www.kaarwan.com/blog/architecture/architecture-under-the-northern-lights?id=435
  
• https://www.best-served.co.uk/blog/where-to-see-the-northern-lights-2015-2016
  
• https://www.discover-the-world.com/blog/gourmet-dinner-at-the-aurora-sky-station
  
• https://www.travelandleisure.com/glass-igloo-northern-lights-in-finland-7371438
  
• https://www.visitfinland.com/en/articles/sleep-of-under-the-northern-lights
  
• https://fiftydegreesnorth.com/eu/info-centre/northern-lights-finlandhttps://visitsweden.com/where-to-go/northern-sweden/swedish-lapland/abisko-and-northern-lights/