As the world’s first country to be recommended for its health benefits, Sweden is now shining a light on one of its most awe-inducing wellness experiences: the Northern Lights.
With interest in “northern lights travel” on the rise and 61 percent of travelers naming the aurora borealis as the top natural phenomenon they want to experience, the timing couldn’t be better. A rare solar maximum is underway, making aurora displays brighter, more frequent, and easier to catch. Sweden offers front-row access to one of nature’s most powerful mood boosters. Abisko in Swedish Lapland is consistently ranked among the best places on Earth to view the Northern Lights, thanks to its clear skies and unique microclimate.
The health benefits are well-documented. Studies show that witnessing vast natural phenomena, such as the aurora, can lower stress, improve mood, and foster emotional restoration.
With the Northern Lights visible up to 200 nights a year in Sweden — and peak conditions expected through 2026 due to the solar cycle — this natural spectacle is both timely and therapeutic, often enjoyed from saunas, outdoor hot tubs, forest cabins, or silent reindeer rides under the Arctic sky.
For those seeking warmth and comfort while experiencing the aurora, Sweden offers a range of cozy viewing spots that combine natural immersion with Nordic hospitality. Here’s a selection of warm and wondrous viewing spots.
8 Cozy Places to Watch the Aurora in Sweden
Aurora Safari Camp – Råne River Valley
Heated Sámi-style tents with wood-burning stoves and no light pollution. Includes a floating sauna and private aurora alerts. aurorasafaricamp.com
Arctic Bath – Harads
A design-forward floating spa hotel on the Lule River. Watch the lights from the outdoor pools or spa lounge. arcticbath.se
Treehotel – Harads
Architect-designed treehouse suites with heated interiors and sky-facing windows for silent aurora viewing. treehotel.se
Pinetree Lodge – Särkimukka
Log cabin charm with outdoor hot tubs, lakeside sauna, and the secluded Aurora Hideaway Cabin. explorethenorth.se
Máttaráhkká Northern Light Lodge – Kiruna
Seven-room lodge run by Sámi hosts, featuring rooftop hot tubs and panoramic sky views. mattarahkka.com
Camp Ripan – Kiruna
Family-run hotel with private chalet-style rooms and an Aurora Spa featuring heated outdoor pools. ripan.se
Arctic Gourmet Cabin – Kaalasjärvi
Two private guest cabins with a tiny fine-dining restaurant and aurora views from your doorstep. arcticgourmetcabin.com
Fjellborg Arctic Lodge – Väkkäräjärvi
Fully private, lakeside retreat reached by sled, with sauna, outdoor hot tub, and dogsledding options. fjellborgarcticlodge.com
*Source: Visit Sweden/YouGov Survey, June/July 2025