Under the Aurora’s Canvas: A Stay at House near the Northern Lights in South Iceland
As I stepped out of the cozy warmth of our lodge, I felt the crisp air of South Iceland envelop me. The sky was a deep shade of indigo, and I knew that this was it – the moment when the aurora borealis would dance across the heavens. And I wasn’t alone. Over the next 24 hours, our small homestead, surrounded by rolling hills and black lava fields, would be filled with the sounds of oohs and aahs as nature’s greatest show unfolded before us.
Our retreat, nestled among the southern Iceland countryside, offers the perfect opportunity to experience the mesmerizing beauty of the Northern Lights. South Iceland, renowned for its spectacular landscapes and ethereal displays, is one of the best locations on the planet to witness the aurora. And House under the Northern Lights, with its tranquil setting and personalized service, provides the perfect haven to enhance your adventure.
As the stars began to align, our knowledgeable host, who has spent countless nights watching the aurora with us, emerged with a batch of hot beverages and snacks, inviting us to gather around the patio. And then, we waited. For a few, tantalizing minutes, nothing appeared to happen – until, in an instant, the sky burst into a mesmerizing display of shimmering green, crimson, and gold hues. The wind picked up, and the darkness seemed to glow with an ethereal light as the aurora borealis illuminated the night air.
Throughout our stay, the staff ensured we were always perfectly positioned to behold the spectacle, moving us inside to a dedicated viewing area at the first hint of clouds gathering. They provided us with aurora-viewing guides, and even arranged personalized wake-up calls when the night sky was due to come alive.
Our secluded retreat offered luxurious accommodations, blending seamlessly into its surroundings. Modern comforts and charming Icelandic design create a warm atmosphere, while breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape allow us to disconnect from the outside world. But the real star of the show is, undoubtedly, the northern lights. House under the Northern Lights offers unforgettable experiences, crafted around your presence and schedule – the ultimate destination for aurora enthusiasts.
Before our stay was over, I found myself entwined with my fellow guests, all bonded by our collective wonder at nature’s grand design. The northern lights became an instant conversation topic, as stories of our observations and memories we created here together filled the days that followed.
Getting there:
From Reykjavik, head east on Road 1 until you reach Vik. From Vik, take Route 261 east and then Road 218 east, until you reach the guesthouse.
Practical info:
House under the Northern Lights is located near Vik, in the southeast of Iceland, about 160 miles (260 km) east of Reykjavik.
Guestrooms with en-suite facilities, Wi-Fi, and blackout curtains.
Shared living spaces feature comfortable seating and fireplaces, while an aurora-viewing area offers exclusive viewing opportunities.
Aurora tips and essentials:
• Check forecasts for clear skies and auroral activity.
• Bring warm, layered clothing for the outdoors and comfortable shoes for exploring.
• Charge your cameras and ensure camera settings are correct for nighttime shots.
• Leave any noise production (e.g., camera shutter clicks) at a minimum, as we must preserve the nocturnal silence, allowing the northern lights to serenade us unobstructed.
In an ever-changing, yet eternally enchanting landscape, we discovered that life under the aurora’s gentle glow was something truly special – a unique celebration of the interplay between sky and land. House under the Northern Lights: where the mystique of South Iceland and the majesty of the aurora borealis collide, forever engraving the fabric of our travels with unforgettable impressions.
Credits:
Aurora photographs courtesy of Léon Oberg
Writing and research credits: [Author’s name], 2022
Design, editing, and proofreading by [Designate your role].
This article and all content provided are the sole property of House under the Northern Lights and Léon Oberg. Permission to share this content must be obtained from House under the Northern Lights.
Download full image House under the northern lights in South Iceland. [1440×1800] [OC] by IsakAronV