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WINTER 2007 & 2008
THE NORTHERN LIGHTS AND THE ICEHOTEL®
THE NORTHERN LIGHTS AND THE ICEHOTEL®
The two questions we are most commonly asked are: "Can we visit the ICEHOTEL®?" and "Will we see the Northern Lights?". One is a man-made marvel, the other is a naturally occurring phenomenon and both are immensely impressive. A full blown display of the shimmering Northern Lights is one of nature's most visually stunning wonders while the ICEHOTEL® is a fine tribute to the craftsmanship and skill of the artists and designers who gather each year to be part of its intricate construction. THE NORTHERN LIGHTS
On a clear winter night in Lapland and Canada you may get the chance to view the most magnificent light show that nature has to offer, the Aurora Borealis. The sight of the lights shimmering and dancing across the night sky will be etched in the memory of all those who are lucky enough to witness it. The phenomenon of the Northern Lights has fascinated the Sámi people for centuries and there are more than 20 folk tales that attempt to explain their existence. In many parts of Lapland the lights are known as the Firefox. Legend has it that the tail of a running fox brushing against the powder snow causes the sparks in the sky. It is also said that the Arctic Sea contains so many fish that the moon's light is reflected off their scales and creates the patterns in the sky. Today's science means that we now know that the displays we see are caused by electrically charged particles in Space hitting the Earth's atmosphere. When they collide with oxygen and nitrogen particles they emit excess energy as light. Although the Lights can be seen from northerly parts of the United Kingdom the occurrences are rare and the intensity of the displays tends to be low. The further north you travel the better your chances of viewing the Aurora so most of the destinations in this brochure provide great opportunities. For 2007/08 we are heading further north and deeper into the wilderness than we have before. New destinations such as Nellim at 68.5° North and the magnificent ICEHOTEL® at 67.5° North provide areas free from large amounts of light pollution and can experience magnificent shows. The optimum time for viewing the lights is between 9pm and 1am in the morning. Be careful not to go to bed too soon or you may miss out. The intensity of the displays can vary and may start with a small stationary glow or arch in the night sky before building up to a spectacular show. The lights are a purely natural phenomenon and therefore cannot be guaranteed no matter which destination you choose. However, the further north you travel and the further away from man-made light you are, the better your chances. Many of our destinations offer night time and overnight safaris that will give you the perfect opportunity to spot the Aurora as you travel deep into the darkness (and our guides know all the best view points!). Lying on a reindeer skin in deep snow, watching the sky shimmer and drinking hot berry juice is an excellent way to spend part of your holiday. Whatever you believe about the Aurora Borealis there is no more spectacular experience on Earth than sitting in a winter wonderland watching the Lights dancing across the sky. It is truly magical!
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