Locations / Sweden / Lapland
Abisko
A rain shadow beside a frozen lake, reputed to be one of the clearest places in Europe.
Next nine nights
Aurora in Abisko
Abisko National Park lies in the rain shadow of the Scandinavian mountains, which gives the area an unusually dry climate and a reputation for clear nights. A patch of sky above the lake Torneträsk is locally known as the “blue hole” for its tendency to stay open when surroundings are cloudy.
There is a purpose-built aurora viewing platform above the park, reached by chairlift, set high above the village lights. It is a common base for photographers who want near-darkness and minimal fuss.
It is a small place with few services, which is the point: little light pollution, and quiet.
Season
Late August to early April.
At a glance
- Latitude
- 68.35° N
- Geomagnetic latitude
- ≈ 65° N
- Known for
- Dry climate, the “blue hole”, sky station
- Time zone
- CET / CEST
Getting there
By train from Kiruna or Narvik, or by road on the E10.
Tips for Abisko
- Abisko is across the border from Narvik. If Norway’s coast is clouded in, the Swedish side can be clear.
- Book accommodation well ahead in peak months; there is not much of it.
- Trains run to Abisko, which makes it reachable without a car.
Clear sky first, Kp second.
Our verdict weighs cloud at 65% and geomagnetic activity at 35%. What is Kp? · Where the cloud forecast comes from
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Rovaniemi
—On the Arctic Circle, with snow, huskies and glass igloos.
Reykjavík
—Aurora from a capital city, with lava fields and geothermal pools a short drive away.
Fairbanks
—Inland Alaska: cold, dry, and under the oval more nights than almost anywhere in North America.
Yellowknife
—Under the oval, with a reputation for clear, still nights.