Spotting the Northern Lights in Scotland
Aurora hunters rejoice! Glencoe offers solitude, silence and sparkling skies in abundance, so there’s no need to trudge all the way to the Arctic Circle to experience the wonder of the Northern Lights. When conditions are right, Aurora Borealis can put on an unforgettable show right here above Woodlands Glencoe. This blog shares our top tips and tricks to maximise your chances of spotting the Northern Lights in Scotland, should she decide to strut her funky stuff while you’re staying with us!
What’s the science behind Aurora Borealis?
Aurora activity begins around 80 miles above the Earth’s surface, although the very top of a display can stretch several thousand miles into space; but what actually creates this glorious winter spectacle?
In simple terms, what we’re witnessing is atoms and molecules in our atmosphere colliding with charged particles from the Sun. The aurora’s mesmerising, swirling ribbons of light are guided by the lines of force in the Earth’s magnetic field creating the magical patterns we see dancing across the sky. So, now that we know what’s going on up there, how do we give ourselves the best possible chance of seeing it at Woodlands Glencoe?
When is the best time to see the Northern Lights?
If you’re hoping to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights in Scotland, you’ll need to pack your winter woollies. During the summer months, the skies above Glencoe simply don’t get dark enough, but that’s no bad thing, as the West Highlands are breathtakingly beautiful (and ridiculously romantic) throughout the winter, especially when Aurora makes an appearance. Last year, we witnessed the final aurora of winter in mid-March, with the first sighting of the following season appearing in mid-October, the earliest we’ve ever known!
Can you ever be certain of a sighting?
The honest answer? No. Aurora Borealis plays by her own rules; however, if you’re willing to be a little spontaneous, your chances increase dramatically. Over the winter months, we often have very last-minute availability in RiverBeds Luxury Wee Lodges, SeaBeds Luxury Lookouts or Forest Corner Luxury Hideaways. We recommend keeping a close eye on Aurora Watch and when you spot a red alert over the West Highlands, it might be time to hit the Book Now button!
Can you see the Northern Lights from the lodges?
Yes, absolutely! On a crystal-clear night, if Aurora decides to show herself, you’ll almost certainly be able to see her from your lodge. For the best views, we recommend our SeaBeds Luxury Lookouts, which boast floor-to-ceiling windows and uninterrupted views to the north and west. Better still, slip into your infinity hot tub and soak up a full cosmic panorama of the night sky. If there’s aurora activity overhead, you’ll have a front-row seat! If you’re staying in a RiverBeds Luxury Wee Lodge, we suggest requesting one of the upper lodges. These lodges sit above the tree canopy, offering clearer sight-lines to the vast Highland skies.
Make the most of your alfresco Aurora adventure
All of our lodges enjoy excellent views of the night sky, but here are a few of our favourite ways to experience Aurora Borealis on the estate:
Hot tub stargazing: Simply turn off the hot tub lights, lean back and enjoy watching the aurora ripple overhead from the warmth of the tub!
Wilderness sauna sessions: Book one of the later slots at our wilderness sauna. The huge west-facing window makes this an unforgettable spot to watch the skies, and if Aurora is active, the view from the sauna is truly spectacular.
Order a Cosagach Cosy Kit? Each kit includes logs and kindling for your fire pit, sparklers to add a little extra magic and a s’mores-making kit complete with giant marshmallows, skewers, oat crumble biscuits and luxury chocolate! Perfect for a night spent under the stars.
