Experiencing the Northern Lights or Aurora Borealis, is a truly once in a lifetime event which will stay with you forever. This spectacular light show which occurs when magnetized protons and neutrons smash together in the sky and the consequence are multicolored light flashes blazing across the sky. There are many places in northern Europe where you can witness this spectacular event, most of which in Scandinavia but what many people don’t know, is that you can actually see this event from Bonny Scotland.
Scandinavian countries are notoriously expensive and that is one of the biggest reasons why many will instead look for the light show in alternative countries, Scotland being one of the best. Let’s take a look where and when is the best time for you to catch the Northern Lights in Scotland.
When to See Them
The best time to be in Scotland if you wish to see the Northern Lights, is during autumn and winter. Usually the lights are best seen as autumn draws to a close and winter begins to usher itself in. Try late October to early November if you really want to see these lights at their best.
Shetland Islands
The Shetland Islands are probably the best place for you to witness the Northern Lights because of its close proximity with Scandinavia. The islands are actually an archipelago of over 100 islands and there are few areas in the world as remote as these islands. There is little light pollution here which means that you can see the lights with real clarity.
Aberdeenshire
Aberdeen is probably the most tourist friendly location for those looking to enjoy a break, and witness the Northern Lights. On the coast of Aberdeenshire is the best place to witness the lights although with the pollution from the city, getting to see the light with any real clarity is not always guaranteed.
The Cairngorms
The Cairngorms is a huge national park which features some of the UK’s tallest mountains, now landscapes, fresh rivers and huge lakes, it is also one of the best places in the country to see Aurora Borealis. Thanks to both the proximity of the National Park, and the near-perfect darkness which you get during your time there, the lights look spectacular in this setting. Tourists will not only love the light show, but the huge array of activities on offer in this park.
The Coast of Fife
The coast of Fife is slowly becoming a very popular destination to witness Aurora thanks to the quaint and quirky surrounding areas. This is one of the best places to truly explore Scotland and also see the incredible Northern Lights. Fifa is a region with coastline, small villages, rustic towns and a very Scottish way of life. If you are heading to Scotland to try and see these lights, Fife makes for one of the best places for you to choose from.
Have you seen the light before? Where did you see them? We’d love to hear from you so let us know your thoughts in the comments below.