Northern Lights Guide
Welcome! Here you will find Hotel Hvolsvöllur's guide to spotting The Icelandic Northern Lights while in Hvolsvöllur
RECOMMENDED
Aurora Hunting Locations in Hvolsvöllur
01
By The Cemetery
Walking to the cemetery is ideal, it is about a 15 minute walk each way.
Our top recommendation for aurora spotting.
02
By the Church
The town's church is located on a small hillside, making it a great viewing point for aurora hunters. It is only 10mins away on foot.
03
The Sports Ground
04
The Field
The small field located behind the hotel building is one of the closest & most ideal locations to spot the northern lights.
Tips for Northern Lights Hunters
01
Check the Forecast
Before going outside, check the weather forecast and the chances of aurora. Remember that even if the chance of aurora is high, it will not be visible through the clouds.
02
Dress Warmly
Icelandic nights can be very cold. Wear layers, a hat, gloves, and sturdy footwear.
It would be a good idea to take something warm to drink in a thermos.
03
Prepare Your Camera
Use a camera with manual settings to capture the lights. Set your camera to a long exposure to get the best shots.
04
Stay Patient
The lights can be unpredictable. Stay outside for a while to increase your chances of seeing them.
Frequently Asked Questions
List of Services
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What time can we see the aurora borealis?
It is not possible to determine the exact hour when you can see the Northern Lights, as their appearance depends on various factors like solar activity and weather conditions. The best way to stay informed is to check forecasts using apps and websites you can find below.
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When is the best time to see the Northern Lights?List Item 1
The best time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland is from begining of September to early April. The lights can be visible only when it's dark.
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Are the Northern Lights visible every night?List Item 2
No, the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, and their appearance depends on solar activity and weather conditions. Clear, cloudless skies greatly increase your chances of seeing them.
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Does the hotel offer a Northern Lights wake-up service?List Item 3
No, our hotel does not offer a wake-up service for the Northern Lights. We encourage guests to check the aurora forecast and stay prepared for sightings on their own. The applications and websites we recommend can be found below.
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Where is the best place to watch the Northern Lights near the hotel?List Item 4
If the aurora is active, you will see it even in front of our hotel. However, if you want to see it in its full glory, check out our recommended places in the area.
List of Services
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How long can you see the aurora borealis?
The Northern Lights can be visible for a few minutes up to several hours, depending on their intensity and weather conditions. The duration of the aurora is very unpredictable – sometimes it appears briefly, while other times it can dance across the sky throughout the entire night.
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What are the best conditions for viewing the Northern Lights?List Item 1
The best conditions are dark, clear skies with minimal moonlight. Check the weather and aurora forecast to find the best time for viewing.
Enough Solar Activity is key. Anything above 3 on the Kp-index is great!
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What are the best camera settings for photographing the Northern Lights?List Item 2
To capture the Northern Lights, use a camera with manual settings, such as a long exposure (15-30 seconds), a low ISO (800-1600), and a wide-angle lens.
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What should I bring with me when watching the Northern Lights?List Item 3
Dress warmly — wear layers, a hat, gloves, and sturdy footwear. Bring a thermos with a warm drink and a camera to capture this amazing phenomenon. We also recommend taking a tripod with you.
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Are the Northern Lights visible in Hvolsvöllur?List Item 4
Yes, Hvolsvöllur is a great place to view the Northern Lights due to its location away from city lights and the dark sky.
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Our rooms are spacious and comfortable, each designed with the comfort of travelers in mind. The hotel has been family-run for years, and we pride ourselves on offering friendly & personal service to our customers.
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