Sweden is once again positioning itself at the forefront of nature-based wellbeing. As the first country in the world to be officially recommended for its health benefits, Sweden is now highlighting one of its most powerful natural experiences: the Northern Lights.
Interest in aurora travel has been growing steadily, and the timing could hardly be better. A rare solar maximum is currently underway, making Northern Lights displays brighter, more frequent and easier to spot than usual. For travellers seeking both inspiration and restoration, Sweden offers exceptional conditions to experience this natural phenomenon.
Research increasingly shows that moments of awe in nature can have a measurable impact on mental health. Observing vast natural phenomena like the aurora has been linked to reduced stress levels, improved mood and emotional renewal.
Visitors often describe the experience as deeply calming. One recent traveller to Abisko in Swedish Lapland shared that seeing the Northern Lights left a lasting sense of wonder and connection to nature. Scientists support this impression, pointing out that connecting with the night sky can positively influence happiness and mental wellbeing.
Abisko, in particular, is known worldwide for its clear skies and unique microclimate, which make it one of the most reliable places on Earth to witness the aurora.
In northern Sweden, the Northern Lights can be visible on up to 200 nights a year. With peak solar activity expected to continue through 2026, the coming seasons offer especially good chances to see the aurora dancing across the Arctic sky.
What makes Sweden stand out is how the experience is combined with comfort and atmosphere. Many travelers enjoy the Northern Lights from saunas, outdoor hot tubs, forest cabins or during quiet reindeer sleigh rides, blending Nordic hospitality with deep immersion in nature.
Across Swedish Lapland, a growing number of accommodations offer cosy and creative ways to experience the aurora without sacrificing comfort. From floating spa hotels and architect-designed treehouses to Sámi-run lodges and private wilderness retreats, Sweden’s north offers aurora viewing that feels both intimate and restorative.
While the aurora often appears just above the treetops, knowing when to look makes all the difference. Several aurora alert apps provide real-time notifications and forecasts. In addition, the Swedish Institute of Space Physics offers a free alert app focused on the Kiruna region, including Abisko. Many local lodges also provide personal wake-up calls when the lights appear, ensuring guests don’t sleep through the show.
A recent survey conducted for Visit Sweden shows that many people would consider travelling to nature if it were recommended by a doctor, yet very few have ever received such advice. Sweden’s wellness initiative aims to close this gap by promoting nature-based experiences as a form of preventive care. From forest bathing and traditional fika to cultural rituals and sky gazing, Sweden continues to position nature not just as a backdrop for travel, but as an active contributor to wellbeing.
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