Ever enjoyed a day so much you’ve never wanted it to end? In the summer, Iceland can grant that wish. That’s because of a natural phenomenon where the Earth is tilted closer to the sun, which allows for 24 hours of daylight at extremely northern points of the globe. The sun appears to traverse the horizon as it moves from left to right across the sky, barely dropping below the horizon – giving the area a surreally beautiful glow.
When is the Midnight Sun in Iceland?
Iceland’s Midnight Sun can typically be experienced from mid-May to mid-August. During this time it doesn’t get fully dark, at all. On the longest days, the sun only briefly sets for a short time before rising again, allowing you to experience a sunset and sunrise at the same time. This is best experienced as close to the summer solstice as possible, around June 21st.
Where is the best place to see the Midnight Sun in Iceland?
The further north you go, the longer the daylight lasts – for instance, on Grímsey Island, above the Arctic Circle, the sun doesn’t set at all during certain times of the year.
As well as noting where the sunlight lasts the longest, it is also worth considering where this incredible natural phenomenon will most likely leave you spellbound.
Seeing the deep amber tones of the ever-setting sun painting the West Fjords in different hues of orange and mauve or reflecting off tumbling waterfalls is a sight that’s sure to leave you speechless.
How do I experience the Midnight Sun in style?
We’re glad you asked, because we at Hidden Iceland have you covered. Bring your sleep mask (you’ll need it) and prepare to experience endless summer days in only the most exceptional ways.
Self driving tours to feel like the only people in the world
There’s nothing more luxurious than exploring a space at your own pace – so our self-driving tours are tailored around you. You have the freedom to choose where you want to go, when you want to get there, and what music plays while you drive across this incredible country.
Better yet, when it gets late and the sun’s still shining, the sights still stun, but the crowds are gone. It gives you the chance to embrace the beauty without distraction – a sense that this majestic place was made just for you.
Boutique tailor-made stays
But sometimes you want to leave the driving to the tour guides and put your feet up. Iceland offers exceptional hotels with all the amenities you’ll ever need – plus a hot tub or two, for good measure. If you’re keen for a recommendation for where to stay during the summer solstice, our expert guide Dr Holly Spice has her choice.
“Apart from my tent in the summer, my favourite accommodation is Hotel Siglo. Located in the tiny fishing town of Siglufjörður, the hotel sits on the marina, surrounded by towering mountains. The design inside and out is beautiful, the restaurant is amazing, and there is a lovely outdoor spa for guests to enjoy the midnight sun.”
What more could you need?
Explore Iceland on foot
But perhaps you want to get your steps in during those long midnight sun days. Our hiking tours take you to everything worth seeing, from the cascading Gullfoss waterfall to the awe-inspiring size of the Kerlingarfjöll mountain range and the icebergs at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. In the summer, the perpetual daylight bathes them all in a golden glow that has to be seen to be believed.
Our hikes can be tailored to you – whether you’re a novice or an expert when it comes to hiking, we go at your pace. And at the end of each night, we stay at five-star hotels like The Retreat, where we rest our legs in luxurious beds before preparing for the next day of picturesque landscapes and unforgettable sights of Iceland in the midnight sun.
Unforgettable sights in the North
The Northwest is an idyllic, majestic part of Iceland. In a way, it’s good that the sun never sets – otherwise you could run out of time to see it all. The West Fjords in particular offer adorable and singular sights, such as arctic foxes playing at the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve, or seals lounging on the black sands of Ísafjörður.
There’s the wonder of the Dynjandi waterfall that glimmers with reflections of that golden sunlight all summer long. As you travel back south, make sure to stop off and relax at the Hvammsvík Hot Springs, which soothes every inch of you. Under the glow of Iceland’s midnight sun, these scenes couldn’t seem more serene.
Endless summer days in the South
Combine luxury with something to see in the south of Iceland this summer. Visit the Falljökull glacier, glittering under the constant sunlight, en route to exploring the awe-inspiring wonder of the ice caves. Follow ice with fire with a trip to the Eldfell volcano, still warm beneath your feet, or simply enjoy the long days with equally long soaks in the hot springs at Blue Lagoon. The choice is yours.
The south has so many sights to take your breath away – and on our private tour, you can visit UNESCO world heritage sites, where you can tick off three world renowned wonders in four days. The photos will look good, but the memories will be even better.
Have your heart set on a summer you’ll never forget? Then get in touch now by calling +354-770-5733 or email us at info@hiddeniceland.is to start planning to see your dream destination.