The northern lights, also known as the aurora borealis, are a spectacular display of nature’s beauty. Colourful and dynamic, these visually delicate displays occur when energetic particles from space collide with atoms and molecules in the atmosphere. The sheer spectrum of colours ranges from green (the most common) and blue to purple, pink and red.
Denmark may not be one of the prime destinations for aurora borealis sightings, especially compared to countries like Norway, Sweden, Finland or Iceland as regions within the Arctic Circle where the geomagnetic activity is stronger. However, during times of heightened solar activity, the aurora can occasionally be seen in Denmark, particularly in the northern parts of the country.
Here are five places in Denmark where you can see the aurora borealis.
Grenen is a stunning peninsula in Denmark’s northernmost point, and a top contender for aurora watchers. The area is relatively quiet and non-commercialised, which means clearer skies and better views. Visuals of the merging Skagerrak and Kattegat seas under the glow of the northern lights is unmatched. In fact, the vast beach area is constantly changing and often forms lagoons that attract wading birds and playing children. However, swimming is strictly prohibited due to the dangerous currents.
The Danish mainland’s first national park, Thy National Park, is another top place to see the northern lights in Denmark as it offers excellent northern views. Under dark-sky conditions, you can have a spectacular view of the aurora borealis from here just by looking north or northwest from the coast. The clear, unclouded night skies of the area are an added bonus.
Nature-wise, Samsø is unparalleled. Picture coastlines with steep slopes, a hilly landscape with deep valleys and glacial gorges, moorland, fertile farmlands, and a bay with many islands and islets. The island has several spots with nearly zero light pollution, making gazing at the northern lights an incredible experience. The light from Aarhus sometimes affects the view, but Samsø’s northern location and clear skies create ideal conditions.
Kjul Strand is a beach located six kilometres outside Hirtshals, in an area surrounded by Lilleheden and Uggerby dune plantations. It has clear views of the northern sky and minimal light pollution creating ideal conditions to watch the aurora borealis.
Located between the North Atlantic and the Norwegian Sea, the Faroe Islands are considered to be one of the best places to see northern lights in Denmark. Their remoteness ensures minimal light pollution, which leads to a clear aurora-viewing experience. During the dark winter months, people visit this island in huge numbers just to see the spectacle as the temperature drops to 0°C or below—making it the optimal condition for spotting green auroras.
The best time to visit Denmark to see the aurora borealis is during the winter months, from late September to early April. From October to March, the nights are the longest and the skies are the darkest, in turn increasing the chances of spotting northern lights.