Visit Hangill and Nesjavellir On Northern Lights Holidays

While the fulcrum of the increasingly popular Northern Lights holidays packages to Iceland is, of course, the much sought after opportunity to witness the famed Aurora Borealis, that does not mean this is the only appealing factor about this type of holiday. Much to the contrary, in fact: fans of nature walks and exploration, for example, will find the country has a lot to offer when it comes to unspoilt landscapes and natural beauty, and there is so much to explore in terms of the country's volcanic, geothermal and glacial attractions.

A Top Place to View the Aurora

Iceland benefits greatly from the fact that, even in the capital, Reykjavik, it is significantly less urban than any of the mainland countries located closest to it – offering excellent, pollution free vantages from which to capture the spectacle of the lights. Alongside the the cosmopolitan appeal of Sweden and the rugged beauty of Denmark, Iceland boasts unspoilt, otherworldly volcanic and glacial landscapes, which are not only appealing to a scientific mind, but also to those seeking a something a little more unusual from their holiday.

Its natural charm (in more ways than one) is what makes the country such a perfect location for Northern Lights holidays, because the Aurora Borealis is far from the only attraction on offer. Below are just two, but two that are as diametrically opposed as possible: an active volcano and a power station. Both are completely fascinating in their own right and should be considered as a possible side trip on Northern Lights holidays in Iceland.

Natural Power v Man-Made Power

The contrast between the Hengill volcano and the Nesjavellir geothermal power station is also representative of both the contrast and the alliance between natural and man-made power. Active to this day, and a wonderful place for hikes when visiting Iceland, Hengill represents the raw power of Mother Earth. Stretching over more than 100km2, this mountain last erupted over 200 years ago, but several fumaroles and hot springs can still be found in the surrounding area, which evidence its activity. It is an incredible place to visit.

Lying at the feet of the volcano, the man-made side of things - the Nesjavellir geothermal power station - converts Hengill's energy in its state of the art facility, and uses it to power the entire south of Iceland. Together, these two forces help deliver energy to a good portion of the country's population, proving nature and man can often cooperate with successful results.

While, naturally, the main focus is on seeing the famous Northern Lights, holidays to Iceland can be a far more comprehensive experience than many travellers may realise. Attractions such as the ones above, along with Super Jeep tours, horse riding, whale watching and experiencing the geothermal delights of the Blue Lagoon, make a visit to Iceland enjoyable beyond even the considerable thrill of the chase of the Aurora Borealis.

Abigail Collins is director of Aurora Nights, a company offering a select range of once in a lifetime holidays to see the Northern Lights. For the best Northern Lights holidays Iceland and Swedish Lapland offer an excellent chance to encounter the aurora borealis. Aurora Nights is part of Weekend a la Carte, a family-run company with vast in-depth knowledge based on their extensive travels to the region of the Aurora Borealis and passionate about giving superb client service.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.