Hotels Where You Can Chase the Midnight Sun
Summer in the Arctic is a long, polar day of blooming tundra, baby animals, and great migrations. It comes to a peak on June 21, the summer solstice and longest day of the year. For the ultimate midnight sun experience, travel beyond the Arctic Circle—at 66˚ of latitude, that invisible line marks the place where the sun stays above the horizon for 24 hours on the solstice. Even below the true Arctic, though, the days stretch long. When you’re north of the 60th parallel, the sun sinks just a few degrees below the horizon on the summer solstice, creating a brief dusk in the early hours.
No matter when you visit, evenings still bring a deep chill, but above-freezing daytime temperatures feel balmy when you’re bundled up for a hike beneath the midnight sun. While the polar region used to be the realm of hardened explorers, it now tempts travelers who want a side of luxury with their adventure. The northern outpost’s newest luxury options come with cozy rooms, polar-inspired design, and innovative Arctic cuisine. Even though you’re chasing the midnight sun, you’ll want to get some shut-eye at some point in one of these plush hotels—just make sure to bring an eye mask along.
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