Imagine lying in bed, surrounded by the pristine silence of a winter night, as vibrant green and purple lights dance across the dark sky above you. The ethereal glow of the northern lights creates a magical atmosphere while you remain snug and warm, protected from the Arctic chill by nothing but a glass dome. This is the essence of the glass igloo experience in Finland—a truly extraordinary way to connect with one of nature’s most spectacular phenomena.
Finland’s Lapland region has become synonymous with these unique accommodations, and for good reason. Glass igloos offer an unmatched opportunity to immerse yourself in the Nordic wilderness without sacrificing comfort. Whether you’re an aurora chaser, a photography enthusiast, or simply seeking a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, staying in a glass igloo provides benefits that traditional lodgings simply cannot match.
Let’s explore why choosing a glass igloo should be at the top of your list when planning your Finnish adventure, and what makes these distinctive accommodations so special for experiencing the true magic of Lapland.
Unparalleled northern lights viewing experience
The aurora borealis has captivated humans for centuries, but traditional accommodations have always presented the same challenge—the need to venture outside into sub-zero temperatures for hours of hopeful sky-watching. Glass igloos revolutionise this experience by bringing the northern lights directly to your bedroom ceiling.
The specially designed glass structures are engineered with thermal insulation that prevents condensation and frost, ensuring crystal-clear views regardless of the outside temperature, which often drops below -20°C in winter. Unlike standard hotel rooms with limited windows, igloos feature panoramic glass ceilings and walls that provide a 360-degree view of the night sky, allowing you to witness the auroras from every angle—even while lying comfortably in your bed.
Finland’s northern location places it directly under the “aurora oval”—the zone with the highest aurora activity. The prime viewing season extends from late August through April, with peak opportunities in September-October and February-March when dark, clear skies are most common. Many glass igloos are situated in remote locations away from light pollution, significantly increasing your chances of spotting the northern lights. At Aurora Queen Resort in Finnish Lapland, this optimal positioning in Lapland’s aurora zone provides guests with exceptional viewing opportunities throughout the season.
The Finnish Meteorological Institute reports that in optimal northern Finland locations, the aurora borealis can be visible on up to 200 nights per year under clear conditions.
What truly sets the glass igloo experience apart is the spontaneity it allows. Rather than scheduling specific “aurora hunting” excursions, you can simply relax in your accommodation, knowing that if the lights appear, you’ll have front-row seats without needing to scramble outside with your camera and heavy winter clothing. Many glass igloos even provide aurora alerts, notifying guests when the northern lights are active so you never miss a moment of this natural spectacle.
Immersion in Finland’s breathtaking winter landscape
Beyond the northern lights, a glass igloo offers an intimate connection with Finland’s winter wonderland that traditional accommodations simply cannot match. The panoramic glass design creates a seamless boundary between your living space and the pristine natural environment, allowing you to experience the changing beauty of Lapland throughout the day.
Morning in a glass igloo begins with witnessing the soft blue light of Arctic dawn gradually illuminating snow-laden pine trees. During the brief daylight hours, you can observe the winter landscape in all its glory—frozen lakes stretching to the horizon, forests draped in thick blankets of snow, and perhaps even wildlife like reindeer or foxes venturing past your accommodation. As evening approaches, the landscape transforms again with the pink and purple hues of polar twilight before darkness returns, bringing possibilities of northern lights once more.
This constant visual connection with nature provides significant psychological benefits. Research has shown that immersion in natural environments reduces stress and improves mental wellbeing. The glass igloo experience amplifies these benefits by allowing you to enjoy nature’s therapeutic effects while remaining in complete comfort.
The unique light conditions of the Finnish winter are particularly special. During the “blue moment” (kaamos in Finnish)—the extended twilight period when the sun remains just below the horizon—the snow reflects an ethereal blue glow that bathes the landscape in an almost otherworldly light. This phenomenon is perfectly framed by your glass surroundings, creating memorable moments that would be missed from traditional hotel rooms with limited windows.
| Season | Daylight Hours | Special Natural Phenomena |
|---|---|---|
| December-January | 2-4 hours | Kaamos (blue moment), potential northern lights |
| February-March | 6-10 hours | Snow-covered landscapes, strong aurora activity |
| September-October | 8-12 hours | Autumn colours, first auroras of season |
A perfect blend of comfort and adventure
One might assume that sleeping under a glass dome in sub-Arctic temperatures would require sacrificing comfort, but modern glass igloos masterfully combine wilderness immersion with luxury amenities. These innovative structures represent a triumph of architectural ingenuity, offering a perfect balance between rugged adventure and sophisticated comfort.
The glass used in these igloos isn’t ordinary—it’s typically multi-layered, electrically heated glass that maintains perfect clarity while keeping interiors warm even when outside temperatures plummet to -30°C or lower. Advanced thermal technology ensures that guests experience a comfortable room temperature without compromising the panoramic views. The glass is also specially treated to prevent overheating during daytime hours when the sun reflects off surrounding snow.
Inside, igloos feature thoughtfully designed spaces that maximise both functionality and comfort. Most include private bathrooms, adjustable beds positioned optimally for sky viewing, and ambient lighting systems that can be dimmed to enhance visibility of the night sky. These carefully considered elements create a cosy sanctuary that feels surprisingly spacious despite its compact footprint.
What truly distinguishes the glass igloo experience is how it serves as both a remarkable accommodation and a base for Finnish adventures. During the day, you can participate in classic Lapland activities like husky sledding, snowmobiling, ice fishing, or snowshoeing. After exhilarating outdoor excursions, your igloo welcomes you back with its warmth and unique atmosphere—a perfect place to unwind while maintaining your connection to the surrounding landscape.
We’ve designed our igloos with premium-quality materials throughout, ensuring guests experience exceptional comfort while enjoying the wilderness location. The combination of adventurous setting and refined comfort creates a harmonious experience that appeals to travellers seeking both excitement and relaxation in their Finnish journey.
Unique photography and memory-making opportunities
For photography enthusiasts, glass igloos offer unprecedented opportunities to capture Finland’s most breathtaking natural phenomena. The combination of comfortable indoor shooting conditions and unobstructed views creates ideal circumstances for both amateur and professional photographers alike.
Photographing the northern lights traditionally involves standing in freezing temperatures for hours, constantly adjusting equipment with numbing fingers. From a glass igloo, you can set up your camera on a stable tripod in comfortable room temperature, ready to capture the auroras when they appear. This controlled environment allows for experimentation with long exposures, time-lapses, and various compositions without battling the elements.
Beyond aurora photography, glass igloos present unique framing opportunities for capturing the stunning Arctic landscape. The curved glass creates interesting perspectives, and the contrast between the warm, lit interior and the snowy exterior makes for compelling compositional elements. Many photographers find that some of their most memorable images include the igloo itself as part of the composition—the glowing dome amid a snow-covered landscape creates an almost otherworldly scene.
- Photography tips for glass igloo stays:
- Bring a tripod for stable long-exposure shots
- Use a lens cloth to occasionally wipe condensation from your lens
- Experiment with shooting through the glass at different angles
- Try both interior-exterior contrast shots and pure landscape photographs
- Consider a remote trigger to minimize camera shake during long exposures
The memory-making potential extends beyond photography. There’s something profoundly intimate about watching snowfall from your bed, witnessing a full moon illuminate the snow-covered landscape, or sharing the moment when the northern lights first appear overhead. These experiences create powerful emotional connections and lasting memories that distinguish a glass igloo stay from conventional travel experiences.
The most valuable souvenirs from Finland aren’t physical items, but the extraordinary moments when nature’s majesty is experienced from the unique vantage point of your glass sanctuary.
What should you look for when choosing a glass igloo?
With the growing popularity of glass accommodations in Finland, it’s important to understand what distinguishes exceptional glass igloos from merely adequate ones. Several key factors can significantly impact the quality of your experience.
Location is perhaps the most crucial consideration. The best glass igloos are situated in areas that balance proximity to activities with sufficient isolation from light pollution. Northern Finland, particularly Lapland, offers optimal conditions for aurora viewing, but even within this region, the specific setting matters. Look for igloos nestled in natural surroundings with unobstructed northern horizon views—ideally at least 250km north of the Arctic Circle where aurora activity is most frequent.
Glass quality and construction significantly affect both comfort and viewing experience. Premium igloos feature specially treated thermal glass that prevents condensation and maintains clarity in all weather conditions. Inquire about the type of glass used and whether it includes heating elements to prevent frosting—an essential feature during peak winter months.
Privacy is another important consideration that varies widely between properties. Some igloos are closely clustered, while others offer more seclusion. Review site layouts to ensure your igloo provides the level of privacy you desire, particularly if you’re planning a romantic getaway.
Amenities vary significantly across different glass igloo accommodations. Basic facilities typically include a bed and minimal storage, while more luxurious options offer private bathrooms, kitchenettes, Wi-Fi, and even private saunas. Consider which amenities are essential for your comfort versus which luxuries you might willingly forgo for a more authentic experience.
Sustainability practices are increasingly important to consider when selecting accommodations in Finland’s delicate Arctic environment. The best providers implement responsible tourism practices, including energy-efficient heating systems, waste reduction programs, and respect for the surrounding natural habitat.
At Aurora Queen Resort, our glass igloos are thoughtfully positioned to maximise both privacy and aurora viewing opportunities, with panoramic windows that immerse you in the surrounding nature. We’ve prioritised both environmental sustainability and guest comfort in our design, creating spaces where you can experience the magic of Lapland while treading lightly on this precious ecosystem.