Northern Lights Hunting
Step outside your lodge door and witness one of nature's most spectacular displays—the Aurora Borealis dancing over Loch Ness.
Ancarraig's location—away from light pollution, overlooking Loch Ness—makes it one of Scotland's best spots for aurora watching. We've watched green curtains dance over the loch more times than we can count, and each display is different, magical, and utterly unforgettable.
During solar maximum (2024-2026), displays are more frequent and intense. Clear nights between September and March offer your best chances, though we've seen them as early as late August and as late as April.
The best part? You don't need to drive anywhere or join a tour. When the aurora appears, you're 30 seconds from prime viewing on your private veranda or the loch shores below.
What to Expect
Aurora displays vary from subtle green glows on the horizon to dramatic curtains of green, pink, and purple light dancing overhead. Some displays last minutes, others hours. Activity peaks around midnight but can appear anytime after dark. Colors are often more vibrant to cameras than naked eye (long exposure brings out the hues), but what you see with your own eyes is still breathtaking. Movement is what makes aurora special—it dances, pulses, and shifts across the sky.
Photo Gallery
Insider Tips
Insider Tip
Download the Aurora Watch UK app—it sends push notifications when aurora activity spikes. Set it to alert for amber and red warnings.
Insider Tip
Check the app before bed each night during your stay. Aurora can appear quickly and fade within an hour.
Insider Tip
Your eyes need 20-30 minutes to dark-adapt. Turn off lodge lights, no phone screens, just wait and watch.
Insider Tip
Dress warmly in layers—you'll be standing outside for potentially hours. Blankets, hot chocolate, and a thermos help!
Insider Tip
Camera with manual mode? Set 15-30 second exposure, ISO 1600-3200, widest aperture, manual focus to infinity. Tripod essential.
Insider Tip
The veranda is perfect—you're already elevated with unobstructed north views over the loch.
Best Times to Visit
- Peak season: October to February
- Best viewing: 10pm - 2am (but can appear anytime)
- Clear, dark nights essential (check weather forecast)
- New moon periods offer darkest skies
- Solar maximum (2024-2026) = increased activity
Photo Opportunities
- Aurora reflections in Loch Ness
- Lodge silhouette with aurora overhead
- Ancient pine trees framing the display
- Aurora curtains over the loch
- Wide-angle shots capturing full sky
Seasonal Guide
September - October
Early season aurora with milder temperatures. Easier to spend hours outside. Autumn colors add foreground interest for photography.
November - January
Peak darkness season with longest nights. Cold but spectacular. New Year period often sees strong displays. Dress very warmly!
February - March
Late season aurora with improving weather. Still cold but days lengthening. March can surprise with strong displays during equinox.
Practical Information
Quick Facts
What to Bring
- Warm clothing and layers
- Blanket or sleeping bag
- Hot drinks in thermos
- Camera with manual settings (optional)
- Tripod (if photographing)
- Patience and sense of wonder
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