For travellers dreaming of witnessing the celestial dance of the Aurora Borealis, Norway has rolled out an unprecedented rail experience. The country's state-owned railway company, Vy, has launched the world's first panoramic night train designed specifically to chase the Northern Lights, offering an unforgettable journey through the Arctic wilderness—and your furry friend is invited too.
A Glass Cabin Under the Arctic Sky
This innovative train service, a first in global rail history, transforms travel into a moving observatory. The specially designed carriages feature fully glassed walls and ceilings, providing passengers with an unobstructed, 360-degree view of the night sky. To enhance the spectacle, the interior lighting is kept dim and seats recline upwards, ensuring nothing interferes with the awe-inspiring view of the psychedelic streaks illuminating the darkness.
The train runs on the historic Bergensbanen line, covering the 460-kilometre route between Oslo and Bergen over 7 hours and 35 minutes. It operates during the months of peak geomagnetic activity, far from city light pollution, maximising the chances of a sighting. In a commitment to sustainability, the entire journey is powered by renewable energy.
Sleep Under the Stars & Bring Your Dog
Understanding that the best aurora viewing happens overnight, Vy offers its "PlusNight" accommodation. This service provides airline-style business-class seats configured for sleeping. Passengers receive overnight packs with sheets, pillows, and blankets to make up their own bunks. Each berth is equipped with a reading light, USB port, storage net, and power sockets.
In a delightful move for pet lovers, dogs are permitted in the rest compartments. According to Vy's guidelines, up to three dogs can accompany a passenger per compartment. A dog taller than 40 cm is counted as a passenger. Owners are advised that dogs must remain on the floor as the compact compartments have no space for crates.
Science Meets Spectacle on Rails
This is more than just a scenic ride; it's an educational journey. Passengers receive real-time scientific data on solar activity and space weather conditions throughout the trip, fed by specialised sensors and satellite connections onboard. This information helps travellers understand and anticipate the natural phenomenon unfolding above them.
The initiative aims to cement Norway's position as a leader in sustainable aurora tourism. According to Visit Norway, thousands of travellers have already shown keen interest in this unique nocturnal journey, signalling a rising trend in Arctic experiential travel. The project successfully combines cutting-edge design, ecological responsibility, and pure wonder, offering a once-in-a-lifetime adventure where the journey itself is the destination. So, when are you booking your ride to witness the magic of the Northern Lights from the comfort of a glass-roofed train?
