Ultimate Guide to Norway’s Natural Wonders
Our expert guide to the land of the midnight sun
Inspired by our writer Jenna’s sailing adventure to the Norway’s Arctic, we’ve put together a guide to the country’s incredible natural wonders — the perfect complement to your once-in-a-lifetime cruise through the Svalbard peninsula.
Spitsbergen Island
Before heading out into the icy ocean, discover Svalbard’s endearing ‘city’, Longyearbyen. In summertime, it’s a hive of outdoor activity, with guided hikes, historic mine tours and a selection of vibrant bars. Or experience the depths of winter from October onwards,perfect for husky dog-sledding and long nights watching the Northern Lights wrap across the dark sky.
For authentic explorer’s accommodation, we recommend Basecamp Hotel, where reindeer hides, thick woolly cushions, and an exceptionally quaint bar combine to create homely hygge warmth.
The Lofoten Islands
For more island discovery, make tracks to the Lofoten archipelago, an array of rugged little islands that pepper the turbulent Norwegian sea. Well within the Arctic Circle, Lofoten offers intense landscapes with turquoise waterways swirling through sharp snow-peaked mountains, long sandy beaches, and wooden houses perched along rocky shorelines. Immerse yourself in the great outdoors by kayak, mountain bike, or on foot, or try your hand at fishing in the crisp Arctic. It’s also a surfing hotspot and home to the world’s largest Viking longhouse.
We love the blissfully remote Nyvagar Rorbuhotell, a row of red wooden cottages, overhanging the deep blue fjord of Gallery Ola Strand, with charming Nordic coastal décor and an outdoor bath.
Senja Island
Another gem in Northern Norway is Senja Island, a sensational combination of rocky coves, snow-capped mountains, blue beaches, lakes, forests and colorful fishing villages clustered far above the Arctic Circle. Whether it’s to enjoy summers with bustling bird colonies and white eagles, endless hiking or kayaking, or a wintry cruise down the superb ski slopes or drive a sled through deep white powder, Senja has everything.
Set in what was once a historical fishing village, Hamn i Senja is a quaint hotel that fringes the edge of the fjord. With modern and spacious accommodation, breathtaking views of the harbour, and unique facilities like an old fishing vessel transformed into an outdoor hot-tub, it’s the ultimate place to merge into Nordic life.
Trømso
The starting point for Arctic expeditions, Trømso is a thriving multicultural city packed with iconic wooden buildings dating back 200 years and an array of restaurants to indulge in cold-water seafood treats. Between late October and late January, witness orcas plunging through the water and gaze up at the majestic Northern Lights, for which there’s even a festival in January. In summer, explore the scenic islands by foot and bicycle, and then bask in the mystical glow of the midnight sun.
Set among soaring mountains and verdant forests, Tromvik Lodge is a cozy and exclusive Scandinavian chalet featuring panoramic windows that look out over a white sand beach, and an outdoor Jacuzzi for viewing the Aurora Borealis in style.
Oslo
The chilly archipelago isn’t Norway’s only treasure — summer in Svalbard is perfect for spotting polar bears, but it’s also when Oslo comes to life. With its flower-lined streets, the pretty Aker Brygge harbor full of lively cafes and restaurants, hipster-chic neighborhoods with live art installations, saunas floating on the pristine fjord, and a pocket of sandy beach to enjoy a dip, the cool capital is well worth a long stopover.
We love Oslo’s only waterfront hotel, The Thief, for its supremely trendy take on luxury, with effervescent staff, plush rooms with charming touches, an exquisite spa, and a rooftop restaurant with the best views in Oslo.
Bergen
Connected by direct flights to Longyearbyen, Bergen is a pretty port town famous for its rich Viking history and spectacular fjord system, and a perfect pairing for your Arctic trip. Potter in craft shops among the colorful historic houses of the UNESCO-listed Hanseatic Wharf, wander through the atmospheric fish market, and chat with friendly locals in charming coffee shops and excellent restaurants.
Housed in an elegant 1920s building in the heart of town, the Clarion Collection Hotel Havnekontoret is our favorite place to stay. As well as a hearty Scandic breakfast, enjoy an evening meal and a sociable afternoon coffee and waffles.
