Comprising of the western and northernmost part of the Scandinavian Peninsula, the Svalbard archipelago and the isolated island of Jan Mayen, Norway is a collection of majestic fjords, marauding Vikings, the icy landscape of the Arctic Circle and rich mystical folklore. The country's snowy winter months offer visitors in the north the opportunity to traverse vast expanses of tundra by dogsled or catch a glimpse of the incredible aurora borealis blazing across the night sky. Summer brings with it the astonishing spectacle of the midnight sun and the chance to enjoy many outdoor adventures. Year-round visitors can enjoy boat cruises to the Svalbard Archipelago to visit seabird colonies or meander among the towering cliffs of the turquoise fjords. With a bit of luck, you may even spot a polar bear. In contrast to its picturesque natural landscapes, this fascinating country is home to a slew of appealing, cosmopolitan metropolises offering every first-world city delight.
Positioned between mainland Norway and the North Pole, Svalbard is an archipelago of which its main island, Spitsbergen, is one of the world’s northernmost inhabited areas. Its surrounding islands are uninhabited nature reserves, meaning Spitsbergen provides travellers with a haven amongst dramatic snowy peaks, glaciers, and vast ice fields. Known for its polar bear population (or small human population - there are more polar bears than people), the island is also home to caribou, polar foxes, a huge variety of birds, and a diversity of whales including the magical Beluga and Narwhal species. Top locations to visit include the stunning jade-coloured Magdalenefjord Bay; the breathtaking shores of Krossfjorden, scattered with cultural relics; and the phenomenal images at the Wild Photo Gallery. Adventurers come here to watch the Northern Lights, kayak among icebergs, go dogsledding, and watch the island’s numerous live concerts.
