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.
The tiny, bustling city of Tromsø lies in the northernmost part of Norway, on a small island 349 kilometres north of the Arctic Circle. Visitors are often surprised by the extent of Tromsø’s delights: sophisticated art, fascinating history, fine cuisine and boisterous nightlife. Despite its northern location, the city enjoys a relatively moderate climate and numerous attractions. Paramount are the arctic aquarium, home to bearded seals and a panoramic cinema playing films on the Arctic wilderness; the world’s northernmost botanical gardens, with arctic and alpine plants from all corners of the globe; and the Science Center of Northern Norway, home to the country’s largest planetarium. For a bird’s eye view of the striking natural surroundings and the chance to see the enthralling northern lights, catch a ride up the town’s popular cable car.
Set on the shores of the Bergsfjorden on the northwest side of the island of Senja in Norway, Skaland is a coastal village that enchants visitors with its stunning surroundings. With the majestic Husfjell mountain towering in the backdrop, Skaland offers breathtaking views and ample opportunities for hiking and exploration. Bøstranda is a fine sandy beach, perfect for a seaside picnic, and Tungeneset, a nearby headland, showcases panoramic vistas of the fjord and rugged coastline.
Set on the southern coast of the Norwegian island of Austvagoya and forming part of the Lofoten archipelago, the port town of Svolvaer is sandwiched between a spectacular backdrop of striking mountains and the dazzling Vestfjorden Sea. The town is a hub of activity within this quiet, remote region and provides an excellent base from which to explore the beautiful surroundings. Gourmands can sample mouth-watering cuisine at the many excellent restaurants, while history enthusiasts will enjoy a tour of the fascinating Lofoten Krigsminnemuseum, which provides insight into the events surrounding World War Two. Those with a taste for danger can go rock climbing on the infamous Svolvaergeita outcrop and even jump between the two ‘goat horns’ (jagged pinnacles) of the structure. Bird lovers will delight in the area’s magnificent feathered species, especially the population of mighty sea eagles.
Situated on Norway’s second-largest island of Hinnoya, the town of Harstad is a gateway to Vesteralen and Lofoten. It serves as a great base from which to explore the scenic surroundings. Visitors can look forward to the array of cultural attractions, enjoying hiking in the surrounding mountains, as well as fishing and kayaking under the midnight sun. Gourmands will delight in the variety of top-notch restaurants. Ocean lovers can jump on a thrilling whale safari and enjoy a diving trip in the Norwegian Sea. Lucky visitors can catch a glimpse of the magical Northern Lights, enjoy excellent skiing opportunities in winter and go island hopping to a collection of Norwegian islands
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