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.
Situated on the island of Spitsbergen in Norway's remote Svalbard archipelago, roughly halfway between mainland Norway and the North Pole, Longyearbyen is the world's northernmost permanent settlement with a sizeable population. This small Arctic town serves as the gateway to the vast Arctic wilderness of Svalbard, where dramatic glaciers, rugged mountains and ice-filled fjords dominate the landscape. Visitors come to experience natural phenomena such as the Midnight Sun and Polar Night, embark on wildlife cruises and guided snowmobile or hiking excursions, and explore the surrounding Arctic wilderness. The town is also home to museums, galleries and restaurants, offering insight into Svalbard's mining heritage and its role as a centre for modern polar research.
Located in northeastern Norway, Kirkenes is a small town set about 400 kilometres north of the Arctic Circle near the Russian and Finnish border. It serves as the capital of the Barents Region and as a gateway to Norway's scenic East. The undeniable highlight of this charming town is the opportunity to view the breathtakingly beautiful Aurora Borealis, or the Northern Lights, as they dance across the night skies. Visitors can look forward to a wide selection of activities including learning about the region’s local history at the Borderland Museum and visiting the Snowhotel which is created out of fresh snow each winter. Don’t miss the opportunity to view the Russian Soldier Monument which commemorates the area’s liberation from Nazi occupation. Other popular activities include: king crab safaris, ice fishing, quad biking, dog sledging, snowmobiling, river trips and hiking.
