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The Nordic region, comprising Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden, is a land of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. From the towering peaks of the Scandinavian Alps to the vast, unspoiled wilderness of the Arctic Circle, the North offers an abundance of outdoor adventures. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through some of the most thrilling and unique adventures the North has to offer—experiences that will not only push your limits but also leave you with lasting memories of one of the world’s most beautiful and rugged regions.
The Svalbard Archipelago
The Svalbard Archipelago, located halfway between mainland Norway and the North Pole, is one of the world’s best places to spot polar bears in the wild. This remote Arctic region is home to an estimated 3,000 polar bears, outnumbering the area's human population. The ideal time for polar bear spotting via snowmobile is from March to May when the Arctic winter transitions into spring. During this period, there’s plenty of daylight, yet snow conditions remain excellent for snowmobiling. In the depths of winter (November to February), polar night envelops the archipelago, making it challenging to spot wildlife.
Of course- while spotting a polar bear is never guaranteed, your guides are skilled at tracking them and will lead you to prime bear-viewing locations. Even if you don’t encounter a polar bear, the snowmobile tour allows you to experience the majesty of Svalbard’s landscapes, from ice-blue glaciers and fjords to the imposing peaks of the Spitsbergen mountains. Along the way, you may also encounter Svalbard reindeer, Arctic foxes, seals, and an array of seabirds.
Safety is paramount when gearing up for an adventure of this kind, and Svalbard has many experienced, certified guides and tour companies who prioritise both safety and responsible wildlife viewing. Booking with a local guide increases your chances of a successful and respectful encounter. A great example of expert guidance in the area would be Armstrong Fortescue, who lay out a clear itinerary for the expedition on their website. Don’t forget to wrap up for the cold on this one!
Rovaniemi, Finland
Located in the heart of Finnish Lapland, Rovaniemi is known for its magical winter experiences, and ice fishing is one of the most iconic. The best time to enjoy ice fishing in Rovaniemi is during the winter months, from December through March, when lakes are solidly frozen and snow blankets the entire region. These months are ideal for a snowmobile journey to the fishing spots, and the low winter sun or even the Northern Lights at night can make the experience feel especially magical.
Rovaniemi’s lakes are home to several types of fish, including perch, whitefish, and even Arctic char. Patience is key as you wait for a bite, but the thrill of potentially catching a fish in these frigid waters adds excitement. Even if you’re a first-time ice fisher, the guides are there to help, making the experience accessible to beginners and enjoyable for seasoned anglers alike. With hot sausages and juice served around a campfire, a fishing excursion with Minibus is a great way to get the most out of your experience.
The King’s Trail (Kungsleden) stretches about 440 kilometres (273 miles) through the Arctic wilderness of northern Sweden, from Abisko in the north to Hemavan in the south. Divided into four main sections, the trail offers hikers a unique glimpse into Sweden's untouched wilderness, high alpine peaks, crystal-clear rivers, and traditional Sámi culture.
The best time to hike Kungsleden is from late June to early September. In summer, you’ll experience the midnight sun, where the sun barely dips below the horizon, giving nearly 24 hours of daylight. This period is also the warmest, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50–68°F), ideal for hiking. For a winter adventure, the trail can also be explored by skis from February to April, but this requires professional gear and a significant amount of knowledge.
Starting from Abisko, the first 105-kilometre stretch is the most popular and well-maintained section. Known for lush green valleys, dramatic mountain ranges, and the beautiful Abiskojaure Lake. This section also contains the iconic Lapporten (The Gate to Lapland). For a challenge, hikers can summit Kebnekaise, Sweden’s highest mountain, which is accessible from a branch of the Kungsleden near the Singi hut. A guide is recommended for those unfamiliar with the terrain, and more information on this can be found here . The trail passes through traditional Sámi lands, offering hikers the chance to learn about Sweden’s Indigenous culture. Several Sámi villages, like the small settlement of Nikkaluokta, are located along the trail, where hikers can experience reindeer and traditional Sámi cuisine.
Sweden
Nestled in the forests of Harads in northern Sweden, the Treehotel offers guests a one-of-a-kind experience: sleeping high above the ground in uniquely designed, eco-friendly treehouses. Each treehouse is suspended among the pine trees, creating an extraordinary blend of modern architecture and natural beauty, whilst providing stunning views of the Lule River valley. The Treehotel is a year-round destination, with each season offering its own allure. In winter, the snowy landscape and Northern Lights create a magical atmosphere, while summer brings long daylight hours and the vibrant greenery of the surrounding forest.
Each of the Treehotel’s rooms is a remarkable work of art, crafted by leading Scandinavian architects and designers. The treehouses are built to minimise environmental impact, suspended from living trees with sustainable materials. Some of their most iconic rooms include the UFO, The Mirrorcube and The Bird’s Nest, but with 8 different designs to explore, I’d recommend checking out their site. Staying at the Treehotel is about simplicity and tranquillity, with an emphasis on being present in nature, with each treehouse having its own layout and amenities. Although the treehouses are modern, don’t expect luxury amenities like Wi-Fi or televisions—this is a place to unplug and unwind. The Treehotel even has a Tree sauna for extra relaxation within the trees! Unsurprisingly, rooms are popular- so plan ahead!
Norway
In the heart of the Arctic Circle, northern Norway is home to the Sami people, Europe’s only Indigenous population. One of their most cherished traditions is reindeer herding, a practice that has shaped their culture and lifestyle for centuries. Visitors have the unique opportunity to experience this tradition firsthand by joining Sami herders as they tend to their reindeer across the snowy landscapes of the Norwegian tundra. The best time to experience reindeer herding with the Sami is during the winter months, from December to April, when herders move their reindeer herds to winter pastures (this handily coincides with Northern Lights season!).
Reindeer herding excursions typically involve spending time with Sami guides, learning about their history, traditions, and the essentials of reindeer herding. Most experiences begin with an introduction to Sami culture in a traditional lavvu (Sami tent), where visitors can sit around a fire, listen to Sami folklore, and sample local foods like reindeer stew (bidos). On some tours, you may also have the chance to experience a traditional Sami reindeer sled ride. Though slower than dog sledding, this traditional form of transport offers a peaceful, scenic ride through the snowy forests.
Reindeer herding is more than an occupation; it’s a central aspect of Sami culture, passed down through generations and rooted in the harmonious relationship they maintain with the natural world. Maintaining respect toward the Sami culture is an essential when taking part in a native excursion, just as much as packing warmly is!
East Greenland
A proper adventure! The Pirhuk8-Day Dog-Sledding Expedition is an extraordinary adventure that takes you deep into Greenland’s remote and pristine wilderness. Named after the local Inuit word for “ice journey,” this experience lets travellers explore the rugged terrain and frozen landscapes in the most traditional way possible—by dog sled. Led by skilled Inuit guides, this journey combines exhilarating sledding with breathtaking scenery, offering a true immersion into Greenland’s natural beauty and culture. The best time to embark on the Pirhuk dog-sledding adventure is between February and April, when snow conditions are ideal, and temperatures are suitable for sledding. During these months, the Arctic landscape is blanketed in snow, and the longer daylight hours make it easier to explore. There’s also a good chance of spotting the Northern Lights during this period!
The Pirhuk 8-Day Expedition is designed for those who seek a deep, hands-on Arctic experience. The journey begins in the town of Tasiilaq, on Greenland’s eastern coast, where you’ll meet your guides and sled dogs before heading into the wilderness. This adventure takes you through dramatic fjords, frozen lakes, and glacial valleys, with nights spent in remote camps or cabins. This specific expedition is designed for adventurous travellers in good physical condition, as dog sledding requires stamina and a willingness to embrace the elements. While previous sledding experience isn’t necessary, participants should be comfortable spending long days in cold weather and working alongside the sled dogs. The guides provide all necessary training and support to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, even for first-timers.
Faroe Islands
The Faroe Islands, an archipelago of 18 volcanic islands between Iceland and Norway, is known for its towering sea cliffs, emerald valleys, and sweeping fjords (steep cliffs surrounding narrow sea inlets, created by glaciers). Trails here are often unmarked and wild, making hiking in the Faroes a true adventure for those ready to explore some of the North Atlantic’s most impressive landscapes in a rustic style. The ideal hiking season in the Faroe Islands runs from May to September when the weather is milder and the landscape is a vibrant green. During this time, daylight hours are long, allowing hikers to explore well into the evening. However, the Faroese weather is famously unpredictable year-round, with frequent changes in wind, rain, and sunshine, so be prepared for all conditions regardless of the season.
A top spot for birdwatchers on the Faroe Islands would be Mykines Island; home to puffins, gannets, and other seabirds. The island can be reached by ferry or helicopter (a popular choice in the Faroes!), and a guide is recommended due to the island’s remoteness, as well as rugged and challenging terrain.
Top Hikes:
One of the most iconic hikes in the Faroe Islands is Trælanípa and Lake Sørvágsvatn, a 3.5-kilometer round-trip that leads to a stunning optical illusion in which the lake appears to hover above the ocean. The trail is relatively easy and takes you along the clifftops with views over the sea and the lake, ending at Trælanípa, with panoramic views of the North Atlantic.
Slættaratindur is the highest mountain in the Faroes at 880 metres, and a hike to the summit rewards you with a panoramic view across the islands. On clear days, you can even see as far as Iceland! This is a more challenging hike, with steeper terrain that requires stamina, but of course, the views at the end make the trip absolutely worth it.
The hike to the Kallur Lighthouse on Kalsoy Island is famous for its stunning scenery and has even been featured in films, such as No Time to Die. After taking a short ferry ride from Klaksvík to Kalsoy, you’ll trek along grassy hillsides and cliff edges, ending at the lighthouse perched high on the cliffs. Can you recognise it from the movie?!
Jukkasjäarvi, Sweden
The Icehotel, located in Jukkasjärvi in northern Sweden, is the world’s first hotel made entirely of ice and snow. Since it opened in 1989, it has become an iconic destination, offering guests the chance to sleep in intricately sculpted ice suites. The classic Icehotel is constructed anew each winter, typically from December to April, before melting back into the Torne River as temperatures rise and each year, artists from around the world come to design and carve new suites, making each season’s hotel a unique masterpiece. The Icehotel offers two types of rooms: cold rooms (made entirely of ice and snow) and warm rooms (conventional, heated accommodations). The hotel recommends staying in icy accommodation for one night and exploring their other rooms for the duration of your stay.
The experience is surprisingly cosy- guests sleep on beds made of ice, covered with reindeer skins and insulated thermal sleeping bags. Before bedtime, you’ll receive a detailed orientation on how to stay warm, and staff are available to provide assistance if needed. The experience is both exhilarating and relaxing, allowing you to embrace the cold while surrounded by a unique, frozen environment. Dressing in layers is key to staying comfortable at the Icehotel. Warm thermal clothing, a wool or fleece mid-layer, and a down jacket are ideal for venturing outdoors. The hotel provides heavy-duty outerwear and snow boots to keep you warm during activities, but be sure to bring thermal socks, gloves, and a hat to stay cosy indoors as well. Check out their website to find out more about their other on-site activities and adventures!
Norway
Known locally as Jotunheimen or "Home of the Giants," this iconic mountain region in central Norway is renowned for its dramatic peaks, deep valleys, and glacial lakes. Jotunheimen is steeped in Norse mythology, believed to be the land of the jotner (giants) in Viking lore, and is home to a mythical background full of stories relating to giants, gods, and ancient folklore. Home to Norway's tallest mountains, Galdhøpiggen and Glittertind, Jotunheimen National Park offers an extensive network of trails that wind through breathtaking scenery. The best time to explore Jotunheimen is from late June to early September when the snow has mostly melted, and the trails are accessible. During these summer months, temperatures range from 5°C to 15°C; ideal conditions for hiking.
The Bessegen Ridge is one of Norway’s most famous hikes and a must-do adventure. The Besseggen trail takes you along a narrow, dramatic ridge with stunning views of two contrasting lakes: Gjende, a turquoise-green glacial lake, and Bessvatnet, a deep blue lake. The 14-kilometre (8.7-mile) hike requires good fitness and a head for heights, but the payoff is the breathtaking views that make this one of the most photographed spots in Norway.
Norway’s highest peak, Galdhøpiggen, reaches 2,469 metres and is actually the highest mountain in Scandinavia. The hike to the summit is challenging but accessible for hikers with basic mountaineering skills. Many hikers start from the Juvasshytta cabin, where guided tours are available to help you safely navigate the glacier and reach the summit. From the top, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views across Jotunheimen's rugged peaks and glaciers. Another highlight of this location would be The Snowy Giant, Glittertind, at 2,465 metres and known for its snow cover even in summer, this hike offers a less crowded alternative to Galdhøpiggen. The Vettisfossen waterfall, one of Norway's highest free-falling waterfalls at 275 metres, is also a great option for those looking for a shorter hike whilst remaining a totally beautiful experience.
Finland
Nestled in the heart of Finnish Lapland, the Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience: spending the night in a glass igloo under the stars and, if lucky, the Northern Lights. These iconic igloos provide a perfect blend of comfort and nature immersion, giving guests panoramic views of the Arctic sky from the warmth of their bed. Surrounded by snow-covered forests, Kakslauttanen feels like a winter wonderland, making it the perfect setting for a magical Arctic getaway. Each glass igloo at Kakslauttanen is designed to provide comfort and style while maximising the experience of sleeping under the open sky. The thermal glass of the igloo ensures that even in subzero temperatures, the interior remains warm and cosy.
Dining at Kakslauttanen complements the Arctic experience, with restaurants offering traditional Lappish dishes such as salmon, reindeer stew, and cloudberry desserts. The resort also features a snow chapel and traditional Sami tents, where guests can learn about Sami culture, listen to joik singing, and try reindeer herding. Pack warm layers and do not forget your camera!
Norway
Jotunheimen National Park, located in central Norway, is a vast and rugged wilderness known as the “Home of the Giants.” This breathtaking landscape features Norway’s highest mountains, deep valleys, glacial lakes, and roaring rivers. Jotunheimen’s varied ecosystems—spanning high-altitude mountains, dense forests, and glacial rivers—support a diverse array of wildlife, including some of Scandinavia’s most iconic species.
Particularly associated with the Nordic region (and Santa Claus) would be the reindeer, and herds of these creatures roam freely in Jotunheimen, particularly in the high plateaus. While sightings aren’t guaranteed, they’re often spotted grazing in herds or migrating through the valleys. Known as the “king of the forest,” elk are the largest mammals in the park. Though generally found in forested areas, elk can sometimes be seen along the park’s lower elevations. Spotting an elk in the wild is an unforgettable experience, as these massive animals often stand over six feet tall. Other rare sightings to remain hopeful for would be that of the Golden Eagle and Arctic Fox, but due to the shy nature of many of Jotunheimen’s animals, patience and silence are key. The quieter you are, the more likely you are to see wildlife in their natural behaviour.
The Nordic Region
Northern Lights cruises take you through some of the most scenic areas of the Arctic, away from the light pollution of cities, giving you the best chance to see the auroras in all their glory. As you sail through Norway’s fjords, Iceland’s coastlines, or even past Greenland, the dark skies over the ocean create the perfect backdrop for watching the Northern Lights dance overhead. These cruises are typically offered between late September and March, during the Arctic winter when nights are longest and skies are darkest. This timeframe maximises the chances of seeing the auroras, particularly between December and February, which are considered peak Northern Lights months.
Your experience on a Northern Lights cruise will vary depending on the specific cruise line you take, including the extra activities and day trips available for guests. A good comparison of these excursions is recommended in order to gain a better understanding of your wants and needs for the trip. A great option for those seeking some extra luxury on their trip would be Havila Voyage s, with the Havila team at the ready to help optimise your photography skills and experience. (AKA: make sure those pics will impress your friends and family at home!)
Lillehammer, Norway
The small town of Lillehammer, famous for hosting the 1994 Winter Olympics, is home to one of the world’s most thrilling bobsled tracks. The Lillehammer Olympic Sliding Centre offers visitors the rare chance to experience the high-speed adrenaline rush of bobsledding. With trained pilots guiding the sled, thrill-seekers can race down the same track used by Olympic athletes. The bobsledding season at Lillehammer typically runs from December through March, when winter conditions are ideal for sliding sports. This period is perfect for combining a bobsled adventure with other winter activities, like skiing, snowshoeing, or visiting the nearby Olympic sites. For those who visit outside of the winter season, the centre also offers “wheel bobsledding” on wheels from May to October, allowing visitors to experience the track in warmer weather.
While bobsledding at Lillehammer is designed for visitors with no prior experience, it’s an intense activity with high speeds and g-forces. The trained pilots handle the technical aspects of steering, so participants only need to sit back and enjoy the ride. Safety is a top priority, and guests are outfitted with helmets and receive a full briefing beforehand. However, due to the physical intensity, bobsledding may not be suitable for individuals with certain medical conditions, so be sure to check with the center’s staff if you have any concerns.
We hope you've enjoyed reading through this article on adventures to be had in the Nordic region, as well as the cool hotels and places to stay! If you do find yourself on a Nordic adventure, we'd love to see what you get up to. Tag us using #everydayadventures- we can't wait to see what you get up to!
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