An Adventure Beneath the Aurora: Norway's Fjords, Cities and Arctic Wilderness

Arrive in Norway’s elegant capital, where contemporary architecture, world renowned design and spectacular waterfront scenery combine effortlessly. Upon arrival, enjoy a private transfer to The Thief Hotel, one of Oslo’s most exclusive addresses, perfectly positioned on the stylish Tjuvholmen waterfront.

Settle into your Deluxe Room and take time to unwind after your journey. The hotel’s sophisticated interiors showcase contemporary Scandinavian style, while floor to ceiling windows allow natural light to flood the rooms. If you wish, indulge in the luxurious spa facilities, where a sauna, hammam and restorative wellness experiences offer the perfect introduction to Norway’s slower pace of life.

Spend the afternoon strolling along the harbour, where modern sculpture, boutique galleries and waterside cafés create a vibrant atmosphere. Just a short walk away you’ll find some of Oslo’s finest museums, including the National Museum and the Astrup Fearnley Museum of Modern Art, making it easy to immerse yourself in the city’s creative culture. As evening falls, choose one of the excellent nearby restaurants to enjoy your first taste of modern Nordic cuisine before returning to the comfort of your hotel for a restful night’s sleep.

Following breakfast, begin a fascinating private culinary journey through Oslo, discovering the city through its flavours, traditions and passionate local producers.

Your expert guide will introduce you to neighbourhoods that visitors often overlook, where artisan bakeries, family run delicatessens and vibrant food markets reveal a more authentic side of Norway’s capital. Along the way you’ll sample regional cheeses, smoked meats, freshly baked bread, seafood specialities and seasonal sweet treats, while learning how Norway’s landscape and climate have shaped its distinctive cuisine.

The experience is as much about storytelling as it is about food, with plenty of opportunities to meet local producers and hear about Oslo’s evolving food scene. Between tastings you’ll discover charming streets, hidden courtyards and lively districts filled with independent cafés and boutiques.

The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure. Perhaps explore the striking Oslo Opera House, wander through the Royal Palace gardens or simply relax beside the fjord with a coffee while watching daily life unfold. This evening offers another opportunity to experience Oslo’s exceptional dining scene before returning to The Thief Hotel.

After breakfast, enjoy a private transfer to Oslo Central Station, where one of the world’s great railway journeys begins.

Travelling through ever changing landscapes, you’ll watch Norway gradually transform from vibrant city streets into forests, snow capped mountains and deep valleys. The journey is a highlight in itself, culminating with the iconic Flåm Railway, famous for its dramatic gradients and breathtaking scenery. Waterfalls tumble from towering cliffs while picturesque mountain farms cling impossibly to steep hillsides, creating unforgettable views throughout the route.

Your luggage is transferred separately and delivered directly to your hotel, allowing you to simply relax and enjoy the experience. Every twist in the railway reveals another spectacular panorama, making this one of Europe’s most memorable train journeys.

On arrival in the peaceful village of Flåm, check into the historic Fretheim Hotel, beautifully positioned beside the fjord. Surrounded by towering mountains and crystal clear waters, this charming hotel offers a warm welcome and a wonderful sense of place. Enjoy an included dinner featuring regional ingredients before settling in for a peaceful evening in one of Norway’s most spectacular landscapes.

Wake surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery before enjoying a leisurely morning in the beautiful fjord village of Flåm.

Later, board your cruise through the magnificent UNESCO protected Nærøyfjord, one of the narrowest and most dramatic fjords in the world. Towering cliffs rise directly from the still waters while waterfalls cascade hundreds of metres into the fjord below. Every moment offers another incredible photographic opportunity, making this one of Norway’s defining natural experiences.

Upon reaching Gudvangen, step back through history with a visit to the Viking Village. Explore traditional buildings, watch demonstrations of ancient crafts and discover fascinating stories about Norway’s Viking heritage through engaging displays and knowledgeable guides.

This afternoon continue by private transfer towards Bergen, travelling through an ever changing landscape of rivers, waterfalls, mountain plateaus and picturesque villages. Arriving in the city, check into the luxurious Opus XVI, an elegant heritage hotel inspired by composer Edvard Grieg. The remainder of the evening is yours to enjoy, whether discovering Bergen’s atmospheric streets or relaxing in the comfort of your beautifully appointed hotel.

Today is dedicated to discovering the unique character of Bergen, one of Norway’s most picturesque cities.

Your private guide will lead you through the famous UNESCO listed Bryggen Wharf, where colourful timber buildings line the historic harbour and centuries of trading history still shape the city’s atmosphere. Wander along narrow alleyways filled with artisan workshops, galleries and independent boutiques before enjoying carefully selected tastings that celebrate both traditional Norwegian recipes and contemporary Nordic cooking.

Along the way, hear fascinating stories of Bergen’s Hanseatic merchants and maritime heritage while sampling local cheeses, seafood and other regional delicacies.

The experience concludes with a ride aboard the Fløibanen Funicular, climbing above the city to Mount Fløyen. Here panoramic views stretch across Bergen, its colourful harbour, surrounding mountains and distant fjords, offering one of Norway’s most iconic viewpoints.

Spend the afternoon exploring at your own pace, perhaps visiting the bustling Fish Market, enjoying afternoon tea or browsing local design shops before another relaxing evening at Opus XVI.

Today your journey takes you north into the Arctic Circle, where entirely different landscapes and experiences await.

Following breakfast, transfer to the airport for your onward flight to Alta. Upon arrival, a shared transfer brings you to Holmen Husky Lodge, a peaceful retreat surrounded by pristine forest and untouched Arctic wilderness. After lunch, settle into your remarkable Forest Suite, where expansive windows create an immersive connection with the surrounding landscape and offer the possibility of watching the Northern Lights from the comfort of your bed.

Spend some time exploring the lodge or simply relax while taking in the tranquillity that surrounds you. As daylight fades, anticipation begins to build.

This evening, join experienced local guides for your first Northern Lights hunt. Travelling to locations with optimal weather conditions, you’ll learn about the science and folklore surrounding the Aurora while enjoying homemade soup, warm drinks and traditional treats around a fire. If conditions are favourable, you’ll witness one of nature’s greatest spectacles dancing across the Arctic sky.

Wake to the peaceful silence of the Arctic forest before another unforgettable day of adventure.

Late this morning, meet the enthusiastic huskies that call Holmen Lodge home before setting out on an exhilarating sledding experience through snow covered woodland trails. Guided by experienced mushers, you’ll learn about the close bond between dogs and handlers while enjoying the excitement of travelling across the Arctic landscape in one of its most traditional forms.

Returning to the lodge, the afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure. Relax in your Forest Suite, admire the spectacular surroundings or soak in the outdoor hot tub, surrounded by peaceful forest and crisp Arctic air.

This evening brings one of the journey’s highlights. Travel to the remote Bjørnfjell Mountain Lodge for an exclusive Polar Night Bonfire experience. Gather around an open fire while a gourmet meal is freshly prepared and your guide shares stories of Arctic life, local traditions and Northern Lights legends. With luck, the Aurora Borealis will appear overhead, creating an extraordinary and unforgettable evening beneath the stars.

After breakfast, transfer to nearby Sorrisniva where today’s adventure begins with a guided walk to the beautiful Orvvosfossen waterfall.

Following peaceful forest trails, you’ll experience the stillness and beauty of Arctic nature before arriving at the impressive waterfall cascading through rugged rock formations. Those wishing to continue can enjoy a gentle climb to higher viewpoints overlooking the surrounding wilderness, rewarding you with magnificent panoramic scenery.

Return to Holmen Husky Lodge for lunch before spending a relaxing final afternoon enjoying everything this remarkable setting has to offer. Whether reading beside the large panoramic windows, taking one last soak in the outdoor hot tub or simply appreciating the peaceful atmosphere, this is the perfect opportunity to reflect on your Arctic adventure.

This evening, enjoy a memorable three course dinner at Maku Restaurant, where talented chefs showcase the finest local ingredients through beautifully presented Nordic cuisine. Afterwards, head out on your final Northern Lights hunt, travelling with expert guides to maximise your chances of witnessing one last magical display before your Norwegian adventure comes to an unforgettable conclusion.

After breakfast, enjoy a final morning surrounded by the peaceful Arctic landscape before your shared transfer to Alta Airport.

Although your journey comes to an end today, the memories you’ve created will stay with you long after you leave Norway. From elegant city stays in Oslo and Bergen to unforgettable rail journeys, dramatic fjords, Viking heritage and extraordinary Arctic experiences, every stage of this itinerary has revealed a different side of the country.

Perhaps your lasting memory will be the excitement of watching the Northern Lights shimmer across the night sky, the exhilaration of husky sledding through snowy forests or the tranquillity of cruising through Norway’s spectacular fjords. Whatever moments remain with you, this carefully crafted adventure offers an authentic and luxurious introduction to one of the world’s most captivating destinations.

We hope you leave inspired to return and discover even more of Norway’s remarkable landscapes in the future. Safe onward travels.