The Nordic region transforms in summer into a landscape of endless daylight, dramatic scenery and thrilling outdoor experiences.
Summer Adventures in the Nordics
Sea Eagle Safari by RIB Boat
One of the most exhilarating ways to experience Nordic wildlife is on a sea eagle safari by rigid inflatable boat. Commonly found along the Norwegian coast, particularly in northern regions such as the Lofoten Islands, these tours offer close encounters with one of Europe’s largest birds of prey.
Travelling at speed across open water, the experience combines adventure with wildlife watching. Guides often attract sea eagles closer to the boat, allowing for remarkable views of their wingspan and hunting behaviour. Alongside sea eagles, it is also possible to spot seals, seabirds and even whales in certain areas. The surrounding scenery of rugged coastline and towering cliffs enhances the sense of immersion in nature.
@ Henrik Trygg
Wild Swimming in Crystal Clear Waters
Wild swimming has become an increasingly popular summer activity across the Nordics, thanks to the region’s pristine lakes, fjords and coastal waters. In Sweden, tranquil inland lakes provide calm, clear conditions ideal for a refreshing swim surrounded by forests and silence.
In Norway, fjord swimming offers a more dramatic setting, with deep blue waters framed by steep mountains and waterfalls. Iceland also presents unique opportunities, where glacial rivers and natural pools create unforgettable swimming experiences. Many guided adventures include safe access points and expert guidance, ensuring that travellers can enjoy the water while respecting local conditions.
Wild swimming is often paired with relaxation, picnics or visits to nearby cafés, creating a balanced experience that combines activity with moments of calm.
@ Marius Beck Dahle / 62°NORD
Helicopter Experiences Over Fjords and Waterfalls
For a truly unforgettable perspective, helicopter tours across Norway and Iceland provide access to landscapes that are otherwise difficult to reach. In Norway, flights over the fjords reveal the full scale of these natural formations, with steep cliffs, winding waterways and remote villages visible from above.
In Iceland, helicopter experiences often focus on the country’s famous waterfalls and volcanic terrain. Flying above cascading falls, lava fields and glaciers offers a unique insight into the island’s geological diversity. Some tours include landings in remote locations, allowing travellers to step out and experience the environment up close.
These aerial adventures combine comfort with excitement, making them a highlight of any Nordic summer itinerary.
@ Wildlife Sea Safari Rib - 62°NORD
Adrenaline Adventures in Scandinavia
he Nordics are well suited to travellers seeking adrenaline filled experiences in natural settings. Activities such as coasteering, cliff jumping and high speed boating are available in various coastal regions, particularly in Norway.
Kayaking through narrow fjords, hiking along dramatic ridgelines and exploring glacier landscapes also provide a sense of adventure. Many of these experiences are guided, ensuring safety while allowing participants to fully engage with the environment.
The combination of physical activity and spectacular scenery makes these adventures both challenging and rewarding, appealing to those looking to push their limits while exploring the outdoors.
@ Michael Kaack
Summer Dog Sledding with Buggies
Dog sledding is often associated with winter, but summer brings a unique variation using wheeled buggies. Available in parts of Norway, Sweden and Iceland, this activity allows travellers to experience the excitement of mushing across forest trails and open landscapes without snow.
Led by experienced guides, participants learn about the dogs, their training and their role in Nordic culture. The connection between the dogs and their handlers adds a meaningful dimension to the experience, while the ride itself provides a fast paced and engaging adventure.
Summer dog sledding is particularly popular with families and those seeking a distinctive activity that combines tradition with innovation.
Wildlife and Nature Experiences
Wildlife encounters are a central part of summer adventures in the Nordics. In addition to sea eagles, visitors may encounter reindeer, moose, seals and a wide variety of bird species depending on the region. Coastal waters in Norway and Iceland are also home to whales, offering further opportunities for memorable sightings.
Exploring these environments on foot, by boat or from the air allows travellers to appreciate the scale and diversity of Nordic landscapes. National parks, protected areas and remote wilderness regions provide a sense of tranquillity that is increasingly rare in modern travel.
@ Kuru Resort
Luxury Lakeside Midnight Summer Sun Escape
Discover Southern Finland with tailor-made private tours, lake adventures, luxury stays and a magical Midsummer under the midnight sun.
Customers normally spend between (excl. flights)
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£22,300 - £33,450 pp*
@ Tina Stafren
Summer Road Trip in West Sweden
Coastal drives, archipelago ferries, paddle boarding, foraging and boutique stays—this West Sweden summer road trip blends nature, culture and freedom.
Customers normally spend between (excl. flights)
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£3,500 - £5,250 pp*
@ Bergen-Tourist-Board
Bergen and Copenhagen Seafood and Summer Sailing
Embark on an unforgettable 7-night summer adventure, seamlessly blending the natural wonders of Norway's fjords with the urban charm and culinary delights of Copenhagen.
Customers normally spend between (excl. flights)
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£8,065 - £12,100 pp*
@Arctic Retreat
All Day Swedish Summer
Long light days with the Midnight Sun are perfect for exploring glittering lakes and relaxing by the lake
Customers normally spend between (excl. flights)
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£4,000 - £6,000 pp*
I used OTMT to organise a holiday to see the Northern Lights for my partner’s 50th birthday. They took the time to understand my priorities, the kinds of places we like to stay and the things we like to do. They recommended a fabulous itinerary in Norway centred around the Lyngen Experience Lodge. The holiday itself lived up to expectations and I have no hesitation in recommending OTMT. They listened carefully during the planning and delivered the perfect present for my partner.
Alex
Amy was a great help with planning this trip. Our trip turned out amazing. I also was very grateful for Off the Map’s Front Desk service, which promptly handled an on the spot issue we had.
Karen
I would thoroughly recommend this company. Their planning and advice was spot on. Alex responded to my calls and emails very promptly. I will definitely use them again for future trips.
Rosie
We originally hired Off the Map Travel in 2020 to set up a trip to see the Northern Lights. That didn’t happen, thanks to COVID. But, we persisted and in March of 2023, we took a 16-day trip that included both Iceland and Norway. IT WAS MAGICAL! Off the Map took care of everything! We were pampered at every stage of our trip. The people they hired and the activities they planned added up to a trip that will set the standard for any we’ll ever take in the future. Alex and his team were fabulous! We recommend them without restraint!
Jim & Kris
Arctic Retreat was simply magical. Graham and his team were superb. Their entire focus was on ensuring we had an outstanding experience. The accommodation, setting and food were all excellent. The team, experienced professionals, each brought their own personal touch and local nuance. It was faultless. The dog sledging trip directly from Arctic Retreat was also superb. We would return to Arctic Retreat in a heartbeat.
George
The ease of everything stood out to me. All we had to do was be there at the right time. The dog sledding was the highlight for my daughter and sister. We had the best time! For me, Manshausen was the highlight. We were very lucky and the only guests there for the majority of our stay. The staff was amazing and the food was so delicious. We had moose steak and it was the best meal I’ve ever had.
The cabins were comfortable and we were so lucky to have 2 clear nights where we just sat and watched the northern lights. We were able to get some awesome pictures too.
I appreciate all your time and care with planning our trip! I won’t hesitate to use Off the Map travel for our next adventure.
Kelly
Fantastic trip to Svalbard which delivered the true Arctic experience we were hoping for. The hotels were excellent and the activities – dog sledding and snowmobile expedition were lead by first class guides.
Top tip! The champagne tasting in the world’s most northerly wine cellar in the exceptional Funken Lodge is not to be missed!
Faith
The best travel experience ever on every level you can think of during a Lapland expedition (food, activities, timings, accommodation, transport, service, equipment…). I highly recommend Off The Map Travel for their outstanding level of professionalism and detail oriented mindset!
Sophie & Guy
We have loved it so much here that we have extended our stay and will come back to Bjornfjell and stay in one of their cabins until Jan 3 then we are staying in the igloo hotel the night of the 3rd. 😊We added a few excursions this week – we did the whale trip on the RIB boat (wow!), toured the igloo hotel (which is why we decided to book the last night!) and did the reindeer sleigh at Sorrisniva. You were so right, the bonfire excursion was incredible!!It has been an absolutely amazing trip!
Kristen
We did! Everything was truly wonderful! I think the Holman Husky Lodge was our favourite place. Beautiful accommodations, but best of all, wonderful people! Everyone was so friendly and accommodating, excellent food, we really enjoyed our time there. We also greatly enjoyed Bergen! Opus XVI was beautiful and we loved being able to walk to restaurants and bars and take in the sights. All of our drivers were punctual and friendly. The itinerary was full but not overfull.
Thank you so much! It was an epic trip, we are taking home wonderful memories!
Shelly
Exceptional service throughout the entire planning and booking process – travel agencies don’t get any better than this. A brilliant, seamless experience matched by the holiday experience itself. Would recommend ‘Off the Map Travel’ to anyone considering booking for a Nordic experience ‘par excellence’.
Chris
Amy planned a fantastic trip! Everything was very well-thought out. All transfers went smoothly, accommodations were amazing, great restaurant recommendations and the tours were once-in-a-lifetime, can’t book it yourself off the internet experiences. The guides were all fantastic. Communications were prompt and everything worked exactly the way it was supposed to. What a pleasure! Already working on our next trip.
Anonymous