Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty and unique cultural experiences of Scandinavia – a region on the edge of the world. From the staggering fjords and mountainous landscapes of Norway to the charming waterways of Stockholm, Sweden, and the soothing tranquillity of Denmark, every step through these countries is a step through history, into nature’s wonders, and a taste of adventures that will leave an indelible mark on your soul.
Norway
The largest of the Scandinavian countries is Norway. This is a country of mind-blowing landscapes, where steep-sided fjords slice through the coastline, still waters dark, and deep reflect the soaring rocky mountains, glaciers as old as time grind onwards through icefields and pretty villages dot the countryside.
With almost constant daylight during the summer there is plenty of time to explore, and adventures include hiking, mountain biking, river rafting and discovering the majestic fjords. Take a coastal cruise for a gentler way to uncover the scenery, or try the Flam Railway, which is part of the Norway in a Nutshell tour. Travel by train, boat and bus through the gorgeously scenic interior taking in the spectacular flora and fauna. If you prefer to travel at your own pace then consider the Hurtigruten ferry service, which has sailed arguably one of the most beautiful coastlines on the planet for over 125 years. It was a real lifeline to the outside world for many of the remote fishing villages, and today still stops at small towns and villages, transporting goods, food, and people.
Cultural and cosmopolitan immersion comes in the form of the picture-perfect cities of Bergen and Trondheim, whilst Oslo puts its strong maritime heritage to the fore. With more than 1,000 years of history in its past, the collection of museums is well worth a visit. Oslo is also regarded as one of the greenest cities on the planet.
As the seasons turn Norway becomes a magical winter wilderness. With temperatures sitting well below freezing, a snowy winter wonderland is pretty much guaranteed. Try your hand at mushing a dog sled, snow shoeing, learning more about the hardy Sami culture and their reindeer herds, or carve your way through the pristine trails on a snow mobile. Surely, the most impressive of Mother Nature’s treasures, however, is the soul-stirring sight of the Northern Lights, and Norway is one of the best places in Europe for a front row seat to this spectacular light show.
Sweden
Sandwiched between Norway and Finland is blessed with an abundance of natural treasures. From the coastal capital city of Stockholm, surrounded by an archipelago of islands, served by countless ferries, to the pretty town of Uppsala, often regarded as the ‘Cambridge’ of Sweden. Swedish Lapland in the far north is home to the indigenous Sami people, where during the summer months the midnight sun never sets. Here the northern lights do their merry dance across the dark skies.
During the summer there is much to keep outdoor enthusiasts entertained with magnificent national parks, hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, and fishing.
As the seasons change winter sports come to the forefront with cross-country skiing and dog sledging just two of the activities available. Spend time with the Sami in a reindeer camp, go in search of the northern lights or rest your head in the original Ice Hotel.
Denmark
Usually found resting at the top of the world’s ‘best place to live’ or ‘happiest place in the world’ lists Denmark is a place of charm and forward thinking. Home to the uniquely Danish trait of hygge, the sense of calm, tranquillity and cosiness is palpable wherever you go. The landscapes here are gentler than its neighbour, but that fits this understated country.
Copenhagen is one of northern Europe’s coolest capital cities. Take in the iconic brightly coloured buildings of Nyhavn and enjoy the outdoor dining. Take a canal tour to see the city from the water or hop on a bike and explore on two wheels, this is a very cycle-friendly city.
Denmark is a place where’s those on a trail of UNESCO World Heritage sites can tick off seven in one visit including Kronborg Castle, the Viking rune stones at Jelling and Christiansfeld. It’s also a country with a Viking history that dates back more than 1000 years. As it goes, royal families don’t get much older than this.
There is so much so see and do it’s no wonder visitors return to Denmark time and time again.
More From The Expert – Catherine Blackburn
Visit my website at Catherine Blackburn Travel, follow me on Facebook, or give me a call on 01295 231525
Further Reading From Catherine
- Canada
- Eastern Canada
- Atlantic Canada
- Canada: Gold Rush Pioneers
- Australia
- New Zealand
- South Africa & Safari
- Caribbean
- Alaska The Last Frontier
- Escape the Winter
- The Evolving Landscape of Travel in 2024: Exploring New Horizons, Sustainability, and Adventure
- California
- Christmas in Lapland
- Florida
- East Coast Cities of the USA
