We kick off our Norwegian adventure in the Arctic town of Kirkenes. We board the sleek Havila supply ship, our floating hotel with serious eco-friendly credentials, and set sail on a voyage that’s more about fjords than fancy.
As we sail Norway’s jaw-dropping coastline, you’ll be treated to an endless parade of fjords, mountains, and tiny villages that look like they’ve popped out of a fairytale. The ship’s route blends scenic splendour and everyday Norwegian life – perfect for the curious traveller.
Once back on dry land, it’s time to hit the trails in Jotunheimen National Park. Here, under the golden glow of the midnight sun, Jotunheimen is nature’s playground.
Whether you choose to join us scrambling up the famous Besseggen Ridge or prefer meandering through lush valleys, every step is a reminder that nature is Norway’s ultimate show-off.
Our adventure wraps up in Oslo, where the city’s summer vibe is all about outdoor fun and laid-back living. Wander through parks, chill at a café, or just enjoy the warm evening light as you reflect on your Nordic Adventure.
Kirkenes – Oslo, Norway
29 June – 12 July 2025
Arrive any time, and check in to the hotel. Meet the group at the hotel at 6pm to review the schedule. If you are arriving later, that is okay, we can see you in the morning. For those that have arrived by 6pm, we can go out for a meal nearby (own expense). Kirkenes is a very small and remote town just 15km from the Russian border. Rug up warm, as it is likely to be very cold, even in the middle of summer. O/N Thron Hotel Kirkenes (or similar)
After breakfast at the hotel we will transfer to the Havila ferry terminal. Check-in and settle into your cabin. You will have enough time to have a look around the ferry before departure at 12.30pm. From there it is time to sit back and watch the world go by. This is not a ‘cruise ship’ so there is no entertainment on board, as it is a supply ship it will be constantly stopping, in fact it will stop three times before we settle in for the night. There are daily lectures if you are interested in learning more about Norway’s nature and the places we’ll sail past. Enjoy your first night sleeping with the gentle rocking and the ever present daylight under the midnight sun.
As we sail west and south, the polar landscape transforms, giving way to towering peaks. In the evening, we’ll arrive in Tromsø, known as “The Paris of the North”, where you can attend a midnight concert in the Tromsø Cathedral or take a stroll in the stunning midnight sun. Explore the city’s lively nightlife scene, but be back ready for departure at 01.30hrs
Next, we’ll sail into the stunning and picturesque Vesterålen and Lofoten Islands. We will enter the Vesterålen region in the morning, and in the evening we visit Lofoten. Along the coastline, you’ll discover chalky, white, and sandy beaches alongside charming fishing villages, which still thrive on a vibrant fishing industry. The locals rely on coastal ships for everyday transportation. If the weather permits it, we’ll venture into the narrow Trollfjord and get the opportunity to go for a beach hike.
At this juncture of our journey, we have ventured so far south that we have left the polar land behind and crossed the Arctic Circle. If you return during winter, you may witness the Northern Lights illuminating the night sky, while summer brings the magical midnight sun. As we sail, we’ll pass by numerous small islands, islets, and skerries, including the unique Torghatten mountain, which features a hole in its centre. If you’re up for it, consider joining us for a hike on the mountain and explore the cavern.
At this juncture of our journey, we have ventured so far south that we have left the polar land behind and crossed the Arctic Circle. If you return during winter, you may witness the Northern Lights illuminating the night sky, while summer brings the magical midnight sun. As we sail, we’ll pass by numerous small islands, islets, and skerries, including the unique Torghatten mountain, which features a hole in its centre. If you’re up for it, consider joining us for a hike on the mountain and explore the cavern.
On the final day of our journey, we’ll go through a varied coastal landscape that features rugged rocky mountains and an intricate network of straits and waterways between countless islands. The magnificent fjords and glaciers are located further inland. Our voyage concludes in Bergen mid-afternoon. We will stay in beautiful Bergen for the night. The city has a charming, historic waterfront, particularly around Bryggen, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring colourful, wooden Hanseatic buildings that date back to the 14th century. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy. O/N Bergen
Today we have a fairly early start to take the 8.00 am train from Bergen across the country to Grønolen Fjellgard for our farm stay by Jotunheimen National Park. This area is a skier’s paradise in winter and a hiker’s haven in summer. Grønolen Fjellgard is a family-run accommodation, and the family has been welcoming guests since 1784. Join us for dinner tonight to learn about the area, meet with the locals and go over the program for the following day’s guided hikes.
After a hearty breakfast we start at the foot of the mountain on the south side. We go up towards the pass, Velumskaret where we get to see old hunting graves for reindeer and a newer one for wolverines. From there it goes steeper towards the top of Bitihorn, where we eat our lunch pack. After lunch, we go down the stairs ‘Bitihødntrøppe’ on the steep side of Bitihorn. Classed (by Norweigens) as medium / easy. The rest of the day is for taking it easy!
Knutshøe is one of their self claimed finest mountain hikes. It is varied and exciting. We start with a short walk on the marked path from the parking area before we reach the ascent to the mountain. Some paths are a bit narrow and people sensitive to heights should mentally prepare for a challenge. Fortunately, you are looked after by experienced local guides. The tour follows the entire mountain ridge and returns along the foot of the mountain, to the south. Classed medium/demanding. If this is too much for you, an alternative self guided hike will be offered.
From the mountain summer farm Hålistølen, we start by following a sandy moraine. It’s a ‘little steep’ in the beginning. We take short breaks and enjoy the view. Eventually, we reach the summit of Synshorn and enjoy splendid views towards Lake Bygdin with the peaks in Jotunheimen National Park in the distance. We head down through the Fagerdalen Valley, then at their old mountain summer farm, we are treated to a traditional dish of sour cream porridge and cured meat.
Jostigen is an old shortcut to get up to the famous Besseggen Ridge. As with all hikes, this is weather permitting.
Today we say farewell to Grønolen Fjellgard. After spending 5 days with them we will feel like locals and part of the family, so it will be adjø, until we meet again. We’ll take public transport for the journey south to Oslo arriving mid-afternoon. Your time is free to explore Oslo. O/N Oslo
Depart any time after breakfast. As today is Saturday, you may like to join in on a Parkrun with the locals at 9.30am. You may like to spend more time in Oslo, or perhaps join us in Scotland for our rail and hiking tour. Ask us for more details.
As a former police officer and part-time ICON tea lady (a job she took way too seriously as those who know her will know that tea is something of an obsession), Suzanne took over ICON Adventures in 2015, since then has been curating organised tours and bespoke travel arrangements to far-flung corners of the globe.
With a penchant for off-the-beaten-track destinations Suzanne also fearlessly leads her own unique hiking and cultural tours across the globe. She brings not only a can-do attitude but also a bloody-well-will-do attitude as she leads the ICON team and her tours. Her attention to detail and dedication to her clients means you want her planning your trip!
With Suzanne in charge of a tour or helping to organise independent travel for you, you can be rest-assured it will be like her tea, done to the highest and most meticulous standard.