Northern Lights of Scandinavia

Day 1 / Welcome to Helsinki.

Welcome to Helsinki. With its lush parks and pretty seaside buildings, this beautiful city is set to be your home for the night. At Helsinki airport, transfers depart at 10:00, 14:00 and 16:00 for the grand GLO Hotel Art. Meet your Travel Director at 18:00 for a drinks reception. Decorated in a distinctive Art Nouveau style, this charming 4-star hotel is the ideal place to sit back and get to know your fellow travellers before your Scandinavian adventure begins.

Day 2 / The gateway to Saariselka.

Today you’ll take a scenic flight to Ivalo. Known as the gateway to Saariselka, Ivalo is a picturesque village set on the Ivalo River. Situated close to Urho Kekkonen National Park you’ll find views of the Aurora Borealis and the striking mountain Korvatunturi, also known as the home of Santa. You’ll enjoy a Welcome Dinner at your boutique hotel, Aurora Village, famed for its cabins with a glass roof, offering sweeping views of the night sky. Look out for the dancing northern lights as you gaze through the glass ceiling from the comfort of your room.(Breakfast / Dinner with Wine)

Day 3 / Ivalo to Honningsvag.

Enjoy a sunrise view of Ivalo as you take in the picturesque scenery of its surrounding areas over your morning coffee and prepare yourself for your scenic day ahead. Today you’ll be driven from Ivalo to Honningsvag, the northernmost city in Norway. Take in the lush drive before exploring the quaint city itself, with its colourful architecture and nautical homeliness, it’s the ideal place to stock up on souvenirs to mark your travels. Retire to the traditional Scandic Bryggen Honningsvag, situated on the sea shore.(Breakfast / Dinner)

Day 4 / Northern Lights in Nordcapp.

You simply can’t visit Norway without heading to Northe Cape. Dubbed the northernmost point in continental Europe, you’ll go in search of the iconic Northern Lights as you sip on bubbles and delight in exquisite caviar with your fellow travellers. End your day back at your charming hotel, where you’ll rest up ahead of tomorrow’s adventures.(Breakfast / Dinner)

Day 5 / North Cape to Alta.

Enjoy a spectacular drive from North Cape to Alta, taking in the country’s magnificent fjords and surroundings along the way. Once you’ve arrived in this northern coast town you’ll be taken aback by its quaint natural beauty. It boasts a UNESCO listed museum and a World Heritage Rock Art Centre. Head to an ice bar with your fellow travellers for a chilled beverage as you discuss the day’s events. Home for the next couple of nights is Scandic Alta, a traditional, relaxing hotel, situated in the heart of Alta.(Breakfast)

Day 6 / Sled riding in Alta.

A day for dog lovers, today is a true high point of the trip. Visit a working husky farm to meet Trine Lyrek, a champion dog sledder. Learn about her Alaskan huskies and the challenges she faces competing in marathon Arctic dog sled races. Perhaps enjoy an optional husky dog sled ride in the heart of Norway. Indulge on a delectable oven-baked Highlight Dinner of local specialities, including salmon or reindeer depending on the season, before heading back for a cosy night at your hotel.(Breakfast / Dinner with Wine)

Day 7 / Norway’s gateway to the Artic.

Today you’ll head to the small but mighty town of Tromso¸, located on the island of Tromsoya. Known as Norway’s gateway to the Artic, you’ll be surrounded by snow-capped mountains and ethereal water views. Once here you’ll head to the Radisson Blu Hotel, your home for the night. This traditional venue boasts stunning views of the Artic Cathedral, Tromso Fjord and mountains.(Breakfast)

Day 8 / Delve into Scandinavian history.

Delve into the history of this glorious country with a meeting with the Sami people, the indigenous people of Scandinavia. You’ll wrap up in provided extra warm clothing, as you’re led around the Sami camp with a knowledgeable, English-speaking Sami guide. You’ll feed the Reindeer herd before enjoying your Celebration Dinner, a hot traditional Sami meal with hot drinks.(Breakfast / Dinner with Wine)

Day 9 / A merry finale in Oslo.

On your final day, you’ll fly from Tromso¸ to Oslo, for a merry finale in Norway’s capital. This modern city is surrounded by magnificent mountains offering panoramic views of the city beneath. On your orientation, see the medieval Akershus Castle and the Royal Palace. History buffs can delve further into Norway’s impressive history at the Viking Ship Museum or for outdoorsy types, take a pretty walk through Frogner Park. Your hotel for the evening is the contemporary Thon Hotel Opera which offers delicious dining options in its modern Scala Restaurant.(Breakfast)

Day 10 / Farewell Oslo.

It’s time to say farewell to your fellow travellers as a transfer takes you to the local airport at 7:15 or 10:15.(Breakfast)