Scandinavia is home to incredible natural wonders, beauty, and outdoor adventures. With the addition of its unique and friendly culture, a trip to Scandinavia is a unique one. There is nowhere else like Scandinavia in the rest of the world, and it is at the top of my ‘must-visit’ destination list.
Here are some of the activities that make my Scandinavian bucket list:
Explore the Fjords
Characterized by a narrow inlet of sea with steep walls of rock on either side, the Fjords are a must to check out while in Scandinavia. You can sail along the fjords for the best views from the water and navigate your way through Scandinavia in a way that is true to the land here.
In fact, one of the biggest development projects in Norway is the Sognefjord tunnel proposal, which will lay a concrete tube across the Sognefjord, one of the deepest fjords in Scandinavia. The tunnel would offer a way to cross a fjord without the use of a boat and significantly cut down on travel time.
See the Northern Lights
The Northern Lights easily one of the biggest draws for tourism to Scandinavia. The best time to see the Northern Lights is between October and March in Norway. While it is an incredible experience, it is not always a guarantee… so planning a trip to Scandinavia that has other activities you’re excited for and feel the trip out to be worth it is a must.
Explore Lapland
I love winter and Christmas time, and Lapland is a must during this time of year. You get the ‘full Christmas experience’ here, with theme parks, Christmas festivities, and sled rides. This remote destination is also a spot to head to for the Northern Lights.
Visit the Lofoten Islands
The Lofoten Islands are located in the Norwegian Sea and best explored by boat for the full experience and panoramic views. There are quaint villages scattered along the islands, surrounded by incredible mountains and fjords. They are set in a remote location, so the trip out to the islands and being wow-ed by the natural beauty of the landscapes here will be something you’ll remember forever. It is a dream to kayaking here in the glacier waters and go hiking for some beautiful views.
Drive along the Trolls Path
Trollstrigen, or Trolls Path, is a 55-kilometre scenic drive through the mountains. Along the way, you’ll find waterfalls, fjords, lakes, and beautiful panoramic views. This route is named Trolls Path because Norwegian folk legend says that trolls roam the mountains at night and turn to stone upon morning sunlight.
While here check out Trolltunga, or Troll’s Tongue, for a scenic hike and incredible experience of seeing the rock set out over a canyon.
Stay in an Ice Hotel
Staying in an ice hotel is a unique Scandinavian experience that you won’t see the option for in many other places. The rooms are of an igloo-type and built out of ice blocks from nearby water sources. It is a dream to stay in an ice hotel, cozy up in massive blankets, and gaze at the open skies and hopefully the Northern Lights in Scandinavia.
Have you ever done any of these things?