Nordics 2024 (AU)

SEE THE NORDICS YOUR WAY with Adventure World

Dear River Heritage Club Member,

As a world traveller, you know how rewarding it is to discover new destinations, shortening your bucket list with every trip.

Have you ever cruised between the high cliffs of a Norwegian fjord? Hunted for a glimpse of the northern lights? Basked in the warmth of an Icelandic hot spring? Consider taking your journey to new heights through the Nordics with a private custom tour just for you and your travelling companions, designed by our sister brand, Adventure World

On any Adventure World trip, you’ll find the high degree of quality, outstanding service, and exceptional experiences that you’ve come to expect from Uniworld. And on many of these privately arranged itineraries, you can add your own unique twist by working with the Destination Experts at Adventure World to customise your trip!

Flip through these pages to discover how you can check some of these memorable experiences in the Nordics off your bucket list. We recommend that you pair these trips as extensions to any of Uniworld’s Europe sailings—or book a fully independent travel experience without a river cruise.

Sincerely,

Ellen Bettridge CEO, Uniworld Boutique River Cruises

Neil Rodgers Managing Director, Adventure World

THE NORDICS

A world away from the everyday

ICELAND

Born of a mesmerising mix of fire and ice, Iceland is one of the most geologically dynamic areas on Earth. It boasts a spectacular array of attractions: deep glacier-carved valleys; the Golden Circle and its Gullfoss waterfall, whose golden hues and 31.6 metre drop has captivated visitors from around the world; and Thingvellir National Park, where you can walk between two continents.

ARCTIC CIRCLE

The northern most regions of Sweden, Finland and Norway cross into the Arctic Circle. While you’re standing on top of the world, immerse yourself in its phenomenal beauty as you mush through the forest behind a team of Arctic dogs, get acquainted with the enduring Sámi culture through Joik music and storytelling, and fill your lungs with the cleanest air in the world during a ride in a reindeer-pulled sleigh.

The Nordic countries are a must-visit travel destination for anyone who desires to experience the full beauty of nature. There is a deep appreciation for the planet here, one which is shared by Adventure World and inspires the design of their itineraries. On Adventure World’s epic trips in this region, you might relax in the healing waters of geothermal pools in Iceland, watch in awe as the aurora borealis dances across the night sky, or stroll the cobblestone streets of Bergen, Norway’s gateway to the fjords.

DENMARK

Visit the smallest country in Scandinavia, where even the country’s big cities feel cosy, and are easy to explore. The homeland of Hygge, Denmark is consistently rated as one of the happiest countries on Earth. The country feels as though it’s jumped from the pages of a storybook—which is no wonder when it was the home and birthplace of fairytale author Hans Christian Andersen. Experience the serene landscapes, world-class museums and exciting gastronomical scene.

NORWAY

The long, sun-lit days of summer are an ideal time to visit The Land of the Midnight Sun. Lush, fertile valleys, snow-kissed mountains, and glacial fjords await your arrival. Norway is just as captivating when it dons its winter cloak, when you can immerse yourself in the otherworldly beauty of the Arctic, hunt for sightings of the aurora borealis, and experience the polar night phenomenon.

CUSTOM-MADE EXPERIENCES for the ultimate Nordics immersion

Our custom-made trips are crafted with meticulous research, sup erb itinerary design and hand-picked accommodations. We’ve designed them to include the most fascinating routes and must-do experiences.

DESTINATION EXPERTS

Adventure World’s Destination Experts have decades of experience travelling around the globe and using that knowledge to work with travellers in creating customised itineraries from a diverse portfolio of experiences that showcase the best of ou r planet, its people and its incredible wildlife.

GENUINE EXPERIENCES

Adventure World travellers yearn to experience the lifeblood of a destination, so their Destination Experts handpick a collection of extraordinary adve ntures and accommodations that go beyond the typical. Partake in traditional events, sample the region’s delicacies, mingle with local communities and more.

CREATING THE PERFECT TRIP

While the suggested itineraries included in this booklet are proven in their popularity, each trip can be customised to your preferences by Adventure World’s Destination Experts. You can book them as they are or tinker a bit, altering the program to suit your own personal interests.

ADVENTURE WORLD TRAVEL INCLUSIONS

• Unique accommodations

• Guided tours with English-speaking guides

• Some private transportation throughout

• Transfers as indicated (private)

• Most meals

FJORD ODYSSEY

10 Days | Oslo to Bergen | May to September Venture into Norway’s fjord lands to capture the region’s famously majestic sights with scenic journeys by train and by cruise. Experience the quaint towns of rural Norway as well as its highlight cities on this comprehensive trip.

Day 1 & 2 – Oslo: Check into the Oslo’s Grand Hotel, located on the famous promenade Karl Johans, and enjoy the vibrant capital.

Day 3 – Oslo, Ålesund, Storfjord: After a short flight to Ålesund, check into the secluded luxury boutique Storfjord Hotel, located on a hillside overlooking the Storfjord and the Sunnmøre Alps.

Day 4 – Storfjord: Enjoy a day at your leisure.

Day 5 – Storfjord, Geiranger: The drive to Geiranger will take you on one of the most breathtaking routes in Norway, Eagle Road. Upon arrival, check into the historic Hotel Union.

Day 6 – Geirangerfjord: Join an unforgettable cruise on Geirangerfjord with its majestic nature, thundering waterfalls and mighty mountains.

Day 7 – Geiranger, Loen, Flåm: Head to Flåm, a quaint village where you will check into the Flåmsbrygga Hotel, idyllically located at the harbour close to activities, shops and restaurants.

Day 8 – Flåm, Sognefjord, Bergen: Enjoy a beautiful train journey aboard the Flåm Railway. In the afternoon, check out of your hotel and join a fjord cruise of Sognefjord, from Flåm to Bergen (a 5-hour cruise). On arrival in Bergen, check into the luxurious Hotel Norge by Scandic.

Day 9 – Bergen: Spend the day getting to know Bergen. A must-see is the World Heritage Site of Bryggen, a medieval trading wharf.

Day 10 – Bergen: Your Norwegian escape ends here in Bergen.

Geirangerfjord, Norway

AUTHENTIC DENMARK

8 Days | Copenhagen to Aarhus | Year Round

Explore the picturesque landscape of Denmark via its extensive rail system, which offers an excellent way to experience the charm of this Scandinavian nation. Stroll along the enchanting cobbled streets of Ribe, pay a visit to the hometown of Hans Christian Andersen, and embark on a delightful culinary walking tour to savour the tastes of Copenhagen, the capital city.

Day 1 – Copenhagen: Upon arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the evening is at your leisure.

Day 2 – Copenhagen: Your guided walking tour through Copenhagen will unveil the authentic narrative of the city, expertly weaving together Danish history with contemporary tales of everyday life among today’s Danes.

Day 3 – Copenhagen: Enjoy a culinary walking tour of Copenhagen, starting at Torvehallerne, the fully covered market hall. Stroll through several of the city’s greatest landmarks, with food as the focus, and try the popular open sandwiches known as smørrebrød

Day 4 – Copenhagen, Odense: Catch the train to Odense, the main city on the island of Funen, and Denmark’s third-largest city. Learn about its centuries of history, populated by merchants, clergy, kings, nobility and regular folk.

Day 5 – Odense, Bramming, Ribe: Enjoy your train journey across the mainland province of Jutland and to Ribe, the oldest town in Denmark. The cobbled narrow streets, the well-preserved houses, and the historic plaques each tell their part of the proud history that stretches back to around 710 AD.

Day 6 – Ribe, Aarhus: Hop on the direct train to Aarhus, Denmark’s second-largest city. Upon arrival, make your own way to the hotel. You might like to head to the riverfront, where an array of cafes and restaurants await, providing a perfect setting to unwind and savour the city’s atmosphere.

Day 7 – Aarhus: Explore Aarhus’ highlights, including the iconic City Hall, the Concert Hall, the ARoS Art Museum and the Dokk1 library, the Aarhus River and the Latin Quarter.

Day 8 – Aarhus: The tour concludes after breakfast. Make your own way to the airport for your departing flight.

Copenhagen, Denmark

INTO THE ARCTIC CIRCLE

6 Days | Oulu/Kuusamo (Iso-Syöte) to Rovaniemi | November to April

This winter experience takes you into the Arctic Circle, where the winter days are incredibly short, and the nights are filled with the dancing lights of the aurora borealis. Embrace the frost with snowmobile driving and sledge-driving and get to know the indigenous Sámi communities and their connection to this wintry environment.

Day 1 – Oulu/Kuusamo, Iso-Syöte: Upon arrival, check into the Arctic Hilltop Boutique Hotel Iso-Syöte.

Day 2 – Iso-Syöte: Head out in the snow-laden landscape to visit a husky farm, followed by a sledge-driving ride through the snowy forests and around ice-covered lakes. This evening, join a snowmobile safari to view the stars and look out for the northern lights.

Day 3 – Iso-Syöte, Rovaniemi: Travel to Rovaniemi, the official home of Santa Claus. Check into the Arctic Light Hotel, then join a guided Aurora floating tour in the evening. With a high-quality rescue suit, you’ll float on the zero-degree lake water and try to catch a glimpse of the northern lights.

Day 4 – Rovaniemi: In the evening, experience a traditional Kota dinner by the open fire, enjoying traditional Finnish delicacies in a genuine Lappish hut.

Day 5 – Rovaniemi: Join a snowmobile safari to a reindeer farm and experience a special ceremony, “Crossing the Arctic Circle.” Tonight, view the stars and look out for the northern.

Day 6 – Rovaniemi: Today, you bid farewell to the winter wonderland of the Arctic Circle.

Santa Claus Village, Rovaniemi

NORDIC WONDERLAND

9 Days | Ivalo (Inari) to Harads (Luleå) | November to April

Journey from Finland to Sweden, immersing yourself in the countries’ northernmost regions. Explore these winter wonderlands, native home to the Sámi, and take in spectacular displays of northern lights. The experiences you’ll be privy to on this adventure are as rare as the unique and cosy accommodations in which you’ll be staying.

Day 1 – Ivalo, Inari: Check into the lakeside setting of the Wilderness Hotel Inari, just 5 minutes from a Sámi village. Enjoy a traditional dinner with an introduction to Sámi culture and traditions.

Day 2 – Inari: Enjoy a sleigh ride pulled by snowmobile through snowy forests with stops along the way to admire the starry sky and the northern lights.

Day 3 – Inari, Rovaniemi: Travel through the magical winter scenery to Rovaniemi, the official home of Santa Claus. Check-in next door to the igloo-like accommodations of the Glass Resort.

Day 4 – Rovaniemi: This afternoon, dress warmly for a husky safari. You’ll get to know your team of arctic dogs and experience some mushing out in the forest.

Day 5 – Rovaniemi: Travel to the Arctic Light Hotel. In the evening, experience a traditional Kota dinner by the open fire, enjoying traditional Finnish delicacies in a genuine Lappish hut.

Day 6– Rovaniemi: Visit a reindeer farm and travel through snow-laden forests in a sleigh. Perhaps the northern lights will paint the sky while you enjoy a warm drink by the campfire.

Day 7 – Rovaniemi, Kemi, Harads: Visit the Snow Castle of Kemi, then embark on an arctic cruise for one-of-a-kind scenery. Later, check into the Arctic Bath Hotel.

Day 8 – Harads: Today is an immersion into the Sámi culture as you gather around the fireplace in a typical Sámi nomadic shelter for a traditional lunch.

Day 9 – Harads, Luleå: Today you bid farewell to this winter wonderland.

Arctic Sunset, Rovaniemi

SCENIC SOUTH ICELAND

5 Days | Reykjavík to Reykjavík | May to August

This small group journey is the perfect introduction into Iceland’s volcanoes and glaciers. Visit the natural wonders of this magical island: black-sand beaches, hot springs, waterfalls, vast volcanic areas and jagged bird cliffs.

Day 1 – Reykjavík: After your flight, check into the Grandi by Center Hotels. Later, you may enjoy relaxing in the geothermal pools and taking a stroll through Reykjavík’s old city centre, or visiting one of the many museums and cafes.

Day 2 – Waterfalls and Black-Sand Beaches: Today’s route takes you along the South Coast, a region of volcanic mountains and waterfalls. Continue to the Seljalandsfoss waterfall—the only one in Iceland where you can walk behind the roaring cascades on a footpath.

Day 3 – Vatnajokull National Park and the Glacier Lagoon: Start with a visit to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where you’ll embark on an amphibian boat tour and float among the icebergs. Next, visit Diamond Beach, where ice chunks float around like diamonds. Check into your hotel, Magma Hotel in Kirkjubaejarklaustur.

Day 4 – Farm Visit and the Classic Golden Circle: After your farm visit along the South Coast, journey to the Golden Circle, known for Iceland’s best-known natural sites. See Gullfoss waterfall, followed by the spouting Strokkur geyser. The finale is Thingvellier National Park, the heart and soul of Iceland.

Day 5 – Reykjavík: Bid farewell to Iceland and transfer to the airport.