Looking For A Real Off-The-Beaten-Track Adventure? Explore Norway
Would you like to go on an adventure destinations? For example, wander moonlit forests, explore undisturbed lakes and inundate yourself ever? Maybe you need to climb rough tops, or experience whales? At that point Norway is the place for you. In spite of it's developing fame as a tourist destination, Norway stays loaded with choices to take off the pulsated track, and out into the wilds – all while returning home to a cosy hearth and urban areas overflowing with culture. Here are some of our adventure travel tips and top proposals for going to Norway: The Northern Lights
No trip to Norway is complete without seeing the Northern Lights. Head to the very north of the country to increase your chances – whilst it’s cold, it’s easily accessible. Your best chance of seeing them is between September and April, but be aware that it can never be guaranteed. Plan in advance, and join a tour – there are some day trips out from major cities, but to really make sure you have the best shot of seeing them, you may want to spend a couple of days out. Many tours will take you out by bus or mini-van, so don’t worry if you don’t fancy trekking across the ice. For the more adventurous among you, there’s the option to head out on snowmobiles, or even dog sleds! The Fjords You simply can’t visit Norway and not spend some time among the Fjords. Famed worldwide for good reasons, the Fjords are an area of breathtaking natural beauty, and well worth experiencing. There’s a whole variety of ways to explore them too! If
you have the time, take a boat out around them – seeing them from the water will give you a brand new perspective. Of course, you could always walk around them – the Trollstigen Mountain Road is home to some spectacular views. There’s even the more leisurely option of going by train – The Flåm Railway will take you past towering waterfalls, snow-capped mountains and finally, bring you our to the Aurlandsfjord – part of Norway’s longest fjord. Just be aware that it’s one of the world’s steepest railway lines, so maybe not great for those of you with a fear of heights!
Explore Sami Culture
The Sami are the indigenous peoples of Norway, with a culture that dates back over 10,000 years. Head out to the Sápmi Culture Park, where you can experience the local cuisine, see local crafts and even meet the Sami’s main partner in life – the reindeer. Sápmi is near Karasjok, the Sami capital. Head over in the autumn and winter, and you’ll find around 60,000 reindeer as well as the 3,000 inhabitants. If it’s spring you’re planning, try to make the Easter Festival, when the annual reindeer race occurs. Or, if it’s summertime, the Riddu Riddu Sami Festival in Troms takes places in July, and features music, film and art. Whenever you go, there’s a chance to learn about one of the world’s oldest living cultures.
Encounter History Norway has a long history, with lots of well-preserved structures. From the rock carvings in Alta, dating back to the prehistoric period, to the stave churches scattered throughout the countryside. Spend some time in Oslo, and visit its many museums – from the Viking ship museum to the Nobel Peace Centre. This is a great way to wind down after having trekked through the frozen wilds, so why not leave some space for a city break at the end of your exploring?
Meet the Wildlife
Norway is home to a fascinating array of wildlife – from king crabs to musk oxen. Whatever you’re interested in, there’s a chance to head out, explore and potentially get up close with them. Head to Vesterålen for the chance to see sperm whales. These majestic creatures can dive up to 3,000 metres, but they’re common along the Vesterålen coast in summer. It’s not just sperm whales, however. The area is wellknown for its popularity among ocean life, and you may also encounter minke whales, hum packs and dolphins. Or, if you prefer something land-based, then head on a walking tour to find some musk oxen (with chances of seeing reindeer too!). These beasts are huge, heavy and – luckily – peaceful so long as you keep your distance.