Norway Winter Adventure

Description

Step into an enchanting journey through Norway's picturesque landscapes, where each turn reveals breathtaking vistas and charming towns. Begin your adventure in Oslo, the vibrant capital where modern architecture harmonizes with rich cultural heritage. From Oslo, embark on a scenic train journey through the Sognefjord Area, where fjords and mountains unfold in mesmerizing beauty. Continue from Flam to Bergen, exploring coastal wonders and colourful wooden houses, before concluding with the magical dance of the northern lights in Tromso.

This itinerary can also be taken in November with a Whale Watching Tour in place of the Husky Tour

Pricing

From

$8,899*

per person, twin share

From

$11,399*

per person, in a single room with other travellers

The Single Room price displayed above is for a single room in conjunction with other travellers. A solo traveller price is available on request.

Highlights

• Visit Vigeland Sculpture Park where the work of Norway’s famous sculptor, Gustav Vigeland, is on display
• Experience the breathtaking Flam Railway and the scenic Bergen Railway
  Fjord cruise on the narrow Nærøyfjord
• Bus trip through beautiful scenery and the magnificent Nærøy valley
• Discover the old wooden town in Bergen
• Take the funicular railway to the top of Mount Floyen for magnificent views of Bergen and its surrounds
• Hunt the Northern Lights in Tromso on a small group tour
• Take an exhilarating Husky Sled Ride
• Silently cruise into the darkness of the Tromsø fjords on an Aurora Dinner Cruise

Itinerary

Day 1: Oslo
Welcome to Norway. Upon arrival, you will be greeted by a representative of our local operator and transferred via private vehicle to your hotel, where accommodations have been arranged for two nights. Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.

Day 2: Oslo (B)
Embark on a 4-hour private car tour of Oslo with a local guide. Discover the city center, where you'll visit landmarks including the Parliament building, the National Theatre, the new Opera House, the Royal Residence, and City Hall, where the Nobel Peace Prize is awarded annually.

Next, visit the Vigeland Sculpture Park, showcasing over 200 sculptures in granite, bronze, and wrought iron by Norway's renowned sculptor, Gustav Vigeland. This lifelong work was installed mainly between 1940 and 1949, reflecting over 40 years of dedication.

Continue to explore the Munch Museum, a newly constructed museum on Oslo's waterfront featuring the world's largest collection of art by Edvard Munch. Experience highlights from Munch's artistic career and rotating exhibitions of other artists' works.

Prepare a small overnight bag for your two-night stay in Flam tomorrow. Your remaining luggage will be transferred directly to your Bergen hotel.

Luggage Transfer Oslo to Bergen
This is a safe and secure transportation of luggage for passengers taking the train between Oslo and Bergen. Luggage will be picked up from the hotel reception before 6:30am on the morning of your departure and delivered at 9:00 pm (at the latest) at the destination hotel, the same afternoon. You can leave your luggage at the hotel reception the night before and your destination hotel will store your luggage until you arrive. This service includes one suitcase per person.

Day 3: Oslo to Flam (B,D)
This morning, you will be transported by private vehicle to Oslo Railway station. Board the morning train for your journey from Oslo to Myrdal, a segment of the Bergen Railway renowned as one of the world's most scenic train routes. Along the way, you'll pass through Finse, the highest station on the line at 1222m. As you descend from the summit, you'll notice a remarkable change in climate. Myrdal, located on Norway's maritime coast, experiences milder and damper conditions compared to earlier parts of the journey.

Continue your journey from Myrdal to Flåm aboard the Flåmsbana (Flåm Railway), celebrated as one of the most spectacular train rides globally. Over the 20km route, marvel at rivers carving through deep ravines, cascading waterfalls, snow-capped mountains, and mountain farms clinging precariously to steep slopes. The train makes a scenic stop at the breathtaking Kjosfossen waterfall. Upon arrival in Flåm, make your way to your hotel conveniently located near the railway station. Enjoy dinner and spend the night in Flåm.

Day 4: Flam (B,D)
Embark on a magical morning Winter Fjordsafari to explore the UNESCO-listed Aurlandsfjord and half of Nærøyfjorden. The journey reaches Styvi before returning to the charming village of Undredal, where a local host awaits with warm drinks and insights into village life, renowned for its goat cheese. You can also purchase your favorite goat cheese before departure.

Note: You'll be provided with all necessary gear for a safe and comfortable fjord experience, including a flotation suit, life vest, hat, gloves, and goggles. Dress warmly as temperatures on the fjord can be very low during winter.

Enjoy the afternoon at your leisure for optional activities. Dinner and overnight stay in Flam.

Day 5: Flam to Bergen (B)
Depart from Flåm by coach to Gudvangen, where you'll have the opportunity to visit the Gudvangen Viking Valley. Nestled in the heart of the UNESCO-listed Norwegian fjord landscape, this valley is home to Njardarheimr, a recreated Viking town that brings the history and culture of the Viking Age to life. Learn about Viking life, work, and their global influence as you explore this interactive town, inhabited by a diverse community of Viking enthusiasts.

Continue your journey by coach from Gudvangen to Voss, where you can unwind and enjoy the scenic nature and waterfalls along the route. From Voss, embark on the final leg of your journey aboard the Bergen Railway (Bergenbanen), a monumental engineering feat completed after 34 years of construction, beginning in 1875.

Upon arrival at Bergen station, you will be transferred by private vehicle to your hotel, where accommodations have been reserved for two nights.

Day 6: Bergen (B)
Embark on a 3-hour guided walking tour of Bergen, led by a local expert. Explore both the modern and historic parts of the city, wandering through the old wooden town, broad streets, and narrow alleyways. Highlights of the tour include The Fortress, St. Mary’s Church, the Fish Market, City Park, and the Theatre. Dive into Bergen’s history at the UNESCO-listed old Wharf, learning about the Hanseatic League's operations in Bergen. Along the way, encounter statues of famous Norwegians such as Henrik Ibsen and Edvard Grieg, discovering insights into their fascinating lives and works. A leisurely walk through Bergen offers an ideal way to absorb the city's atmosphere, with its compact center and wealth of attractions.

In the afternoon, experience a journey on the Fløibanen funicular railway, a renowned Norwegian attraction. Starting from Bergen's city center, the railway ascends 320 meters above sea level to Mount Fløyen in just 6 minutes. From the summit, enjoy panoramic views of Bergen and its surroundings. The area offers opportunities for exploration with trails to hike, along with amenities like a restaurant, cafeteria, souvenir shop, and children's playground.

Day 7: Bergen to Tromso (B)
This morning, you will be transferred by private vehicle to Bergen Airport for your flight to Tromsø (Please note: flight tickets are not included). Upon arrival at Tromsø Airport, you will be transported by Airport Shuttle to the city center, and then proceed to your hotel, where accommodations have been arranged for three nights.

In the evening, embark on a small group Aurora Safari by minibus. Patience is key when chasing the Northern Lights! While awaiting the appearance of the Aurora Borealis, your guide will share captivating stories about this natural phenomenon and life in the Arctic. Weather permitting, a bonfire will be lit to keep you warm (thermal suits will be provided). Enjoy hot drinks and local snacks during the wait. When conditions allow, the tour may visit private campsites offering optimal viewing spots for the Northern Lights, equipped with shelters and restrooms.

Day 8: Tromso (B,L,D)
This morning, embark on an exhilarating 4-hour Husky Sled Ride adventure. Enjoy 45-60 minutes of dogsledding, where you'll also have the opportunity to meet the huskies and spend time with their puppies. Each sled, driven by professional mushers, ensures your safety and comfort. Following the ride, savor a hearty meal of Bidos, featuring reindeer meat, broth, and vegetables. The husky sled experience will be shared with 1-2 other guests.

In the evening, board a floating restaurant in Tromsø for a Northern Lights cruise. Silent and propelled by an electric engine, the boat will navigate into the darkness of the Tromsø fjords. Sit beside panoramic windows, order a local craft beer from Graff, or choose from carefully selected wines. Dinner is prepared with locally-sourced, seasonal ingredients, blending modern twists with traditional Northern Norwegian culinary dishes. Your hosts will share insights into the fishing industry's significance to Tromsø and Northern Norway.

Day 9: Tromso (B)
Enjoy a leisurely day to unwind or choose from a variety of optional tours available. Overnight in Tromsø.

Day 10: Tromso (B)
This morning, you will be transported from the city center to the airport by coach.

Inclusions

• Accommodation in Superior First Class hotels with private facilities
• Breakfast daily, 1 x lunch on Husky tour; 2 x dinners Flam; dinner on Tromso Cruise
• Transfers by private vehicle Oslo Gardermoen Airport/Hotel/Oslo Railway Station; Bergen Railway Station/Hotel/Bergen Airport;
  Coach (airport shuttle) Tromso Airport/City Centre/Tromso Airport
• Transportation of luggage between Oslo and Bergen
• Train Tickets Oslo to Myrdal; Myrdal to Flam; Bergen to Voss
• Coach transfers from Flam to Gudvangen and from Gudvangen to Voss
• Private sightseeing with professional English-speaking local guide in Oslo and Bergen
• Shared sightseeing tour Flam: Winter Fjordsafari
• Shared sightseeing tours Tromso: 6hr Aurora Chase; 4hr Husky Sled Ride; 3-4hr Aurora Dinner Cruise
• Entrance fees Munch Museum; Gudvangen Viking Valley
• 24/7 support in Norway
• Assistance of local representatives
• Norway Travel Notes 

Exclusions

• International airfares
• Domestic airfare Bergen to Tromso
• Optional tours and excursions
• Porterage/Luggage Handling (you will be required to carry your own luggage)
• Tipping/Gratuities (please refer to tour notes for a recommended guideline)
• Personal Expenses
• Departure taxes
• Hotel charges for minibar or any extra charges
• Visas (unless specified)
• Any other services not clearly mentioned in the inclusions above

Important Information

The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, offer an unforgettable winter experience. These regions are celebrated for their clear skies and minimal light pollution, creating perfect conditions to witness this natural phenomenon. Dressing warmly and being patient are key to fully enjoying this awe-inspiring pursuit.

It's important to note that the appearance of the aurora can be unpredictable, appearing only under specific conditions—cold, dark nights with clear skies. Therefore, maintaining patience is essential when seeking the Northern Lights, as sightings are not guaranteed due to the unpredictability of this natural wonder.

 
Winter Sightseeing Activities
Please be aware that winter sightseeing activities are subject to weather conditions. Tours may be canceled if weather conditions are unfavorable, if guest safety cannot be assured, or due to unforeseen circumstances.

 
Winter Weather Conditions
During winter, Northern Norway and Finnish Lapland endure harsh conditions, with temperatures frequently dropping well below freezing. The region typically receives heavy snowfall, covering the landscape in a thick blanket of snow. Strong winds can exacerbate the cold, creating even chillier conditions. Daylight hours are notably reduced, and in some areas, the polar night phenomenon occurs, where the sun remains below the horizon for an extended period.

 
Dressing for Winter Tours
To prepare for winter weather, layering is essential to combat extreme cold. Begin with a thermal base layer, add insulating layers such as fleece or wool, and top it off with a waterproof and windproof outer layer. Don't forget essential accessories like hats, gloves, scarves, and insulated boots to keep extremities warm in subzero temperatures and snowy conditions.

Terms and Conditions

Trip prices and dates are correct at the time of the website going live, however all offers are subject to reconfirmation at the time of booking. All featured tour itineraries and offers maybe subject to change due to seasonal variations without notice, or due to local conditions or other conditions. Please confirm all details at time of booking. Travel insurance is mandatory for all Innovative Travel bookings. All passports must be valid for 6 months prior to your return to your home country. Visas are the responsibility of the traveller. Special VIP meet and assist offers are valid for New Zealand passport holders, for other nationalities please check at the time of booking. For full terms and conditions, please contact your World Travellers consultant. Professional Service Fees may apply.