Copenhagen to Copenhagen

Effortlessly cool and down to earth, Copenhagen is a contemporary, clean and classy highlight of Scandinavia. A city built to be liveable, Copenhagen has refused to compromise, resulting in a forward-thinking metropolis that’s green and clean. Swim in the waters of Havnebadet Islands during summer, or shelter from winter’s bite by snuggling in beside a roaring open fire during winter. You can even hop on a train to Sweden, traversing the famous span of a Nordic Noir star - the Öresund Bridge. It takes just a touch over half an hour to step off the train in Malmö. There’s only one way to truly explore Copenhagen and that’s on two wheels. Easy bike hire schemes will get you moving across this flat city, designed with bikes at the forefront of the mind. Choose a model with electronic assistance to take the strain out of any journey, giving you the freedom to whizz around and explore the modern angular architecture of the centre, and the pastoral colours of Nyhavn waterfront. Head out to the Little Mermaid statue, inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale - the strikingly-restrained statue is the perfect landmark for Copenhagen; unshowy, self-assured and utterly irresistible. The Danish concept of hygge is very much alive here, and you’ll feel that warm cosy feeling as you visit cafes illuminated by the warm glow of hanging filament bulbs, and stuffed to the brim with thick, dusty books. Home to mega-brewer Carlsberg, Copenhagen is also a city for hop enthusiasts, and there is a thriving craft brewing scene to sample. Danish Smørrebrød sandwiches are a must try, or for something a little more substantial, settle in for a culinary voyage and try a taster menu – the city’s restaurants are littered with Michelin stars.

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

The city's growth was fuelled by North Sea oil exploits and industry – but this being Norway you can prepare to visit a perhaps surprisingly charming place surrounded by spectacular landscapes of cutting fjords soaring mountains and sandy beaches. Any preconceptions of a lifeless industrial city are instantly allayed by the colourful Øvre Holmegate street. A gorgeous palette of candy-coloured wooden shops and cafes shine brightly along this picturesque row - and you can soak in the colours and the quaint charm of a stroll along the waterfront too. Museums explore Stavanger’s industries - from oil to sardine canning - and the Viking past of one of Norway's oldest cities. The flower-tangled 173 white wooden houses of Gamle Stavanger are a delightful slice of preserved old Norway and gas lamps hang over uneven cobbled streets here. Norway’s oldest church Domkirken Cathedral looms up impressively having stood since the 12th century. Stretching from the city itself Lysefjord is one of Norway’s most striking and picturesque fjords - drenched in Viking history and mythology. Cruise the waters or hike to the majestic Preikestolen viewpoint where you can look out over an impossibly vast view from a height of 604 metres. One of Norway’s most iconic and most-visited natural sites your heart will be in your mouth as you get as close as you dare to the stunning vertical drop down to Lysefjord.

Make no bones about it, this is Fjordland at its finest. Named by the National Geographic Traveler magazine as "the world's most iconic destination", legend has it that Vikings and Trolls battled on these very waters and the pretty stave churches – of which Vik has two – are built on sacred Norse land. Vik is a place that could have been written by Tolkein; a mysterious land where mists roll off the mountains, the air is crisp and the silent, glassy Fjords are definitely the ruler of the kingdom. Shrouded in enchantment, the landscape of Vik is steeped in Viking heritage, Scandinavian myth and human enchantment.

Decorative turrets pastel-coloured paint and elegant buildings reflect in the glass-smooth harbour waters of Ålesund welcoming you to one of the world’s finest havens of Art Nouveau architecture. A perfect complement of natural and man-made beauty the city’s distinctive jugendstil style is enhanced by a thrilling location amid colossal fjord scenery. Geirangerfjord World Heritage Site of is one of Norway’s most spectacular fjords and it comes alive in summer with gushing meltwater falls plummeting from steep banks to pristine water below. Undoubtedly one of the most beautiful towns in Norway practically every building in Ålesund boasts fantastical flourishes and eccentric quirks. Rebuilt from the ashes of the devastating fire that swept through in 1904 the town is now a unique historic treasure trove. Wander fairy-tale cobbled streets and admire endless dainty turrets and decorative swirls before reaching the Aksla Viewpoint and letting the true majesty of the town’s dreamlike setting wash over you while gazing over its archipelago. Enjoy a sugar-kick with a bite of folded svele – an indulgent buttery Norwegian pancake - or settle in to a cosy restaurant for something a little more substantial. Ålesundis a town built on sea trade and a regular haul of fjord cod is brought ashore before being distributed right across the world. Dried salted cod – known as klipfish – is a particular speciality with Ålesund producing an incredible two thirds of the world’s supply.

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

Whether you are looking for a classical concert on a mountaintop, rock music in the park, jazz at a café or opera in a pub there is no denying that Bodø is a melting pot, where art and culture are mixed together in a dynamic cocktail against a backdrop of staggeringly jagged beautiful peaks, dark waters and infinite skies. Situated above the Article Circle and known to enjoy spectacular Northern Lights sightings in the chilly winter and 24-hour daylight in the pleasant summer, Bodø is as close to the wilderness as one gets in Norway. The city, with its red sand beaches and emerald green waters, has been described as “one of the best places on earth” by savvy, seasoned travellers, due not only to its stunning scenery and legends of Viking lore, but also to the incredible hospitality of the locals. This is a place where people are invited to ask questions and if they do, receive answers of intricate detail in exceptional English. Saltstraumen The spectacular peninsula is also home to the densest concentration of White-tailed Eagles and these majestic birds swoop, hover and soar over Bodø and Saltstraumen all year long. An international destination for anglers and divers as well as birders, the colourful biodiversity has three coral reefs as well as underwater Stone and Iron Age ruins. The strongest maelstrom in the world, Saltstraumen reaches speeds of over 20 knots as 400 million cubic metres of water pass through the 1.8 mile/3 kilometres long and 492 feet/150 metre wide strait between the Saltenfjord and the Skjestadfjord. The whirlpools can be up to impressive 32 feet/10 metres in diameter and up to 16 feet/5 metres deep and because of this, rich nutrients are brought to the surface, and making sea-safaris and RIB tours very popular. Visit when the tide it at its highest and marvel at the majestic forces of nature. Kjerringøy Half an hour’s drive from Bodø lies Kjerringøy, a picturesque, coastal-alpine landscape sheltered from the ocean by a garland of small islands, islets and rocks. This little gem of a village has a surprisingly wide variety of activities, especially considering its Lilliputian size. The picture perfect setting is exactly what you would expect a northern Norwegian fishing village to be: rust coloured wooden houses, colourful fishing boats moored in the harbour, children beachcombing for shells and crabs on the pretty white beach, aquamarine waters lapping gently on the shores. The landscape is both compact and varied, with vibrant farming communities nestling side by side sheer mountains that slope gracefully into the sea. But surely the piece de la resistance in the little village is the Trading Post. This open-air museum offers a unique insight into the 19th century coastal communities and fish trading methods. The Trading Post is one of the country’s most important collections of buildings from Kjerringøy’s golden era as national fish brokers at the turn of the century, and although the Trading Post continued to function on a local level until the end of the 1950s, bad business management meant that the Trading Post had to close and the buildings fell into disrepair. Happily however, 15 of the buildings have been restored to their former glory; apart from the main house, where guided tours are offered in excellent English, the Trading Post also houses a café serving hot kaffee and cake and a particularly delicious fish soup; a savvy traveller’s hint is be sure to arrive in time for lunch! Swimming is allowed and encouraged, so don’t forget to take your costumes (and perhaps a pair of goggles) and enjoy this pristinely beautiful coastal location. Mount Keiservarden There are few, if any, cities that are as close to the hinterland as Bodø. Located just minutes from the city centre, the 1200 feet/366 metre tall Mount Keiservarden stands guard over Bodø like a sentry. With lots of different trails depending on your level of walking, this is a must for those who want to imbibe in the elements and reach the peak. In just one-hour, you can go from sea to summit, for which you will be rewarded with spectacular 360˚ views of the ocean, Fjords and the Lofoten Islands. Weather permitting; you can also see a magnificent view of Landegode and the open stretch of sea known as the Vestfjord. This is a real tonic and a chance to stretch your legs for those who may have been a little too enthusiastic with the Multekrem and Aquavit, and might feel in need of some exercise. Sea kayaking Eponymously named Paradise Bay, Bodø enjoys a privileged position on the peninsula and a more spectacular setting for sea kayaking would be hard to find. With water as smooth as glass, enveloped in the golden all-night sunshine, the peace and tranquillity of the Fjords is staggering. Glide gently forward on the open waters, stopping off here and there on different islands and skerries as the mood takes you. Paddlers are welcome on the islands so make the most of the mild summer climate and take your time to explore the flora and fauna. At your own pace, paddle alongside Puffins, fill your lungs with the clear fresh air and file the unique experience to memory, ready for another day.

Slap bang in the middle of Norway’s fjords islands and northern wonders Narvik is an ideal base from which to explore this magical region. A city since 1902 it sits on the coast of Ofotfjorden inside the Arctic circle. This northerly latitude means Narvik bathes in the midnight sun during summer's months and is witness to the dazzling displays of the northern lights which enchant as they spill across the stars. Crisp clear skies make Narvik a prime destination for northern lights viewing and the natural setting of spiky mountains and soaring fjords generates a truly glorious spectacle amid incredible staging. Gondolas sway up to the slopes of Narvikfjellet ski resort which can tempt with fantastic skiing but also provides a prime spot for views of the lights flashing above. Look out over the vast panorama of the town curving along the fjord's banks the Fagernesfjellet mountain and - hopefully - the emerald spread of the natural light display. Polar Park Arctic Wildlife Centre grants Norway’s wildest animals - including wolves bears and lynx - with a protected haven. Elsewhere a vast railway which once transported iron ore to the Swedish border now provides a dramatic rumble through the best of Norway’s mountain scenery and is one of the country’s most mesmerising rail journeys. Narvik was heavily affected by the Second World War and the city's museum explains north Norway's strategic importance and explores the German occupation here as well as the decisive battle for the city's liberation.

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

Stand at the top of the world, on the remote and beautiful northern frontier of Europe. Watch as the sun dips gently, before seemingly changing its mind and hovering, sticking around to cast a glorious nocturnal golden light across cliffs that drop to churning waves. There's an ethereal, other-worldly atmosphere in mainland Europe's most northerly location - feel it in the troll folklore that swirls, and the barren tundra landscapes that unravel. In winter, the Northern Cape bathes in seemingly eternal darkness, while summer's months bring the Midnight Sun's ceaseless light. Set so far to the north that trees are unable to grow here, the visitor centre tells this remote, barren landscape's tales, and of its World War involvements. Nearby, encounter Norway's Sami indigenous people - learning of the methods they use to herd reindeer, before visiting authentic fishing villages - where locals have hauled spindly king crabs from the icy waters for generations. Head to the tip of Magerøya Island, for the obligatory photo with the skeletal globe sculpture, which stands looking out over the waters that stretch up towards the Arctic. It marks Europe's northernmost point, a full 71 degrees to the north. There are few more majestic places to witness the Northern Lights dancing across the sky than here, should you be so lucky. Back in your jumping-off point, Honningsvåg, indulge in a well-earned drink to toast your cape adventures or explore further afield with a visit to the millions of puffins that occupy the Gjesværstappan cliff.summer days. The village serves as the gateway to Arctic exploration and the beautiful Nordkapp Plateau, a destination that calls to all visitors of this region. Most of those who journey to Nordkapp (North Cape), the northernmost tip of Europe, are in it for a taste of this unique, otherworldly, rugged yet delicate landscape. You'll see an incredible treeless tundra, with crumbling mountains and sparse dwarf plants. The subarctic environment is very vulnerable, so don't disturb the plants. Walk only on marked trails and don't remove stones, leave car marks, or make campfires. Because the roads are closed in winter, the only access is from the tiny fishing village of Skarsvåg via Sno-Cat, a thump-and-bump ride that's as unforgettable as the desolate view.

Situated at the very north tip of Norway and inside the Arctic Circle, there is something very special about being (almost) at the top of the world. Called the northernmost point of Europe, the North Cape (Nordkapp in Norwegian) lies about 1,306.3 mi from the North Pole, with no dry land between except for the Svalbald archipelago. Home to where the Atlantic and Arctic oceans meet, this is the true land of the midnight sun – constant spectacular scenic views and 24-hour sunlight lends itself to a sense of giddy informality aboard. Just imagine sipping a chilled glass of champagne at the very top of the world in full daylight at midnight – sensational. Be sure to be on the lookout for hundreds of thousands of puffins, gannets, cormorants, seals, dolphins and whales that make this stretch of chilly water their home. Not forgetting the colourful, compact fishing villages, so at odds with the otherwise this stark, barren landscape.

Think glorious white nights, expansive Scandinavian landscape and an extraordinary sense of adventure and you have Alta. This pretty town 375 kilometres north of the Arctic Circle is everything you expect from Norway. Despite Alta being located in Finnmark, Norway’s most northern region, the summer climate is very mild. This is largely thanks to its location on the inner part of the Alta fjord and the Gulf Stream. The fjord itself stretches for 38 kilometres in total and splits into two before pouring into the Norwegian Sea. Alta is truly the epitome of Norway – forests, mountains and traditional red wooden huts to one side, fjords, coastal landscapes and abundant marine life to the other. However, there is more to Alta than just meets the eye. The village is home to some 6,000 plus year old rock carvings. These exceptional examples of rock art prove the existence of humans in the far north in the prehistoric era. The carvings are so important that they were granted in 1985, and remain the only prehistoric monument in the whole of Norway. Other sights in the village are the striking Northern Lights Cathedral, and the Alta Museum (and why not enjoy a deliciously fresh crab salad in the café while you are there, as the view is one of the most spectacular you are ever likely to see). The indigenous Sami people still thrive in the region, and a chance to spend the day trying traditional food and activities such as dog sledging will be a blessing those who like to immerse themselves in local cultures.

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

Salt and pepper coloured mountains erupt from the ground behind the pretty port of Svolvaer, which opens up the extraordinary beauty of the Lofoten Islands. You'll never quite get over the majesty of the mountainous backdrop as you explore, although with natural wonders like the rippling Northern Lights, the Midnight Sun, and cruising pods of orcas to admire, there are plenty of distractions. The Gulf Stream shuffles warmer air here, so the climate is surprisingly mild considering how northerly the town is. Wander the compact streets, to see the morning's haul of fish and shrimp on-sale in the harbour, and watch sightseeing boats heading off to some of Norway’s most incredible natural scenery. Exploring Svolvaer Fantastically positioned for exploring the Lofoten peninsular, take a boat journey beside stacked mountains, and negotiate narrow fjords like Trollfjord, as you sail below circling eagles, and cloud-shrouded peaks. In winter, the mountain tips are silhouetted by rippling emerald colours, as dramatic Northern Light displays unfurl, while summer illuminates them with the Midnight Sun’s late burn. If you're feeling adventurous, head out to kayak between scattered islands, haul whopping catches from the glassy waters, or hike mountains like Tjeldbergtind – from which you can look down over the town, and see islands rising from the water like teeth. A little island hopping will take you to Haukland Beach, where gleaming white sand waits, and a blissful emerald ocean laps ashore poetically. Relax on the sand, or wander the dazzling coastline. You'll also be well located for a visit to the Lofotr Viking Museum, where you can see the rippling masts of sailing Viking ships, and the huge wooden longhouse that’s been constructed there. You’ll find what’s perhaps the region’s most immersive museum back in Svolvaer, however. The Lofoten War Museum is a jumbled, but utterly fascinating, treasure-trove of equipment, weaponry and World War II memorabilia. Learn about the role Norway played in the conflict, as you see everything from Nazi Christmas baubles, to a painting and drawings of Disney characters - apparently created by Hitler himself. For art, the KaviarFactory is a striking modern gallery, set in a former fishing warehouse. Its coastal location, and spacious whitewash interior, provides a fittingly spectacular exhibition space for evocative sculptures. The Magic Ice bar, meanwhile, is the place to enjoy a truly refreshing drink – sipped straight from a glass crafted from ice. Enter this sub-zero world of sculpture, where everything from the bar, to the reindeer statues that are dotted around, are hand hewn from huge chunks of thick ice.

Norway’s advertising slogan is that it is “powered by nature”. One trip to Bronnoysund and it’s easy to see why. This is quintessential Norway, vast, wild and beautiful, with a few surprises to keep you on your toes! Arrival by sea in Bronnoysund is a bit of an experience. Norway is famously the land of the midnight sun, and with Bronnoysund enjoying the favourable position of being just beneath the Arctic Circle, early morning arrival is both eerie and awe inspiring. The otherworldliness is amplified by the sun shining through the giant hole in Torghatten Mountain. The vast (258 metre) granite mountain is pierced right through centre by a natural hole. Never forgetting that Norway is the country of pixies and trolls, local legend has the answer to this scientifically unexplainable phenomenon: it was created when an arrow ripped through the troll king’s hat, which was thrown into the air to protect a fleeing girl. The hat turned to stone, and the arrow’s hole is preserved there to this day. It is possible to walk through it and enjoy the fabulous views beyond. The rest of Bronnoysund’s surroundings are no less spectacular. The 13,000-plus nearby islands include the Vega Archipelago, a cluster of 6,500 islands that enjoy UNESCO World Heritage Site status. The outstanding universal value of the islands is seen not only in stone age indications but in the unique cultural landscape (particularly that of Eider duck farming) that has provided at least 1,500 islanders with income from the 9th century.

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

Effortlessly cool and down to earth, Copenhagen is a contemporary, clean and classy highlight of Scandinavia. A city built to be liveable, Copenhagen has refused to compromise, resulting in a forward-thinking metropolis that’s green and clean. Swim in the waters of Havnebadet Islands during summer, or shelter from winter’s bite by snuggling in beside a roaring open fire during winter. You can even hop on a train to Sweden, traversing the famous span of a Nordic Noir star - the Öresund Bridge. It takes just a touch over half an hour to step off the train in Malmö. There’s only one way to truly explore Copenhagen and that’s on two wheels. Easy bike hire schemes will get you moving across this flat city, designed with bikes at the forefront of the mind. Choose a model with electronic assistance to take the strain out of any journey, giving you the freedom to whizz around and explore the modern angular architecture of the centre, and the pastoral colours of Nyhavn waterfront. Head out to the Little Mermaid statue, inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale - the strikingly-restrained statue is the perfect landmark for Copenhagen; unshowy, self-assured and utterly irresistible. The Danish concept of hygge is very much alive here, and you’ll feel that warm cosy feeling as you visit cafes illuminated by the warm glow of hanging filament bulbs, and stuffed to the brim with thick, dusty books. Home to mega-brewer Carlsberg, Copenhagen is also a city for hop enthusiasts, and there is a thriving craft brewing scene to sample. Danish Smørrebrød sandwiches are a must try, or for something a little more substantial, settle in for a culinary voyage and try a taster menu – the city’s restaurants are littered with Michelin stars.