Off the Map Travel has introduced a new collection of Nordic summer experiences. Available from June to August, these holidays incorporate dramatic scenery, exploration, and more for travelers looking for an escape to cooler climes.
“We have noticed a rise in people booking Nordic holidays during the summer due to the soaring temperatures reported across Europe over the last few years,” says Jonny Cooper, founder of Off the Map Travel. “Cooler destinations or ‘coolcations’ have started gaining in popularity for those looking to explore a country and take part in active pursuits without the heat limiting them.
“The Nordic region may seem like an unexpected choice for a summer holiday; however, it offers some of the most beautiful, unspoiled beaches in the world alongside amazing hikes and captivating wildlife. It’s a place with wellbeing at its core and the bonus of the midnight sun throughout the summer months offers endless opportunities for adventure.”
Northern Norway
On the three-night “Lyngen Lodge Experience,” don your hiking boots for a medium-intensity two-and-a-half-mile trek to Blåisvatnet (The Blue Lake) located at the foot of the Lenangsbreen glacier on the Lyngen peninsula. Take a dip in the invigorating ice-cold water. In the evening take part in a new expedition to sail through the fjords, passing Fugløya, or Bird Island—a breeding site for seabirds including Atlantic puffins, European storm petrels and black guillemots—before venturing into the Barents Sea to experience the midnight sun.
Sweden
On the four-night “Swedish Summer Safari,” head into Swedish Lapland. Meet moose, reindeer and huskies at Cape Wild, a small wildlife park where you can get up close and personal with Sweden’s most iconic animals in their natural habitat. Enjoy al fresco dining with two- and three-course menus offering visitors a taste of local cuisine cooked over an open fire. A cabin sits right next to the Lule River where you can enjoy views across the water. Rent fishing gear and a boat to head out onto the water for some down time.
Finland
Nestled on the shores of Lake Inari, the largest lake in Finnish Lapland, Wilderness Hotel Inari has luxurious and cozy log cabins overlooking the lake with their own private sauna. On the three-night “Summer in Inari” itinerary, take a midnight hike to the top of Otsamo Fell; visit huskies and watch their summer training regime for the winter months ahead; and enjoy a 5-star tasting menu with wine pairing at the hotel’s UKKO restaurant.
Enjoy the landscapes of the wilderness, hearing stories from a local guide as you head into the forests to forage for blueberries and cloudberries. Picnic on the shores of the lake or take a kayak to explore the archipelago of islands surrounded by crystal-clear waters.
Greenland
Ilulissat in western Greenland is home to the humpback whale. Whale watching in Illulissat is typically best during the summer months, from June to August. Visitors may also be able to see minke whales, fin whales and orcas. On the five-night “Whales and Icebergs” itinerary, walk down to the Ilulissat Icefjord to take in the views of the icebergs in Disko Bay. From the shore, spot a variety of birds such as gulls, terns, guillemots and cormorants and keep an eye out for Arctic foxes, hare and ptarmigan around the bay.
Iceland
The Retreat at Blue Lagoon in Iceland is a luxury resort with a subterranean spa, Michelin-starred dining and a private lagoon sourced from the same healing waters as the Blue Lagoon. On the three-night “Luxury Icelandic Spa Retreat,” take a helicopter ride to the Glacier Lagoon, Jokulsarlon, which sits further east. Witness volcanoes, glacial rivers and waterfalls before arriving at the Diamond Beach.
Good to know: As with any itinerary from Off the Map Travel, each can be tailor-made to fit the wishes and requirements of the guest.
For more information, visit www.offthemap.travel.
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