Norway is a land of incredible natural beauty, especially in the winter. Ice-capped mountains, sweeping fjords and glaciers, waterfalls, and, of course, the awe-inspiring Aurora Borealis, the Northern Lights. On this exclusive Women-Only tour to Norway, we are chasing these incredible polar lights to the top of Norway, offering a unique and tailored, unforgettable experience for our fabulous guests.
Jaw dropping scenery
Chasing The Northern Lights
The Bergen Railway
Hurtigruten Coastal Voyage
Private guided touring to remote and wonderful places
Dining at Kvitnes Gård and other fabulous dining adventures
The Sami People & Reindeer sledding
Whale watching
and so much more to…
The ancient Greenlanders thought the Northern Lights were a sign from heaven that their ancestors were trying to contact the living. The Norwegians saw them as old maids dancing, and the Sami (the Indigenous people of the North) word for the Northern Lights, guovssahas, means “the lights you can hear.”
Norway is a treasure trove of unique cultural experiences, set amidst its breathtaking natural beauty. It is renowned for its fjords, mountains, Vikings, the Northern Lights, and the Midnight Sun, offering a rich tapestry of experiences for the curious traveller.
Our journey digs deeply into this beautiful destination, offering a diverse range of landscapes and cultural encounters. We’ll start in the cosmopolitan capital, Oslo, then journey to the West Coast, passing some of the world’s most beautiful islands and fjords on our way to the historic city of Bergen. We spend an evening in Vesterålen before heading to the dramatic archipelago of Lofoten, known for its stunning scenery, and finally to Tromsø, located well above the Arctic Circle. Along the way, we’ll see dramatic fjord vistas, delve into Viking history, and wander the streets of beautiful cities. We’ll witness the celestial northern lights in Tromsø, explore the vibrant villages of the Lofoten islands, and ride on some of the most incredible and beautiful rail journeys in Norway. And, of course, we’ll warm up with a taste of akevitt, Norway’s national drink.
Created and hosted by Jemma Wilson, founder of Mai Journeys, this journey is not just about sightseeing but also about savouring. You’ll dine at superb restaurants and gain a deeper understanding of Norwegian cuisine, which is primarily based on the raw materials found in the mountains, wilderness, and coast and reflects Norway’s natural bounty.
This incredible journey blends spectacular architecture, modern cities, seaside villages, extraordinary cuisine and the outstanding local culture, defining this spectacular destination.
GETTING THERE:
Oslo is accessible from most European capitals and has regular international flight arrivals. To meet the group arrival transfer please ask us for recommended flights.
Tour Price: Twin Share AUD $18,800. Single AUD $21,900
Price Includes:
Fully escorted from Oslo by Jemma Wilson, Owner of Mai Journeys
Arrival transfer *if on suggested flight
3 nights’ accommodation at The Hub Hotel, Oslo
3 nights’ accommodation at Skostredet Hotel, Bergen
1 night’s accommodation at Kvitnes Gård
3 nights at Hattvika Lodge, Lofoten Islands
1 night onboard Hurtigruten MS Nordlys
3 nights’ accommodation at The Dock, Tromsø
All breakfasts, 5 lunches & 11 dinners
Private sightseeing in Oslo with Guide
Entry to the Munch Museum
Luggage Transfer Oslo – Bergen
Scenic Train Ride Bergen Railway
Guided City Tour in Bergen
UNESCO Wharf & Fløibanen Funicular in Bergen
Domestic Economy Flights: Bergen to Evenes & Tromsø to Oslo
Culinary experience and overnight stay at Kvitnes Farm
Farm Tour & Sauna session by the shore at Kvitnes Gard
Trans-tasting in Lofoten
Private Northern Lights hunt on Lofoten with a Guide
Private Harbour Sauna at Hattvika Lodge
Sightseeing in Lofoten
Driving the Norwegian Scenic Route, Lofoten
Private Guided Tour of the Viking Museum, Lofoten
Cheesemaking in Lofoten
Explore The Taste of Lofoten with Roy Magne
Hurtigruten Coastal Voyage: Lofoten to Tromsø
Private Northern Lights tour in Tromso
Eco-friendly Silent Whale Watching in Tromso
Reindeer Sledding, Feeding & Sami experience in Tromsø
English-speaking guides throughout
Private van transport as per itinerary
NOT INCLUDED:
Airfares unless stated in the itinerary; items of a personal nature; phone calls; passport and visas (if applicable); entry fees into countries charged at the airport; laundry or tips. Personal transport; excess baggage; security and additional government taxes not covered already; travel insurance. Meals not specifically mentioned in the itinerary; beverages unless specifically described. Optional excursions or activities that may be offered but are not included in the tour price. Camera tickets at sights were allowed.
Welcome to Norway! Arrive at Oslo International Airport where you will be met and transferred** to your hotel. The journey takes about 45 minutes, depending on traffic. A private transfer can be booked otherwise (own account).
Our accommodation is The Hub, a vibrant gathering place in the middle of Oslo. Take some time to rest after your flight. Depending on when you arrive, you may want to explore some of Oslo’s landmarks close to the hotel. The popular area of Aker Brygge is within walking distance, with its many seaside restaurants and shopping opportunities. Tonight, we will meet in Norda, the hotel restaurant, for a light dinner so we can all meet each other and go over our upcoming journey. Then, an early night after a long flight.
**If on suggested flights.
Overnight Accommodation: The Hub
Included Meals: Light Dinner
After breakfast this morning, we meet our local guide in the lobby and set off for a guided tour through Oslo with a focus on modern city development, art and architecture.
Our tour will include icons such as the Opera House and Deichman Library, two iconic parts of the fjord city development. We will pass such national landmarks as the Parliament building, with its two imposing lion statues at the main entrance, the Cathedral, the National Theatre and the magnificent Royal Palace, the oFicial residence of the present Norwegian Monarch.
We will stop for lunch in a restaurant in the hills just above Oslo, with a stunning view of the inner Oslo fjord, the city and the Opera House. We will have entry to the new Munch Museum, an art museum dedicated to the life and works of the Norwegian artist Edvard Munch, best known for The Scream. You may also drop into the new National Museum, which is genuinely a colossus of Norwegian art and will combine the collections of the Norwegian Museum of Decorative Arts and Design, the Museum of Contemporary Art, and the National Gallery, all under one very large roof.
This evening, meet for a cocktail in the bar, then head out for a casual dinner at a local favourite, where the wines are biodynamic and organic. The shared dishes are made mostly from local and organic produce and change according to season.
Overnight Accommodation: The Hub
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today is a big day. So, grab your book, your earbuds and throw on your comfy pants! After breakfast, we walk across to the train station. (Our main luggage will be forwarded to Bergen, so we will only carry day bags).
The Bergen Railway is a 6.5-hour trip between Oslo and Bergen that’s been voted one of the world’s most beautiful train journeys; it is the scenic mountain track to the fjords. Our journey takes us through some of the absolute highlights of Norwegian nature: forested valleys, stunning fjords, and Northern Europe’s largest high mountain plateau, Hardangervidda. The Bergen Railway, built in 1909, is Northern Europe’s highest railway line, with Finse being the highest train station at 1,222 meters above sea level. With almost 500 kilometres of railway, we have a unique opportunity to experience many of the dramatic contrasts one finds in Norwegian nature. (We will be travelling in Plus, so we will have an extra comfy travel experience. There is free wi-fi, a refreshments area where you can help yourself to a fresh cup of coFee made bean to cup.) There is also a dining car on board with grilled Norwegian hotdogs, pastries, waFles and fresh salads & sandwiches. Alternatively, you can open up your own picnic like most of the Norwegians travelling on board.
Upon arrival at Bergen train station, we will be transferred to our hotel, the Skostredet Hotel. Our stunning accommodation is a contemporary boutique hotel immersed in Bergen’s historic bar and restaurant area. With a perfect balance between Scandinavian craftsmanship and Japanese finesse, the hotel is a green oasis that invites calm and well-being. After a long day, your evening is free.
Overnight Accommodation: Skostredet Hotel
Included Meals: Breakfast
This morning we wake up in the ‘Gateway to the Fjords’.
We meet our guide and enjoy a private walking tour in the beautiful Hanseatic town, including the fish market, the old Hanseatic warehouses, the cathedral (exterior only) and many charming wooden houses, as well as the fortress. We will combine history, culture, food and everyday life as we walk through Bergen’s most famous attractions and the city’s off-the-beaten-path trails. From medieval architectural gems such as Håkon’s Hall and St. Mary’s Church to the heritage buildings at Bryggen, from the old fish market to the new one, and from the former city halls to the heart of the city at Byparken. We ride by the funicular to Mount Fløyen for a panoramic view of Norway. The route winds down from the mountain with many twists and turns, passing fantastic views and charming old wooden buildings. When you are almost at the bottom, you will see Skansedammen; in winter it’s frequented by ice skaters.
We will stop for coffee, hot chocolate, and the famous and delicious Bergen Skillingsbolle. The skillingsbolle has been Bergen’s favourite pastry for over 500 years and originates from Bergen. You should never leave without having devoured at least one! Surrounded by the sea, deep fjords, and high mountains and with ample access to fertile mountain pastures, the region surrounding Bergen produces first-rate produce from the sea and land. Its rich traditional culinary culture and access to produce from magnificent surroundings inspire creative and innovative cuisine.
Tonight, we meet to dine together at a Food & Wine Bar with a focus on high-quality, local, seasonal ingredients, sustainability and authentic food at its core. The menu is simple but thoughtfully crafted, always aligned with the seasons, and features ingredients from local fishermen, divers, hunters, and farmers.
Overnight Accommodation: Skostredet Hotel
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Today is a free day to enjoy Bergen. Whatever you choose, we will be there to guide you and help you book anything that needs booking.
Visit Arven Silverfactory. Arven offers a wide range of beautiful silverware and unique Jewellery, all handcrafted and made in the heart of Bergen. You can watch our goldsmiths and silversmiths at work through a 40-metrelong glass wall in our shop.
Visit Oleana. This shop is known for exclusive Norwegian knitwear. Here you will find sweaters, shawls, accessories, and Norwegian craft tradition. Visit The Apothecary to find your signature scent in an elegant atmosphere, delicate interior, and a shop full of perfume brands. Here you can discover your own signature scent, in addition to finding everything from skin care to delicate shirts. Or more ideas: Indulge in a spa and sauna; A day trip on the water; Or spend the day wandering the galleries.
Tonight, could be a great opportunity to enjoy a fantastic splash-out meal at one of the many brilliant dining venues in Bergen. Seafood in Bergen has always been at the heart of the city’s culinary culture, and the sea of Bergen abounds with tasty delicacies. Jemma is on hand to give sage advice about where to eat!
Overnight Accommodation: Skostredet Hotel
Included Meals: Breakfast
Today we leave Bergen and begin our journey towards Kvitnes Farm, situated at the foot of the Møysalen mountain, on Hinnøya island in Vesterålen. Vesterålen, lying north of Lofoten, is an archipelago of green islands surrounded by whales, seals, and seabirds. It is inhabited by coastal people who have lived there since the Stone Age.
First up this morning we are transferred to the Trondheim airport where we catch a flight to Evenes (via Bodø). We then have a 2-hour private transfer to Kvitnes Gård. Kvitnes Gård is not just a remote farmstead in far north Norway, it’s a culinary adventure waiting to be explored among the fjords of the Arctic. As soon as you step into the centuries-old ancestral home of chef Halvar Ellingsen – now a fine-dining restaurant and guesthouse – I can assure you that your time here will be nothing short of extraordinary. The menus are not just about food, they are a journey through the local ingredients and the history of the region. The raw materials prepared at the restaurant come mainly from the farm with its own garden and animals. Aside from sugar, flour and wine, they aim to use local ingredients from Vesterålen, Senja and Lofoten exclusively. The restaurant has full control of the entire food value chain, and this exclusivity ensures that every dish you taste here is a unique experience. Every day is different, and menus are never repeated.
This is an experience – not a meal. Ellingsen, the youngest chef to be named Norway’s best chef, returned ‘home’ in 2015 to refocus his exacting standards on growing, harvesting and refining the spoils of northern Norway. With honed skills and modern techniques, his fine dining restaurant, which opened in 2020, became an outlet for expressing family memories while retelling the story of Norwegian cuisine through an introspective 20-course tasting menu that changes with the seasons. His personal touch and dedication to his craft will make you feel connected to the food and the region.
We stay the night in the gorgeous, rustic rooms of the farm.
Overnight Accommodation: Kvitnes Gård
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
This morning, we will likely wake up to the sound of sheep singing or to a grunt from one of the pigs. Breakfast continues in the same style as dinner, where you get fresh bread, eggs from the chickens and lamb roll from their own animals.
After a lazy breakfast, we take a wander around the farm. Ellingsen and his team grow all their own vegetables on the farm. They also have sheep, pigs, cows, ducks, hens, quail, and lots of other animals that produce food for the restaurant – they use whole animals as much as possible. Other animals are just used to help run the farm; for example, the ducks eat snails that would eat the vegetables. We will get the opportunity to learn about their cultivation methods in the north and to take part in the practice. What needs to be done on any given day varies depending on the season, so there is a limit to how far in advance activities can be planned. Come with an open mind and be ready to tackle whatever tasks you may receive!
Before we leave for southern Lofoten, we have the opportunity to spend some time in the sauna. We will walk through the forest towards the shore and sweat our morning away. We then transfer to Ballstad Village & our accommodation, stopping for lunch en route.
Hattvika Lodge is a rorbu, historic fishermen’s cottages with views of the Norwegian Sea. For generations, Hattvika has been the address for fishermen during the legendary Lofoten fishing season, and today the fisherman’s cabins are available for us to sleep in. (*NOTE: The rorbu’s are shared apartments. Each guest has their own bedroom, a shared living space and a bathroom that is shared between 2 people).
The world’s only Cod Liver Oil Taste Depot is located at Hattvika Lodge. Lofoten’s history is based on the Lofoten fishery – the world’s largest fishing takes place just outside your cottages. Cod Liver Oil has traditionally been used by locals as light oil, for painting fisherman cottages and vitamin supplements. This is pure Omega-3. At Hattvikholmen, millions of bottles of Cod Liver Oil are produced annually and you, as a guest, can get your daily dose from the Cod Liver Oil Taste Depot.
Overnight Accommodation: Hattvika Lodge Fishermen’s Cottages
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Lofoten is epic, featuring huge contrasts between dizzying peaks, bone-white Arctic beaches, and pastures that form the foundation of some of the most incredible food. It’s also the Kingdom of the Weather Gods—the constantly changing climatic conditions, light, and seasons are an attraction in themselves.
Regardless of the time of year, Lofoten provides a journey amid breathtaking natural surroundings. The combination of the untamed ocean and stormy seas, jagged alpine mountains plunging into the water, tiny, sheltered fishing villages, and white beaches with crystal clear waters will never cease to enchant you. Today is a little fluid, but rest assured, we have some great sightseeing on hand.
The road we will be driving on will make sure not to miss the Scenic Route Lofoten, and Dan Graham’s glass construction. This piece of art has reflecting walls that display the magical Arctic beauty of winter in Lofoten. We spend the afternoon wandering Henningsvær, delighting in the local Arts scene and boutique stores. We can have lunch at Lysstøperiet Cafe (own account) and indulge in a fabulous cinnamon or vanilla bun.
We dine tonight at Lofoten Food Studio. Chef Roy Magne Berglund transformed his garage into a chef’s counter and built a fine dining restaurant right in his backyard. In his culinary playground, he crafts tasting menus inspired by the four seasons, using local ingredients from Lofoten. His twelve-seat communal counter connects visiting foodies from around the world. Berglund cooks every dish, washes every plate, pours every glass of wine, and shakes every cocktail. This makes the experience feel more like you’re dining in someone’s home than sitting in a restaurant.
Overnight Accommodation: Hattvika Lodge Fishermen’s Cottages
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
This morning, we take a drive to the reconstruction of the original Lofotr Viking Museum. We will see the world’s longest reconstructed longhouse: a Chieftain’s House. The reconstruction is adjacent to the original site where the archaeological excavations took place. Smell the tar and fire, hear the local Norse stories, learn about crafts and experience how people lived in the Viking Age. We will have access to the exhibition rooms using an audio guide system.
From here, we travel to Bøstad to Lofoten-Gardsysteri, an organic and bio dynamic cheese farm. Here, Marielle and Hugo make cheeses that have won both gold and silver in the National Championships. We have an afternoon introduction course to cheese making. We will participate in making the cheese they sell in the farm shop. We will learn about the whole process from when the dairy is milked, until it ends up on our plate as a cheese. We will also get an introduction to organic farming and the entire biological cycle on the farm. And of course, there will be cheese tasting! We return to Ballstad for a rest.
Dinner this evening will be light and easy in the lodge’s restaurant.
After dinner and a rest, we will escape into the darkness on the hunt for the Northern Lights. The natural phenomenon Aurora Borealis is a fantastic sight and is best experienced in places with minimal artificial light, preferably out in nature where reflections in the sea, mountains, and a fantastic landscape make this an experience out of the ordinary. Our guide will escort us around the archipelago in a private vehicle to some of the best spots to experience the northern lights according to the night’s forecast. NOTE: Be prepared for a long night, hours in the car, and waiting outside in all kinds of weather and temperatures. The search for aurora can be exciting and exhausting, but most of all it can be a MAGIC experience. Our guide will give us an introduction to the current weather and aurora forecast before departure.
Overnight Accommodation: Hattvika Lodge Fishermen’s Cottages
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch (Cheese Farm), Dinner
We have a free day today before transferring to Stamsund this evening to board our overnight Hurtigruten cruise to Tromsø.
Perhaps a harbour sauna is called for? Spending time recuperating with private access to the sauna overlooking the ocean is just about perfect. And if you’re feeling really brave, why not take a dip in the ocean to cool off? Or maybe a bit of sea kayaking? Lofoten’s beautiful surroundings and deep fjords offer perfect surroundings for kayaking experiences. Local guides are available from basecamp in Hattvika.
We transfer to Stamsund at approx 7pm, and board our boat, which departs at 7.40 pm. Our overnight voyage on board MS Nordlys cruises through narrow fjords and past wild mountains to Tromsø, a city characterised by hunting and fishing, polar expeditions, and courage. It is also the land of the Sami, Norway’s indigenous people. This overnight is part of the Norwegian Coastal Express, a 130-year-old route connecting the coastal communities of Norway. It starts in Bergen and stretches all the way to Kirkenes. The full voyage covers 2,500 nautical miles, showcasing unique scenes and landscapes that will take your breath away.
And possibly, you will see the Northern Lights dancing across the skies in the evening. Tonight, we have dinner on board, and time to rest before we head out on deck for Aurora spotting.
Overnight Accommodation: MS Nordlys
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
We continue sailing along the Coastal Route towards Tromsø. For your time on board, we recommend that you explore the ship and enjoy the beautiful Arctic nature that flows by outside the large panoramic windows. Arrival in Tromsø is estimated to be approx 2.30pm.
When we arrive in Tromsø, we will be in the heart of the Arctic wilderness, surrounded by steep mountains and beautiful fjords. Once we disembark the ship, we will be transferred to our hotel, the very new Scandic Vervet, located in the heart of Tromsø’s new urban area Vervet.
Tromsø is situated in the middle of the Northern Lights Oval, the area with the highest probability of seeing the lights. This means there will always be good chances of Northern Lights, regardless of the sun’s cycles. This natural phenomenon can be observed from late August to April, depending on the weather conditions and solar activity. If the sky is clear, you might see the Northern Lights above the city. (Note: Aurora can be a shy diva, so there are NO promises.) But tonight, minibus will pick up and take us up on another chase for the magical Northern Lights. We will leave the city lights behind us and drive to where we expect the evening’s best weather conditions. On some nights, this may lead us to the coast around Tromsø; on other nights, we may drive all the way into Finland! If conditions allow, we will stop at a scenic spot, light a bonfire, and enjoy some Norwegian hotdogs & hot drinks. On some nights, the Aurora appears right away; on other nights, we have to be patient. Sometimes, we see a faint greenish line across the horizon; sometimes, it’s a bucket full of colours dancing in the sky. NOTE: This evening is specifically designed for those up for a real chase, which often involves traveling long distances and returning late.
Overnight Accommodation: The Dock
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (hotdogs & hot drinks on the Northern Lights hunt)
From November to January, the whales swim to the fjords on the hunt for herring. This morning, we board our electric catamaran and head out to sea for a full-day whale-watching excursion to spot orcas, humpback whales, and mink whales. (Note: climate, the whales hunting grounds, and weather can influence when they appear).
Northern Norway is unique for whale watching all year round, but orcas and humpback whales crowd the fjords in winter. No one knows what the day will bring because, as with any other safari, it is the animals that decide when to appear. However, your chances here are good, as the sea areas of Skjervøy, north of Tromsø, are the whales’ hunting grounds. From November to January, these giant marine mammals migrate towards the coast for herring. Along the way, you can take in the breathtaking views of frozen landscapes in comfortable, warm lounges with panoramic windows. Once the whales have been spotted, the crew switches to the electric and silent engine to minimise disturbance to the whales. Professional guides will share their knowledge about marine life throughout the trip. NOTE: This is a shared experience with other guests. Designed for whale watching, the boat has comfortable, warm lounges with panoramic windows, so you will have a front-row seat to the whales from wherever you are. There are also multi-level outdoor decks that offer uninhibited views. Lunch will be a warm stew on board. The Polar Night in Tromsø stretches from around 27 November to 15 January. However, there is no constant darkness. When the sky brightens in the middle of the day, you get a magical mix of dusk and dawn. It’s hard to beat the sight of a whale fin in front of pink polar skies and snow-capped mountains. This amazing and once-in-a-lifetime journey is an all-day excursion.
On return to Tromsø and our hotel, your evening is free.
Overnight Accommodation: The Dock
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
The Sami are the indigenous people of the north. Even though the Sami are now part of modern society, they maintain ancient traditions such as joik, handicrafts and reindeer husbandry. The Sami people have always adapted their traditional way to the nature around them. The Sami have lived by hunting, fishing, farming and reindeer husbandry for centuries. The Sami are part of modern society, live in towns and villages, and are involved in all occupations, but their Sami traditions remain strong, as they have for hundreds of years.
Today, we will participate in the daily feeding of a herd of over 300 reindeer. We will be picked up in Tromsø and hop on a 45-minute drive to our guide’s camp. Upon arrival, we will be greeted by our Sami guide. We enjoy a 25-30-minute sleigh ride as the reindeer guides us around the valley and along the coast. Afterwards, we can feed 300 of these magnificent animals before entering the range. You will learn more about these fantastic animals while enjoying the views of the Lyngen Alps in the background and enjoying this patch of Arctic paradise.
We then head to the Gamme (modern-traditional Sami hut) for a hot drink and a warm, tasty Biddos, the traditional Sami reindeer stew. Inside the Gamme, our guide will tell us more about life in the Arctic, Sami knowledge and culture, and will show us a collection of Sami artifacts and clothing. The most important part of the Sami experiences is the storytelling; it is easy to be fascinated by the Sami’s proud history and mythology.
We should arrive back in Tromsø at about 3 pm, and you have the afternoon free. Perhaps spend the time discovering the classic symbols of Tromsø like the Cable Car and Arctic Cathedral. You can visit several museums like the Polar Museum, the Arctic University Museum of Norway, the Science Centre, the Troll Museum, and the Northern Norway Art Museum.
Tonight, we will meet and head out for a light dinner at a local Gastro Wine Bar that focuses on both internationally and locally inspired dishes, tasty cocktails and carefully selected wines. The menu is constantly changing to follow the seasons.
Overnight Accommodation: The Dock
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning, we fly back to Oslo for a final night in the capital before our international departures.
We check back into The Hub and settle in. This afternoon, as a final Nordic treat, I suggest we pack our swimmers (or not!) and head to The Well, the largest spa in the Nordic region. The Well is a wellness centre with bathing traditions from around the world. You can disconnect from the outside world and experience 11 diFerent pools, 15 saunas and steam baths, over 100 showers, waterfalls, a Japanese bathhouse with an onsen, an Oriental hammam and exceptional treatments. Or we can book a private sauna closer to home in the Oslo Harbour. Otherwise, spend the afternoon repacking for your journey home or wandering more of Oslo.
This evening, we will celebrate our Nordic journey with a casual farewell dinner at an informal gourmet restaurant where the kitchen constantly challenges itself to create new and exciting flavour combinations inspired by Scandinavian cuisine. It is a perfect way to end our journey through Norway.
Overnight Accommodation: The Hub
Included Meals: Breakfast, Farewell Dinner
Sadly all good things must come to an end. Depending on your flight time, you may have some time this morning to enjoy a last-minute stroll before making your own way to Oslo Airport to fly home or further your travels in Europe. The best way to get to the airport is by Airport Express from the Central Station across the road. *A Private Transfer may be booked if you wish.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Oslo:
Clarion Hotel The Hub:
With the best location in the heart of Oslo and as the closest neighbor to Norway’s largest hub, Oslo Central Station, Clarion Hotel The Hub is the perfect starting point and hotel for Oslo experiences. Clarion Hotel The Hub is a spectacular hotel that gives you exciting food with local roots, venues to inspire, challenge, create and share. With immediate proximity to the city’s best bars, concerts and restaurants, you do more than just sleep.
Bergen:
Skostredet Hotel:
Skostredet Hotel is a 5-star luxury hotel in the heart of Bergen’s historic bar and restaurant district. With a perfect balance between Scandinavian craftsmanship and Japanese finesse, the hotel is a green oasis that invites you to peace and well-being. We opened our doors in June 2024.
Kvitnes Gård:
Kvitnes Gård Guesthouse:
With 15 unique rooms, Kvitnes Gård offers a down-to-earth and tranquil accommodation experience for up to 30 guests. Each room has its own character, without a TV but with a view that surpasses any screen.
The farmhouse dates back to 1855, so we can promise a homely atmosphere. Creaking floorboards, fire in the fireplace and low shoulders. Drink your morning coffee to the sight of chickens in the yard and let your senses awaken in time with the rest of the animals on the farm. Our goal is for you to leave Kvitnes feeling refreshed, full and relaxed.
Lofoten:
Hattvika Lodge:
RORBU – the real and authentic Lofoten! For generations, Hattvika has been the address for fishermen during the legendary Lofoten fishing, today the rorbu are available for those seeking accommodation with high quality and standard. Our rorbu from around 1880 have been restored to modern bows of a high standard, where you can feel the pulse of Lofoten’s charm and traditions. All units have modern bathrooms, good and flexible bed solutions and fully equipped kitchens in an authentic atmosphere that is difficult to find elsewhere.
Our accommodations at Hatvikka Lodge on Lofoten are 2-bedroom Rorbus. In Norwegian, the word means a small house or storage space for rowing. Rorbu was the original home built for travelling fishermen to stay in throughout the winter while fishing in the Lofoten Islands. They are characterised by their proximity to the ocean, with rorbu extending along the coastline perched atop poles partially submerged underwater. Each rorbu has a modern bathroom with heated floors, a private patio, a kitchen, and a living area, and most have direct waterfront access. You will be sharing a 2-bedroom rorbu with another guest. You will have your own room but will share a large bathroom and living area. We can request an upgrade to a Hillside Cabin if you wish to have your own space. These will be subject to availability and an additional cost.
Hurtigruten Cruise:
MS Nordyls:
The art, décor and colours employed aboard this ship are all inspired by the Northern Lights.
The delicate aesthetic creates a distinct and unique on-board ambience. Relax after a long day experiencing various excursions and activities in comfy reclining chairs in the one of the ship’s lounges.
Our overnight on the MS Nordyls is a port-to-port sailing and a leg of the more extended Coastal Express. (As well as catering for tourists, the ships are ferries; they carry freight, vehicles, and mail to 34 coastal communities, stopping in some villages and towns for 10 to 45 minutes to unload or pick up passengers). Because we are booking an overnight section only, we do not have first dibs on the higher-level cabins, reserved for guests who complete the Coastal Express itinerary. We can only book the inside cabins, which have en-suite bathrooms, a single bed, and another bed that converts into a sofa. Six months out from sailing, we can request upgrades for anyone who wishes to move to an outside cabin or a superior cabin. These will be subject to availability and an additional cost.
hurtigruten.com/en-au/ships/ms-nordlys
Tromso:
The Dock (will be finished in June 2025):
The hotel is located in the heart of Tromsø’s new urban area Vervet. Vervet is rapidly developing, and as a visitor you will experience that the rich history of the area is combined with contemporary, bustling crowds and exciting services and experiences.
https://www.scandichotels.com/hotels/norway/
This is a 3rd party tour that has been created by Mai Journeys, who are the tour operator. Travelling Divas is acting as a sale agent only and is not responsible for the execution of the tour.
An AUD$3000 deposit is necessary to hold your space on this tour. This is due within 5 days of receiving your booking form. This deposit is non-refundable unless Mai Journeys cancels the tour for reasons outside our control.
A second deposit of AUD$5,000 will be due by March 28, 2025.
The balance is due no later than 15 August 2025.
Deposit is by a payment link via the booking form to secure your spot. We accept Visa, MasterCard or American Express. Merchant fees of 1.5% + .30c apply to Australian based credit card payments and will be added at the time of payment. International credit cards will attract a higher merchant fee depending on the card.
All payments are processed by E-way – a secure payment gateway that is certified to stringent levels of certification.
Please note interim payments may be required due to meet supplier terms and conditions.
The tour rate is based on a minimum number of guests. If this number is not reached, clients who have booked may be offered the same tour at an adjusted rate. All rates are subject to change until paid in full.
Events beyond our control, such as currency fluctuations or changes to the cost of services or facilities, may result in the prices charged to you being different from those shown on the website.
You may cancel before 15 August 2025 and receive a full refund of the monies paid minus your deposit of AUD$3000.
If you cancel after 15 August and before 19 September 2025, you will receive a refund minus your $3000 deposit and less 50% of any other payments. If you cancel after 19 September 2025, there is a 100% cancellation fee; all funds paid are non-refundable.
You are strongly advised to take out travel insurance when paying a deposit. Any cancellation fees for flights, extra accommodation, touring/sightseeing, etc. will be your responsibility. Facilities, services, routes, or accommodations may change after you book. At times there may be special weather conditions, and we reserve the right to alter the agreed program underway. We will keep you informed of any changes to the information in this itinerary. Please ensure you read through our full terms and conditions.
CULINARY NOTES & RESTRICTIONS
While we will always do our best to accommodate the dietary needs of our guests, not every hosted tour can accommodate special dietary requirements. This tour offers limited value for people who follow entirely gluten-free, dairy-free, or plant-based diets.
We can accommodate vegetarian diets if you let us know when you book, but only if we are aware. However, some set menu restaurants may not be able to accommodate all diets.
As a tour with a heavy culinary focus, the more adventurous you are, the tastier this trip will be for you. This tour offers the best value and experience for guests with a broad palette and a sense of culinary adventure. Seafood dishes will feature prominently during this journey. Day-to-day eating in Norway can be quite different for someone unfamiliar with the cuisine.
As part of the booking process for all of our tours, you will be required to provide detailed Special Dietary Requirement (SDR) information. We are not able to accommodate SDRs at short notice, so it is vital that accurate and detailed information is provided at the time of booking. SDRs and ‘preferences’ are different. We will pass on all SDR information you provide to our suppliers.
ACCESSIBILITY
Please note that this tour includes considerable walking; you may be on your feet for several hours at a time. You may be walking 2–8 kilometres a day or standing for long periods of time. It will also be cold, very cold. You need to be fit and healthy and able to manage icy/snowy streets and handle the winter weather. You will also be sledding and climbing in and out of boats. During winter, roads and footpaths can be icy, so please consider carefully how much luggage you bring as you will be responsible for carrying all the luggage on these outside paths. There is limited portage service in Scandinavia and your tour hosts cannot help you, beyond reason.
WHO IS THIS TRIP FOR?
This trip is for an open-minded, agile traveler who is eager to experiment with their taste buds and is ok with a lot of snow. A traveler who is interested in learning about a different way of life and being curious about regional culture and cuisine. This is an immersive adventure best suited for those who enjoy traveling as a part of a small group, so please make sure you have read through the itinerary carefully and assess your ability to manage and enjoy group travel.
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