It’s that time of year again, when Eric & I sit down to decide what country we want to visit next year. As mentioned in my previous post (Too Much Information!), we’ve been binge watching the History Channel’s Viking series, so we’re in the mood for some Nordic travel. After much research, we’ve narrowed it down to three locations: Norway, Faroe Islands or Novia Scotia. Each offers its own unique experiences & landscape, so it’s difficult to choose. So I thought I’d get YOUR opinion.
The journey through the Aurland valley is one of the most dramatic and pretty short hikes in Norway. This 3-day trek starts at Finse, takes you over Klemsbu to Geiterygghytta on day 1, and continues over Steinbergdalen to Østerbø on day 2. On the last day the magnificent route from Østerbø to Vassbygdi will take you through the Aurland valley. This trek continues with a train trip from Oslo to Finse at the start, a stay in Flåm and an express boat to Bergen. It also includes a RIB boat safari up the narrow Nærøyfjord.
7 days with 3 days of hiking from inn to inn
Includes train, boat, breakfast, accommodation, & trekking notes
Luggage transport included from Oslo to Bergen; you carry small backpack for the 3 days of hiking
Start to Finish: Oslo – Finse – Geiterygghytta – Østerbø – Vassbygdi – Flam – Bergen
Add on: Hurtigruten boat ride from Bergen to Stamsund (Lofoten Islands) with 3 nights at an AirBnB & car rental
The Faroe Islands were honored by National Geographic as the worlds’ best archipelago for unspoiled authenticity, a strong cultural integrity, a green lowland, and well protected nature. This tour gives you the chance to independently explore the entire region, with structured activities mixed in.
10 nights, 5 different accomodations
Includes round trip flight to Vagan, accommodation, breakfast, car, ferry tickets & 3 excursions
Itinerary highlights: hike with puffins on Mykines Island, sightseeing with a local guide, dining with a family, traditional villages, scenic drives & LOTS of hiking
Cape Breton Island has inspired musicians, artists, and inventors since it was first settled by Europeans centuries ago. You are likely to feel similarly inspired as you follow these spectacular trails along coastlines and through valleys. Walk to a waterfall outside Baddeck and learn about Alexander Graham Bell. Follow the coast to Cape Breton Highlands National Park. Then it is on to Mabou, a quiet village known for its music. Visit the only single malt distillery outside Scotland before a fantastic hike on your last day.
6 days, self-drive option
Includes accommodation, breakfast, trail maps & detailed itinerary
Add on: add additional days in between to explore towns
