Stories of Fjords and Folk:
A Journey into Norway's Wild Heart
10
DAYS
6
DESTINATIONS
5
BIOMES
Explore Oslo, Bergen, Flåm, Aurland, Jotunheimen and Lofoten Islands
10-day adventure through Norway
Embark on a transformative 10-day journey through Norway’s breathtaking landscapes, where every experience is designed to connect you with nature and local culture.
Begin at Sommerro Hotel with a Morning Forest Walk and Holistic Food Foraging, before moving on to Storfjord Hotel for guided hikes, kayak excursions and private dining experiences.
Cycle through Norangvalley, unwind at Hotel Union Øye with wild swimming and sauna, and enjoy a private fjord cruise with lunch at Trandal.
Conclude with island adventures, a Sami family visit at Manshausen, and a final enriching night at Wood Hotel, leaving you with lasting memories of Norway’s beauty, culture and sustainability.
Trip Highlights
Alpine and Fjord Adventures in Sunnmøre
Traverse the dramatic peaks, valleys, and fjords of the Sunnmøre Alps with expert guides. Hike, e-bike, or paddle through pristine landscapes, discovering hidden viewpoints, remote trails and the raw beauty of Norway’s untamed wilderness.
Fjord Exploration and Island Life
Kayak, swim, and boat along crystal-clear fjords from Storfjord to Manshausen Island, embracing the serenity and ruggedness of northern Norway. Explore secluded coves, remote islands and traditional fishing villages while experiencing local culture and coastal wildlife.
Sami Culture and Arctic Heritage
Meet the Oskal Sami Family near Bodø and learn about their centuries-old relationship with reindeer and the Arctic environment. Gain insight into sustainable traditions that reflect harmony between people, animals and the fragile northern landscape.
Regenerative Travel with Local Impact
From eco-conscious lodges to family-run farms, each experience is designed to support communities, preserve ecosystems and provide immersive, responsible adventures across Norway’s fjords, forests and Arctic reaches
Activities tailored for all experiences
Forest Foraging and Nature Walks
Learn to identify, harvest, and use seasonal plants on an immersive guided foraging walk. Connect with the land, uncover hidden flora and gain insight into sustainable practices in Norway’s wild landscapes.
Hiking and E-Biking Through Fjords and Alps
Traverse the Sunnmøre Alps and Norang Valley on foot or by e-bike. Discover alpine peaks, deep fjords, cascading waterfalls and quiet trails, pausing for scenic picnics and local pastries along the way.
Kayaking, Swimming and Boat Exploration
Paddle through crystal-clear fjords, swim in pristine waters, or explore remote islands by boat. Spot wildlife, visit traditional fishing villages and experience Norway’s rugged coastlines from the water.
Wild Swimming and Sauna Rituals
Reconnect with nature through traditional Norwegian saunas and invigorating wild swims. Embrace the rhythm of heat and cold while soaking in fjord views, fresh air and the restorative power of the North.
Your Journey Overview
Explore Norway and the Arctic
Venture into Norway’s wild west and the Arctic’s northern reaches, where fjords mirror towering peaks, glaciers gleam under endless skies and islands emerge from pristine waters. From guided forest foraging and alpine hikes in the Sunnmøre Alps to kayaking through glassy fjords and wild swims in secluded waters, each day blends adventure, mindful connection and sensory discovery.
Experience Sami culture, stay in extraordinary eco-lodges and explore landscapes where wilderness and heritage converge. This is Norway and the Arctic at their most extraordinary – a journey of nature, culture and true wilderness.
Welcome to Oslo
Arrive in Oslo, Norway’s dynamic capital, a city where cutting-edge design, rich cultural heritage and unspoiled nature coexist in harmony. Begin to explore the city’s vibrant waterfront at Aker Brygge, a bustling promenade lined with modern architecture, stylish cafés and boutiques, where the calm fjord waters reflect the Scandinavian sky. Just beyond the city, forested hills, tranquil parks and the shimmering Oslofjord offer a striking contrast to the urban energy, inviting you to pause, breathe and take in the natural beauty that defines the region.
Check into the elegant Sommerro Hotel in the Frogner neighborhood, a restored Art Deco gem where original details, curated artwork and sophisticated interiors offer a luxurious yet welcoming introduction to Oslo. Take time to appreciate the neighborhood’s refined streets, tree-lined avenues and nearby cultural landmarks, which together provide a sense of Oslo’s stylish and thoughtful character. This first day sets the tone for your Norwegian journey, offering a perfect balance of city life, design, culture and nature, and providing an elegant, serene space from which to begin exploring the remarkable landscapes and experiences that await.
Forest Foraging and Fjordside Discovery
Begin your day with an immersive forest walk and hands-on foraging experience, guided by a knowledgeable local expert who will introduce you to Norway’s edible and medicinal plants. As you wander through moss-covered paths and among towering native trees, learn how these plants have been used for centuries for nutrition, medicine and cultural traditions, deepening your connection to the rhythms and cycles of the natural world.
After this mindful exploration, enjoy a private transfer to Skodje, a wild and lesser-known corner of Norway’s rugged western coastline. Here, dramatic fjords, cascading waterfalls and jagged peaks create a striking backdrop for adventure and reflection. Explore winding trails along serene waters, breathe in the crisp mountain air and take in the pristine beauty that defines this remote region. The day blends hands-on learning, active exploration and the quiet magic of untouched landscapes, leaving you with a profound sense of connection to Norway’s natural world and its enduring wild spirit.
Alpine Trails and Farmhouse Flavours
Spend the day exploring the dramatic landscapes of the Sunnmøre Alps and the Romsdal region with a private guide, venturing along trails that wind through rugged alpine peaks, historic pastures and quiet fjordside paths. Along the way, pause to admire sweeping panoramas, where glaciers, fjords and mountain ridges stretch as far as the eye can see, and enjoy a scenic picnic amid the tranquil beauty of Norway’s highlands. Every step offers a deeper connection to the region’s natural grandeur, from cascading waterfalls to secluded valleys and flowering alpine meadows.
As the day draws to a close, immerse yourself in a private farm-to-table dining experience with Inger Anne and Bjørn at Guines Local Food Farm. Savour thoughtfully prepared dishes crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, while learning about traditional Norwegian culinary practices and the intimate relationship between the land and its people. This evening experience not only celebrates the flavours of the region but also offers a heartfelt glimpse into Norwegian hospitality, connecting the journey through the mountains with the warmth and culture of local life.
Exploring Storfjord and Norwegian Calm
Spend the day gliding through the tranquil waters of Storfjord on a private kayaking adventure, surrounded by dramatic fjord walls, hidden coves and the serene beauty of Norway’s coastal wilderness. Along the way, keep an eye out for playful seals, soaring seabirds and other wildlife that call these pristine waters home, immersing yourself in the rhythm and calm of this untouched landscape.
After your morning on the water, enjoy a private lunch at the Boathouse, where fresh, locally sourced ingredients are transformed into thoughtful dishes, all while offering sweeping fjordside views that capture the majesty of the surrounding scenery. In the afternoon, return to the hotel to relax and recharge, soak in the crisp forest air from the outdoor jacuzzi or enjoy a restorative session in the sauna, letting the peaceful surroundings and gentle sounds of nature envelop you. This day blends adventure, relaxation and a profound connection to the tranquil beauty of Norway’s fjords.
Exceptional Stay at Storfjord Hotel
Experiencing Norangsfjorden and Valley Trails
Set out on a thrilling rib boat journey through the dramatic Norangsfjorden, where towering mountains rise sharply from the still, mirror-like waters of the fjord. As you speed along the coastline, take in cascading waterfalls, rugged cliffs and the pristine wilderness that defines this remote corner of Norway. Arrive at the historic Hotel Union Øye for a leisurely lunch in one of its exquisite restaurants, where locally inspired cuisine and refined surroundings offer the perfect pause amid the breathtaking scenery.
In the afternoon, embark on an e-bike exploration of the serene Norang Valley. Pedal along quiet trails that wind past waterfalls, alpine meadows and rugged peaks, stopping to savour traditional Norwegian pastries and freshly brewed coffee. This immersive day combines adventure, local flavour and the peaceful beauty of untouched landscapes, offering a deep connection to both the natural and cultural richness of the region.
From Wild Swimming to Geiranger Views
Begin the day with a rejuvenating wild swimming and sauna ritual, immersing yourself in the invigorating contrasts of icy fjord waters and the soothing warmth of a traditional Norwegian sauna. This elemental experience awakens the senses and fosters a deep connection to Norway’s pristine natural environment, offering both relaxation and exhilaration amid the surrounding fjord landscapes.
In the afternoon, set out on a private fjord cruise through the UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord, where cascading waterfalls, dramatic cliffs and serene waters unfold around you at every turn. Absorb the awe-inspiring scenery, capturing the interplay of light and shadow across this iconic fjord. Conclude the day with an intimate wine tasting at Hotel Union Øye, sampling local vintages paired with artisanal small plates that highlight the region’s culinary craftsmanship.
Exceptional Stay at Hotel Union Øye
Ålesund Flavours and Manshausen Adventure
Begin the day with a scenic boat transfer, gliding past Norway’s rugged coastline as you make your way to the charming town of Ålesund. Pause here for a leisurely lunch, savouring the town’s fresh coastal flavours, from local seafood to artisanal treats, while taking in the picturesque streets and Art Nouveau architecture that make Ålesund so distinctive.
In the afternoon, continue your journey by private transfer and boat to Manshausen Island, a remote Arctic outpost nestled among jagged coastlines and pristine fjord waters. Explore this wild landscape on foot or by kayak, where every trail and inlet reveals the raw, untamed beauty of northern Norway. Sea cabins dot the shoreline, and panoramic views of mountains, fjords and open sky create a sense of solitude and wonder. This day offers relaxation, local culinary experiences and immersive adventure, providing a rare opportunity to connect with Norway’s dramatic Arctic wilderness.
Wild Waters and Secluded Shores
Spend a full day exploring the pristine waters surrounding Manshausen Island on a private boat adventure, where the rhythm of the fjord sets the pace. Glide past rugged mountains and crystal-clear waters, pausing to fish in quiet coves or take a refreshing swim in the cool, clean fjord. At a secluded island, enjoy a leisurely BBQ, savoring fresh local ingredients while surrounded by untouched landscapes and the peaceful sounds of nature.
As you navigate this remote Arctic environment, watch for playful seals and majestic sea eagles and take in the extraordinary stillness and scale of the fjords. By the end of the day, you’ll have experienced the exhilarating freedom of Norway’s northern coastline and the quiet magic of its hidden corners.
Exceptional Stay at Wood Hotel
Bodø and the Sami Way of Life
Travel by boat to Bodø, arriving in a region where the raw beauty of the Arctic meets enduring human traditions. Meet the Oskal Sami Family and gain insight into their sustainable reindeer herding practices, learning how their deep knowledge of the land has been passed down through generations. Hear stories of life in the far north, and witness firsthand the intimate relationship between people, animals and the surrounding wilderness.
Set against dramatic coastal scenery and windswept beaches, Bodø sits at the edge of the wild, serving as both a cultural hub and a gateway to the Arctic’s vast, untamed landscapes. Here, the horizon stretches endlessly, inviting exploration and reflection on the unique harmony between community, nature and northern life.
Reflecting Amid Northern Landscapes
Wake up surrounded by the tranquil beauty of Northern Norway at the eco-conscious Wood Hotel Bodø, where thoughtful design and natural surroundings invite reflection and calm. Take a final moment to enjoy the forested landscapes, perhaps with a walk, a kayak, or simply soaking in the serenity, before your private transfer to Bodø Airport marks the conclusion of your Arctic adventure.
Our purpose
Journeys With Purpose engage guests with the world’s most ambitious and exciting conservation projects across our seven continents. We believe travel can be a powerful force for learning, for expanding horizons and shifting perspectives on the magic and wonder of our natural world.
Our journeys invite you to step outside of your daily ecosystem and engage with new cultures, environments and people in the world’s wildest corners. At this moment in history, we are placing unprecedented pressure on the planet and wildlife, communities and nature is under threat. True wilderness is increasingly rare, yet there are remarkable examples of nature rebounding, and flourishing.
These conservation successes showcase the resilience of our natural world, and our journeys serve to spotlight, and support, these projects. Whether on a safari, diving trip or mountain expedition, by travelling with JWP you contribute to our mission: to conserve and restore 30 million acres of land and 30 million acres of seas by 2030. We are proud members of 1% for the Planet, through which we donate 1% of our annual revenue to grass-root initiatives.
Journeys With Purpose is also a member of The Long Run, a Conde Nast Traveller specialist travel agency, and a Certified B Corp, awarded “Best for the World: Environment 2022”.
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