Che Bella Book Club 2025
Scandinavia
Monthly book club Zoom meetings will begin on Oct 17, 2024 and meet the second Monday of the month.
Sept 13 - 16: Pre-Tour to Gotland Island
$ 3438/person, double occupancy
Sept 16 - 26: Stockholm, Copenhagen, Oslo, Flam and Bergen
$ 8122/person, double occupancy
Sept 26 - 29: Post-tour to the Northern Lights
$ 4975/person, double occupancy
Picture it. Reading, like travel, allows us to discover worlds we might otherwise never experience. Books have the power to transport us to another place or time.
Read it. We have prepared a series of books about Scandinavia. Our book club will meet month on Zoom, which will set the stage for this trip of a lifetime.
Live it. We will read, we will Zoom and then our Book Club will be off to Scandinavia! This itinerary is specifically planned to bring literature alive as we experience “in person” the places, scenes, characters, history, authors and cuisine featured in the books. We do have a few spots available. It's going to be a fun group.
This tour will be available in 2026 with Sandy Gregory or with our Concierge Travel Services. Please inquire about details and pricing in the new year.
Scandinavia
Monthly book club Zoom meetings will begin on Oct 17, 2024 and meet the second Monday of the month.
Sept 13 - 16: Pre-Tour to Gotland Island
$ 3438/person, double occupancy
Sept 16 - 26: Stockholm, Copenhagen, Oslo, Flam and Bergen
$ 8122/person, double occupancy
Sept 26 - 29: Post-tour to the Northern Lights
$ 4975/person, double occupancy
Picture it. Reading, like travel, allows us to discover worlds we might otherwise never experience. Books have the power to transport us to another place or time.
Read it. We have prepared a series of books about Scandinavia. Our book club will meet month on Zoom, which will set the stage for this trip of a lifetime.
Live it. We will read, we will Zoom and then our Book Club will be off to Scandinavia! This itinerary is specifically planned to bring literature alive as we experience “in person” the places, scenes, characters, history, authors and cuisine featured in the books. We do have a few spots available. It's going to be a fun group.
This tour will be available in 2026 with Sandy Gregory or with our Concierge Travel Services. Please inquire about details and pricing in the new year.
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Please join Tour Director Sandy Gregory for this wonderful adventure through Scandinavia, or contact us to help you create your own independent travel experience with our Concierge Travel Services.
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Pre-Tour 4 nights Gotland Island
2 nights Stockholm 3 nights Copenhagen 1 nights Oslo 1 night Flam 2 nights Bergen Post-Tour 3 nights to Northern Sweden to view the Northern Lights |
PRE-TOUR OPTION TO GOTLAND ISLAND
PRE-TOUR DAY 1 - Arrive Stockholm. Ferry to Gotland and to Visby.
Included dinner in Visby. Known as a foodie hotspot, Gotland is benefiting from the wonderful local produce available on the island – not least freshly caught seafood – and it has a significant craft brewery scene
PRE-TOUR DAY 2 - A Day on the Gotland Islands.
The quaintness of the residential streets of Visby, with their idyllic cottages and characteristic abundance of sweet-smelling roses, contribute to the town’s unique charm. The town wall and many historical buildings gave the medieval Hanseatic city of Visby a place on UNESCO’s world heritage list. The town wall, almost 3.5 kilometres in length, is one of the world’s best-preserved city walls. Several of the magnificent medieval trading houses, with their characteristic, stepped gables, are still standing, as are many of the 17th and 18th-century wooden buildings. We will follow the footsteps of Pippi Longstocking, visit the Gotland Museum.
For Viking enthusiasts, Gotland is something extra. The island is dotted with burial grounds from the Viking Era, such as a 15-hectare site in Stenkyrka with some 1,000 graves. Northern Gotland is the best area to explore “Raukar” – rock formations unique to Gotland's coastline. Farö's scenery is different from the rest of Gotland, even though it only takes seven minutes by ferry to cross the strait. The landscape is more barren, and the sand on the beautiful bare beaches seems even finer. We take a look at the incredible Langhammars Sea Stacks and Helgumannen fishing village. Tiny fields and buildings dot the landscape, and many structures unique to the island are roofed with sedge, a tradition that has been abandoned elsewhere. Farö's most famous resident was Swedish Film Director Ingmar Bergman, who died at his home on the island in 2007.
PRE-TOUR DAY 3 - Ferry back to Stockholm.
Overnight in Stockholm to meet the group
Included dinner in Visby. Known as a foodie hotspot, Gotland is benefiting from the wonderful local produce available on the island – not least freshly caught seafood – and it has a significant craft brewery scene
PRE-TOUR DAY 2 - A Day on the Gotland Islands.
The quaintness of the residential streets of Visby, with their idyllic cottages and characteristic abundance of sweet-smelling roses, contribute to the town’s unique charm. The town wall and many historical buildings gave the medieval Hanseatic city of Visby a place on UNESCO’s world heritage list. The town wall, almost 3.5 kilometres in length, is one of the world’s best-preserved city walls. Several of the magnificent medieval trading houses, with their characteristic, stepped gables, are still standing, as are many of the 17th and 18th-century wooden buildings. We will follow the footsteps of Pippi Longstocking, visit the Gotland Museum.
For Viking enthusiasts, Gotland is something extra. The island is dotted with burial grounds from the Viking Era, such as a 15-hectare site in Stenkyrka with some 1,000 graves. Northern Gotland is the best area to explore “Raukar” – rock formations unique to Gotland's coastline. Farö's scenery is different from the rest of Gotland, even though it only takes seven minutes by ferry to cross the strait. The landscape is more barren, and the sand on the beautiful bare beaches seems even finer. We take a look at the incredible Langhammars Sea Stacks and Helgumannen fishing village. Tiny fields and buildings dot the landscape, and many structures unique to the island are roofed with sedge, a tradition that has been abandoned elsewhere. Farö's most famous resident was Swedish Film Director Ingmar Bergman, who died at his home on the island in 2007.
PRE-TOUR DAY 3 - Ferry back to Stockholm.
Overnight in Stockholm to meet the group
DAY 1: TUES, SEPT 16. ARRIVE STOCKHOLM. YOUR JOURNEY BEGINS! |
Arrive in Stockholm, and transfer to our luxury 4-star hotel in the city center.
We’ll meet this afternoon to get acquainted and oriented, including the well-known pedestrian street Drottninggatan and the surrounding area of Östermalm. Here you will find numerous shops, cafés, and restaurants for a perfect introduction to Scandinavian culture.
Included Welcome Dinner
Overnight in Stockholm, 2 nights with breakfast
We’ll meet this afternoon to get acquainted and oriented, including the well-known pedestrian street Drottninggatan and the surrounding area of Östermalm. Here you will find numerous shops, cafés, and restaurants for a perfect introduction to Scandinavian culture.
Included Welcome Dinner
Overnight in Stockholm, 2 nights with breakfast
DAY 2: WED, SEPT 17. A DAY IN STOCKHOLM |
This morning we will begin with a panoramic tour through the historical heart of Stockholm, including Stockholm's City Hall, home of the Nobel Prize banquet and striking mosaic murals celebrating humanism and the ideal of people working together in community, and the hip district of Södermalm.
We continue with a walk through the cobbled alleyways of Stockholm's Gamla Stan (Old City), learning about its historic Stortorget Square, cathedral, and Royal Palace. We'll board a boat and cross the harbor to the charming island Djurgården. There, we will tour the Vasa Museum, home to the remarkably well-preserved Vasa ship, a 17th century warship that sank on its maIden voyage and was salvaged centuries later. Visitors can marvel at this imposing vessel and explore fascinating exhibitions that delve into the maritime heritage of Sweden.
The rest of the day is yours to enjoy.
Tonight: Kitsch and karaoke: Mama Mia, a night of ABBA! ABBA were one of the world’s most successful pop groups with more than 380 million albums sold. Fans flock to Stockholm from all corners of the world to visit this museum and to pay homage to them. We'll have a glass (or two) before venturing into the museum, yes ... the ABBA Museum! ABBA’s history and career are chronicled in great detail through a combination of video, images and objects. Our group will have the unique opportunity to meet the man behind ABBA’s iconic stage outfits, and learn about the dazzling pieces that hold the secrets and stories that made ABBA shine. It will be an evening filled with laughter and fun. Hold on to your disco ball, as it get better! You will be able to sing, as the fifth member of the band, to one of their songs and of course, go home with your own music video. I'm already planning what I'm going to wear.
Overnight in Stockholm.
We continue with a walk through the cobbled alleyways of Stockholm's Gamla Stan (Old City), learning about its historic Stortorget Square, cathedral, and Royal Palace. We'll board a boat and cross the harbor to the charming island Djurgården. There, we will tour the Vasa Museum, home to the remarkably well-preserved Vasa ship, a 17th century warship that sank on its maIden voyage and was salvaged centuries later. Visitors can marvel at this imposing vessel and explore fascinating exhibitions that delve into the maritime heritage of Sweden.
The rest of the day is yours to enjoy.
Tonight: Kitsch and karaoke: Mama Mia, a night of ABBA! ABBA were one of the world’s most successful pop groups with more than 380 million albums sold. Fans flock to Stockholm from all corners of the world to visit this museum and to pay homage to them. We'll have a glass (or two) before venturing into the museum, yes ... the ABBA Museum! ABBA’s history and career are chronicled in great detail through a combination of video, images and objects. Our group will have the unique opportunity to meet the man behind ABBA’s iconic stage outfits, and learn about the dazzling pieces that hold the secrets and stories that made ABBA shine. It will be an evening filled with laughter and fun. Hold on to your disco ball, as it get better! You will be able to sing, as the fifth member of the band, to one of their songs and of course, go home with your own music video. I'm already planning what I'm going to wear.
Overnight in Stockholm.
DAY 3: FRI, SEPT 18. RAILWAY JOURNEY TO COPENHAGEN |
After breakfast, we will head by train to Stockholm to Copenhagen. During your travels, you’ll be treated to the gorgeous scenery of the idyllic farmlands and forests of southern Sweden. I will have yummy lunch boxes prepared and you can buy beverages on the train.
Hygge. Hygge (pronounced “hoo-gah”) is so important in Denmark, it’s part of their cultural DNA. Hygge is the feeling of cozy, intimate contentment; of connection and warmth. It's creating a feeling of well-being and celebrating the everyday. Anything that brings you these feelings is hygge.
• Cuddling up on the couch with a good book, sipping a warm cup of coffee or tea is hygge.
• Coming home to a pair of sweatpants you’d never wear in public, but are so comfy that you won't get rid of them, is hygge.
• Creating a cozy, homey sanctuary by lighting a candle or fireplace or bringing the outdoors into your space with plants, wood and natural stones is hygge.
• Surrounding yourself with soft, fuzzy blankets, fluffy pillows and comfortable furniture is hygge.
We will drop our bags and embark on a 3-hour hygge walking tour of Copenhagen, get to the root of hygge, and begin to learn about Danish culture. We'll begin our tour in the charming neighborhood of Nyboder, a local gem beloved by residents for its irresistible calmness. one of the oldest parts of Copenhagen, filled to the brim with cobblestone streets, timber-framed houses, and green spaces amongst the urban sprawl. We will engage our taste buds along the way with bites of world-renowned pastries, delicious traditional Danish flødeboller, and a cup of liquid joy.
Included dinner. Tonight, we head to the Tivoli Amusement Park, the world’s second oldest amusement park. At night, Tivoli becomes a gleaming wonderland of lights and illumination, with an ambiance that is tailor-made to creating lasting memories. It celebrates various architectural styles and environments from all around the world while maintaining a certain Scandinavian chic. The park also has some of the best restaurants in the city, where we will enjoy al fresco dining.
Overnight in Copenhagen 3 nights.
Hygge. Hygge (pronounced “hoo-gah”) is so important in Denmark, it’s part of their cultural DNA. Hygge is the feeling of cozy, intimate contentment; of connection and warmth. It's creating a feeling of well-being and celebrating the everyday. Anything that brings you these feelings is hygge.
• Cuddling up on the couch with a good book, sipping a warm cup of coffee or tea is hygge.
• Coming home to a pair of sweatpants you’d never wear in public, but are so comfy that you won't get rid of them, is hygge.
• Creating a cozy, homey sanctuary by lighting a candle or fireplace or bringing the outdoors into your space with plants, wood and natural stones is hygge.
• Surrounding yourself with soft, fuzzy blankets, fluffy pillows and comfortable furniture is hygge.
We will drop our bags and embark on a 3-hour hygge walking tour of Copenhagen, get to the root of hygge, and begin to learn about Danish culture. We'll begin our tour in the charming neighborhood of Nyboder, a local gem beloved by residents for its irresistible calmness. one of the oldest parts of Copenhagen, filled to the brim with cobblestone streets, timber-framed houses, and green spaces amongst the urban sprawl. We will engage our taste buds along the way with bites of world-renowned pastries, delicious traditional Danish flødeboller, and a cup of liquid joy.
Included dinner. Tonight, we head to the Tivoli Amusement Park, the world’s second oldest amusement park. At night, Tivoli becomes a gleaming wonderland of lights and illumination, with an ambiance that is tailor-made to creating lasting memories. It celebrates various architectural styles and environments from all around the world while maintaining a certain Scandinavian chic. The park also has some of the best restaurants in the city, where we will enjoy al fresco dining.
Overnight in Copenhagen 3 nights.
DAY 4: SAT, SEPT 19. A DAY IN COPENHAGEN: CASTLES & GARDENS OF COPENHAGEN |
This morning you will enjoy a a private walking tour of Royal Copenhagen’s highlights. Stroll through the grand courtyard of the Amalienborg Palace, where the Danish Royal Guard stands watch day and night. Take in the impressive Frederiks Kirke and the picturesque and colourful Nyhavn harbour and Renaissance-era Rosenborg Castle followed by a walk through the lush Botanical Garden. Housing 500 years of royal knickknacks, we'll tour the finely furnished rooms, Danish crown jewels, and one of the best treasury collections in Europe.
Lunch is not included.
After lunch, you will get a different perspective of the city with a canal boat tour with views of Christiansborg Palace, the Royal Danish Opera House and the colourful Christianshavn canal.
Tonight: Foodie Tour of Copenhagen. You're in for a treat with a diverse array of delicious dishes and drinks straight from the heart of Danish culture! We will begin our culinary adventure at the bustling Torvehallerne market, where we'll indulge in the flavors of organic Danish cuisine including gourmet cheeses, local open rye bread sandwiches, amazing seafood and delicious craft beers. Our journey will then take us through Strøget, the iconic shopping district. Amidst high-end shops, quaint cafes, and historic landmarks, we'll delve into Viking history, Lego lore, and the legacy of famed writer Hans Christian Andersen. We'll finish by treating your taste buds to stops dedicated to Copenhagen's sweet delights and pastries.
Overnight in Copenhagen
Lunch is not included.
After lunch, you will get a different perspective of the city with a canal boat tour with views of Christiansborg Palace, the Royal Danish Opera House and the colourful Christianshavn canal.
Tonight: Foodie Tour of Copenhagen. You're in for a treat with a diverse array of delicious dishes and drinks straight from the heart of Danish culture! We will begin our culinary adventure at the bustling Torvehallerne market, where we'll indulge in the flavors of organic Danish cuisine including gourmet cheeses, local open rye bread sandwiches, amazing seafood and delicious craft beers. Our journey will then take us through Strøget, the iconic shopping district. Amidst high-end shops, quaint cafes, and historic landmarks, we'll delve into Viking history, Lego lore, and the legacy of famed writer Hans Christian Andersen. We'll finish by treating your taste buds to stops dedicated to Copenhagen's sweet delights and pastries.
Overnight in Copenhagen
DAY 5. SEPT 20. DAY TRIP FROM COPENHAGEN: VIKING SHIPS AND ISLAND CHARMS |
Today, we take a drive to Roskilde to prowl through the evocative Viking Ship Museum, where we'll learn about the rough-and-tumble, yet surprisingly sophisticated Viking culture of a thousand years ago. We'll also visit Denmark's venerable Roskilde Cathedral, the resting place of 38 kings and queens of Denmark and the first Gothic church ever built of brick.
The afternoon and evening is yours to enjoy Copenhagen.
Overnight in Copenhagen
The afternoon and evening is yours to enjoy Copenhagen.
Overnight in Copenhagen
DAY 6: MON, SEPT 21. OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO OSLO, NORWAY |
You will have time at your leisure this morning in Copenhagen before we transfer to the cruise ship.
Overnight cruise from Copenhagen to Oslo. In the early afternoon, we will board our cruise to Oslo. As we sail up the Kattegat strait to Norway’s capital, you can take part in the on-board entertainment or just relax and watch the sunset from the deck. Our cruise includes a 3-course dinner. The cabins are roomy with a large window for a perfect view. The highlight will be waking up early the next morning for the absolutely spectacular cruise through the fjord leading to the dramatic skyline of Oslo. We arrive in Oslo at about 9:30 in the morning.
Overnight cruise from Copenhagen to Oslo. In the early afternoon, we will board our cruise to Oslo. As we sail up the Kattegat strait to Norway’s capital, you can take part in the on-board entertainment or just relax and watch the sunset from the deck. Our cruise includes a 3-course dinner. The cabins are roomy with a large window for a perfect view. The highlight will be waking up early the next morning for the absolutely spectacular cruise through the fjord leading to the dramatic skyline of Oslo. We arrive in Oslo at about 9:30 in the morning.
DAY 7. TUES, SEPT 22: ARRIVAL IN OSLO, NORWAY & GUIDED TOUR OF OSLO |
This morning we will enjoy the views of the Oslo Fjord during breakfast as our ship sails into port. After we disembark, we will head straight into exploring the Norwegian capital with our local guide.
Our private tour will take us along the famous landmarks of the city, including the beautiful Vigeland Sculpture Park, filled with over 200 metal and stone artworks, the National Theatre, Parliament, the Royal Palace, Akershus fortress, and City Hall.
You will have the afternoon to explore at your leisure.
Tonight: Included dinner.
Overnight in Oslo, 1 night with breakfast
Our private tour will take us along the famous landmarks of the city, including the beautiful Vigeland Sculpture Park, filled with over 200 metal and stone artworks, the National Theatre, Parliament, the Royal Palace, Akershus fortress, and City Hall.
You will have the afternoon to explore at your leisure.
Tonight: Included dinner.
Overnight in Oslo, 1 night with breakfast
DAY 8: WED, SEPT 23. OSLO TO FLÅM |
After breakfast, you will head to Oslo Central Station to head 6 hours to Bergen. This train ride, ranked amongst the 20 best train journeys in the world, takes you over Norway’s mountainous “rooftop” and through charming villages like Gol and Geilo. When we arrive in Flåm, we will tour the Flåm Railway Documentation Centre, located right beside Flåm Station. Here we will learn about the construction of one of the world’s steepest railway lines.
Check into the hotel and explore Flam. Very small and very pretty.
Optional Floating Sauna Experience. Norway, a land of breathtaking fjords, midnight sun, and northern lights, offers another unique experience that has been deeply rooted in its culture for centuries: the sauna. The Norwegian sauna experience is not just about relaxation; it's a lifestyle, a ritual, and a tradition. Floating Sauna is a composition of two shed-like pavilions floating on a pontoon, connected to the shore by a small pedestrian bridge that acts as a threshold between land and lake. The combination of a steaming hot sauna and a refreshing bath in the fjord makes for a revitalizing experience.
Included Viking Plank dinner. We will begin our evening with an aquavit and beer tasting. Aquavit is a very Scandinavian drink (also known as the water of life), sort of like their version of vodka. We will learn about the history of aquavit and their local craft beers. The Viking Plank dinner consists of five courses accompanied by tastes of beer that compliment each course. The courses are based on local ingredients that would have been familiar during the Viking Era, but with flavors to suit the modern palate. The locally crafted beer is used in marinades and sauces, with hops, malt, and herbs bringing a distinctive extra dimension to the food. The flavorsome light and dark beers compliment everything from fish and game to chocolate.
Overnight in Flam.
Check into the hotel and explore Flam. Very small and very pretty.
Optional Floating Sauna Experience. Norway, a land of breathtaking fjords, midnight sun, and northern lights, offers another unique experience that has been deeply rooted in its culture for centuries: the sauna. The Norwegian sauna experience is not just about relaxation; it's a lifestyle, a ritual, and a tradition. Floating Sauna is a composition of two shed-like pavilions floating on a pontoon, connected to the shore by a small pedestrian bridge that acts as a threshold between land and lake. The combination of a steaming hot sauna and a refreshing bath in the fjord makes for a revitalizing experience.
Included Viking Plank dinner. We will begin our evening with an aquavit and beer tasting. Aquavit is a very Scandinavian drink (also known as the water of life), sort of like their version of vodka. We will learn about the history of aquavit and their local craft beers. The Viking Plank dinner consists of five courses accompanied by tastes of beer that compliment each course. The courses are based on local ingredients that would have been familiar during the Viking Era, but with flavors to suit the modern palate. The locally crafted beer is used in marinades and sauces, with hops, malt, and herbs bringing a distinctive extra dimension to the food. The flavorsome light and dark beers compliment everything from fish and game to chocolate.
Overnight in Flam.
DAY 9: THURS, SEPT 24. CRUISE THROUGH THE SOGNEFJORD |
You are free to explore Flåm as you wish this morning before the group boards a cruise to continue our journey.
Few places in the world have such rugged coastlines with long branching fjords, with their tall mountains, mighty waterfalls and small farms clinging to the steep mountainsides. In Norway, there are almost 1,200 fjords. Today, we will travel along Norway's longest and deepest fjord: the Sognefjord, also know as the "King of the Fjords." On board, you can enjoy the views through panoramic windows in the lounge, or go out on to the large sun deck for an invigorating experience at the very “heart” of Fjord Norway.
Included dinner will be on the boat and we will arrive in Bergen about 9pm.
Overnight 2 nights in Bergen
Few places in the world have such rugged coastlines with long branching fjords, with their tall mountains, mighty waterfalls and small farms clinging to the steep mountainsides. In Norway, there are almost 1,200 fjords. Today, we will travel along Norway's longest and deepest fjord: the Sognefjord, also know as the "King of the Fjords." On board, you can enjoy the views through panoramic windows in the lounge, or go out on to the large sun deck for an invigorating experience at the very “heart” of Fjord Norway.
Included dinner will be on the boat and we will arrive in Bergen about 9pm.
Overnight 2 nights in Bergen
DAY 10: FRI, SEPT 25. A DAY IN BERGEN |
Bergen, the “Capital of the fjords”, is Norway’s second largest city while still enjoying the charms of a small town. On our private tour, we will experience its beauty and character first-hand with a guided walking tour. A local will take you around Bryggen, the medieval part of the city, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You will then take the funicular up to nearby mountain, Fløyen, for stunning panoramic views over the city and surrounding fjords.
The rest of the afternoon is yours to explore Bergen at your leisure.
Farewell Dinner - THE BIG FINISH! Tonight, we dine at one of Norway's finest seafood restaurants and of the most exotic attractions in the whole of Western Norway’s archipelago. Our restaurant is situated right by the sea on a small island with spectacular views of the fjord, mountains, skerries, and passing boats and ships.
Overnight in Bergen.
The rest of the afternoon is yours to explore Bergen at your leisure.
Farewell Dinner - THE BIG FINISH! Tonight, we dine at one of Norway's finest seafood restaurants and of the most exotic attractions in the whole of Western Norway’s archipelago. Our restaurant is situated right by the sea on a small island with spectacular views of the fjord, mountains, skerries, and passing boats and ships.
Overnight in Bergen.
DAY 11: SAT, SEPT 26. FLIGHTS OUT. |
Included transfers to the airport
OPTIONAL POST-TOUR TO VIEW THE NORTHERN LIGHTS |
Post-Tour Day 1: Sept 26. Welcome to Alta!
Welcome to Alta, a place of enchanting natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Situated in the heart of Norway’s northernmost region, Finnmark, Alta is a destination that will leave you in awe of its Arctic charm and warm hospitality.
As you step into Alta, you’ll immediately be greeted by the rugged, snow-covered landscapes that define the Arctic Circle. The pristine, untouched wilderness is a sight to behold. Alta is renowned as the “City of the Northern Lights,” offering some of the world’s best opportunities to witness this celestial phenomenon. On a clear winter night, the vibrant dance of the aurora borealis will leave you spellbound. The Alta Museum, home to UNESCO-listed rock carvings, takes you on a journey back in time, offering insight into the prehistoric cultures that once called this region home.
Forest Suite. 1 night with breakfast. In the living room, a majestic window extends towards the sky, offering you a panoramic embrace of the dense, untouched forest. The natural light floods in, ensuring every moment is immersed in the beauty of the Arctic’s ever-changing canvas. The upstairs bedroom, complete with a king-size bed, boasts a large window that frames the sky, perfect for admiring the stars or catching the glow of the northern lights.
Husky on Wheels: For many years, dog-sledding was the best way to get around in Norway. Frigid winter temperatures and poor road systems meant that Norwegians would often have to transit across wide snow drifts for long distances. With their thick fur and tireless nature, Norwegian huskies were bred to pull sleds filled with goods, possessions, and families for miles.
Today you will join an authentic dog sledding adventure off the beaten track and well away from the crowds. You will spend a memorable day as a musher (sledge driver) before the snow comes by joining a North Norwegian family on an adventure of a lifetime! This is not only driving the carts but you will be actively involved throughout the experience, from the briefing around the kitchen table to looking after your own dog team and helping to feed them.
Harness your dog team and then head out on an exciting dog sledding on wheels adventure in challenging terrain surrounded by spectacular mountains. The actual dog sledding on wheels will be 1 hour, depending on conditions.
Feel the power of these Norwegian dogs as they race across the land, and immerse yourself in this entertaining and unique adventure!
Included dinner at the lodge.
Every night on this excursion will include a Private Northern Lights Tour: Northern Lights are unpredictable, and your guide will be in constant communication with local sources to track the best locations for viewing. The guide will take into account local weather conditions, solar activity, and up-to-date forecasts to choose the most promising locations. These spots may include secluded beaches, viewpoints, or open fields with unobstructed views of the night sky. The private nature of the tour allows for spontaneous changes to the plan based on real-time conditions. With a private Northern Lights chase, you can enjoy the spectacle in an intimate setting, free from the crowds often found in group tours. This creates a more personal and immersive connection with the natural wonder of the Aurora Borealis.
On the nights that Northern Lights viewing is a go, it will be a truly magical experience, offering an exclusive and personalized encounter with the Aurora Borealis. Your journey begins with a knowledgeable local guide and a private vehicle, ensuring a personalized and comfortable experience. Throughout the tour, the guide will share fascinating stories and information about the folklore and science behind the Northern Lights, adding depth to your appreciation of this celestial phenomenon.
Post-Tour Day 2: Sept 27: Private transfer from Holmen Husky to Sorrisniva
2 nights with breakfast. This wilderness lodge is built on the bank of the internationally renowned Alta River in Norway’s high Arctic. All of the rooms have panoramic windows extending from the floor into the ceiling, maximizing the views of the adjacent river and Arctic wilderness as well as enabling viewing of Northern lights.
Private King Crab Experience. Join an unforgettable Arctic adventure and meet the king of the sea! On this trip, you get to experience the mighty king crab up close, and enjoy a “king meal” in a real northern Norwegian fishing village. This is a unique opportunity to both hold the animals and take pictures, as well as learn about the king crab’s history and anatomy.
We explore the Altafjord and the historical areas in the inner part of the fjord before we end up in the fishing village Storkorsnes. Here you get to meet the king crab up close before we finally taste this exclusive delicacy. The journey kicks off with a concise orientation, and you’ll be outfitted with cozy warm suits, gloves, boots, and goggles, all essential for your upcoming boat adventure.
Our nautical expedition carries us to Storekorsnes, a picturesque fishing village nestled along the eastern shores of the Altafjord. A warm welcome awaits from the locals, eager to share their charming community through an insightful guided tour.
Private Northern Lights Tour Northern Lights are unpredictable, and your guide will be in constant communication with local sources to track the best locations for viewing. The private nature of the tour allows for spontaneous changes to the plan based on real-time conditions.
Post-Tour Day 3. Sept 28 - Sami Experience and Last Chance for Northern Lights
Private Day of Sami This tour provides a comprehensive exploration of the Sami people, indigenous to the Arctic areas of Sápmi, which includes parts of northern Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Russia. It begins with an overview of the Sami’s historical and geographical context, highlighting their connection to the land. You will learn about their rich history, from early migration and settlement patterns to interactions with Nordic kingdoms and the impact of colonization. It also covers the modern era, focusing on the resurgence of Sami identity and cultural revitalization efforts. The discussion includes an examination of Sami language, traditions, and contemporary issues, such as environmental concerns and cultural preservation.
Additionally, the tour features a traditional Sami cooking class, offering participants a hands-on experience with Sami culinary traditions, emphasizing the use of local ingredients and traditional cooking methods.
Private Northern Lights Tour Northern Lights are unpredictable, and your guide will be in constant communication with local sources to track the best locations for viewing. The private nature of the tour allows for spontaneous changes to the plan based on real-time conditions.
Post-Tour Day 4. Sept 29 - Transfer to the airport and included flight to Stockholm for flights home.
Transfer to the airport. Included group flight to Stockholm.
Optional Airport Hotel for Sept 30 flight out.