Norway - Friluftsliv! ("Free-loofs-liv"!)

Welcome to Norway!

On arrival, our local host will meet us at the airport on arrival and escort us to the Urban Boutique Hotel (the former Amerikalinjen departure station), where we will stay for two days. At Amerikalinjen Hotel, the journey began for thousands of hopeful Norwegians traveling to America - the land of opportunity. More than 800,000 Norwegians emigrated to the USA between the late 1800s and early 1900s. The hotel has found a way to pay homage and tell this story in a genuinely exceptional fashion. One hundred years after The America Line opened their headquarters in 1919, the iconic building has been reborn as a vibrant boutique hotel designed for the modern explorer. Outside the doors, the city will be at our feet.

Day 2 - Oslo

Norwegian Democracy & Wildlife Protection, Guided Experience in the Norwegian Capital

Oslo has blossomed into a contemporary urban centre and a vibrant cultural hub in recent years. There is no better way to get to know the city and ease into the surroundings than being introduced by a local insider. On this day, our guide will meet us at our hotel, and take us on a curated expedition on foot and/or public transit.

An Introduction to The Foundation of Norwegian Democracy

After breakfast at the hotel, we will begin the day at the Nobel Peace Center, where we'll learn about the world's most prestigious prize and explore the inspiring stories of how the laureates have contributed to peace throughout history. After, we will have the opportunity to meet a Norwegian Democracy expert, gaining insight into the foundations of Norwegian democracy, values and way of life.

Oslo Lunch Cruise on a Hybrid-Electric Catamaran

Climb onto a quiet hybrid-electric catamaran and savour a delightful lunch as we glide past Oslo's breathtaking skyline, adorned with both modern and historic landmarks. We will leave the hustle and bustle of the city behind as we enter the serene Oslofjord, filled with picturesque sights of small islands, lush forested hills, and surrounding mountains. We will indulge in a flavorful lunch crafted from local ingredients, combining Nordic traditions with modern flair.

During the cruise, we will learn about Brim Explorer's vision of changing the future of how vessels operate at sea with less emission. We will also learn about their efforts to protect local wildlife through their practices in Tromsø, where Brim Explorer operates whale cruises.

A Local Dining Experience at Mathallen - Oslo Food Hall

This evening we have planned a special experience at Mathallen (Oslo Food Hall), where your dinner will be prepared by young chefs who are training at Geitmyra Culinary Center, Andreas Viestad's cooking school for children. Andreas Viestad is known for his work in New Scandinavian Cooking. At Geitmyra, their vision is to teach children about food that is good for both them and the environment, as well as to respect nature and local fishers and farmers who produce the food.

Day 5 - Lake Hafslo/BesteBakken

Enjoy a scenic bus ride as our journey continues towards the rugged mountains of Jotunheimen National Park, before descending through the valleys down to the beautiful Lustrafjord, where we will visit a delightful farm and herb garden in Lom. The farm is situated in the valley of Bøverdalen, in the foothills of Jotunheimen National Park’s highest mountains, known in folklore as a place where giants live. Over 200 herb types are grown in the biodynamic gardens, and we will be inspired by the incredible colors and taste at lunchtime.

After lunch, we will set off on a unique outdoor experience on the permafrost and snow drifts of Jotunheimen National Park!

Starting from Lom Stave Church and ascending towards the highest mountain pass in northern Europe (1434 metres above sea level), several attractions along the route make this an exhilarating trip, including views of Norway’s most untamed mountains and 23 2000-metre-plus peaks. This road also features a famous stone sculpture by Norwegian artist Knut Wold, which encourages visitors to view mountain landscapes and nature through a different lens – literally and symbolically.

After our visit to the climate park, we will journey to our resting destination on the shores of Lake Hafslo, where we will stay for three nights, experiencing authentic Norwegian hospitality and comfort. Our charming boutique hotel is surrounded by a picturesque tapestry of mountains, glaciers, fjords, and lakes. Here we will enjoy unique culinary experiences, as the kitchen celebrates the essence of traditional regional food, meticulously curated from locally sourced or garden-fresh ingredients. Within these walls, an ambience of warmth and comfort will envelop us, accompanied by sweeping vistas of Lake Hafslo that paint the backdrop from just about anywhere on the property!

For extra fun, say hello to the resident alpacas, who add delightful charm to our stay. Private guided hikes, kayaking ventures, or e-biking are all possible within the embrace of this idyllic property.

Day 10 - Oslo Return

In the morning, our bus driver will take us to Åndalsnes, the mountaineering capital of Norway. Åndalsnes in Romsdalen is home to some of the most iconic natural landscapes in Norway. The Romsdalen Gondola is a state of the art gondala that offers 360 degree panoramic views of the valley during the ride. We will enjoy the breathtaking views from the top of the mountain with opportunities for hiking, biking, sightseeing, and more. At the restaurant located at the top of the mountain, we will enjoy a delicious meal based on local produce, while admiring the view.

After lunch, a local guide will introduce us to how this incredible structure was built using sustainable principles.

After, we will board the scenic Rauma Railway to Oslo, one of the most spectacular railways in Norway. With its snaking ascent and inspiring views of the Trollwall, it's easily Norway's most spectacular rail journey. The train snakes back and forth over the Rauma river, past mountains and waterfalls. In Dombås, we will change trains, and continue to Oslo.

Finally, we will enjoy a final night at the Urban Boutique/Amerikalinjen Hotel in Oslo before departure, including a short stroll to celebrate our journey with dinner at Bistro Tolvte in the world-famous Munch Museum, near the hotel.