Inspiration for your own tailor-made trip
Luxury Scandinavian Sabbatical Cities, Fjords and Arctic Adventures
Sweden – Norway – Gothenburg – Oslo – Alesund – Northern Fjords – Lofoten Islands
Begin on Sweden’s wild west coast, where Gothenburg’s food scene tempts you from cosy cafés and lively markets, and the salt-licked islands of the Bohuslan archipelago invite kayaking, island-hopping, and coastal drives. From here, the road pulls you north-west into Norway, a country that seems designed to make humans feel small – in the best possible way. Think glass-still fjords explored by boat, snaking alpine roads, and the iconic Flam Railway carving its way through the mountains.
Further north, the scenery sharpens and the crowds thin. The Lofoten Islands deliver dramatic peaks, fishing villages that cling to the edge of the land, and the kind of light that photographers dream about. Finish in Swedish Lapland, where forests stretch as far as the eye can see, the pace drops another notch, and nature quietly steals the show.
Itinerary
100% customisable for you
Your Scandinavian sabbatical begins in Gothenburg, Sweden’s charming second city. Wander the tram-lined streets, soak up the buzzing café culture, and admire neoclassical architecture that hints at the city’s rich past. Follow your nose to Feskekorka, a famed fish market hall, for a taste of fresh seafood and duck into a bakery for a buttery kanelbulle – locals know the best ones are always warm.
Once you’re ready to hit the road, venture north along the Bohuslan coast. Stop in Fjallbacka, a colourful fishing village with picture-perfect waterfronts, kayak through hidden inlets, and stretch your legs on scenic coastal trails. Sample the day’s catch at a waterside café, then watch the sunset shimmer across the archipelago.
Continue on to Stockholm where you’ll drop off your hire car and enjoy a few days in the capital, ticking off must-sees like Djurgarden Park, the old town and Rosendal Castle. Then hop on a direct train to Oslo for the next chapter of your Scandi sabbatical.
Cross into Norway for ten days of adventure from Oslo, Europe’s ‘Green Capital for 2019’, to the coastal city of Bergen. Take the celebrated Flam Railway past tumbling waterfalls and towering cliffsides, then settle into a boutique hotel, snugly nestled among the fjords. Hike trails, cycle quiet roads, take a boat trip, and explore tucked-away villages and hidden coves – uncovering the little bursts of magic that make the region so extraordinary.
Fly north from Bergen to the charming Art Nouveau port of Alesund and spend seven days exploring Norway’s Northern Fjords. Admire the town’s distinctive architecture, then visit the UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord, where the famous Seven Sisters waterfall twirls down the cliffside. Drive the twisting Trollstigen road, ramble scenic routes, and pause at viewpoints for cinematic panoramas. Keep your camera close – and don’t miss a warm waffle and coffee at a fjord-side café.
Over the next two days, drive along the awe-inspiring Atlantic Road to Trondheim, Norway’s third-largest city which is known for its rich Viking history. Stay in a luxury hotel in the city’s vibrant centre, with winding waterways and picturesque wooden houses on your doorstep. Step back in time in the cobblestoned neighbourhood of Bakklandet, explore the imposing, 14th-century Gothic cathedral, and climb up climb Kristiansten Fortress for sweeping city and river views – particularly magnificent at sunset.
Fly north to the Lofoten Islands, winding your way upwards through jagged peaks and turquoise waters. Spend your days fishing with the island’s anglers, cycling hidden coastal paths, and hopping aboard dinghies to spot eagles, seals and whales. At night-time, slip into a rorbuer – a converted fisherman’s cabin on stilts – and lap up the peaceful lull of the fjord. Don’t miss a taste of the local stockfish – it’s worth waking early for.
Cross back into Sweden board the Arctic Circle Train from Narvik to Kiruna, a journey through snow-dusted forests and frozen lakes. Over the next seven days, stay in some of Sweden’s most inventive hotels, from a year-round ice hotel to a treetop retreat. Explore winding forest trails, mountain bike routes, and secret fishing spots, and venture on an elk safari or bear-watching tour – the most stylish way to meet the larger-than-life locals.
Why visit Norway with Original Travel ?
Each of our trips is entirely tailor-made with originality, quality and cultural immersion in mind. Our team of destination specialists will craft itineraries based on your tastes, using their first-hand knowledge and the help of our in-country team of Concierges and guides. All trips are accompanied by a wide range of additional services, including a 24-hour helpline, the Original Travel app, fast-track airport services and much more.
Enquire nowA few of the benefits of travelling with us to Norway
- Our local Concierges
- The Original Travel app
- Destination Dossier
- 24-hour helpline
- Expert guides
- 100% carbon absorption
Why visit Sweden with Original Travel ?
Each of our trips is entirely tailor-made with originality, quality and cultural immersion in mind. Our team of destination specialists will craft itineraries based on your tastes, using their first-hand knowledge and the help of our in-country team of Concierges and guides. All trips are accompanied by a wide range of additional services, including a 24-hour helpline, the Original Travel app, fast-track airport services and much more.
Enquire nowA few of the benefits of travelling with us to Sweden
- Our local Concierges
- The Original Travel app
- Destination Dossier
- 24-hour helpline
- Expert guides
- 100% carbon absorption
