Beyond the Arctic Circle: Winter Break in Norwegian Lapland

You have the whole day today to discover Tromsø and its surroundings. Bundle up for a walk in the bright, fresh air before ducking into the warmth of a cosy cafe, or head out to sea for a whale-watching trip. We’ll also get you tickets for The Polar Museum, which traces the history of trappers and explorers in the Arctic regions. Inside, you’ll find an entire room dedicated to the polar expeditions of celebrated explorer Roald Amundsen. As the day draws to a close, you’ll head to the port to board the Coastal Express. It departs from the mainland in the early evening, so you can enjoy dinner on board before retiring to your cabin for a good night’s sleep as you’re transported through the Arctic Circle.

Breakfast is on board this morning before you disembark on the island of Magerøya in Honningsvåg, the closest village to the North Cape. In the North Cape Museum, a video will show you how the region changes through the seasons before you enjoy the exhibition that documents the area’s tourist history. You can also visit the ecumenical chapel of St Johannes, which is famous for its weddings, and take in dazzling ocean views from the Grotto, a terrace that’s been dug into the rock. When you’ve finished exploring, make the short drive to Sarnes where you’ll spend the night. Your property on the water’s edge gives you privacy and freedom to enjoy your incredible surroundings, especially from your outdoor hot tub – if you’re lucky, you might spot the Northern Lights dancing in the sky.

Your journey continues south to Alta today, along a beautiful road where white hilly expanses stretch to the horizon, dotted here and there with streams and groves. You’ll spend two nights just outside the city in a small sled dog farm managed by passionate mushers.

Today you’ll put your mushing skills to the test during a magical dog sled ride. In the company of a musher and a pack of huskies, you’ll set off into the snow and learn how to drive a team through the white landscapes.

Before you leave today, take a detour to Alta to see its UNESCO World Heritage-listed rock art, which dates back to between 4200 and 500 BC. When you’re ready, drive along the coast to the Lyngen Alps region, about four hours away. This well-kept secret is located beside the fjord in an untouched snowy region. You’ll spend the night here in a small seaside cabin whose large bay window is perfect for taking in the view and (hopefully…) watching the Northern Lights.

Before you hit the road again today, you’ll head out for a snowmobile safari in the middle of the Lyngen Alps. This outing in the great outdoors lets you cruise across the snow as you take in the sights. When you return, enjoy lunch around the fire before getting back in your car and returning to Tromsø across the Lyngen Alps. You’ll spend your last night in Norway in a hotel in the city’s downtown area.