Artic Norweigan experience
We commenced our journey by flying to Tromso via Oslo with Norwegian Air who I found to be a very good airline. They were the first to offer free wi-fi in the sky!
On arrival into Tromso we were taken to the Rica Hotel which is situated in the centre of this lovely, pretty town. It was covered in very deep powdery snow which had recently fallen. I would very much recommend this hotel for its location, bar and modern rooms. We then taken by mini-bus to our adventure which was dog sledging followed by a hot meal served in a Lavvo (tent). We were supplied with snow suits and all the outer clothing for a minus 20 experience! We then returned to the Rica Hotel to wait for the MS Trollfjord, to arrive. We boarded around midnight.
The following morning, we left the ship early at Harstad for a half day excursion to explore the lovely 'taste of Vesteralen'. We then re-joined the vessel in Sortland for some late lunch followed by the next stop which was Stokmarknes. We visited the Hurtigruten museum which was really interesting. Our journey continued through the fjords via Stokmarknes, where we visited the most amazing ice gallery and sipped a taste of Norway served in handmade ice glasses.
The ship that we sailed on through the Fjords is one of many within the Hurtigruten fleet and was of a very good standard. The food was superb along with the staff and the whole ambience. On two of the nights on-board we were summoned to the deck during dinner as unbelievably the Northern Lights came to find us. We all ran to get our coats, rushed to the top deck and left our dinner. Everyone was very passionate about this experience and indeed one to tick off your lifetime bucket list. The dancing formation of the lights was stunning and better experienced through a good camera so you can properly capture the dramatic colours..
On our way through the Arctic Circle we encountered the view of the seven Sisters Mountains that loom over the Helgeland coast. We eventually arrived at Trondheim where we were taken to the airport and flew home. I would recommend this short trip to anyone as the scenery is something everyone should get the opportunity to experience. If you want to hear more about this amazing trip then please just give me a call as I’d love to share my tips and insights.