The name Svalbard often conjures images of polar bears roaming the streets of Longyearbyen, the archipelago’s main settlement. In reality, this northernmost permanently populated town in the world is only a small part of the island’s wild, untamed beauty. The name Svalbard itself means “the land with the cold shores”, an apt description of a place where glaciers cover more than half its surface, and ice accounts for nearly 60% of the total landscape.

One thing Svalbard isn’t blessed with is sun during the winter months. However, those who visit at the darkest time of year can use the 24-hour night to their advantage and get a glimpse of the ethereal northern lights at any hour, even in the middle of the day. 

Exploration in Svalbard extends well beyond its skies. Snowmobile journeys cross frozen terrain to the remote east coast, while hikes to the summit of Hiorthfjellet offer sweeping views above Longyearbyen. For more adventurous travellers, multi-day ski or dog-sledding expeditions offer a far deeper immersion, with nights spent in isolated wilderness cabins, an unforgettable experience that feels entirely removed from the world.

While being pampered on holiday has its place, certain active experiences create memories that last far longer. Swimming with orcas in Norway’s majestic fjords is one of them. These gentle giants tend to spend most of their time in the northern reaches of the country but have been spotted as far south as the charming Ålesund.

Entering the water alongside these powerful animals is a humbling moment, as they move effortlessly through the fjord, close enough to observe their size, intelligence, and quiet precision.

Orcas are highly social animals, known for their complex group dynamics and coordinated hunting techniques. On occasion, visitors may witness them working together to herd herring into dense bait balls, a remarkable display of strategy and communication. Humpback whales are sometimes drawn into the scene as well, adding to this fleeting but extraordinary spectacle. For those who prefer to remain onboard, observing these encounters from the boat offers an equally powerful perspective, with sightings often just metres away.

Winter provides the most favourable conditions for this experience, with multi-day expeditions offering the flexibility needed to navigate changing weather and maximise time on the water.

While much of Norway’s travel narrative centres on its most familiar routes, Åmot offers access to a quieter corner of the country, tucked away at the end of the serene Sunnfjord. Dating back to the late 19th century and still run by the same family, a stay here promises one of Scandinavia’s most authentic luxury experiences.

Traditional Norwegian country living blends with elegant interiors, curated artwork, and heirloom-filled rooms that feel like a private home. Guests can unwind in the outdoor hot tub and sauna, linger in fire-lit lounges, or stretch out in a sun-drenched yoga studio overlooking meadows and mountains.

Stays are designed as bespoke buyouts for up to 14 guests, with personally tailored itineraries, thoughtful hosting, and seasonal dining crafted from local ingredients and fjord flavours. Days might bring glacier hikes, salmon fishing, fjord cruises, or slow walks among flower gardens and waterfalls, before evenings that drift into candlelit dinners and quiet conversation by the hearth.

Just as Norway rewards those who slow down and linger, it also reveals its beauty in motion. Part of the wider Oslo-Bergen rail journey, itself a magical experience, the Flåm Railway traces one of the country’s most scenic routes. This idyllic stretch of trainline climbs from the end of Aurlandsfjord up to the mountainous Myrdal Station, at 867m above sea level.

Along the way, waterfalls tumble down steep rock faces, snow-capped peaks rise above the valley, and pockets of lush countryside unfold beyond the window. Other memorable stops along the Oslo–Bergen route include the Bear Park, where nature comes into close focus, and the famous ski resort of Hemsedal, which also offers rewarding hikes in the warmer months.

The coastal city of Stavanger is worth visiting in its own right, with a rich maritime history, a lively cultural scene, and beautifully preserved architecture. Yet for many travellers, the true highlight lies at the three-starred RE-NAA, renowned for its contemporary Nordic cuisine. 

Led by chef Sven Erik Renaa, RE-NAA presents a seafood-driven tasting menu shaped by the seasons and the surrounding coastline of Rogaland. Ingredients are sourced locally and treated with remarkable precision, often enhanced through techniques such as fermentation and curing, reflecting both tradition and the realities of Norway’s long winters. The intimate dining room places the kitchen at its centre, with every seat offering a direct view of the chefs at work.

For journeys that go beyond the expected, our ASMALLWORLD Bespoke Travel team is on hand to curate seamless itineraries, tailored entirely to you.