Uncovering the hidden gems of North Norway’s
Vesterålen and Senja as well as Finland’s Lakeland Region
In response to a surge of interest in summer Scandinavia trips this year, Discover the World is launching a whole host of new trips to both Finland and Northern Norway for 2025 tapping into the growing appeal of ‘chasing the Nordic light’, tied to the allure of living and holidaying like a Scandinavian.
During 2024, the operator’s bookings for summer Scandinavian trips doubled compared to the previous year. Discover the World is confident that these new summer holidays will hit the mark for those looking to book trips for next summer, making the most of the long days unique in this region and the values of nature connection and wellness.
The areas covered include the hidden gems of Vesterålen and Senja in Northern Norway and the Lakelandarea of Finland, taking visitors off the beaten track.
Experiences include whale watching, snorkelling and mountain hiking in Norway as well as a stay in the fascinating twice-deserted town of Nyksund, whilst the Finnish trips tap into authentic ‘summer like a Finn’ experiences such as wild swimming, sauna and kayaking.
Around Vesterålen, Northern Norway
This seven night road trip explores the archipelago of Vesterålen taking in extraordinary scenery, whale abundant waters and picturesque remote fishing villages.
Starting in Evenes the route heads north and across the Tjelsund Bridge to Harstad before continuing on to Andenes, a whale watching hot spot. Other stops include Klakksjorda, for “The Man from the Sea” sculpture and the charming fishing villages of Hovden.
The hidden gem of Nyksund is undoubtably one of this trip’s highlights and a much quieter alternative to the Lofoten Islands. Twice deserted, the fishing village has a rich history rebuilding itself as a vibrant and artistic community and is home to a remarkable population of 1,000 protected seagulls and just 20 residents. It’s well positioned along the renowned Queen’s hiking trail and offers snorkelling experiences in crystal-clear waters. Visitors will be immersed in the local culture by the meet-the-elders sessions and embrace the unspoilt landscape thanks to Nyksund’s strict ‘no further’ development policy.
Priced from £1451 per person, excluding flights, available from May to September which includes B&B accommodation, car rental and a whale-watching trip from Andenes.
The Best of Finnish Lakeland, Finland
This is one of two new self drive trips. Over 15 nights it explores the highlights of the tranquil Finnish Lakeland combining nature with cultural immersion.
From Helsinki the route explores the quaint towns of Porvoo and Lappeenranta as well as the medieval castle of Olavinlinna in Savonlinna. Holiday like a true Finn by taking refreshing dips in pristine lakes along the way, hiking in the striking national parks like of Koli and Päijänne, and taking part in activities including forest bathing.
From rowing to fishing, this route enables visitors to take the slow road and enjoy the abundance of water activities on some of Scandinavia’s most enchanting lakes and enjoy Finnish traditions such as sauna and foraging. For those visiting in July or early August, don’t miss the renowned opera festival held within the Olavinlinna castle walls, a tradition spanning over a century, the Glyndebourne of Finland.
Priced from £1915pp excluding flights, bookable from May to September and includes B&B accommodation and car rental.
Or an alternative 14 night itinerary explores a broader area and balances visits to the lakeland cities and national parks.
Family Adventure at Hamn i Senja – a wild Midnight Sun adventure
The operator is extending their offering to Senja Island located south-west of Tromsø, the second largest island in Norway with a new 5 night family adventure ‘under the midnight sun’.
Families can enjoy kayaking, hiking and cycling as well as a boat trip in search of sea eagles and the chance to take an Arctic dip and a enjoy a hot tub. The dramatic vistas, towering peaks and pristine white sand beaches will be a highlight of this action-packed trip based at Hamn i Senja, a hotel located on the west coast of the island, as well as an overnight in Tromsø offering a cultural interlude. The trip is priced from £1035 per adult and £789 per child based on 2 adults and 2 children sharing a family room in Tromsø and a two bedroom apartment in Senja, including breakfast and some activities as well as rental of an intermediate vehicle.
Other trips include :
New Northern Norway Island Explorer combining the Lofoten archipelago and Senja Island.
Finland House Boat Adventure exploring the central Finnish Lakeland region by houseboat.
Each trip is a suggested itinerary and can be tailor-made to suit the individual.
For more information on Discover the World, please see www.discover-the-world.com or call 01737 428 307
