Ffestiniog Travel

Saturday 18 February to Monday 27 February 2012

A captivating tour of an ancient and enigmatic land where the wonders of nature and breath-taking scenery mirror centuries of culture and tradition.

Day 1   London to Oslo

A morning flight from London to Oslo arriving in time for an afternoon at leisure in this beautiful cultural city. Your central hotel provides an excellent base to explore the city’s many museums and historical sites.

Day 2   Heading North to Trondheim

Departing early we take the first of many scenic rail journeys through the Gudbrandsdal valley, crossing the stunning Dovrefjell mountain plateau and National Park to Trondheim. A free afternoon and evening allows you plenty of time to explore this picturesque and welcoming city. The main building in this historic town is the magnificent Nidaros Cathedral.

Day 3   Across the Arctic Circle

As our journey by rail continues north, the scenery changes from breathtaking fjords to wondrous mountain passes - the photographic opportunities appear limitless from the comfort of the train. We experience the wonder of crossing the Arctic Circle late afternoon (the summit of the line) then drop down to the end of the line at the coastal port of Bodø.

Day 4   Ferry to the Lofoten Islands

After a morning at leisure we set sail on a truly remarkable journey to Svolvær, capital of the Lofoten Islands, arriving at the lively harbour town early evening. This evening we take a late night guided walk to ‘Linken’, a view point above Svolvær to witness the most awe inspiring natural phenomenon the ‘Aurora Borealis’ – the Northern Lights as the sky lights up with electric blues, greens, reds and purples.

Day 5   Discover Lofoten and Henningsvær

The Lofoten islands provide many enchanting, fascinating and unique places to visit. Today we take a full day coach excursion to enjoy the beauty of the islands. Lunch is held at the Lofotr Viking Museum, an amazing insight into life during the Viking era with reconstructions of their lifestyle placed ingeniously alongside original archaeological artefacts. After lunch we continue to the charming coastal fishing port, Henningsvær, referred to as the Venice of the North, where magical waterways criss - cross the town. Dinner is taken prior to boarding our comfortable ferry for an overnight sailing to Tromsø. Overnight from the water, we once again have a chance to view the magnificent Northern Lights.

Day 6   Tromsø

Tromsø, surrounded by fjords and forests is our next fascinating insight into Norwegian culture and home for the next two nights.

Day 7   Day at leisure

With so much to do and see, today has been left free for relaxation. This exciting University City is home to many absorbing museums, such as the Polar Museum. An optional evening excursion is available by cable car to Mount Storsteinen (421m), offering fantastic views whilst enjoying a sumptuous dinner in the mountain top restaurant.

Day 8   By road to Narvik

This morning our tour continues by road to Narvik, giving you an opportunity to marvel at the unfolding scenery. An absorbing destination, Narvik has a vital role as the terminus of the iron ore rail route from Sweden. A visit to the port of Narvik to watch this enormous industrial machine at work is a unique and enthralling experience. You may also want to visit the War Museum for an insight into the inspirational and heroic actions of the Nordic people.

Day 9   Train to Kiruna

After a leisurely breakfast we depart by train for Kiruna. The Ofoten Railway runs between the port of Narvik and the iron ore mining town of Kiruna, a stupendous journey winding its way through vivid and scenic landscapes. We spend our last night in Sweden in Kiruna so it is fitting that our final afternoon excursion is to the famous Jukkajarvi Ice Hotel. Here we can enjoy an iced cocktail in the amazing sculptured bar made entirely of ice each year.

Day 10   Return to London

Morning at leisure before transferring to the airport for our flight home via Stockholm.

NB. The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon and therefore sightings cannot be guaranteed. We will be in the best place at the best time and 2012 is forecast to be a great season as the natural cycle is at optimum that year.