A Journey Through Norway’s Fjords & Lofoten Majesty

Rejoice in one of the happiest and most vibrant capital cities in the world. Relax like a local alongside joyful Danes and varied culture; the Gefion Fountain, the Little Mermaid statue, Old Citadel, the Amalien Palace with four Rococo buildings, medieval history, charming fishing villages, leading examples of sustainable living and – of course – flaky Danish pastries. Cycling is the preferred way to shuttle across town and it’s well worth the pedal to enjoy the trendy, cosy neighbourhood of Norrebro, Christiansborg Palace and the waterfront home of Christian Andersen. Genuine, vibrant and welcoming… rather like the smiles of those that live here.

Nature will look after you in northern-most Skagen. Celebrated by artists tempted by the reputation as Denmark’s most beautiful place and its enchanting light, local communities and nature blend to provide alluring combinations of white beaches, yellow houses and red fishermans’ huts to eat in. Amble through the relaxed atmosphere to see a WWII German bunker, Renaissance era Voergaard Manor, a marooned church and historical museums which house legendary paintings. With nature taking centre stage again, watch unique migratory birds overhead as you stand in Grenen, where the Baltic and North Sea meet. Slowly savour the magical light that plays over Skagen – the only place where you can stand in two seas at once.

Nestled at the end of a fantasy fjord (one of two in Norway singled out for UNESCO status), Geiranger is a flawless illustration of a small coastal Nordic village. Soak it all in as you stand in the rainbow-mist of the Seven Sisters waterfalls then catch your breath as you walk on air at Geiranger Skywalk for the best views of Geirangerfjord. Hike stone steps to find yourself standing behind a stunning plummet of melted snow; e-bike up mountain ridges and into lush farms; delve into vivid blue waters by fast boat or slow kayak; wherever you weave, you will find inner peace and preservation in this deeply sacred site of Mother Nature’s fertile grounds and snow-capped mountains.

An aromatic scent will capture your senses in this city of roses. Perched on the edge of a fjord, extensive views of a stunning 222 snow-clad mountains further heightens Molde’s appeal. Absorb the sounds of jazz as you ramble amongst rose gardens discovering art, folk museums, nature paths and cycle trails. Take the high ‘Atlantic’ Road or drop deep underground into caves to reach the marble clad Troll Church. And as you enjoy freshly caught seafood in the crisp coastal air, you’ll understand the influence of Molde’s heady scent.

Inspiring adventures await within seafood-rich fjords and fertile mountain ranges. Once the Viking capital, Trondheim continues to reign with its vibrant, academic city life. Discover the stylish Bakklandet, vast Nidaros Cathedral, the Gamle Bybro bridge and the river Nidelva where rainbow-coloured huts align. Venture through an abundance of wildlife and forests, gently sail, fish or seek a thrilling RIB adventure. Head for the skies; take the world’s northernmost tram to marvel at champion ski jumps, then return back to earth with a private organ concert. Sip spirited Norwegian aquavit at an elegant tasting as you connect with Trondheim’s fusion of history, adventure and innovation, surrounded by beautifully rich nature.

Visit a pretty little town where even the ducks have homes built for them. Stroll through coastal street life taking in the bustling marina and a medieval church. Fly high to admire bobbing fishing boats and lighthouses in the shadow of rugged islands. Surprise at the bespoke duck houses and, when you sink into bed, be grateful for your own feathered nest.

Brindisi’s historic heart is rich in multi-layered monuments and finds from the days of Spartacus. Farther afield, the gleaming white villages of Ostuni or the slightly smaller and possibly even quainter, Cisternino. Head east to the Baroque Town of Lecce or west to witness the traditional conical huts (trulli) in and around World Heritage Site, Alberobello. Lecce, or ‘Florence of the South’, is rife with art, history and culture. If peace and quiet appeal, waft through rural Torre Guaceto’s nature reserve and empty beaches or take a jaunt on the Adriatic to Polignano’s sea caves. Puglia’s ‘little ear’ pasta and squid’s ink gnocchi are must-try delicacies, and with 60 million olive trees, they are rich in liquid gold. Brindisi serves up the best of Puglia.

Spread across several islands, you’ll soon understand why this is recognised as one of Norway’s most beautiful cities with its fjords, mountains, spectacular nature and undiscovered treasures. Paddle through the city centre by kayak, paddleboard or stroll to view art nouveau architecture, antiques, an open-air museum and Viking attractions. Head to nearby islands to discover precious Bronze age-old Giske artefacts or surf in world-renowned Godoy. Hike, fish, bird watch or simply take in the sights on a RIB adventure. End your uplifting experience with fresh-off-the-boat crab and crayfish or sample delectable, local, home-made fish soup.

Lovingly known as the ‘heart of the fjords’, this city nestled between seven mountains has plenty to live up to. Burrowed between the mighty Hardangerfjord and Sognefjord fjords – the biggest in Norway – the sensational beauty of Bergen is best appreciated from the top of the funicular, Fløibanen. Flightsee around the peak for a summit advantage to enjoy panoramic views of this city’s beauty. Hike to Fløyen or mountain bike to visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site at Bryggen, before winding down to the sound of calming piano recitals honouring Edvard Grieg Troldhaugen. Raft, crab, kayak or head to a local farm. With lungs full of fresh air and hearts full of love, sink into seafood heaven at the historic fish market to consume mouth-watering Bergen fish soup, fish cakes and customary persetorsk.

Rejoice in one of the happiest and most vibrant capital cities in the world. Relax like a local alongside joyful Danes and varied culture; the Gefion Fountain, the Little Mermaid statue, Old Citadel, the Amalien Palace with four Rococo buildings, medieval history, charming fishing villages, leading examples of sustainable living and – of course – flaky Danish pastries. Cycling is the preferred way to shuttle across town and it’s well worth the pedal to enjoy the trendy, cosy neighbourhood of Norrebro, Christiansborg Palace and the waterfront home of Christian Andersen. Genuine, vibrant and welcoming… rather like the smiles of those that live here.