Wonders of the Sun
An exclusive 12 day, escorted, full board holiday to Svalbard, the Norwegian Fjords and the Swedish mountains under the midnight sun and northern lights.
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An exclusive 12 day, escorted, full board holiday to Svalbard, the Norwegian Fjords and the Swedish mountains under the midnight sun and northern lights.
An exclusive 12 day full board adventure ticking off so many items on your bucket list - we can guarantee a few, but others are in the hands of Mother Nature. Guaranteed is a visit to Svalbard, experiencing the midnight sun and cruising the Norwegian fjords. Mother Nature will tell us if we are to see the northern lights, polar bears or whales.
The main aim of this holiday is to see the midnight sun and northern lights in one memorable trip, but we have also filled it with local culture, ancient and recent history, scenic activities, interesting excursions and plenty of opportunities to see the northern lights. The conditions are perfect; the northern lights are still at their cyclical activity peak and the new moon on 1st September means any northern lights activity will be visible in the night sky. This is an unrepeatable adventure for years to come.
Svalbard
Way up north between the Greenland Sea and the Barents Sea is an incredible archipelago where the midnight sun shines from 19th April to 24th August. We will land on Svalbard under the midnight sun on 22nd August. Local legislation does not allow for 'polar bear' based activities, but there is a chance of seeing polar bears on any of the activities. We have packed Svalbard with activities as venturing outside the settlement and experiencing all Svalbard has to offer is not possible without a professional guide.
Tromsø
Tromsø is the capital of Northern Norway and an island city. Our hotel in Tromsø is on the quay side and our local activities include a cultural tour with the indigenous Sami where we will learn about reindeer herding and life the history of the Sami. We will listen to their stories about the degradation by the Norwegian and Swedish governments as we enjoy a wilderness meal around an open fire. You will also have time at leisure to explore this arctic city at your own pace.
Hurtigruten Coastal Cruise
Relax on board as we cruise gently across the Arctic Circle between Tromsø and Trondheim. This will be our first opportunity to see the northern lights from the stern of the ship. We will weave between the dramatic Vesterålen and Lofoten Archipelagos before crossing to the main land with options for shore excursions along the way.
The Swedish Mountains (Åre & Jämtland)
Take a cultural journey to central Sweden crossing the Scandes mountain range from Norway to Sweden. We have given careful consideration to Åre as the best place to see the northern lights at this time of year. We first saw the northern lights in Åre on 15th August 2015; light pollution is easily avoided; it will be sufficiently dark in the night sky to see the northern lights; there are plenty of authentic local activities and excursions to keep us occupied and teach us about Scandinavian life.
This once in a lifetime holiday draws to an end at Tännforsen, Sweden’s largest waterfall, where we will enjoy a 3 course mouth-watering meal in the cosy restaurant with an open log fire crackling away in the corner. Tännforsen is also a spectacular location from which to see the northern lights (see the gallery).
Monday 22 August
Fly from Heathrow to Svalbard (via Oslo).
1730-2040 Heathrow - Oslo.
2135-0030 Oslo to Svalbard.
Land under the midnight sun.
Transfer from the airport to your hotel (10mins).
Check in and sleep well!
Tuesday 23 August
0730 Breakfast.
0830 Boat trip to Pyramiden.
Lunch is served on board.
1930 Return to Longyearbyen.
2000 Evening meal at your hotel.
Wednesday 24 August
0830 Breakfast.
0930 Life of a miner.
1300 Lunch.
1430 Guided tour of Svalbard Museum.
1900 Wilderness meal served at Camp Barentz.
2200 Midnight sun hike.
0100 Return to the hotel.
Thursday 25 August
0800 Breakfast.
0900 Isford RIB tour (optional excursion).
1230 Lunch.
1330 Transfer to the airport (10mins).
1445 Take off for Tromsø.
1620 Land in Tromsø.
Transfer to your hotel in Tromsø.
Evening buffet at the hotel.
Evening at leisure.
Friday 26 August
0800 Breakfast.
1000 Guided tour of the Polar Museum on Tromsø.
1230 Lunch.
1800 Wilderness evening with the indigenous Sami.
Wilderness evening meal provided.
2345 Board the Hurtigruten Coastal Steamer - M/S Finnmarken.
Check in to your unspecified outside cabin on board.
Our first chance to see the northern lights - northern lights alarm.
Saturday 27 August
Breakfast, lunch and evening meal all served on board.
Relax as you glide through the Vesterålen (spelling) and Lofoten Archipelagos.
A Taste of Vesterålen (optional excursion).
Sea Eagle Safari (optional excursion).
Chances to see the northern lights from the stern of the ship - northern lights alarm.
Sunday 28 August
Breakfast, lunch and evening meal all served on board.
UNESCO world heritage Vega Islands (optional excursion).
Chances to see the northern lights from the stern of the ship - northern lights alarm.
Monday 29 August
0600 Arrival in Trondheim.
Stay on board and in your cabin.
0730 Relaxing breakfast.
0900 Transfer to Åre (2hr45).
1200 Check-in to your hotel.
1230 Lunch.
Afternoon visit to Åre Brewery - the local brewery.
1800 Evening BBQ by the lake in Åre.
Floating sauna also available.
Northern lights alarm.
Tuesday 30 August
0800 Breakfast.
1000 Guided history walk through Åre (1hr30).
1230 Lunch.
Afternoon at leisure.
1800 Evening meal.
2200 Northern lights chase.
Wednesday 31 August
0900 Breakfast.
1000 Visit Åre Chocolate Factory
Lunch.
Evening meal in the wilderness with bush craft skills.
Northern lights possible from this wilderness location.
Thursday 1 September
0900 Breakfast.
1030 5-6km (3-4 miles) hike in the mountains around Åre.
Includes a wilderness lunch with locally produced products.
Afternoon at leisure.
1800 Farewell evening meal at Tännforsen - Sweden's largest waterfall.
See the gallery - hopefully northern lights.
Late evening return to Åre.
Friday 2 September
0800 Relaxing breakfast.
1000 Transfer to Östersund Airport (approx. 1hr30).
1245 Flight to London (via Stockholm)
1700 Land at Heathrow.
Itinerary is subject to minor changes.
Located on the square in Åre village, close to the famous Bergbana (old funicular) with shops and resturants on the door step, this historic hotel has just 57 rooms and dates from 1895. Tourism to Åre started in 1892 when the railway line to Trondheim was opened. Today it is a modern hotel with a historic story to tell.
Explore the Scandes (mountain range between Norway and Sweden) during the summer and ski almost to the doorstep in the winter.
Please click on the image for more photos.
Clarion Collection Hotel With is located on the quayside in the centre of Tromso and just 70m from the airport transfer bus.As a Clarion Collection Hotel, afternoon waffles and a simple evening buffet is included during your stay. One of the most popular hotels in Tromso. To guarantee a harbour view room please upgrade to a superior room.
Click on the image for more photos.
A fleet of 11 ships cruise the beautiful Norwegian fjords taking you through breathtaking scenery and giving you the opportunity to see natural phenomena, such as the midnight sun and the Northern Lights from Bergen in the south to Kirkenes in the far north.
The journey is quite spectacular and you won't spend much time in your cabin. You must be on deck or in the panoramic lounges to witness this jaw-dropping scenery. Click on the photo to the left to see the typical cabins on board.
You are generally accommodated in an unspecified outside cabin. Some limited upgrades may be available.
In Scandinavia, and especially on Svalbard, it is customary to remove your shoes when you enter someone’s house or a hotel. It creates a warm welcoming atmosphere.
Raddison Blu Polar Hotel is located in the centre of this small town and has 95 comfortable ensuite rooms and suites. This is a place to relax and escape the extremities of the Arctic elements. It may be close to the North Pole but high speed WiFi is available throughout the hotel and a comprehensive breakfast buffet is served each morning.
The in-house restaurant Nansen serves internationally inspired meals in front of an open fire and the Barentz bar serves beer from the world’s northern most brewery, Svalbard Bryggeri.
Click on the image for more photos.
Included in your holiday
Boat Trip to Pyramiden - Svalbard
0830 - Tuesday 23rd August
A day long scenic boat tour of the Svalbard Archipelago. Lunch is served on board. A myriad of wildlife throughout the day with the possibility of bird watching, polar bears, whales and reindeer.
Pyramiden is an abandoned Russian town where polar bears roam the streets and the northern most statue of Lenin still stands proud; there is a chance to go ashore and explore. The sapphire blue glacier at Billefjorden is an imposing sight and a photographers dream. 11 hours.
Life of a Miner - Svalbard
0930 - Wednesday 24th August
Coal on Svalbard is of the highest quality and is arguably the only natural resource on the archipelago and after whaling is the main reason Longyearbyen exists. Head to Mine 3, don miners clothing and become a miner for a short time. 3 hours.
Svalbard Museum Guided Tour - Svalbard
1430 - Wednesday 24th August
Learn about the culture & history of Svalbard including whaling, hunting, mining and present day tourism. Other important Svalbard issues include the Svalbard Treaty, WWII and the Russian town of Barentsberg. A real insight into the history and modern day life of Svalbard. The tour lasts about 1hr.
Camp Barentz Wilderness Evening - Svalbard
1900 - Wednesday 24th August
Travel to Camp Barentz for a wilderness evening at the end of the Advent Valley. A warm meal is served around an open fire and there will be a polar bear presentation highlighting the strict rules regarding polar bears on Svalbard and their fight with global warming. 3hrs.
Midnight Sun Hike - Svalbard
2200 - Wednesday 24th August
Direct from Camp Barentz we head out on our midnight sun hike and a peak between two glaciers! After crossing the river and heading through the moraine above Nybyen, we skirt the Lars Glacier and climb to Sarkofagen. The final part before reaching the cairn is flat, and we will enjoy the fantastic views. Approx. 4hrs.
Polar Museum Guided Tour - Tromsø
1000 - Friday 26th August
Right in the centre of Tromsø, on the old wharf is the Polar Museum. Learn about the history of this northern city and the local culture. Learn about life in the arctic before Norway discovered the riches of oil. Guided tour is approx. 1hr.
Sami Cultural Evening - Tromsø
1800 - Friday 26th August
The Sami are the indigenous people of northern Norway and Lapland. This excursion takes you to a traditional Sami camp where a traditional Sami meal is served around an open fire. Try lasso throwing, listen to their fascinating stories and joik (traditional Sami song). 3hrs.
Visit to Åre Brewery - Åre
PM - Monday 29th August
A group of friends from Stockholm started by making craft beer at home. They quickly realised it was extremely popular amongst friends and moved to the mountains for a change of lifestyle and to set up a brewery. Their first commercially produced beer was brewed in 2013 and the brand has quickly become famous around Scandinavia. You will find their selection in your hotel in Åre.
Guided History Walk - Åre
AM - Tuesday 30th August
The origins of Åre can be traced back over 1000 years with the indigenous and traditionally nomadic Sami. 'Clean air' tourists came in the late 1800's when the train line to Trondheim was completed and the original funicular in the centre of Åre, which still stands today, was built in 1910. Our guide will show us the sights and retell the rich history.
Northern Lights Chase - Åre
Evening - Tuesday 30th August
To increase our chances of seeing the northern lights a northern lights chase gives us the freedom to head off in any direction to look for clear skies and fingers crossed for some magical dancing colours in the night sky. If we need higher ground we are in the Swedish mountains and Norway is not far away!
Visit to Åre Chocolate Factory - Åre
AM - Wednesday 31st August
Hand-made gourmet chocolate since 1991 featuring locally handpicked berries such as lingonberry, cloudberry and bilberry. We will have a taste of some of this rich chocolate along with coffee. You will have the option to buy to take home for family and friends.
Wilderness Bushcraft Skills - Åre
Evening - Wednesday 31st August
Free from artificial light and a great location from which to see the northern lights and learn about life without running water and electricity in the mountains. Our hosts are Claire and Richard who recently appeared in Channel 4's Escape to the Wild with Kevin McCloud, and they will teach us the basic skills needed to survive in the wilderness.
5-6km Hike in the Mountains - Åre
AM - Thursday 1st September
Head into the mountains surrounding Åre for a hike with views across the village and wider valley. Lunch is locally sourced produce served around an open fire.
Visit Tännforsen - Åre
Evening - Thursday 1st September
A farewell evening meal is served in this historic and cosy restaurant close to Sweden's largest waterfall. Exclusive to our group you will be served a mouth-watering 3 course meal with a focus on locally produced food. With any luck the northern lights will dance brightly over the top of the waterfall.
Optional Excursions
Isfjord RIB Safari - Svalbard
AM - Thursday 25th August
Explore Isfjord and Adventfjord from a sturdy RIB. The route and itinerary is dependent upon local weather conditions, with a view of the abandoned Russian town of Grumant and the famous bird cliffs possible destinations. 2hr30. £75 per person.
A Taste of Vesterålen - Hurtigruten Fjords Cruise
AM - Saturday 27th August
A coach tour travelling along the scenic roads between Harstad and Sortland. Visit the ancient Trondenes Church, cross Hinnøya Island and Gullesfjord. Hot drinks and cakes served on the Gullesfjord ferry. 4hr15. £80 per person.
Sea Eagle Safari - Hurtigruten Fjords Cruise
PM - Saturday 27th August
Visit the steep walls of Trollfjord with sea eagles soaring overhead with their 2.5 metre wingspan. 2hrs. £102 per person.
Vega Islands (UNESCO World Heritage Site) - Hurtigruten Fjords Cruise
AM - Sunday 28th August
Visit the UNESCO listed Vega Islands on the Helgeland Coast between Sandnessjøen and Brønnøysund. Learn about the eider ducks and the traditions related to these famous birds and luxury feather duvets and pillows. 4hrs. £159 per person.
22nd August 2016 for 11 nights
Price is £3990 per person
With space for just 16 guests don't delay. Book now - Wonders of the Sun booking form - click here!
Supplements
£495 single occupancy
Includes
Simply Sweden guide
Flights as per the itinerary
Local airport transfers
3 nights on Svalbard
1 night in Tromsø
3 nights on board the Hurtigruten Coastal Steamer in an unspecified outside cabin.
4 nights in Åre, Jämtland
11 x breakfasts
10 x lunches
10 x evening meals
Activities as detailed in the itinerary
Please note drinks are not included with meals.
With space for just 16 guests don't delay. Book now - Wonders of the Sun booking form - click here!
Nature
Polar bears are not the only animals on Svalbard! You will also find reindeer and a myriad of bird and marine wildlife. It is not unusual to see whales and seals during your stay on Svalbard, and boat safaris around Isfjord offer some wonderful wildlife experiences. There are 7 national parks, 15 bird sanctuaries and 6 nature reserves; all allow these animals to thrive in the Arctic.
An exclusive 12 day full board adventure ticking off so many items on your bucket list - we can guarantee a few, but others are in the hands of Mother Nature. Guaranteed is a visit to Svalbard, experiencing the midnight sun and cruising the Norwegian fjords. Mother Nature will tell us if we are to see the northern lights, polar bears or whales.
The main aim of this holiday is to see the midnight sun and northern lights in one memorable trip, but we have also filled it with local culture, ancient and recent history, scenic activities, interesting excursions and plenty of opportunities to see the northern lights. The conditions are perfect; the northern lights are still at their cyclical activity peak and the new moon on 1st September means any northern lights activity will be visible in the night sky. This is an unrepeatable adventure for years to come.
Svalbard
Way up north between the Greenland Sea and the Barents Sea is an incredible archipelago where the midnight sun shines from 19th April to 24th August. We will land on Svalbard under the midnight sun on 22nd August. Local legislation does not allow for 'polar bear' based activities, but there is a chance of seeing polar bears on any of the activities. We have packed Svalbard with activities as venturing outside the settlement and experiencing all Svalbard has to offer is not possible without a professional guide.
Tromsø
Tromsø is the capital of Northern Norway and an island city. Our hotel in Tromsø is on the quay side and our local activities include a cultural tour with the indigenous Sami where we will learn about reindeer herding and life the history of the Sami. We will listen to their stories about the degradation by the Norwegian and Swedish governments as we enjoy a wilderness meal around an open fire. You will also have time at leisure to explore this arctic city at your own pace.
Hurtigruten Coastal Cruise
Relax on board as we cruise gently across the Arctic Circle between Tromsø and Trondheim. This will be our first opportunity to see the northern lights from the stern of the ship. We will weave between the dramatic Vesterålen and Lofoten Archipelagos before crossing to the main land with options for shore excursions along the way.
The Swedish Mountains (Åre & Jämtland)
Take a cultural journey to central Sweden crossing the Scandes mountain range from Norway to Sweden. We have given careful consideration to Åre as the best place to see the northern lights at this time of year. We first saw the northern lights in Åre on 15th August 2015; light pollution is easily avoided; it will be sufficiently dark in the night sky to see the northern lights; there are plenty of authentic local activities and excursions to keep us occupied and teach us about Scandinavian life.
This once in a lifetime holiday draws to an end at Tännforsen, Sweden’s largest waterfall, where we will enjoy a 3 course mouth-watering meal in the cosy restaurant with an open log fire crackling away in the corner. Tännforsen is also a spectacular location from which to see the northern lights (see the gallery).
Monday 22 August
Fly from Heathrow to Svalbard (via Oslo).
1730-2040 Heathrow - Oslo.
2135-0030 Oslo to Svalbard.
Land under the midnight sun.
Transfer from the airport to your hotel (10mins).
Check in and sleep well!
Tuesday 23 August
0730 Breakfast.
0830 Boat trip to Pyramiden.
Lunch is served on board.
1930 Return to Longyearbyen.
2000 Evening meal at your hotel.
Wednesday 24 August
0830 Breakfast.
0930 Life of a miner.
1300 Lunch.
1430 Guided tour of Svalbard Museum.
1900 Wilderness meal served at Camp Barentz.
2200 Midnight sun hike.
0100 Return to the hotel.
Thursday 25 August
0800 Breakfast.
0900 Isford RIB tour (optional excursion).
1230 Lunch.
1330 Transfer to the airport (10mins).
1445 Take off for Tromsø.
1620 Land in Tromsø.
Transfer to your hotel in Tromsø.
Evening buffet at the hotel.
Evening at leisure.
Friday 26 August
0800 Breakfast.
1000 Guided tour of the Polar Museum on Tromsø.
1230 Lunch.
1800 Wilderness evening with the indigenous Sami.
Wilderness evening meal provided.
2345 Board the Hurtigruten Coastal Steamer - M/S Finnmarken.
Check in to your unspecified outside cabin on board.
Our first chance to see the northern lights - northern lights alarm.
Saturday 27 August
Breakfast, lunch and evening meal all served on board.
Relax as you glide through the Vesterålen (spelling) and Lofoten Archipelagos.
A Taste of Vesterålen (optional excursion).
Sea Eagle Safari (optional excursion).
Chances to see the northern lights from the stern of the ship - northern lights alarm.
Sunday 28 August
Breakfast, lunch and evening meal all served on board.
UNESCO world heritage Vega Islands (optional excursion).
Chances to see the northern lights from the stern of the ship - northern lights alarm.
Monday 29 August
0600 Arrival in Trondheim.
Stay on board and in your cabin.
0730 Relaxing breakfast.
0900 Transfer to Åre (2hr45).
1200 Check-in to your hotel.
1230 Lunch.
Afternoon visit to Åre Brewery - the local brewery.
1800 Evening BBQ by the lake in Åre.
Floating sauna also available.
Northern lights alarm.
Tuesday 30 August
0800 Breakfast.
1000 Guided history walk through Åre (1hr30).
1230 Lunch.
Afternoon at leisure.
1800 Evening meal.
2200 Northern lights chase.
Wednesday 31 August
0900 Breakfast.
1000 Visit Åre Chocolate Factory
Lunch.
Evening meal in the wilderness with bush craft skills.
Northern lights possible from this wilderness location.
Thursday 1 September
0900 Breakfast.
1030 5-6km (3-4 miles) hike in the mountains around Åre.
Includes a wilderness lunch with locally produced products.
Afternoon at leisure.
1800 Farewell evening meal at Tännforsen - Sweden's largest waterfall.
See the gallery - hopefully northern lights.
Late evening return to Åre.
Friday 2 September
0800 Relaxing breakfast.
1000 Transfer to Östersund Airport (approx. 1hr30).
1245 Flight to London (via Stockholm)
1700 Land at Heathrow.
Itinerary is subject to minor changes.
Located on the square in Åre village, close to the famous Bergbana (old funicular) with shops and resturants on the door step, this historic hotel has just 57 rooms and dates from 1895. Tourism to Åre started in 1892 when the railway line to Trondheim was opened. Today it is a modern hotel with a historic story to tell.
Explore the Scandes (mountain range between Norway and Sweden) during the summer and ski almost to the doorstep in the winter.
Please click on the image for more photos.
Clarion Collection Hotel With is located on the quayside in the centre of Tromso and just 70m from the airport transfer bus.As a Clarion Collection Hotel, afternoon waffles and a simple evening buffet is included during your stay. One of the most popular hotels in Tromso. To guarantee a harbour view room please upgrade to a superior room.
Click on the image for more photos.
A fleet of 11 ships cruise the beautiful Norwegian fjords taking you through breathtaking scenery and giving you the opportunity to see natural phenomena, such as the midnight sun and the Northern Lights from Bergen in the south to Kirkenes in the far north.
The journey is quite spectacular and you won't spend much time in your cabin. You must be on deck or in the panoramic lounges to witness this jaw-dropping scenery. Click on the photo to the left to see the typical cabins on board.
You are generally accommodated in an unspecified outside cabin. Some limited upgrades may be available.
In Scandinavia, and especially on Svalbard, it is customary to remove your shoes when you enter someone’s house or a hotel. It creates a warm welcoming atmosphere.
Raddison Blu Polar Hotel is located in the centre of this small town and has 95 comfortable ensuite rooms and suites. This is a place to relax and escape the extremities of the Arctic elements. It may be close to the North Pole but high speed WiFi is available throughout the hotel and a comprehensive breakfast buffet is served each morning.
The in-house restaurant Nansen serves internationally inspired meals in front of an open fire and the Barentz bar serves beer from the world’s northern most brewery, Svalbard Bryggeri.
Click on the image for more photos.
Included in your holiday
Boat Trip to Pyramiden - Svalbard
0830 - Tuesday 23rd August
A day long scenic boat tour of the Svalbard Archipelago. Lunch is served on board. A myriad of wildlife throughout the day with the possibility of bird watching, polar bears, whales and reindeer.
Pyramiden is an abandoned Russian town where polar bears roam the streets and the northern most statue of Lenin still stands proud; there is a chance to go ashore and explore. The sapphire blue glacier at Billefjorden is an imposing sight and a photographers dream. 11 hours.
Life of a Miner - Svalbard
0930 - Wednesday 24th August
Coal on Svalbard is of the highest quality and is arguably the only natural resource on the archipelago and after whaling is the main reason Longyearbyen exists. Head to Mine 3, don miners clothing and become a miner for a short time. 3 hours.
Svalbard Museum Guided Tour - Svalbard
1430 - Wednesday 24th August
Learn about the culture & history of Svalbard including whaling, hunting, mining and present day tourism. Other important Svalbard issues include the Svalbard Treaty, WWII and the Russian town of Barentsberg. A real insight into the history and modern day life of Svalbard. The tour lasts about 1hr.
Camp Barentz Wilderness Evening - Svalbard
1900 - Wednesday 24th August
Travel to Camp Barentz for a wilderness evening at the end of the Advent Valley. A warm meal is served around an open fire and there will be a polar bear presentation highlighting the strict rules regarding polar bears on Svalbard and their fight with global warming. 3hrs.
Midnight Sun Hike - Svalbard
2200 - Wednesday 24th August
Direct from Camp Barentz we head out on our midnight sun hike and a peak between two glaciers! After crossing the river and heading through the moraine above Nybyen, we skirt the Lars Glacier and climb to Sarkofagen. The final part before reaching the cairn is flat, and we will enjoy the fantastic views. Approx. 4hrs.
Polar Museum Guided Tour - Tromsø
1000 - Friday 26th August
Right in the centre of Tromsø, on the old wharf is the Polar Museum. Learn about the history of this northern city and the local culture. Learn about life in the arctic before Norway discovered the riches of oil. Guided tour is approx. 1hr.
Sami Cultural Evening - Tromsø
1800 - Friday 26th August
The Sami are the indigenous people of northern Norway and Lapland. This excursion takes you to a traditional Sami camp where a traditional Sami meal is served around an open fire. Try lasso throwing, listen to their fascinating stories and joik (traditional Sami song). 3hrs.
Visit to Åre Brewery - Åre
PM - Monday 29th August
A group of friends from Stockholm started by making craft beer at home. They quickly realised it was extremely popular amongst friends and moved to the mountains for a change of lifestyle and to set up a brewery. Their first commercially produced beer was brewed in 2013 and the brand has quickly become famous around Scandinavia. You will find their selection in your hotel in Åre.
Guided History Walk - Åre
AM - Tuesday 30th August
The origins of Åre can be traced back over 1000 years with the indigenous and traditionally nomadic Sami. 'Clean air' tourists came in the late 1800's when the train line to Trondheim was completed and the original funicular in the centre of Åre, which still stands today, was built in 1910. Our guide will show us the sights and retell the rich history.
Northern Lights Chase - Åre
Evening - Tuesday 30th August
To increase our chances of seeing the northern lights a northern lights chase gives us the freedom to head off in any direction to look for clear skies and fingers crossed for some magical dancing colours in the night sky. If we need higher ground we are in the Swedish mountains and Norway is not far away!
Visit to Åre Chocolate Factory - Åre
AM - Wednesday 31st August
Hand-made gourmet chocolate since 1991 featuring locally handpicked berries such as lingonberry, cloudberry and bilberry. We will have a taste of some of this rich chocolate along with coffee. You will have the option to buy to take home for family and friends.
Wilderness Bushcraft Skills - Åre
Evening - Wednesday 31st August
Free from artificial light and a great location from which to see the northern lights and learn about life without running water and electricity in the mountains. Our hosts are Claire and Richard who recently appeared in Channel 4's Escape to the Wild with Kevin McCloud, and they will teach us the basic skills needed to survive in the wilderness.
5-6km Hike in the Mountains - Åre
AM - Thursday 1st September
Head into the mountains surrounding Åre for a hike with views across the village and wider valley. Lunch is locally sourced produce served around an open fire.
Visit Tännforsen - Åre
Evening - Thursday 1st September
A farewell evening meal is served in this historic and cosy restaurant close to Sweden's largest waterfall. Exclusive to our group you will be served a mouth-watering 3 course meal with a focus on locally produced food. With any luck the northern lights will dance brightly over the top of the waterfall.
Optional Excursions
Isfjord RIB Safari - Svalbard
AM - Thursday 25th August
Explore Isfjord and Adventfjord from a sturdy RIB. The route and itinerary is dependent upon local weather conditions, with a view of the abandoned Russian town of Grumant and the famous bird cliffs possible destinations. 2hr30. £75 per person.
A Taste of Vesterålen - Hurtigruten Fjords Cruise
AM - Saturday 27th August
A coach tour travelling along the scenic roads between Harstad and Sortland. Visit the ancient Trondenes Church, cross Hinnøya Island and Gullesfjord. Hot drinks and cakes served on the Gullesfjord ferry. 4hr15. £80 per person.
Sea Eagle Safari - Hurtigruten Fjords Cruise
PM - Saturday 27th August
Visit the steep walls of Trollfjord with sea eagles soaring overhead with their 2.5 metre wingspan. 2hrs. £102 per person.
Vega Islands (UNESCO World Heritage Site) - Hurtigruten Fjords Cruise
AM - Sunday 28th August
Visit the UNESCO listed Vega Islands on the Helgeland Coast between Sandnessjøen and Brønnøysund. Learn about the eider ducks and the traditions related to these famous birds and luxury feather duvets and pillows. 4hrs. £159 per person.
22nd August 2016 for 11 nights
Price is £3990 per person
With space for just 16 guests don't delay. Book now - Wonders of the Sun booking form - click here!
Supplements
£495 single occupancy
Includes
Simply Sweden guide
Flights as per the itinerary
Local airport transfers
3 nights on Svalbard
1 night in Tromsø
3 nights on board the Hurtigruten Coastal Steamer in an unspecified outside cabin.
4 nights in Åre, Jämtland
11 x breakfasts
10 x lunches
10 x evening meals
Activities as detailed in the itinerary
Please note drinks are not included with meals.
With space for just 16 guests don't delay. Book now - Wonders of the Sun booking form - click here!
Nature
Polar bears are not the only animals on Svalbard! You will also find reindeer and a myriad of bird and marine wildlife. It is not unusual to see whales and seals during your stay on Svalbard, and boat safaris around Isfjord offer some wonderful wildlife experiences. There are 7 national parks, 15 bird sanctuaries and 6 nature reserves; all allow these animals to thrive in the Arctic.
