Unmissable winter experiences in Scandinavia and the Nordics

The Nordics and Scandinavian countries are almost synonymous with peaceful winter landscapes; snow-covered forests, frozen lakes, glacier-strewn lagoons and clear, star-filled skies. When winter hits this high in the Northern Hemisphere, seasonal magic beckons at every corner. If you’re ready to head somewhere truly atmospheric this winter, we’ve explored some of the most enchanting winter experiences in Scandinavia and the Nordics…

Connect with the elements in Iceland

It’s one of the most elemental destinations on Earth, so it may come as no surprise that many travellers find the best winter experiences in Iceland; a land of glistening glaciers, rumbling volcanoes, thundering waterfalls and sprawling, snow-covered vistas. Though you may be wrapped in multiple layers, the cold conditions are offset with activities steeped in cosiness – a soak in milky-blue geothermal pools, overnight stays in glass-roofed igloos, catching glimpses of the northern lights, or visiting the twinkly Reykjavik Winter Lights Festival (held in February).

Of course, to get the most of Iceland you should take advantage of the raw natural wonders the country has in spades. The much-loved Golden Circle Route (consisting of primeval Thingvellir Park, Gullfoss Falls, and Geysir Geothermal Area) perfectly encapsulates Iceland’s iconic natural highlights. In addition, why not try ice-caving in the Vatnajökull National Park? Its Crystal Ice Cave is known for its crystalline shards of blue ice; while in the Katla Cave, found beneath the Mýrdalsjökull Glacier, incredible ice formations glisten under an active volcano.

For more breathtaking scenery, the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is the deepest lake in Iceland, scattered with glistening, floating icebergs that consistently shift and transform. As fish are abundant, frolicking seals can be spotted from tour boats for the perfect winter photography opportunity.

Chase the northern lights in Norway

So many dream of one day seeing the celestial green and purple glow of the aurora borealis, and Norway is the place for an excellent show. The country’s geography within the auroral oval (an area known for intense aurora activity) means you could catch the northern lights as a backdrop to the glorious city of Alta, the scenic Lofoten Islands, or the icy archipelago of Svalbard.

Many aurora-chasers head to Tromsø, known as the Gateway to the Arctic, and the locally guided northern lights tours here are incredibly well organised. Some groups go on foot, some are led with photography opportunities in mind, while others include a boat trip through the fjords to see the awe-inspiring light show from water. For those who’d rather watch from the comfort of bed than follow a tour, there’s always an overnight stay in a glass-roofed igloo.

Sauna culture and ice swimming in Finland

Finnish people are renowned for their love of a sauna, so why not combine the most exhilarating in hot and cold with a spot of sauna and ice swimming in Finland? Ice water immersion has seen a boost in popularity in recent years, and is known to have a host of health benefits. As well as improving the immune system, boosting sleep and providing stress relief, many report its mood-enhancing and addictive qualities.

And there’s nothing like a traditional Finnish sauna after such a shock to the system! The ritual of sauna is deeply embedded into the culture of Finland and goes back thousands of years. Traditionally, locals will sit naked in wooden huts as they fill up with steam. However, you can keep a towel or bathing suit on, if you’re more comfortable.

When on a winter trip to Finland, a sauna and ice plunge session could round off a day of snowshoe-hiking in the pristine forests of Levi or Vaattunki, or ice-fishing on the serene lakes of Kittilä. You’ll find plenty of winter joy to be had in this deeply seasonal country.

Active holidays in magical Lapland

Lapland is one of Finland’s biggest draws, as the mythical home of Santa and reindeer that borders the Arctic Circle. Undoubtedly, the experience of visiting Santa Claus is wonderful – the entire Santa Claus Village, located in Rovaniemi, is a festive haven for all ages and something your kids won’t forget.

Lapland isn’t only suited for elf-spotting, however, but offers an adventurous winter holiday in its own right. Sledding with huskies is a big one – gliding through the crisp, white forests, pulled by a team of energetic snow dogs is truly magical. Reindeer sleigh rides are similarly heartwarming. Learning about the local Sami culture is a must in Lapland; Sami reindeer herders have a long history of being semi-nomads in the Scandi countries.

The more adventurous traveller can take to the slopes with skiing, snowboarding and ice-climbing opportunities galore. To switch things down a notch, hiking or snowshoeing are more peaceful ways to absorb the crisp, peaceful landscapes of places such as the Ounasvaara area and the Pyhä-Luosto National Park.

Experience the Arctic in Greenland

Another jewel of the Arctic, Greenland is the world’s largest island, as breathtaking as it is remote. Best known for its towering glaciers and icebergs, it’s home to a wealth of natural bounty for visitors to behold. Snow-dusted mountains, misty fjords, jagged cliff edges, clear Arctic skies bedecked with stars… all of this lies ahead for those who embark on a wintry getaway here.

Greenland’s most visually awe-inspiring region is Ilulissat, while the Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is particularly spectacular; the sight of icebergs drifting in the fjord is mesmerising. On a guided tour of Ilulissat and Disko Bay, you can sail between the ice giants at sunset, and even enjoy a sauna or private hot tub session with a view of the bay. On the same itinerary, meet with a local Inuit family to experience their daily routine, and join them for a traditional kaffemik – a socialising ritual with coffee and cake.

Tips to plan a Nordic winter adventure

If you’re ready to don snowshoes and head into the winter wilderness, prepare yourself with these tips for a Nordic adventure…

Book accommodation early

Visitors flock to the cold high altitudes, especially at winter time and when the northern lights are most visible. Secure your lodging well in advance as the best places fill up quickly – especially popular destinations like Norway’s Tromsø or Rovaniemi in Finland.

Consider timings

The northern lights are most visible at different times of year. When planning your trip, be sure to schedule it for around a time you’re more likely to catch this display at its brightest (usually between the months of September and April).

Be prepared for the unpredictable

Though you can take a good guess at weather conditions and temperatures, the unexpected can happen. Temperatures could be warmer than you’d hoped, or snowfall and storms could impact your plans. In addition, there are no guarantees you’ll see the northern lights, even when you’ve planned everything around them. Though it’s disappointing, you’re essentially at the mercy of nature and the night skies.

Pack for conditions

It may seem obvious, but it’s cold higher up in the globe! Layers are a must, with thick socks, gloves and hiking boots. Be sure to also pack swimming gear for any ice plunges, hot tubs or saunas. A decent camera is a great advantage to capture those mesmerising long exposures of the stars and the northern lights.

Research daylight hours

The Nordic and Scandinavian countries see long nights in the winter and long days in the summer, particularly in the far north. In the summer (May to August), days can be up to 24 hours long, with the sun being visible as late as midnight – known as the Midnight Sun. In the winter, a phenomenon known as the Polar Night means far northern regions may only get from six hours of sun to no sunrise at all. Research what the daylight hours are like regionally at the time of year you intend to visit, and be prepared to feel the strangeness!

Make it happen

If you’re more than ready for incredible winter experiences in Scandinavia and the Nordics, our locally-based travel experts are on the ground, ready to plan your ultimate Arctic holiday in Iceland, Norway, Finland or Greenland.