Glorious Summer Hiking in Norway
Last summer, I had the sublime opportunity to hike through the majestic Jotunheimen National Park, a stunning expanse nestled 230 miles north of Oslo. Over the course of a week, my journey, which included four intense days of hiking and wild camping, offered not just adventure but also a profound sense of tranquility. Remarkably, we encountered few fellow travelers, allowing us to revel in the solitude of lush green valleys and pristine glacial lakes. As luck would have it, the weather was exquisite, and even in July, we navigated through patches of snow. Norway boasts an exceptional network of well-marked trails and huts, all easily accessible through the Norwegian Trekking Association’s website.
An Arty Cabin Break Near Aarhus
Our family holiday on the Jutland coast, near Denmark’s second-largest city Aarhus, was a delight. We settled into a cozy cabin surrounded by pine trees and indulged in daily swims. The region’s swimming jetties made it easy to dip into the invigorating sea, complete with handy hooks for towels. The beaches were wonderfully wild and eerily quiet—often, we had them all to ourselves. For a taste of urban culture, Aarhus did not disappoint. The Aarhus Art Museum is a must-visit for contemporary art enthusiasts, and a leisurely lunch at Cafe Folkeven is the perfect way to round off a day of exploration.
Urban Scandi Beauty in Stavanger
A visit to Stavanger, on Norway’s breathtaking southwestern coast, feels like stepping into a Scandinavian postcard. The city’s charm is palpable, particularly in Gamle Stavanger, the old town, where quaint shops selling woolen goods and cozy bars serving local beer beckon. My personal favorite is Bøker og Børst—a unique blend of a bookstore and bar. For those adventurous enough to brave the chilly waters, Boresanden beach offers surf opportunities followed by a rejuvenating sauna. If it’s jaw-dropping vistas you crave, a trek to Preikestolen promises awe-inspiring views over the fjords. To add a splash of color to your itinerary, take the ferry to Flor and Fjære to wander through enchanting tropical gardens, opening to visitors on May 9th.
Frozen Lakes, Coffee, and a Sauna in Finnish Lakeland
In the southern reaches of Finnish Lakeland lies Lahti, a charming town that feels worlds apart from Helsinki, despite its excellent rail connections. Lahti boasts delightful cafes and a welcoming populace, and its landscapes resemble scenes straight from a storybook. I spent a month here as a nursing student, captivated not just by the Finnish approach to public health, but by how the biting -22°C can actually feel comforting. My days were spent strolling over the surreal frozen expanse of Lake Vesijärvi, punctuated by visits to Kahvila Kariranta, a delightful café housed in a former railway station. Plenty of ice skating and cross-country skiing opportunities await, and the distance to a sauna—an absolute necessity in Finland—is never far away.
A Horse Ride Through Norwegian Mountains
Why hike when you can explore the stunning landscapes of Norway’s Rondane National Park on horseback? Last summer, my friends and I chose to ride small but wonderfully sturdy Dole horses, a native Norwegian breed. Their gentle temperament and surefootedness made for an unforgettable experience as we trotted along scenic mountain paths. This slower pace allowed us to truly immerse ourselves in the breathtaking surroundings while listening to our guide’s captivating tales of the area. Our adventure was organized by Gutsy Girls and easily stands out as a highlight of our trip.
Island of Sunshine in Denmark
Bornholm, a sun-kissed island nestled in the middle of the Baltic Sea and bordered by Poland and Sweden, is a hidden gem. With pristine white sand beaches and secluded coves, it shines brightest during summer when it enjoys more sunshine than most of the surrounding region. The island’s history is rich, featuring everything from the sprawling ruins of the medieval Hammershus castle to remnants of Soviet occupation. Don’t miss the chance to savor freshly smoked fish from local producers or indulge in exquisite Danish pastries from charming bakeries. Settle into one of Bornholm’s beachfront hotels and let the sunsets whisk you away.
Sweden’s Wooden Wonder
Nestled 130 miles inland from Stockholm lies the enchanting lakeside town of Nora, one of Sweden’s treasured “wooden towns” alongside Eksjö and Hjo. Here, timber buildings crafted from local forests evoke a bygone era of Nordic nobility. I wandered the cobbled streets, marveling at the well-preserved 19th-century Göthlinska Gården villa. On another sunny afternoon, I savored local ice cream at Glasstorget (Ice-Cream Square). The creative quarter of Kvarteret Bryggeriet offered a delightful mix of independent shops and eateries, as well as a fascinating microbrewery. The nearby lakes—Norasjön, Fåsjön, and Usken—beckon with their picnic spots and swimming opportunities.
Design Gems Near Copenhagen
Returning to a familiar city often reveals hidden treasures, and my latest revisit to Copenhagen was no exception. Just six miles outside of town, at Bellevue Beach in Klampenborg, I unearthed the masterpieces of renowned architect Arne Jacobsen. His iconic designs—a theatre, restaurant, angular Søholm houses, and Bauhaus-inspired apartments—are perfectly set against a summer promenade. Not to be overlooked, Jacobsen even crafted local kiosks and distinctive blue-striped lifeguard towers. A twenty-minute stroll along the coast leads to an eye-catching petrol station designed by Jacobsen, which has now transformed into a delightful ice cream spot, resembling a design nod to the Starship Enterprise.
Quietly Thrilling Finnish Design
A visit to Alvar Aalto’s Paimio Sanatorium, nestled among Finland’s serene pine forests, is nothing short of a poignant pilgrimage. Built in the 1930s for tuberculosis patients, its design embodies a deep respect for light, air, and human dignity. Each detail conveys a narrative crafted to ease minds and enhance well-being, from the soothing color palettes to the whisper-quiet sinks that foster tranquility. Walking through its halls connects you with a profound aspect of Finnish culture—pragmatism and compassion intertwined with nature. The historical atmosphere lingers, yet the facility feels strikingly modern, making for a rewarding experience for design enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.
Winning Tip: Explore Oslo’s Various Islands
Imagine spending a blissful summer day hopping between the islands scattered across the inner Oslofjord. The five islands closest to the capital are just a ferry ride away, each with its own unique character. Langøyene offers a broad sandy beach, while Hovedøya showcases the ruins of an 1147 Cistercian monastery established by monks from Lincolnshire. Bleikøya is lined with colorful Nordic summer houses, perfect for exploration. The Ruter app provides convenient travel options for around £10 for 24 hours. Consider budgeting a bit more for a drink from the charming café on Gressholmen island. So pack your swimwear and bring a picnic basket, and delight in the diverse beauty that lies just beyond the city’s horizon.
