Around the North Cape
Not many people can claim to have stood at the northern most point of continental Europe. This holiday takes you there with great northern lights opportunities.
Not many people can claim to have stood at the northern most point of continental Europe. This holiday takes you there with great northern lights opportunities.
Welcome to the Arctic Circle, the northern most tip of continental Europe (The North Cape) and some stunning Norwegian Fjords scenery. Travelling to Northern Norway is so much more than the Northern Lights. There is a rich culture and long history to delve into.
Experience the capital of Arctic Norway in Tromso, cruise around the most northerly point of main land Europe (The North Cape) and explore the history of Kirkenes, a city destroyed during WWII by the occupying German forces. The Russians rescued the residents of Kirkenes and a formidable bond now exists between the two cities. This brave act is something that will never be forgotten.
Sollia Guest House is in Kirkenes on the border between Norway and Russia and boasts a restaurant fit for royalty and heads of state. A fabulous husky excursion with a team of 4-legged friends is included in your stay. A warm welcome, excellent company and the perfect end to a holiday across northern Norway.
We want to take you to the best places in search of the Northern Lights. Lapland, Northern Norway and Tromso are widely regarded as some of the best places on earth to witness the awe inspiring natural phenomenon. On this holiday through the northern part of the spectacular Norwegian Fjords, several hundred kilometers inside the Arctic Circle, there are exciting activities, unbelievable scenery and some of the best possibilities to see the Northern Lights.
The highlights of this holiday
Great chances of seeing the Northern Lights, the North Cape, Tromso (the capital of Northern Norway) and Sollia Guest House.
Day 1
Fly from UK to Tromso (usually via Oslo)
Airport transfer to Tromso centre via the airport coach
Check in to your hotel
Day 2
Breakfast
Time to explore Tromso
Optional excursions / activities
Day 3
Breakfast
Day at leisure in the capital of Northern Norway
1830 departure on Hurtigruten Coastal Steamer
Evening meal on board
Day 4
Breakfast
Go around the North Cape
Optional excursions
Evening meal on board
Day 5
Breakfast
Morning arrival in Kirkenes
Transfer to Sollia Guest House
Evening meal
Day 6
Breakfast
A 1hr30 husky tour including lunch
2 course evening meal at Sollia
Day 7
Breakfast
Morning transfer to airport (approx. 30mins)
Flight to UK (via Oslo)
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.
Guest House
There is a very special atmosphere around Sollia. Perhaps it's the history from WWII and the very special relationship that now exists between the Russians and the Norwegians in the immediate area (this pre-war guest house is only 500m away from the border and 15min drive from the centre of Kirkenes). Perhaps it's the amazing husky excursion Simply Sweden took part in during our time in Kirkenes, or perhaps it's being so close to the edge of Europe and the wonderful nature. You decide.
Sollia offers warm and cosy accommodation on the edge of Europe and deep inside the Arctic Circle. Accommodation is in simple en-suite double / twin rooms or rustic log cabins separate from the guest house. Sollia is home to a small husky kennel and you will find an eager team of huskies desperate to show you round their wilderness home. Locally you can rent the Jacuzzi, some snow shoes or skis or book alternative activities depending on the weather. Simply relax and enjoy.
Their famous restaurant attracts guests from the entire region and boasts global leaders and royalty as previous guests.
Wilderness Camp - Optional
A fabulous, relaxing and scenic wilderness camp under the arctic skies where you can open your eyes to this special part of our world.
Your transfer by ATV & sled departs at 5.30pm from Sollia Guest House. These large tents are warmed by a cosy log fire and this is a place to simply listen to noises of nature. Your guide will be with you for the duration of your stay at the wilderness camp and snowshoes are available so you can explore some more. You return to Sollia at approx. 9.30am.
The tents are warmed by a cosy log fire and you wrap up in arctic sleeping bags. Wilderness evening meal and breakfast included. Warm outer clothing included.
The North Cape
Crossing the 71st parallel is something few can claim! This is the northern most point of continental Europe and the county of Finnmark. The North Cape rises more than a thousand feet from the icy waters of the Arctic Ocean. At the North Cape Hall there is a modern visitors centre showing a film about the local culture and North Cape. There is also a souvenir shop and café. Step outside and brace yourself against the winds as you stand beside the famous North Cape globe.
Price £118 in 2015
Snowmobile in Lapland
Following a safety briefing you follow your guide into the wilderness. Learn about about life on the Finnmark coast and the indigenous Sami of the Arctic. Every participant will drive their own snowmobile and a driving licence required. Notes: For those in good physical condition. Outer warm clothing provided. From 15Dec Snow / weather dependent.
Price £252pp in 2015
The Russian Border - Kirkenes
The history of the region is truly stimulating and this is an educational morning. Visit the border station at Storskog. You cannot enter Russia but it may be possible to buy Russian crafts such as charming hand painted dolls.
Price £51pp in 2015
1hr30 Husky is already included in the price of your holiday
Explore the scenery surround Kirkenes and the Russian border by husky sled. The guides will make a decision locally about safety and whether you will drive your own sled or sit back, relax and enjoy the ride. This tour includes lunch.
Northern Lights Wilderness Camp
Replace a night at the guest house for a stay at the wilderness camp (see the accommodation tab).
From £185 per person
Other activities can be booked locally
These include snow shoe rental, a warm jacuzzi, sauna, cycling (specially designed for snow) and ice fishing.
Northern Lights Cruise
New to Simply Sweden for 2015_16.
A comfortable and spacious catamaran into the sheltered sea around Tromsø. Heated lounge, viewing deck and evening meal.
Duration: 3hr departing 8pm
Price £132 per person
Northern Lights Bus
Hop on board this comfortable minibus and enjoy the scenery. Local weather reports are monitored carefully and you head to the best spot to catch these magical colours of light.
Duration: 5 to 6 hours departing 7pm
Price: £125pp including warm drink
Northern Lights Photography Course
It doesn't matter whether you are a beginner or more experienced photographer. With small groups and professional guides you will learn the basics, or more advanced techniques of night time photography. A short studio session followed by a northern lights chase. You will need a SLR camera, tripod, good shoes and thick socks! Light meal and hot drinks included.
Duration: 7 to 8 hours departing 6pm
Price: £135 per person
Northern Lights Husky & Kennel Visit
Take a ride with our experienced guides through the pristine scenery around Tromsø. Perhaps the northern lights will appear! After one hour of dog sledding you return to the wilderness centre for your evening meal inside a Sami Tent. Step outside to have a look for the Northern Lights and play with the huskies.
Duration: 4h departing 6.15pm (incl. 30min transfer each way)
Price: £169 per person
Whale Safari
Approx 8.30 collection from centre of Tromso for a 5hr whale excursion. There are also good chances of seeing Sea Eagles and Seals on this tour. If guest numbers are small this tour will be by RIB (warm clothing included) or if numbers allow this will be by a day cruiser with space for up to 100 people. Mid-November to late-January only.
Duration: Up to 5hr depending on the whales departing 8.30
Price £122 per person
Sami & Reindeer Excursion
The Sami culture is an important part of everyday life inside the Arctic Circle. Experience the traditional nomadic lifestyle of the indigenous Sami and indulge in reindeer sledding (approx. 3km), lasso throwing, Sami food, storytelling and the raw emotion of joik (traditional Sami song). Lunch is included.
Duration: 4hrs departing at 10am
Price: £153 per person
Husky Expedition - 1 Day
An advanced hands on husky excursion (5hrs on the sled). Enjoy pristine beauty and unspoiled wilderness including possible wildlife sightings such as fox, eagles, arctic hares, moose and reindeer. No previous husky experience is necessary but the Alaskan huskies are famed for being friendly so you may have some furry friends by the end of the tour! A traditional sami meal is included. For those wishing to drive a husky sled a reasonable fitness level is required and whether you drive is at the guides discretion.
Duration: 8h departing 9.45am (incl 30min transfer each way)
Price £269 per person
Snowmobile Excursion
A scenic snowmobile tour around the Lyngen Alps - one of the premier play grounds of Northern Norway. This scenic and exciting snowmobile excursion follows the mountain contours and seeks out vantage points and photo stops along the way. Includes a wilderness meal and 1hr scenic transfer each way.
Duration: 7hrs departing 8.45am or 4.30pm
Price: £183 per person on a shared snowmobile / £239 for an individual snowmobile
Snow Shoe Excursion
Get up close and personal with nature. Scenic guided snowshoe walk around the islands close to Tromsø. Pack warm clothing and good boots. Clothing and boots can be rented for this tour. Reasonable fitness required.
Duration: 5h departing 10am (incl 30min transfer each way)
Price: £101 per person
Daily 1Oct to 31Mar
No return from Kirkenes on a Saturday.
Due to snow conditions some snow related activities may not be available in Oct or Nov.
Price from £1495 per person
Price includes return flights from UK and airport transfers in Tromso & Kirkenes.
2 nights bed and breakfast at Hotel With or Hotel Aurora in Tromso
2 nights onboard the Hurtigruten - including 2 x breakfasts and 2 x evening meals
Transfer from Hurtigruten to Sollia Guest House
2 x breakfast and 2 x evening meal at Sollia
1hr30 husky excursion at Sollia incl. lunch
Welcome to the Arctic Circle, the northern most tip of continental Europe (The North Cape) and some stunning Norwegian Fjords scenery. Travelling to Northern Norway is so much more than the Northern Lights. There is a rich culture and long history to delve into.
Experience the capital of Arctic Norway in Tromso, cruise around the most northerly point of main land Europe (The North Cape) and explore the history of Kirkenes, a city destroyed during WWII by the occupying German forces. The Russians rescued the residents of Kirkenes and a formidable bond now exists between the two cities. This brave act is something that will never be forgotten.
Sollia Guest House is in Kirkenes on the border between Norway and Russia and boasts a restaurant fit for royalty and heads of state. A fabulous husky excursion with a team of 4-legged friends is included in your stay. A warm welcome, excellent company and the perfect end to a holiday across northern Norway.
We want to take you to the best places in search of the Northern Lights. Lapland, Northern Norway and Tromso are widely regarded as some of the best places on earth to witness the awe inspiring natural phenomenon. On this holiday through the northern part of the spectacular Norwegian Fjords, several hundred kilometers inside the Arctic Circle, there are exciting activities, unbelievable scenery and some of the best possibilities to see the Northern Lights.
The highlights of this holiday
Great chances of seeing the Northern Lights, the North Cape, Tromso (the capital of Northern Norway) and Sollia Guest House.
Day 1
Fly from UK to Tromso (usually via Oslo)
Airport transfer to Tromso centre via the airport coach
Check in to your hotel
Day 2
Breakfast
Time to explore Tromso
Optional excursions / activities
Day 3
Breakfast
Day at leisure in the capital of Northern Norway
1830 departure on Hurtigruten Coastal Steamer
Evening meal on board
Day 4
Breakfast
Go around the North Cape
Optional excursions
Evening meal on board
Day 5
Breakfast
Morning arrival in Kirkenes
Transfer to Sollia Guest House
Evening meal
Day 6
Breakfast
A 1hr30 husky tour including lunch
2 course evening meal at Sollia
Day 7
Breakfast
Morning transfer to airport (approx. 30mins)
Flight to UK (via Oslo)
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.
Guest House
There is a very special atmosphere around Sollia. Perhaps it's the history from WWII and the very special relationship that now exists between the Russians and the Norwegians in the immediate area (this pre-war guest house is only 500m away from the border and 15min drive from the centre of Kirkenes). Perhaps it's the amazing husky excursion Simply Sweden took part in during our time in Kirkenes, or perhaps it's being so close to the edge of Europe and the wonderful nature. You decide.
Sollia offers warm and cosy accommodation on the edge of Europe and deep inside the Arctic Circle. Accommodation is in simple en-suite double / twin rooms or rustic log cabins separate from the guest house. Sollia is home to a small husky kennel and you will find an eager team of huskies desperate to show you round their wilderness home. Locally you can rent the Jacuzzi, some snow shoes or skis or book alternative activities depending on the weather. Simply relax and enjoy.
Their famous restaurant attracts guests from the entire region and boasts global leaders and royalty as previous guests.
Wilderness Camp - Optional
A fabulous, relaxing and scenic wilderness camp under the arctic skies where you can open your eyes to this special part of our world.
Your transfer by ATV & sled departs at 5.30pm from Sollia Guest House. These large tents are warmed by a cosy log fire and this is a place to simply listen to noises of nature. Your guide will be with you for the duration of your stay at the wilderness camp and snowshoes are available so you can explore some more. You return to Sollia at approx. 9.30am.
The tents are warmed by a cosy log fire and you wrap up in arctic sleeping bags. Wilderness evening meal and breakfast included. Warm outer clothing included.
The North Cape
Crossing the 71st parallel is something few can claim! This is the northern most point of continental Europe and the county of Finnmark. The North Cape rises more than a thousand feet from the icy waters of the Arctic Ocean. At the North Cape Hall there is a modern visitors centre showing a film about the local culture and North Cape. There is also a souvenir shop and café. Step outside and brace yourself against the winds as you stand beside the famous North Cape globe.
Price £118 in 2015
Snowmobile in Lapland
Following a safety briefing you follow your guide into the wilderness. Learn about about life on the Finnmark coast and the indigenous Sami of the Arctic. Every participant will drive their own snowmobile and a driving licence required. Notes: For those in good physical condition. Outer warm clothing provided. From 15Dec Snow / weather dependent.
Price £252pp in 2015
The Russian Border - Kirkenes
The history of the region is truly stimulating and this is an educational morning. Visit the border station at Storskog. You cannot enter Russia but it may be possible to buy Russian crafts such as charming hand painted dolls.
Price £51pp in 2015
1hr30 Husky is already included in the price of your holiday
Explore the scenery surround Kirkenes and the Russian border by husky sled. The guides will make a decision locally about safety and whether you will drive your own sled or sit back, relax and enjoy the ride. This tour includes lunch.
Northern Lights Wilderness Camp
Replace a night at the guest house for a stay at the wilderness camp (see the accommodation tab).
From £185 per person
Other activities can be booked locally
These include snow shoe rental, a warm jacuzzi, sauna, cycling (specially designed for snow) and ice fishing.
Northern Lights Cruise
New to Simply Sweden for 2015_16.
A comfortable and spacious catamaran into the sheltered sea around Tromsø. Heated lounge, viewing deck and evening meal.
Duration: 3hr departing 8pm
Price £132 per person
Northern Lights Bus
Hop on board this comfortable minibus and enjoy the scenery. Local weather reports are monitored carefully and you head to the best spot to catch these magical colours of light.
Duration: 5 to 6 hours departing 7pm
Price: £125pp including warm drink
Northern Lights Photography Course
It doesn't matter whether you are a beginner or more experienced photographer. With small groups and professional guides you will learn the basics, or more advanced techniques of night time photography. A short studio session followed by a northern lights chase. You will need a SLR camera, tripod, good shoes and thick socks! Light meal and hot drinks included.
Duration: 7 to 8 hours departing 6pm
Price: £135 per person
Northern Lights Husky & Kennel Visit
Take a ride with our experienced guides through the pristine scenery around Tromsø. Perhaps the northern lights will appear! After one hour of dog sledding you return to the wilderness centre for your evening meal inside a Sami Tent. Step outside to have a look for the Northern Lights and play with the huskies.
Duration: 4h departing 6.15pm (incl. 30min transfer each way)
Price: £169 per person
Whale Safari
Approx 8.30 collection from centre of Tromso for a 5hr whale excursion. There are also good chances of seeing Sea Eagles and Seals on this tour. If guest numbers are small this tour will be by RIB (warm clothing included) or if numbers allow this will be by a day cruiser with space for up to 100 people. Mid-November to late-January only.
Duration: Up to 5hr depending on the whales departing 8.30
Price £122 per person
Sami & Reindeer Excursion
The Sami culture is an important part of everyday life inside the Arctic Circle. Experience the traditional nomadic lifestyle of the indigenous Sami and indulge in reindeer sledding (approx. 3km), lasso throwing, Sami food, storytelling and the raw emotion of joik (traditional Sami song). Lunch is included.
Duration: 4hrs departing at 10am
Price: £153 per person
Husky Expedition - 1 Day
An advanced hands on husky excursion (5hrs on the sled). Enjoy pristine beauty and unspoiled wilderness including possible wildlife sightings such as fox, eagles, arctic hares, moose and reindeer. No previous husky experience is necessary but the Alaskan huskies are famed for being friendly so you may have some furry friends by the end of the tour! A traditional sami meal is included. For those wishing to drive a husky sled a reasonable fitness level is required and whether you drive is at the guides discretion.
Duration: 8h departing 9.45am (incl 30min transfer each way)
Price £269 per person
Snowmobile Excursion
A scenic snowmobile tour around the Lyngen Alps - one of the premier play grounds of Northern Norway. This scenic and exciting snowmobile excursion follows the mountain contours and seeks out vantage points and photo stops along the way. Includes a wilderness meal and 1hr scenic transfer each way.
Duration: 7hrs departing 8.45am or 4.30pm
Price: £183 per person on a shared snowmobile / £239 for an individual snowmobile
Snow Shoe Excursion
Get up close and personal with nature. Scenic guided snowshoe walk around the islands close to Tromsø. Pack warm clothing and good boots. Clothing and boots can be rented for this tour. Reasonable fitness required.
Duration: 5h departing 10am (incl 30min transfer each way)
Price: £101 per person
Daily 1Oct to 31Mar
No return from Kirkenes on a Saturday.
Due to snow conditions some snow related activities may not be available in Oct or Nov.
Price from £1495 per person
Price includes return flights from UK and airport transfers in Tromso & Kirkenes.
2 nights bed and breakfast at Hotel With or Hotel Aurora in Tromso
2 nights onboard the Hurtigruten - including 2 x breakfasts and 2 x evening meals
Transfer from Hurtigruten to Sollia Guest House
2 x breakfast and 2 x evening meal at Sollia
1hr30 husky excursion at Sollia incl. lunch
