2020 Wilderness Travel Catalog of Adventures

Hiking Norway’s Lofoten Islands & Beyond SPECTACULAR ADVENTURES ABOVE THE ARCTIC CIRCLE

From the towering peaks of the Lofoten Islands to dreamy Senja and the northern cultural hub of Tromsø, we’ve created an adventure that

brings you stunning hikes, sea kayaking in the crystalline waters of Bergsfjorden, and even a float in a famous tidal mælstrøm (with a dry suit, of course)! These breathtaking islands lie above the Arctic Circle but enjoy a mild climate thanks to the warm waters of the Gulf Stream. Our overnights include rorbuer — historic waterfront fishermen’s cabins at the water’s edge, and an enchanting water on Senja Island. We can sample the island’s super-fresh seafood, and enjoy the serene natural surroundings. Days 1-3 Svolvær / Nusfjord / Reine We meet in Lofoten in the lively town of Svolvær, bustling with fishing boats and sailboats in its harbor. Our first hike brings us far-reaching views of Lofoten’s spires rising above the sea, including Vågakallen (3,094'), whose big wall attracts climbers from around the world. From the quaint village of Reine, with its red and white fishermens’ cottages, we hike from a tiny hamlet nestled at the head of a deep fjord to Nusfjord, one of Norway’s oldest fishing villages, designated a World Heritage Site for its historic wooden architecture. A spectacular ferry ride takes us to the remote village of Kjerkfjorden for a hike to the outer coast at Horseid, a magnificent white-sand beach backed by towering granite walls. Days 4-6 Senja Island / Bergsfjorden / Mælstrøm A journey through some of Norway’s most inspiring scenery brings us to the fairytale setting of Senja, Norway’s second largest island. Senja is otherworldly,

“ This trip hit it out of the park with great hikes, wonderful food, and wine. The history, culture, and beauty of Northern Norway’s islands were amazing. A fabulous time!” Ann T., Chesterfield MO

GILL BROWDER

with its pearly-white beaches of crushed seashells and crystal clear turquoise waters. We’ll paddle sea kayaks through majestic Bergsfjorden, where shapes and colors shift with the changing weather. For a unique arctic adventure, we don dry suits and float in the famous mælstrøm in an ocean inlet, riding the tide and swirling currents. It is a thrill! Hikes will give us mountaintop views, and our meals will feature the freshest seafood imaginable. Our overnights are in the lovely Hamn i Senja, a waterfront hotel complete with a welcoming cognac room and a unique hot tub made from a wooden fishing boat. Days 7-9 Tromsø In Tromsø, the vibrant “Arctic capital” of Northern Norway, we attend a “midnight sun” concert in the city’s landmark Arctic Cathedral, and hike up the mountain above town for stunning views. We descend via cable car and visit the fascinating Polar Museum, with its tales of legendary Norwegian explorers. Depart on Day 9.

HIGHLIGHTS • Hike coastal trails above the Arctic Circle, savor the long summer light of the Arctic • Paddle sea kayaks in magnificent Bergsfjorden • Sample local cuisine—from fiskesuppe (fish soup) to vafler (Norwegian-style waffles), chased with schnapps! • Float in the tidal currents of the famous mælstrøm • Stay in converted fishermen’s stilt-cottages at water’s edge • Attend a “midnight sun” concert at Tromsø’s impressive Arctic Cathedral DETAILS • 9-day trip begins in Svolvær and ends in Tromsø • 8 nights hotels and rustic rorbuer • All meals included except 1 dinner

The stunning Lofoten Islands are above the Arctic Circle yet have a mild climate—ideal for hiking! PHOTO: JULIAN GARCIA

DATES Jun 17-25, 2020

Aug 1-9

TRIP COST $6495 (10-14 members) $6995 (4-9 members) Single supplement: $925

TRIP LEVEL 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 hiking days on moderate to steep trails in sometimes rugged terrain, 3-5 hours most days

FREDRIK NORRSELL

COMBINE ANY TWO EUROPE TRIPS FOR A $400 PER PERSON DISCOUNT! 77