talk to the experts 01737 214 282 15Northern NorwayBodø This modern town has excellent connections south by road and railway, and north to Lofoten and beyond via the Hurtigruten route. Just outside Bodø you will find the famous Saltstraumen, the world's strongest maelstrom. Twice a day the combination of powerful currents and narrow channels create turbulent whirlpools.Senja This is Norway's second largest island, a northerly neighbour to the Lofoten and Vesterålen islands. It is famous for its incredible landscape, a mix of high mountain peaks, slow flowing rivers, coastal pine forests and pristine white sandy beaches. Tromsø As a gateway to the Arctic, this city has a long history associated with Arctic exploration, shipping and fishing. Once an ancient trading post, now sometimes known as the 'Paris of the North' due to its wealth of shops, restaurants and street cafes. The many museums and art galleries exhibit arts and crafts inspired by Arctic nature and Sami culture, as well as research into the northern lights. To the east of Tromsø, explore beautiful Lyngenfjord and the lush green Lyngen Alps which rise to 1800 metres. Finnmark The largest and most northerly county in Norway has a long and rugged coastline with deep fjords and dramatic mountains stretching all the way to the Russian border. Alta's 6000 year old rock carvings feature on the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites, and Hammerfest offers some excellent hiking opportunities. At North Cape, the northernmost point of continental Europe, take in the magnificent view out to sea. At nearby Gjesvær, join a boat trip to visit local bird colonies. Whether travelling by sea, air or road there is plenty to experience: the hidden fishing villages of Kjøllefjord and Mehamn, or the charming community in Kongsfjord where you will be assured of a warm welcome during a stay at the family run guesthouse. Kirkenes This is the final port of call for the Hurtigruten ships and the neighbouring border with Russia is just a stone's throw away. Here you can join a King Crab Safari in the Barents Sea, afterwards enjoying the largest crab legs you've ever eaten! The three borders of Norway, Russia and Finland meet deep in the Øvre Pasvik National Park, where you can explore the country's largest virgin forest following the Pasvik River and the Russian border. Further inland you'll find the two principal Sami districts of Kautokeino and Karasjok. Each community celebrates this vivid and unique culture with festivals throughout the year. For a glimpse of this fascinating way of life, why not visit the local Sami museum where they proudly present their traditional customs, mythology and heritage. You can also take one of the local signed culture paths - short walking trails which pass ancient monuments and provide visitors with a different way to learn about the Sami culture whilst appreciating the natural surroundings.Bodø I Senja I Tromsø I Finnmark I North Cape I Kirkenes

16 visit discover-the-world.co.uk/norwayWinter NorwayNorway is stunning at any time of year, but the winter brings a completely new dimension to your holiday experience. The dramatic scenery of deep fjords, steep, snow covered peaks and traditional fi shing communities can be even more striking than during the summer months. Although the days are shorter in the fjord areas, the deep contrasts of light bring changing moods and great photo opportunities. The further north you travel the shorter the days, until you reach the high latitudes above the Arctic Circle and meet the polar night. The sun might not rise above the horizon between December and mid-January, but the magical blue light this creates together with snow, the moon and stars, adds to this unforgettable Arctic experience. Norwegian Fjords These are spectacular year round and in winter the extra dusting of snow adds to their magnifi cence. The travel is easy by train, boat or bus and hired vehicles will come with studded winter tyres. Visit some of the more popular areas at this quieter time of year and you'll have the lookout stops practically to yourself for that all important photo. The two largest fjords, Hardangerfjord and Sognefjord, are within easy reach of Bergen and can be comfortably combined with some incredible train journeys, such as the 'Over the Roof of Norway' (between Oslo and Bergen), the 'Corkscrew Railway' (between Flåm and Myrdal) and the beautiful 'Rauma Railway' (between Dombås and Åndalsnes). Perhaps begin your holiday in Oslo, Bergen or Ålesund, and enjoy their rich Scandinavian culture and history before venturing further in to the country and fjordland. Northern Lights Something on everyone's wish list! We are often asked for the best time and place to see them but if Mother Nature's spectacular light show could be predicted, there would be no anticipation, magic or excitement! The lights appear unexpectedly and can last from just a few moments to several hours, varying in intensity too. The best chances of seeing this natural phenomenon is around and above the Arctic Circle.Tromsø There are many opportunities in this lively city for shopping and dining, the greatest concentration of fi rst-rate restaurants, cafes and late night bars are to be found in the centre. The striking glass-fronted Arctic Cathedral is worth visiting as well as the Polar Museum and the Polaria which is set in another distinctive building - this houses an Arctic aquarium and interactive exhibits. Tromsø is also home to the world's most northerly brewery! Whilst here, do take an excursion out of the city to more remote areas, especially if you wish to catch a glimpse of the northern lights, or perhaps try husky sledging.Find out about our special aurora holidays in Norway and beyond by ordering a copy of our Northern Lights brochure.Fjords I Scenic Train Journeys I Northern Lights I Hurtigruten Coastal Voyages