Check out these sustainable—and memorable—ways to experience the Nordics during the peak Summer seasons.
Denmark
Soak up the sun in North Jutland: Few places in the world feel like secrets anymore. But that’s what North Jutland, the northernmost region of Denmark, seems to be. This region is whimsical (dining on edible flowers, fields with prancing baby lambs), historic (the Vikings settled here, and it has inspired generations of artists and creatives), conscious (from hotel practices and locally sourced cuisine to community and government initiatives), modern, outdoorsy, simple, and elegant. For more information, refer to the Denmark portion of this itinerary on AFAR.
Explore Danish Wineries: With short travel distances, the country is easy to explore. And the countryside is dotted with great wineyards. These are ideal places to visit to explore local food and wine; some even offer overnight glamping. Explore Dyrehøj Vineyard, Cold Hand Winery and Guldbæk Vineyard.
Faroe Islands
Explore the Island of Suðuroy: The southernmost island here is known for its dramatic cliffs, rugged coastline, and charming villages. It's a lovely place to explore on foot or by car, and you'll find plenty of hidden gems along the way. Highlights include the village of Sumba, the Hvannhagi Valley, and the Beinisvørð Cliffs.
Find the Hidden Beach Beyond Fjallavatn: Visitors will be rewarded with vast natural beauty, great hiking, and few crowds. The beach is surrounded by a rugged cliff line, a thunderous waterfall, and a black sand beach, for a stunning combination. The hike to Fjallavatn is located near the airport in the Faroe Islands, making it easy to access.
Canoeing in Koli
Finland
Island hop on a canoe in Lake Saimaa: These routes are some of the most sustainable ways to travel in the country. The development work of these canoeing routes earned a win in the 2023 Travel Fair sustainable competition. The astonishing routes include overnight stays on designated, private campsites, and cabins.
A fly fisherman enjoying the day on the Erfalik River in Greenland. (Photo Credit: The Nordics)
Greenland
West Greenland Wildlife: Come for the local knowledge and guidance, try out the fishing and hunting here, learn about traditional methods, and experience arctic wilderness.
Glamping in Saqqaq Disko Bay & Kangiusaq, Nuuk Fjord: Visitor will be enchanted by the arctic retreats here, with a variety of high-end experiences in remote camps.
Kolugljufur falls (Photo Credit: The Nordics)
Iceland
Kolugljufur Canyon: This hidden gem is located in northern Iceland and offers a unique off-the-beaten-path experience during the summer season. The kilometer-long canyon is up to 60 meters wide, and 40 meters deep. Tourists can walk along the canyon and explore several trails here. The canyon is located near the farm Víðidalstunga and is named after the female giant Kola. The Kolufossar waterfalls are located in the canyon and can be easily accessed.
The Westfjords, Naturalists and Backpackers Paradise: One of Iceland's best-kept secrets is its northwest corner, named the Westfjords. Isolation and sparse population have preserved the unspoiled nature here as well as Icelandic folklore culture.
Canal boats (Photo Credit: The Nordics)
Norway
Havila Voyages: This is the country’s newest coastal voyage cruise line operating the classic coastal voyage between Bergen and Kirkenes. They are new to the route, using brand new modern hybrid powered ships.
Canal Boats Telemark: For visitors dreaming of a quiet, relaxing holiday along one of Norway's most beautiful waterways—as well as those who would you rather have an active and exciting holiday full of activities and new adventures—this is a perfect solution.
Glass Cabin (Photo Credit: The Nordics)
Sweden
Swedish architecture and nature often go hand in hand. Visitors can combine these two seemingly disparate things by discovering Sweden's inviting nature while staying at an architectural highlight! Learn more here.
72 Hour Cabin in West Sweden: Located an hour drive north of Gothenburg, Dalsland is home to unique glass cabins. Designed by architect Jeanna Berger, they offer a perfect place to experience the calming effect of Swedish nature. Choose to stay in a cabin located on a private island overlooking Lake Ånimmen or in a cabin deep in the pine forests. The 72 Hour Cabin is named after the experiment, where handpicked participants experienced 72 hours there as a way to explore the positive effects nature has on stress levels and well-being.
Bergaliv in Hälsingland: This is a place to visit to unwind from the outside world. Panoramic views stretch along the Ljusnan River Valley, across the neighboring meadows to the dense forests beyond. This minimalistic cabin is built over two floors, with the raw interior made from pale ash and birch wood.
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