Ethical Travel Portal

Our late summer trip to northern Norway was incredible. We couldn't have planned such a memorable, custom trip without our trip specialist, Tricia. The pacing of our trip and the chosen destinations were well matched to our abilities and interests. The mild weather added to our enjoyment of the outdoor activities. Because we were off-season, destinations were uncrowded; in fact, on several tours, my husband and I were the only people. Repeating our overnight accommodations as we returned from the far north was genius.

Our flight had multiple legs, first into Dallas, then Dallas to Helsinki, then Helsinki to Oslo. It all went smoothly. I particularly enjoyed the pretty berry pastry at the Helsinki airport coffee shop. Upon our arrival in Oslo, we used the Flytoget train, buying a roundtrip ticket at the station. These trains are clean, frequent, and quick. As we had arrived before check-in time, we left our bags at the Amerikalinien hotel, walked over to the Oslo Opera House, and walked to the top to enjoy views of the harbor and city. We walked over to Barcode Street Food for a wide variety of options for dinner and drink. Altogether, we ate there three times during our time in Oslo; I particularly enjoyed the poke at Hawaii.

Adding a 'recovery day' after our overnight flights to Oslo was wise. The breakfast at the Amerikalinien had extensive, delicious options. We had a rainy day in Oslo, but it didn’t mar our tour on the Silent Oslo Fjord Cruise. With an Oslo pass, we used public transit to travel to Lazy Boyz Harley-Davidson Oslo in the suburbs for a couple t-shirts. The lounge at the top floor of the Munch was perfect for an overview of the harbor and city while enjoying a cold drink.

Using our return pass, we returned to the airport for our midday flight to Alta. The flight itself was scenic and one would wish every airport was the airport in Alta. Our car rental with Hertz went smoothly start to finish. We enjoyed lunch in the local mall at Aranya AS. In total, we ate three meals there. The parking app for the mall was easy to set up and to use. The mall is a good spot to buy a missing cord or some Norwegian chocolate.

Our afternoon was spent at the World Heritage Rock Art Centre and Alta Museum. The museum offers a range of exhibitions including local life in the time of the rock carvings up to 9000 years ago, the more recent history of mining and fishing, and World War II history. There are two long paths with extensive boardwalks that allow you to view the rock carvings along the way. Allow enough time to view the carvings and soak in their fjord setting. We returned for a second visit when we returned to Alta.

Then we made our way to Trasti and Trine’s Lodge. Our spacious room was very comfortable; the breakfasts were delicious with a generous range of dishes offered. We enjoyed morning walks down to the river. It was interesting to learn about the Northern Light huskies and to visit the puppies. We enjoyed a leisurely evening meal in their excellent restaurant. The next morning, we had the Altafjord Cruise on the Ice Cube of Aurora all to ourselves. The water was choppy, but didn’t mar our adventure. We learned about World War II in Alta, viewed a fjord waterfall, and looked for seals with high quality binoculars. The fjord was in full fall color.

After two nights in Alta, we spent our next two nights in Honningsvag at The View, a smartly converted Cold War Era military barracks. As suggested by its name, this location has a commanding view of the fjord. We enjoyed the northern lights on the outdoor balcony each night of our stay. Be sure to download an app such as Aurora that can provide you with alerts. We also left our window drapes open all night. We enjoyed a dinner at NorMat. The hotel does not offer food other than breakfast, but it has several beers on tap. The local museum, Nordkappmuseet, had an excellent variety of exhibits on local history and art – the section on World War II and post war recovery was particularly moving.

Because of the warm water currents, the fall colors around Honningsvag were not as far along as either Alta or Karasjok. Coming into Honningsvag, we passed through several long tunnels, including one that took us 800 feet below sea level – a record for us. Nevertheless, our drive on winding roads to NordKapp was still quite dramatic. NordKapp itself was impressive. We arrived early, allowing for plenty of photo opportunities, and time before the Nordkappmuseet opened. The museum has a nice café and gift shop. It’s a great spot to buy and send postcards from NordKapp. The northern lights, sea birds, local history, and World War II history displays were all well done.

Our next two nights were spent in Engholm Husky Design Lodge in a very stylish custom cabin. Each detail of our lodging was carefully considered and beautifully crafted, mostly from natural materials. It is a perfect spot to cocoon in nature in any season. We enjoyed the opportunity to ride along on a husky training run through woodland trails out to the river and back, and to visit with the latest litter of huskies. We drove over the border to Finland for lunch and a stop at the grocery store for snacks. We bought postcards and stamps and mailed them on the spot. The Sámi Museum in Karasjok - De Samiske Samlinger/Sámiid Vuorká-Dávvirat was an excellent introduction to the culture and traditions of the Sami people including artifacts, traditional clothing and tools, art and history.

After returning to Alta, we went on a northern light tour with Glød Explorer. Glød means ‘glow’. We were the only tour members that evening. Starting with a delicious fish soup and an introductory film, Gard took us out to the best spots for catching the lights. With light rain and clouds, it took patience and a few locations before the lights were visible. Alta claims to be the home of the light for good reason, the local skies seem to be a node for the lights. Not only were the flickering beams dancing, but less common forms directly overhead morphed in forms that resembled fish or flowers. Gard even took our photo with the lights in the background. It was the perfect highlight to our trip!

Our return travels went smoothly. It was a trip we will always remember – off-season and perfectly attuned to our specific interests and requests. Thanks Tricia!

Hotel Reviews

Amerikalinjen

Oslo

Outstanding hotel in a very convenient location across from the train station and within easy walking distance of the city harbor area. Staff was attentive and accommodating. The hotel was able to hold our luggage until checkin so we could begin exploring the city. When checkin was a bit delayed, we were given an upgraded room. The hotel was decorated with items reflecting the history of the American Line in Oslo. Comfortable beds! The sumptuous breakfast was a real treat. On the day we departed before the regular breakfast hours, we were offered a packed breakfast. The hotel bar was very stylish with unusual cocktails. We stayed here for a total of three nights; two as we arrived in Norway and the night before we departed.

Authenticity & Character

Loved the historical details from the American Line that were featured throughout the hotel.

Location

Easy walking distance to the downtown harbor area including the main station, opera house, dining, and museums.

Staff

Attentive - offered a packed breakfast when we had an early departure.

Cleanliness & Comfort

Comfortable, cozy bed and bedding. Loved the modern, full powered shower and generously sized bath area.

Trasti & Trine´s Lodge

Alta

Very welcoming and comfortable accommodations for lodging and dining. Extensive grounds with trails to the river. And, best of all, huskies! This location is convenient to activities in the Alta area. It is a great location for watching the Northern lights. The breakfasts were delicious. The evening is devoted to fine dining. A unique offering.

Authenticity & Character

Huskies!

Location

Just out of town. Beautiful country setting; lovely in the fall. Very convenient to all activities in the Alta area.

Staff

Very friendly and helpful in answering our questions and offering suggestions, such a the river hike.

Cleanliness & Comfort

Loved the individualized bedding; I might just try that back home! Generously sized rooms and baths.

The View

Honningsvåg

A smartly converted Cold War Era military barracks with the outstanding view. We enjoyed the northern lights from the outdoor balcony every night of our stay. The complimentary breakfast was very nice each morning. The hotel does not offer food other than breakfast, but it has several beers on tap.

Authenticity & Character

Very cool retrofitting of an old Cold War era military barracks.

Location

Not in the heart of the town, but with outstanding views of the harbor.

Staff

Staff was very knowledgable of the area with excellent tips.

Cleanliness & Comfort

Comfy, individualized bedding was the best.

Engholm Husky Design Lodge

Karasjok

We loved the very stylish custom cabin. Each detail was carefully considered and beautifully crafted, mostly from natural materials. It is a perfect spot to cocoon in nature in any season. We enjoyed the opportunity to ride along on a husky training run through woodland trails out to the river and back, and to visit with the latest litter of huskies.

Authenticity & Character

This lodge exudes character. We marveled over the handcrafted details of the decor. Quiet, peaceful, thoughtfully designed.

Location

This location is convenient to activities in Karasjok and just over the border into Finland.

Staff

Dedicated to huskies! It was a real treat to go out on a training run.

Cleanliness & Comfort

You could happily cocoon in this lodge in any season.

Activity Reviews

Silent Oslo Fjord Cruise

Oslo

This cruise was an easy introduction to Oslo. It was very peaceful to view the city from the water. The tour guide's narrative was just right, informative while giving space to enjoy the cruise.

Altafjord Cruise

Alta

Easy to find. A choppy day did not deter our enjoyment of this trip. We were the only two on the cruise on this day. We learned about World War II in Alta, viewed a fjord waterfall, and looked for seals with high quality binoculars. The fjord was in full fall color.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

The personal experiences of our captain and his knowledge of the fjord and local area was a key part of this tour.

Transport

Hunting the Northern lights with Photographer

Alta

This was a perfect adventure to conclude our time in northern Norway. Glød means ‘glow’. We were the only tour members that evening. Starting with a delicious fish soup and an introductory film, Gard took us out to the best spots for catching the lights. With light rain and clouds, it took patience and a few locations before the lights were visible. Alta claims to be the home of the light for good reason, the local skies seem to be a node for the lights. Not only were the flickering beams dancing, but less common forms directly overhead morphed in forms that resembled fish or flowers. Gard even took our photo with the lights in the background. It was the perfect highlight to our trip!

Quality of Experience

Alta is the home of the northern light for good reason. The local nodes result in unique, memorable morphing forms.

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Gard was an excellent guide full of enthusiasm and local knowledge of the lights.

Transport

Van was a comfortable way to tour looking for northern lights.

The Kim Kim person we interacted with the most was Tricia and she did a great job creating and booking an interesting itinerary and activities along the way. Tom handled communication with us as well , when Tricia was unavailable promptly and with courtesy.
One thing to note, which may help other travelers, is to advise them about the changing weather conditions up in the northern part of Norway in September and beyond because flights can be canceled by the airlines unpredictably due to weather and therefore the other connections will suffer from it. Better include a buffer of time so travelers don’t incur added expenses with flights and lost time, during their return as we did.

Hotel Reviews

Scandic Syv Søstre

Sandnessjøen

Good hotel for a short stay. Good breakfast with paid parking on the street. Room was comfortable. Located in the city close to the port close to the departing ferries. Good breakfast.

Authenticity & Character

Modern, not noteworthy.

Location

Close to the port.

Staff

Helpful staff.

Cleanliness & Comfort

Clean room and common areas.

Svinøya Rorbuer

Svolvær

Very nice hotel with individual cabins next to the water an excellent location close to the port. Breakfast is ample but not as varied as with other hotels. A good place to stay for a few days to visit Lofoten and learn about the fishing tradition of the stock fish trade. The hotel is not one building and it’s pleasant to walk to the main reception and restaurant from the cabin.

Authenticity & Character

The architecture with wood is attractive and cozy.

Location

Scandic Havet

Bodø

The hotel is on the port with nice room views. Ample space in the room and in the common areas. The hotel has a contemporary character. Helpful staff and easy to walk to. The hotel does not have a dedicated parking and paid parking is available in surrounding parking lots. Street parking is free between 4pm to 8am. Breakfast is very good and varied.

Authenticity & Character

It’s a modern hotel with no particular character.

Location

Central location easy to access cruises or walks in the city.

Staff

Very helpful staff.

Cleanliness & Comfort

The room and common areas are clean and well maintained.

Vega Havhotell

Vega

A super nice hotel with a Norwegian character by the sea. Nice room, quiet with a view and great breakfast. The hotel has a small lounge and a nice architectural character. Family owned the staff was very helpful.

Authenticity & Character

Traditional Norwegian architecture

Location

By the sea in an undeveloped area great for walks along the seashore.

Staff

Very helpful staff, provided by the family that owns the hotel.

Cleanliness & Comfort

Very clean and tidy with a comfortable room.

Thon Hotel Trondheim

Trondheim

A centrally located hotel good for a short stay. Paid parking available a couple of blocks away from the hotel. Decent breakfast. The room was rather small but clean.

Authenticity & Character

Just average. No character to speak of.

Location

In the city center.

Staff

Staff was OK.

Cleanliness & Comfort

Clean room and common spaces.

Thon Hotel Terminus

Oslo

The hotel is close to the main Oslo rail station which is a few minutes away walking. The hotel has small rooms but clean and tidy. Breakfast was good.

Authenticity & Character

Just average.

Location

Very centrally located close to the railway station.

Staff

Helpful staff.

Cleanliness & Comfort

Clean hotel.

Valldal Fjordhotell

Valldal

Very nice hotel close to the fjord. Depending on the room the view is nice. Very quiet hotel with a comfortable room. Good breakfast, free parking. Small lounge. Near the hotel there is a nice trail to walk by the river and a rental place with kayaks and other local guided tours.

Authenticity & Character

It’s a functional hotel with a pleasing look.

Location

Very special location next to the fjord with nice outdoor surroundings

Staff

Not so helpful, but just OK.

Cleanliness & Comfort

Room and common areas were clean. Good for a few days stay.

Setran Gård

Salsbruket

An authentic farm close to a lake with a view and animals (sheep, pigs, horses, chicken, rabbits). The individual cabin was great, roomy and comfortable. They do not offer breakfast or meals but there is an equipped kitchen if you with to buy ingredients and cook your own meals. A special location with lots of walking to do nearby and a beautiful nature.

Authenticity & Character

An authentic farm setting.

Location

Countryside location with nice views.

Staff

Very helpful caretaker couple when we went.

Cleanliness & Comfort

Clean cabin.

Hustadvika Havhotell

Fraena

Very good hotel by the water with views to the sea and the mountains. Comfortable with a room that had a great view. Free parking with good breakfast. Recommended for a short or longer stay.

Authenticity & Character

Pleasing architecture.

Location

In the countryside by the sea.

Staff

Helpful staff.

Cleanliness & Comfort

Comfortable and clean.

Activity Reviews

A Taste of Norway's Culture and Cuisine

Oslo

The culinary and culture tour in Oslo was a bit disappointing. The guide was nice and knowledgeable about the city and its architecture, but the food stops were underwhelming. We only visited two places, and one was even closed. The food we did try, like a hot dog with shrimp salad and a pancake, didn't live up to the expectations of a "gastronomy tour."

Guided Kayaking in Valldal

Valldal

The kayaking tour in Valldal was quite enjoyable. Initially planned as a five-hour tour, it was cut down to three hours, which was actually sufficient for us. The guides were not local but were knowledgeable and made the experience interesting by explaining different aspects of the fjord and aquaculture. There were about eight or nine kayaks, making it a pleasant small group experience.