Top 10 outdoor activities in Norway
It would be simplistic to think that apart from observing and admiring the northern lights, there is nothing to do in Norway.
Located in the north of Europe, Norway is a Scandinavian country comprising mountains, glaciers and deep coastal fjords, which suggests that a good number of outdoor activities are possible.
Norway is also famous for fishing, hiking and skiing, especially at the Lillehammer Olympic station but there are a lot of spots to explore if you are fond of thrills.
Here are some examples of activities and places to discover if you are visiting this fantastic country:
Ski touring in Møre og Romsdal
Night-touring skiing has become very popular in Norway in recent years, making it one of the most coveted activities in the region! An unusual excursion that begins at the Uteguiden office in Stranda and then you leave by car to the starting point, where you will start to climb towards the summit lit only by the light of your headlamp and the stars. And if the weather conditions are good, chances are you can admire the Northern Lights. The kind of experience we don't have every day.
The same spot but during the day. Explore the beautiful mountains and spectacular views of Møre og Romsdal with an expert guide who knows the area inside out.
The summit accessible on the first day is at Lisjenibba og Kvitegga but the guide will adapt to the ski and snow conditions. And after a hard day on the slopes, you may well end up in a sauna with a cold Slogen beer in hand on the other side of the fjord.
The spirit of Uteguiden is to focus on the skiing, rather than the peaks, which is why you will sometimes have to descend into the forest instead of trying to go straight down.
Mountain biking in the fjords of Norway
TheHafjell bike park is world famous, but there are plenty of other spots to explore in Norway. The fabulous fjords on the mountainside offer great descents to ride your bike.
When the snow has melted, the trails that wind through the Sunmore Alps are a real treat to ride, but you can also find equally exciting spots in the country, such as Stranda, Bygdøy and Akerselva nearOslo, or Sogndal in the Jostedalsbreen National Park. You'll be riding enduro trails in clouds of dust, rough descents, tight turns, trails through pine forests - the ultimate downhill biking dream.
Sled dogs in Svalbard
The Northern Lights have always been blessed with a certain amount of magic and mystery. And if you want to know everything about this spectacular sight, your guide-musher will reveal all his secrets and his knowledge of the local culture.
Let the dogs pull you through this beautiful polar night, past deep valleys and majestic mountains, accompanied by the Arctic silence, only interrupted by the breathing of the racing dogs and your sled gliding over the surface of the hard-packed snow. With the magnificent Northern Lights overhead, like a green beacon guiding you through the darkness and leaving you in total awe.
Surfing in the Arctic in Lofoten
Enjoy the beautiful Arctic waves against the backdrop of the high mountains in one of the world's most beautiful surf camps. Between late May and mid-July, the sun never sets in Lofoten and Unstad is perfectly situated to experience this famous midnight sun.
You will be able to admire the spectacle of nature unfolding above you with these fantastic natural lights. A unique opportunity to surf illuminated by the Northern Lights!
Hot air ballooning in Svalbard
Svalbard is an archipelago in Norway located in the Arctic Ocean. Discover the incredible Arctic wilderness by hot air balloon with Spitzbergen Adventures, which offers regular balloon flights over the Norwegian island of Svalbard, whose surface is mostly covered by glaciers.
This is a fantastic opportunity to experience something special and exclusive. Silence, nature and incredible mountain scenery await you and all from the air.
Snowmobile trip to Tromsø, Norway
A snowmobile safari that gives you the opportunity to venture deep into the desert. Discover the mountains of the far north and the northern lights of this fabulous country while riding your snowmobile. You will embark on a ride that takes you past the scenic mountains and through the spectacular snow-covered Finn Valley, from 250m to 900m above sea level. The trail is 15 km each way and you will be on the snowmobile for about 2.5 hours.
Rafting in Norddal
You can also try rafting in Norddal for a refreshing and action-packed outdoor experience. The rapids are spread over the entire length of the 11 km long Valldøla River. You can also swim in the river's currents.
It is an amazing and rewarding experience to feel the raw power of the river as you float safely through the waves. With a break halfway along the river. You light a fire, heat water and enjoy delicious Norwegian pancakes with local strawberries and cream.
After 11 km of beautiful scenery, adventure and excitement, the rafts float quietly into Norddalsfjord through the village of Valldal, where you will head for the shore. This will leave you with subtle memories when you look back on this wonderful rafting trip.
Climbing in Valldal
Take up the challenge and try climbing, abseiling and caving in an idyllic fjord with stunning mountain views. Near Fjørå, 3 km from the centre of Valldal, there is an ideal place for climbing and abseiling. A 20 metre high cliff with three different routes and several levels of difficulty. Everyone can try climbing with the top rope and abseiling.
Next to the climbing walls, an intriguing cave begs to be explored with a caving trip. With harnesses and helmets keeping you safe, you descend into the cave with flares to light your way. The cave is about 80 metres long and 15 metres deep, and reaches the same level as the highest tides!
Survival course in Femundsmarka National Park
Give in to the temptation and trend of survival courses. Step out of your comfort zone and rediscover yourself with a real human adventure in Femundsmarka, an area that Norwegians themselves consider the epitome of wilderness.
Situated between one of the country's largest lakes and the mountains bordering Sweden, this region is uninhabited except for a few Scandinavians, the Sami, who herd their reindeer on the hills. Lovely pine and birch forests lie at the foot of the arid yet sublime massif. Here, where it is impossible to light a fire, you will melt the snow and learn how to take care of the precious heat and water.
It's not pretending to be cold in this part of the world, and even though it's potentially deadly, people have lived here quite naturally since primitive times.
Watching the midnight sun from a sailing boat in Tromsø
There are very few places on the globe where you can watch a sunset at midnight. And while it may not be the most extreme activity you can do in Norway, it will undoubtedly leave you with memories that will last a lifetime. The midnight sun is a fascinating experience filled with mystery and wonder. On board a luxury catamaran, you can contemplate the golden landscapes of the Arctic. A magical place where time is lost and inspiration drives the environment to create fantastic landscapes.
