VIKINGS & VISTAS – London to Tromso

Situated on the Tay estuary, Dundee is Scotland’s sunniest city. It has also earned the accolade of being a UNESCO City of Design-the first in the UK to be awarded the honor. Dundee certainly made its mark on the world as an innovation hub. Yet, the star of Dundee’s Discovery Point show is the RRS Discovery, a three-masted beauty of a 1901 vessel that, with Captain Scott at the helm, expanded the frontiers of exploration in Antarctica. Spend some time exploring Mains Castle and Dundee’s particular Mercat Cross. Before leaving Dundee, be sure to ascend the 572-foot peak known as The Law.

Spend the day on the high seas pampering yourself at the spa or enjoying some time on deck. Mingle with your fellow explorers and swap stories of your exploits, making plans for new ones together once you get to shore

When the sun shines on the Victorian buildings of Aberdeen, the facades sparkle with an allure that beckons you and other explorer spirits to discover its many charms. Once the world capital of granite (the reason for the buildings’ sparkle), it has earned the nickname the Granite City. Amid old cottages and cobblestone streets, there are thousands of years of history to explore. Dive into the rich, seafaring past of the city at the Maritime Museum. The King’s College Chapel stuns with its awe-inspiring facade and stained-glass windows. Although renowned for its glittering silver hues and deep history, Aberdeen also offers bursts of color at Johnston Gardens, a collection of vibrant flowers like rhododendrons and ornate bridges. When you and your friends are ready for a respite, stop in at one of the local pubs for a bite and a pint, and maybe make new friends with some of the locals.

Stavanger brings you to the intersection of historical and natural wonders. While officially incorporated as a city in 1125 CE, the earliest evidence of inhabitants traces back to 3,000 BCE. A stroll through Old Stavanger takes you to the historic residential area, one of Northern Europe’s best-preserved wooden house settlements. Norway also contains a few prime surfing grounds, including the Jæren beaches. It’s also the gateway to one of the most dramatic fjords, Lysefjord, and is best explored by kayak or stand-up paddleboard. Jutting nearly 2,000 feet above the fjord, Pulpit Rock, or Preikestolen, offers another stunning perspective.

When you think of Norway, among the images that come to mind are those of brightly painted wooden buildings with a backdrop of ice-capped mountains. In a nutshell, you’ve envisioned Bergen, Norway’s second-largest city that’s an easy access gateway to the fjords. Start with an unforgettable funicular ride to the top of the iconic Mount Floyen, rising over 1,000 feet above sea level in a seamless eight minutes. Back on the ground, you will not tire of snapping images of Bergen’s famous UNESCO World Heritage-listed Hanseatic wharf, Bryggen. You will also find that Bergen is a city for foodies, with a commitment to organic and sustainable food that has earned it the additional UNESCO designation of City of Gastronomy.

Picture yourself breathing in the crisp, Nordic air as Sognefjord’s sparkling waters stretch into the horizon like a sapphire serpent, beckoning you to uncover its secrets. In Vik, the spirit of adventure dances in the breeze through the majestic mountains. Embark on a journey back in time with the Hopperstad Stave Church, a masterpiece of medieval architecture that stands proudly, its intricately carved wooden façade narrating tales from centuries past. The options for exploration are as boundless as the fjord itself. Lace up your hiking boots and traverse the trails that weave through lush valleys and over towering peaks. Or perhaps, channel your inner Viking and paddle along the fjord’s tranquil waters, the gentle rhythm of your kayak echoing through the stillness. Indulge in local flavors as you savor the region’s culinary delights, from the freshest seafood gifted by the fjord to the legendary Vik cheese, Gamalost, crafted with care and tradition. Let Vik and the Sognefjord beckon you to a realm where time stands still, and the call of adventure resounds.

Nestled in the heart of the Norwegian fjords, Nordfjordeid is a hidden gem that sparkles with the essence of nature and tradition. Imagine wandering through lush, emerald valleys framed by dramatic, snow-capped peaks that rise majestically towards the sky. This picturesque port serves as your gateway to nature’s untouched canvas, offering an inspiring blend of breathtaking landscapes and vibrant wildlife. The stunning wilderness invites you to explore, whether by hiking along winding trails, kayaking through tranquil waters, or birdwatching as nature unveils its secrets. As you step ashore, immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Norse history at the Sagastad Viking Center. Here, the grand Myklebust Ship awakens tales of Viking seafaring. Go deeper into Viking lore and history, as throughout Nordfjordeid there are several burial mounds and graves providing insight into the fascinating heritage.

Spread across three islands and ringed by dramatic mountains, Ålesund is imbued with whimsy and romance. Dressed elegantly in its signature Art Nouveau architecture, you can appreciate the turrets, spires and medieval ornaments that adorn the town. In a small park at the base of Mount Aksla, you’ll find a picture-postcard view of Ålesund, the Art Nouveau city center and the surrounding alpine landscapes of Sunnmøre. If dramatic views are what you seek, Trollstigen Road is an exciting roadway through enormous mountains, offering amazing views of Norway. The ultimate adventure is Trollveggen, the Troll Wall, which is the highest perpendicular rock face in Europe.

Spend the day on the high seas pampering yourself at the spa or enjoying some time on deck. Mingle with your fellow explorers and swap stories of your exploits, making plans for new ones together once you get to shore

Not only will you witness magnificent fjords and glaciers throughout Tromsø, Norway, but you will also immerse yourself in a sophisticated cultural life and architectural delights. A superb example of blending the built environment with the natural setting is the Arctic Cathedral, an architectural marvel made up of aluminum-coated concrete panels, making it a stunning façade resembling an iceberg. To see the real icebergs, all you have to do is take the Fjellheisen cable car 1,525 feet above sea level for incredible views of the Norwegian fjords. You can also stroll around the Arctic-Alpine Botanical Garden, visit the Science Centre of Northern Norway or gain new knowledge at the city’s museums including the Polar Museum, Tromsø University Museum, and Perspektivet Museum.