A privileged glimpse at the best of Northern Europe, from the greenest cities in Denmark to the stunning fjords of Southern Norway, and a stylish haven in North Germany. Days of exploration blend with idyll days at sea for a journey unlike any you’ve known before.
Copenhagen and Goteborg, while each distinct, both share titles of being ranked as two of the world’s greenest cities. A powerful sense of creative design and a zest for the cosy Hygge lifestyle bestows a wonderful joyous vibe on both locales. Recharged. Renewed. A day at sea leads us past a maze of islands swimming in a narrow fjord to call on Norway’s crown city of Oslo. History is more than nostalgia here and it is proudly on display at the Viking Ship Museum and City Hall, where the much-anticipated Nobel Peace Prizes are awarded each year. Don’t miss the formal gardens at Frogner Park, where more than 200 sculptures present humanity’s emotions in beautiful and bizarre displays. Have you ever found yourself smiling this much? Not until you board a fast-boat to experience lovely Lysefjord and glide along Hegjane Waterfall, or discover a mountain stairway, created by Nepalese sherpas, to Preikestolen (pulpit rock) for soul-enriching cliff-views.
Fuel the spirit with the neo-Nordic food scene that has put Stavanger on the culinary map. But don’t forget her history within Stavanger Cathedral that is Norway’s oldest. From the North Sea, we ply the Elbe River more than 130 kilometres inland to call upon Hamburg, Germany’s “capital of cool.” Affluent shopping promenades mix with endowed museums, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the iconic architectural concert hall; all have a role in cementing Hamburg as a must-do retreat amongst the most sophisticated social circles. Once the home of designer Karl Lagerfeld who, like the city, anticipated what came next in fashion, media and moguls. The glamourous age is alive and well.
Rejoice in one of the happiest and most vibrant capital cities in the world. Relax like a local alongside joyful Danes and varied culture; the Gefion Fountain, the Little Mermaid statue, Old Citadel, the Amalien Palace with four Rococo buildings, medieval history, charming fishing villages, leading examples of sustainable living and - of course - flaky Danish pastries. Cycling is the preferred way to shuttle across town and it’s well worth the pedal to enjoy the trendy, cosy neighbourhood of Norrebro, Christiansborg Palace and the waterfront home of Christian Andersen. Genuine, vibrant and welcoming... rather like the smiles of those that live here.
Day 2Gothenburg
Nature is never far away in this happy city circled by Dutch-style canals. Explore a vibrant cultural scene and fascinating history for true escapism. Discover the ancient wooden houses of the charming Haga district, the Gunnebo House, botanical gardens, boutiques, boulevards and the crumbliest, flakiest pastries for fika breaks. As a world leader in brewing beer and an equally proud fishing pedigree, settle in for long lunches of shellfish platters, globally acclaimed lobster and Poppels beer. Venture out to the beautiful islands of Marstand and Vinga or see it all on an archipelago tour. With a truly positive Swedish and scenic outlook, you’ll end the day feeling refreshed and revitalised.
Day 3Oslo
Not many cities are greener – in habitat or sustainability - than Oslo. With over half Norway’s capital city being covered by forests and parks, it’s only natural that the fjord creeps into the city centre. Nature aside, there’s so much more to explore; music, museums, opera, the Vigeland Sculpture Park and one of the world’s most beautiful libraries. Learn about the works of Edvard Munch and the importance of climate change or attend a private aquavit tasting and the Royal Palace. Embark on an aquatic safari, boat jaunt or bike tour. Then consider concluding your day with a classic finish – plunge fjord deep in for some stimulating cold-water therapy. They say these organic city waters are as clean as they are unique.
Day 5Stavanger
Have a sensory delight in this thriving fishing port - with a million brush strokes of colour and some of the best restaurants in the country. Once you’ve dined in style, wander around the historic buildings of Gamle Stavanger, where traditional white wooden houses sit amongst galleries and craft stores. Amble along to cheerful Øvre Holmegata street - known as ‘The Street of Colours’ - where endless colours coat every building. Cruise along the Lysefjord, say grace at the Utstein Monastery and hover by helicopter above a structure forming rainbows. Your only judgement for the day will be whether the paintings that adorn the walls, doors and even the buses outshine the Michelin-starred fine dining.
Day 7Hamburg
Known as the gateway to the world and bearing the most bridges, immerse yourself with Hamburgers to the sound of canals and cuisine, architecture and music. Prepare to be submerged in culture; from affluent villas to modest Almshouses, the last castle, an inner-city lake, a floating landing platform, the neo-Renaissance Town hall, an industrial underground tunnel and baroque masterpiece, St Nicholas Church. Wander to the solid brick warehouse district of UNESCO Hafen City; touch the shining wave of glass of the futuristic Elbphilharmonie, listen to crystal clear acoustics that pair with Sydney’s Opera House and enjoy views of the River Elbe. Hamburg offers unique, memorable entertainment - for all your senses.
