Journey to Nordic Europe

Quebec City, Canada

Fly into Quebec City at your leisure and enjoy this lovely town full of history and culture. We will meet at the beautiful Fairmont Le Château Frontenac.

In the late afternoon, there will be a briefing on the Journey including a review of the first flight leg which will take us over Quebec City to Nuuk, Greenland.

This evening we will gather for a welcome cocktail to get acquainted with the group before we enjoy our first dinner together.

Nuuk, Greenland

Ilulissat, Greenland

Today’s flight takes us to Ilulissat, where you’ll find a runway measuring 2,800 feet. For those flying aircraft requiring a longer runway, there’s the option to take a commercial flight (airfare not included) to Ilulissat. Situated approximately 150 miles north of the Arctic Circle, Ilulissat offers unparalleled access to both colossal icebergs and the polar icecap. Nestled at the mouth of the 35-mile-long ice fjord, the town boasts a picturesque location surrounded by immense ice formations originating from Sermeq Kujalleq, the most productive glacier in the northern hemisphere.

The next day, we will embark on a Glacier & Iceberg Cruise, navigating through a mesmerizing array of floes and icebergs. On clear days, the scenery is nothing short of surreal. Ilulissat is encircled by hundreds of icebergs, ranging in shape from flat-topped hunks to jagged mountain peaks, and varying in size from small doghouses to mega-cruise ships and beyond. But that’s just what you see above the surface! The Ice Fjord, conveniently close to Hotel Arctic, earned its place on UNESCO’s World Heritage List during the 28th session of The World Heritage Committee in the summer of 2004. This vast expanse contains one of the world’s largest and most active glaciers, advancing at a remarkable rate of 20 meters per day.

Akureyri, Iceland

Moving forward with our exploration we will fly to the charming city of Akureyri, Iceland. Touch down in Akureyri and enjoy a seamless transfer to the comfort of Hotel Kea. Nestled in the heart of Iceland’s second city, this landmark hotel offers panoramic views of a stunning fjord, along with classic ambience and impeccable service.

The following day, immerse yourself in the wonders of the Diamond Circle tour. Experience nature’s might as we explore cascading waterfalls and ancient lava formations, visiting iconic highlights such as Go›afoss, Mývatn, Dettifoss, and Ásbyrgi. Conclude the day with a leisurely exploration of Akureyri itself, followed by a delightful dinner at a local restaurant.

Oslo, Norway

Our Journey brings us to Oslo, Norway, where we’ll transfer to The Thief, a luxury boutique hotel nestled on a peninsula in the city’s trendy Tjuvholmen District. Adorned with a collection of original modern art by luminaries such as Cindy Sherman and Andy Warhol, The Thief exudes chic elegance. Each of its 118 rooms boasts bespoke furnishings by world-class designers, accompanied by thoughtful amenities like turn-down service featuring a flask of hot water, herbal tea, and freshly-made brownies. Indulge in renowned dining options at Michelin-recommended Fru K and the Thief Roof, and unwind at the spa or modern fitness center.

Continuing our exploration of Oslo, we embark on a full-day combo experience to witness the city’s top sights. Accompanied by our knowledgeable guide, we embark on a sightseeing tour by coach, visiting iconic landmarks such as Vigeland Park and the famous Holmenkollen Ski Jump for photo opportunities. Delve into Norway’s rich history at the FRAM Museum, which chronicles the nation’s polar exploration, and marvel at Viking heritage at the Viking Ship Museum. Our day concludes with a serene cruise around the Oslo Fjord, offering panoramic views of the idyllic coastal landscape.

Stockholm, Sweden

Today we will fly our airplanes to Stockholm, a city steeped in history and tradition. Our destination is the renowned Grand Hotel Stockholm, which boasts over 130 years of heritage and occupies a prestigious waterfront location overlooking the Royal Palace and Gamla Stan, Stockholm’s old town. This timeless classic has played a pivotal role in shaping Stockholm into the cosmopolitan city it is today, hosting illustrious guests including Nobel Prize laureates, royalty, heads of state, and artists since 1901.

Our exploration of Stockholm continues with a guided city tour led by a local expert. We’ll delve into the affluent Ostermalm District, explore central city areas such as Hotorget and Sergel Plaza, and marvel at the Renaissance-styled Royal Palace. Venturing into the Kungsholmen district, we’ll admire 18th to 20th-century architecture, including City Hall, where the Nobel Prize Award dinners are held annually. Our journey then takes us to the southern shore of Saltsjon island, offering breathtaking views of the city from the picturesque Fjallgatan Street. Finally, we’ll wander through Stockholm’s charming Old Town, “Gamla Stan,” immersing ourselves in its cobblestoned streets and timeless atmosphere.

On the following day, take the opportunity to unwind and explore at your leisure, soaking in the beauty and vibrancy of Stockholm on your own terms.

Helsinki, Finland

The next leg of our Journey takes us to Helsinki, Finland’s capital, where we will be welcomed at Hotel St. George upon arrival. Nestled in the heart of Helsinki, directly across from the picturesque Old Church Park, this meticulously restored landmark offers a blend of contemporary luxury and historical charm. Hotel St. George revolutionizes the hotel experience, boasting a stunning art collection curated in collaboration with esteemed institutions like the Helsinki Art Museum and the National Gallery. Among its treasures is a remarkable sculpture by acclaimed Chinese artist Ai Weiwei, adding to the allure of this seven-floor masterpiece.

Our exploration of Helsinki continues with a full-day tour to Suomenlinna, a sprawling maritime fortress spread across seven islands. We’ll board a ferry from Kauppatori and within minutes find ourselves immersed in one of Scandinavia’s most remarkable man-made wonders. Constructed by Sweden in the 18th century, Suomenlinna showcases European military architecture of the era, offering insights into its strategic significance. Following our tour, we’ll indulge in a delectable lunch at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of Helsinki’s culinary scene.

Kirkeness, Norway

Our flight takes us to Kirkenes, Norway, where an extraordinary arctic experience awaits at Snowhotel Kirkenes. Upon arrival, we transfer to this unique accommodation, preparing to be enchanted by its singular charm – the only hotel in the world crafted entirely from snow and ice. Even in the summer season, Snowhotel 365 remains a winter wonderland, preserved with innovative cooling technology to recreate the magic of December in the midst of July.

Our adventure continues with a thrilling King Crab Safari, an epitome of arctic summer exploration. Setting out from Kirkenes harbor, we embark on a boat excursion towards the Barents Sea, surrounded by the cries of seagulls and the promise of marine marvels. Guided by experienced fishermen, we partake in authentic King crab fishing, venturing into the depths of the Varanger fjord to retrieve the largest specimens. With hands-on participation, we haul the cages and revel in the exhilarating catch before journeying to a rustic fjord-side restaurant. Here, we indulge in a feast fit for royalty, savoring the finest King crab prepared in the classic northern Norwegian style – pure, fresh, and irresistibly delicious. With generous portions ensuring satisfaction, our culinary experience is destined to be unforgettable.

Svalbard, Norway

Proceeding with out discovery, we will fly to Svalbard, the world’s northernmost settlement and the largest inhabited area in Norway. Then we will transfer to the luxurious Funken Lodge. Perched on Svalbard, Funken Lodge offers unparalleled views of Longyearbyen and the surrounding glaciers, providing the perfect retreat after exhilarating nature experiences. Indulge in exclusive international cuisine and drinks in the hotel’s relaxed and opulent atmosphere.

The following morning is yours to enjoy at leisure, whether you choose to relax or explore the area on your own. In the afternoon, we’ll embark on a unique boat tour aboard MS Bard, immersing ourselves in the breathtaking coastal landscapes of Svalbard. With no fixed route or destination, we’ll sail where conditions are most favorable, guided by weather patterns, waves, and recent wildlife sightings. This flexible approach ensures that we capture the best experiences the day has to offer, making for an unforgettable adventure in the Arctic.

Alesund, Norway

Our next stop is Ålesund, Norway, where we will transfer to the Storfjord Hotel, a luxurious hideaway set amidst serene fjords and lush forests, offering rustic elegance, panoramic views, and exceptional Norwegian hospitality.

Our first day in Alesund treats us to the breathtaking scenery of this picture-perfect town, nestled among several islands that extend into the Atlantic, with the majestic Sunnmøre Mountains forming an awe-inspiring backdrop. Alesund’s charm lies not only in its natural splendor but also in its unique architecture, rebuilt in exquisite Art Nouveau style following a devastating fire in the early 20th century.

The following day, we embark on an Electric Porsche Day Trip, immersing ourselves in the scenic wonders of the Sunnmøre region. The Sunnmore Alps boast some of Scandinavia’s finest driving roads, with each twist and turn offering panoramic views and opportunities to appreciate the region’s signature architecture. Our journey may include ferry crossings over picturesque fjords or traversing sub-ocean tunnels, all in the luxurious comfort of the Porsche Taycan, ensuring an unforgettable experience.

Our final adventure in Alesund takes us soaring through the skies as we explore the city and its surroundings from the cockpit of a helicopter. Over a 30-minute ride, we’ll marvel at unparalleled views of glaciers, fjords, mountains, and iconic landmarks, experiencing the rooftop of the planet in a truly unique and unforgettable way.

Reykjavik, Iceland

After breakfast and an in-depth briefing, we will launch for our over water crossing to Iceland and spend the night at Hotel Borg.

The following morning, we’ll head west to return home. Two technical stops have been arranged in Kangerlussuaq, Greenland, and then in Goose Bay, Canada, for refueling before continuing onwards to Bangor, Maine, to clear US Customs. For those based on the west coast of the United States, an alternate stop to clear US customs can be arranged. Afterwards, we will all go our separate ways home.