Glaciers & Greenland

Tromsø, nestled within the Arctic Circle, is ideal if you want to see the northern lights, and offers a lovely mix of outdoor activities, cultural events, and restaurants that serve Arctic delicacies. The Arctic Cathedral, with its striking design, is a must-see. Take a cable car up Storsteinen Mountain for panoramic views of the fjords and surrounding islands.

Tromsø is also renowned for its Northern Lights, visible from September to April. The Polaria Arctic aquarium provides a unique insight into Arctic marine life, and the Polar Museum offers a fascinating look at the region's polar history. Stroll through the city center to explore charming cafes, shops, and the historic wooden houses of Skansen.

Longyearbyen, set in the remote wilderness of Spitsbergen in the Svalbard archipelago, offers a unique blend of rugged Arctic landscapes and a surprisingly vibrant community. The town serves as the main cruise port, welcoming visitors to explore its distinctive attractions and key landmarks including the Svalbard Museum, where the island's natural and human history come to life, and the iconic Svalbard Church.

For a taste of local life, try traditional dishes like reindeer stew or Arctic char in the town's cozy eateries. Beyond Longyearbyen, the stark beauty of the Arctic awaits. where you can embark on guided tours to witness majestic glaciers, fjords, and the elusive polar bear. The area around Longyearbyen offers opportunities for dog sledding, snowmobile safaris, and, in the right season, viewing the mesmerizing Northern Lights.

Ittoqqortoormiit is one of the remotest inhabited places in the world. It is bordered to the south by the vast Greenland National Park, which, at 18,000km, is the largest national park in the world. To the northwest is the world’s deepest multi-branched fjord system, Scoresby Sound.

Covered with ice and snow for nine months of the year, you will be able to discover the ancestral way of life of the last hunters of the polar region. As soon as the thickness of the ice floe allows, they set out on the trail of walruses, seals, narwhals, musk ox and polar bears, travelling by traditional dog sleds.

Scoresby Sund, located on Greenland's eastern coast, is the largest fjord system in the world, offering stunning, unspoiled Arctic scenery. The town of Ittoqqortoormiit serves as the gateway to this majestic region, where towering icebergs and dramatic cliffs create a breathtaking landscape. The local museum provides insights into the history and culture of the Inuit people who inhabit this remote area.

For adventure seekers, Scoresby Sund offers opportunities for kayaking among the icebergs, hiking through rugged terrain, and wildlife spotting, including polar bears and whales. The pristine environment and serene beauty of Scoresby Sund make it a perfect destination for nature lovers and those seeking a truly off-the-beaten-path experience.

Prince Christian Sound or Prins Christian Sund is a dramatically picturesque fjord in the south of Greenland with gorgeous glaciers, steep mountains reaching over 2,200 metres, crystal-clear waterfalls fed by the ice sheet and untouched wildlife.

Here, whales swim along the iceberg-dotted shores and bearded seals love to lie on the floating ice to soak up the sunshine.

Bright blue and purple flowers come out during the summer and visitors may get to witness an aurora borealis, a stunning light show put on by the polar night.

Paamiut, formerly known as Fredrikshaab, is a serene town nestled on the southwest coast of Greenland. Known for its stark beauty and maritime history, Paamiut is surrounded by rugged landscapes that are characteristic of Greenland’s dramatic natural scenery. The town itself is celebrated for its historical architecture, particularly the well-preserved church built in 1909, which stands as a testament to its rich past.

The surrounding area of Paamiut offers a wealth of outdoor activities, from sea kayaking to hiking, exploring the vast nearby sea and mountainous terrains. Additionally, the region is a notable habitat for white-tailed eagles, enhancing its natural allure. Paamiut seamlessly blends its cultural heritage with the breathtaking natural environment, embodying the tranquil yet vibrant spirit of Greenland.

Nuuk, the capital of Greenland, offers a unique blend of contemporary living and traditional Arctic culture. Situated at the mouth of one of the largest and most spectacular fjord systems in the world, the city is a gateway to vast icebergs and remote Inuit communities. Nuuk's cultural significance is highlighted at the Greenland National Museum, which showcases artefacts from the Saqqaq culture and well-preserved mummies from Qilakitsoq.

Urban life in Nuuk is vibrant yet intimate, with local cafes and shops offering a taste of modern Greenlandic life. The city's backdrop of sharp peaks and the nearby Sermitsiaq mountain provide a constant reminder of Greenland’s rugged natural beauty. Explore the fjord and gain a direct view of ice floes and marine wildlife, while discovering both culture and adventure in this remote city.

The largest town in southern Greenland, colourful Qaqortoq rises steeply over the fjord system around the city, offering breath-taking panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains, deep, blue sea, Lake Tasersuag, icebergs in the bay, and pastoral backcountry. Ships will anchor offshore and tender guests to shore.

Top Things to Do in Qaqortoq:

• hike around Lake Tasersuaq
• visit the Norse ruins at Hvalsey Church
• tour the Qaqortoq Art Walk
• bathe in the hot springs on Uunartoq Island
• visit the Qaqortoq Museum
  

Grundarfjordur is a picturesque town situated on the fjord of Beidafjordur on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. This charming fishing village is located right next to Kirkjufell mountain, the most photographed mountain in Iceland. Ships will dock at the Port of Grundarfjordur.

Top Things to Do in Grundarfjordur:

• take a scenic drive along the Snæfellsnes Peninsula
• enjoy a cruise in Breidafjordur Bay
• visit the Bjarnarhofn Shark Farm
• explore the town of Stykkisholmur
• visit Helgafell, the holy mountain

Reykjavik, the vibrant capital of Iceland, offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. Begin your day exploring the striking Hallgrímskirkja church, with its panoramic city views from the tower. Wander through the colorful streets of the Old Harbor, where you can find quirky shops, cozy cafes, and stunning views of Mount Esja.

Don't miss the Harpa Concert Hall, an architectural marvel on the waterfront, or a visit to the National Museum for a deep dive into Icelandic history. Recharge at one of Reykjavik's many geothermal pools, like the Blue Lagoon, just a short drive from the city. Wrap up your visit with a stroll along the scenic Sun Voyager sculpture, capturing the spirit of adventure and discovery.