The Luxury Travel Magazine
The Luxury Travel Magazine
Europe certainly isn’t short of a summer holiday destination. From the fantastique French Riviera to the glistening lakes of Italy, some places are truly synonymous with a sunny getaway. Somewhere that’s perhaps more likely to be on your travel radar during the winter months is Norway, but this Scandinavian paradise is far more than just the continent’s Christmas host. While it’s no doubt a special place to visit in December, why not ditch the Christmas lights for bright nights and unique experiences you can only enjoy in the summertime? Here are three reasons why summer is the perfect time to enjoy your very own fairytale in the fjords.
One of the more special reasons to visit Norway at this time of year is the midnight sun. Venture to northern Norway above the Arctic Circle, and you’ll be treated to endless days filled with unforgettable activities. Whether you’re kayaking, hiking, playing golf, or simply on a mission to capture the scene through your camera lens, there’s something truly ethereal about exploring this beautiful country when it’s illuminated by the enduring Arctic light. Between May and July, there are 76 days of midnight sun, so you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the activities on offer.
Christmas isn’t the only cause for celebration in this part of the world. Up and down the country, especially along the mountain ranges and coastlines, Midsummer Eve is marked with the lighting of bonfires on the 23rd of June each year. Referred to locally as Sankthansaften, or Saint John’s Eve, the occasion combines pagan rituals with Christian values and long-standing traditions.
What better way to get in the festive spirit than by sampling some local specialities? There are lots of dishes synonymous with this time of year, including spekemat, which is a selection of cured meats, and bløtkake, a creamy sponge cake often eaten at important celebrations.
While they’re unlikely to feature on a winter itinerary in this part of the world, Norway’s beaches are perfect for a summer getaway. One standout is the pristine Haukland Beach on the Lofoten Islands, characterised by its crystal-clear turquoise waters and powdery white sand, offering a picturesque setting alongside dramatic mountain backdrops. Sure, Lofoten might not be somewhere you’re likely to lay down a beach towel, but the mild conditions are perfect for exploring this special landscape during the summer.
Further south, Sola Beach in Stavanger is a favourite among locals and tourists alike, known for its expansive stretch of sand and excellent conditions for water sports. And, with summer temperatures regularly exceeding the 25ºC mark in this part of the country, Norway’s catalogue of south coast beaches offers unforgettable summer experiences that rival more traditional tropical destinations.
If you’re looking for a winter wonderland to enjoy a memorable Christmas in, Norway is just the place. Equally, if you’re asking where you can see spectacular beaches, cultural festivals and the atmospheric midnight sun, this Scandinavian jewel has all the answers. Whether you’re visiting the luminous north or the blazing south – or just about anywhere in between – a summer trip to Norway has to be on your travel bucket list.
