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Hiking Havens

Norway

Hiking in the fjords of Norway offers an adventure through some of the most dramatic landscapes on Earth. Towering cliffs rise sharply from deep, glacially carved waters, creating a striking contrast between rugged mountain routes and serene coastal paths. As winter gives way to spring, the landscape undergoes a breathtaking transformation—snow begins to melt, revealing lush valleys, and waterfalls swell with the rush of freshly thawed ice. Trails wind through remote villages, past cascading waterfalls, and along sheer rock faces, rewarding hikers with sweeping panoramas at every turn. Whether tackling the winding paths of Trollstigen, venturing into the wilds of the Lofoten Islands, or exploring the depths of Nærøyfjord, Norway’s fjords promise a journey filled with challenge, beauty, and awe-inspiring natural wonders.

Iceland

As spring takes hold in Iceland, the rugged landscapes awaken from their winter slumber, offering hikers a front-row seat to nature’s quiet transformation. Snow begins to retreat from volcanic slopes, revealing stretches of black sand, vibrant moss, and fields of delicate wildflowers just starting to bloom. Rivers and waterfalls surge with glacial melt, carving paths through vast valleys and ancient lava fields. The lengthening days bring crisp air and golden light, making it the perfect season to explore remote trails, traverse steaming geothermal areas, and witness wildlife emerging after the long winter. Whether trekking through the highlands, wandering along dramatic coastlines, or witnessing volcanic craters, hiking in Iceland during spring is a journey through a landscape in motion—raw, powerful, and endlessly breathtaking.

Deplar Farm

Deplar Farm

Hidden within a secluded valley, Deplar Farm invites you to escape into a world where luxury meets untamed beauty. A sanctuary, set against the dramatic backdrop of Iceland’s legendary Troll Peninsula, feels like a love letter to nature itself. Recently named one of Condé Nast’s Most Romantic Hotels for 2025, this retreat offers the perfect setting for both relaxation and adventure. 

The farm’s traditional wood-clad exterior and turf-covered roof whisper of its humble origins as a sheep farm, but step inside and you’ll find a contemporary haven designed for both comfort and wonder. The heart of the retreat is a vast living room, where floor-to-ceiling windows frame the ever-changing hues of the mountains beyond. Soft blues, greys, and browns harmonize with raw timber and rich wool textures, crafting an atmosphere that invites you to linger and savor each quiet moment. Each of the 13 uniquely designed bedrooms feels like a personal retreat—plush beds draped in luxurious fabrics, cozy armchairs perfect for stolen hours with a book, and subtle earthy tones that echo the surrounding landscape. 

By day, adventure beckons: heli-skiing on untouched slopes from April to June, or simply wandering through the unspoiled wilderness. As the sun dips behind the mountains, the farm transforms into a place of joy and connection. The recreation area hums with life—beneath playful strings of lights, guests gather around a horseshoe-shaped bar or indulge in spirited games of table football and snooker. A small stage awaits for impromptu live performances, and a home cinema offers the perfect excuse for a cozy movie night. 

Whether you’re renting the entire property for a special gathering or seeking solitude in a private room, Deplar Farm promises personalized experiences tailored to your every desire. This is a place with a wild heart of Iceland —a refuge for lovers of beauty, adventure, and romance.

Northern Lights

Northern Lights

Surrender to the magic of Nordic nights, where vast skies come alive with celestial wonders. In the stillness of the Arctic wilderness, the Northern Lights — or aurora borealis — dance across the heavens, radiant ribbons of green, pink, and violet shimmering like a love song written by the cosmos. Formed by solar particles colliding with Earth’s magnetic field, these lights are both a scientific marvel and a poetic masterpiece. The charged energy travels along magnetic lines toward the poles, igniting the skies in waves of ethereal color that captivate all who witness them. 

Winter nights across the Nordic lands offer a front-row seat to this natural spectacle. Beneath towering fjords in Norway, along Finland’s frozen lakes, and across Sweden’s untouched forests, the auroras weave their timeless patterns. In Iceland, where fire and ice meet, the lights often paint a stunning backdrop over volcanic landscapes, black sand beaches, and glacial lagoons — a sight both surreal and otherworldly. Sometimes gentle, like brushstrokes across a starry canvas; other times wild, as if the heavens themselves are ablaze with joy — the lights are never the same but always unforgettable. Their presence lingers long after they’ve faded, leaving a glow in your heart that warms even the coldest of nights. 

Under these magical skies, wonder reigns supreme. The Northern Lights are a love letter from the universe — fleeting, beautiful, and infinitely timeless. 

Romantic Escapes

Romantic Escapes

The Nordics offer an array of romantic experiences that are as extraordinary as they are unforgettable. Picture yourselves soaring above the rugged Icelandic highlands in a private helicopter, glide over glaciers, volcanic craters, and steaming geothermal valleys. The experience is pure magic, as you take in the stunning panoramas, from the powerful waterfalls of Gullfoss to the untouched wilderness stretching out before you. It’s the perfect way to begin a journey of adventure and intimacy, far removed from the ordinary. From the otherworldly wonders of Iceland, drift into the peaceful embrace of Norway’s fjords aboard a private yacht. Surrounded by towering cliffs and crystal-clear waters, the fjords offer a sense of serenity unlike anywhere else. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet moment in a hidden cove, savoring a gourmet meal on deck, or simply basking in the beauty of the landscape, the fjords provide the ultimate setting for connection. The stillness of the waters, coupled with the majestic scenery, makes every moment feel like a dream. 

No romantic escape would be complete without an intimate dining experience, and the Nordic region offers some of the most unique and memorable settings. Imagine a candlelit dinner in a remote Icelandic lodge, where the Northern Lights shimmer above as you savor locally sourced delicacies. Or indulge in a Michelin-starred meal by the sea in Denmark, with the rhythmic sounds of the waves accompanying each bite. In Sweden’s Lapland, retreat to a snow-covered forest for a private feast by the warmth of a fire, surrounded by the peaceful silence of the winter landscape. These intimate dining experiences, set against the backdrop of nature’s most awe-inspiring elements, are sure to leave a lasting impression. 

Whether soaring above glaciers, cruising through fjords, or dining beneath the stars, the Nordic region offers a wealth of romantic experiences that are sure to ignite a deeper connection and create memories that will last a lifetime. 

Iceland

Iceland 

From steaming hot springs and dormant volcanoes to ancient glaciers and lush pastures, Iceland is a land of untamed natural beauty—a place where the echoes of Viking chants still seem to linger. This extraordinary island, spanning just 103,000 km², weaves together an awe-inspiring collection of geological wonders found nowhere else on Earth. Where else can you scuba dive in crystal-clear glacial waters between two continental plates or be lowered into the magma chamber of a dormant volcano? 

Shaped by the relentless forces of lava, fire, and ice, Iceland’s dramatic landscapes resemble something out of another world—moonscapes of hardened lava, towering waterfalls, geothermal lakes, and dazzling ice caves have long captured the imagination of Hollywood filmmakers. But beyond the cinematic scenery, Iceland is steeped in folklore, with tales of elves, fairies, and trolls woven into its cultural fabric. 

With a population of just 375,000, Iceland remains one of the least densely populated countries on Earth. Two-thirds of its people are scattered across windswept coastal villages and towns, while one-third resides in Reykjavík, the nation’s vibrant cultural and political capital. 

Iceland is Europe’s premier whale-watching destination, where humpback whales, minke whales, northern bottlenose whales, and even the majestic blue whale are commonly spotted in the icy North Atlantic waters. On land, visitors can experience Iceland’s landscapes on horseback, riding the country’s unique and sturdy Icelandic horses across black-sand beaches and rolling fields. Birdwatchers will also find a paradise here, with sightings of harlequin ducks, puffins, waterfowl, and the golden-tufted Slavonian grebe. 

Iceland is also home to over 30 active volcanoes, fueling countless bubbling hot springs and geothermal pools. This natural energy not only powers homes with sustainable green energy but also offers moments of pure relaxation—soaking in warm mineral-rich waters beneath the Northern Lights or the soft glow of the Midnight Sun is an experience unlike any other.


Frozen Frontiers

 

Nigardsbreen glacier, a stunning arm of Norway’s Jostedalsbreen—the largest glacier in Europe—offers an unforgettable journey into a vanishing icy realm. Its neon-blue ice glows against cool-grey mountain slopes, while vibrant moss carpets the jagged peaks surrounding a verdigris-tinted lake. A trek through the dramatic valley reveals a striking contrast: the warmth of sunlight and the raw, frigid power of the glacier. Yet Nigardsbreen is rapidly shrinking, a fragile reminder of our changing climate. Don’t miss this rare chance to experience Norway’s untamed, glacial beauty before it disappears forever. 

 

The Illulissat Icefjord in Greenland is a spectacular natural wonder, home to the largest collection of icebergs on Earth. Fed by the Sermeq Kujalleq glacier—one of the fastest in the world, moving at 130 feet per day—it calves over 11 cubic miles of icebergs annually. These colossal, sapphire-blue fragments float across the fjord in mesmerizing shapes, creating a surreal, otherworldly landscape. Visiting Illulissat offers a rare chance to witness this glistening Arctic masterpiece up close, as thousands of icebergs shift and shimmer in the icy waters. The fjord is not just a testament to the glacier’s raw power but also a fleeting snapshot of a changing environment. Adventurers seeking awe-inspiring views will find themselves immersed in a once-in-a-lifetime experience, surrounded by crystal-like structures that define the wild, icy beauty of Greenland. 

 

The enchanting ice caves of Iceland, where fire and ice collide in a stunning natural display. Hidden beneath glaciers like Vatnajökull and Mýrdalsjökull, these ever-changing formations are carved anew each year, offering a glimpse into the beauty of glacial movements. Inside, vibrant blue ice contrasts with streaks of black volcanic ash, forming intricate patterns that tell the story of Iceland’s dramatic geological history. Crystal-like structures hang in mesmerizing shapes, creating a surreal, otherworldly setting far removed from the rugged volcanic terrain outside. Among the most famous are the Katla ice caves, nestled near volcanic sands and mossy mountains. Each visit is a unique adventure, as these fleeting wonders evolve with the seasons. Iceland’s ice caves are a magical escape into a pristine world shaped by Earth’s raw power.

Snowy Soaks

A one-of-a-kind retreat in Sweden born from the vision of Per-Anders Eriksson and Johan Kauppi, who first dreamed of a floating sauna where guests could relax while soaking in stunning Arctic Circle views. Their idea blossomed into a boutique hotel like no other, featuring contemporary cabins that appear to float above the Lule River under the midnight sun and perch along its frozen banks in winter. The striking design contrasts beautifully with the raw wilderness, all while honoring the land with a minimal carbon footprint. 

Rooted in local heritage, the architecture pays tribute to the timber industry that once thrived along the river, a lifeline for over 300 generations. Guests are immersed in Nordic history, from ancient settlements to encounters with Sámi culture. Year-round adventures abound—dogsledding, snowshoeing, foraging, reindeer visits, and more—perfectly complemented by the hotel’s sustainable, locally inspired cuisine.

 

Step into a luxurious world of relaxation, wellness, and discovery. Designed to blend Iceland’s volcanic beauty with modern elegance, combining concrete, lava stone, terrazzo, and moss. Since its opening in 2018, it has received global acclaim for its architecture, design, and hospitality. Sixty-two stylish suites feature walnut and lava surfaces, sleek furnishings by Antonio Citterio and Patricia Urquiola, and panoramic views through floor-to-ceiling windows. 

Guests enjoy exclusive amenities, including access to the Blue Lagoon and Ritual, a subterranean spa, yoga, fine dining at a Michelin-starred restaurant, and personalized service. With offerings like guided hikes, Icelandic coffee, and valet parking, every detail is designed for relaxation. Whether unwinding in the geothermal Retreat Lagoon or indulging in a massage, this sanctuary provides a transformative experience in Iceland’s stunning landscape. 

Festive Traditions

As the Nordic winter casts its spell, each country brings its unique charm to the season. In Finland, festive traditions include crafting intricate straw decorations, like Himmeli, symbolizing good fortune for the year ahead. Sweden brims with seasonal treats, from saffron-infused Lucia buns to mulled glögg, creating moments of shared warmth. Norway’s snowy landscapes set the stage for storytelling, where tales of trolls and ancient folklore stir the imagination during long winter nights. Iceland, with its love of the written word, sees families diving into new books while sipping hot cocoa, embracing the joy of both quiet reflection and togetherness. These traditions not only brighten the season but also offer a deep connection to heritage, fostering a sense of unity and comfort amid the cold and dark. The Nordic winter becomes a time of celebration, creativity, and cultural pride.

 

Historic Stays

Amot – Norway 

Step into the heart of Norway with a luxurious stay at a historic rural retreat in Sunnfjord, where history, food, and culture come alive. This enchanting property, built in the late 1800s and lovingly owned by the same family for generations, offers an authentic glimpse into Norwegian traditions. Surrounded by majestic fjords and lush landscapes, guests can indulge in activities like glacier walking, kayaking, hiking, and fjord sailing, all while connecting with the timeless beauty of the region. Every meal is a celebration of local flavors, crafted by a dedicated chef who transforms regional produce into unforgettable culinary experiences. This secluded haven is more than a getaway—it’s an invitation to immerse yourself in the soul of Norway.

Pater Noster – Sweden 

Perched on the windswept island of Hamneskär, this 1868 masterpiece by engineer Nils Gustaf von Heidenstam is a crown jewel of Swedish maritime history. Nicknamed the “King of Lighthouses,” its elegant iron-pillar design and stately height make it a marvel of resilience and ingenuity. Once home to lighthouse keepers, it now welcomes visitors seeking tranquility, connection, and awe-inspiring views from its 32-meter tower. With preserved buildings, lush gardens, and breathtaking seascapes, this historic treasure is a destination for nature lovers, seafarers, and anyone yearning to awaken their senses in a place of timeless beauty.

Aerial Adventures

Experience Iceland in ways few ever do, with carefully curated routes that capture the essence of this enchanting land. From the raw, volcanic beauty of the Reykjanes Peninsula to the untouched grandeur of the Highlands, every moment reveals something truly extraordinary. Glide over the steaming geothermal fields of Seltún, the striking blue expanse of Lake Kleifarvatn, and the iconic Blue Lagoon, all surrounded by rugged hills and mystical mist.

In the Highlands, discover landscapes that embody Iceland’s spirit — vast and unspoiled. The stunning views over Thorsmork, Landmannalaugar’s colorful peaks, and the majestic silhouette of Hekla offer a rare glimpse into the region’s unique geological artistry.

Imagine landing on the Langjökull Glacier for an intimate encounter with Iceland’s icy expanse, followed by a visit to the Geysir geothermal area, where nature’s energy erupts in mesmerizing displays of steam and water. From above, the powerful Gullfoss waterfall unveils its full grandeur — a truly unforgettable sight.

Further along the south coast, find black sand beaches, dramatic basalt columns, and sweeping glaciers. A flyover of Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier, reveals a surreal landscape of glacial lakes scattered with floating icebergs.
Seen from above or up close, each experience reveals Iceland’s natural wonders in a way that leaves a lasting impression, long after the journey ends.