Lisa recently travelled through the Nordics with Leading Hotels of the World, experiencing firsthand a curated collection of exceptional hotels across Norway, Sweden and Denmark. Along the way, she explored a series of incredible experiences that bring this region to life.
The journey began in Alta, above the Arctic Circle, where the landscape is vast, quiet, and restorative. Fjords, rivers, and wilderness create an immediate sense of space and connection to nature.
Staying at Sorrisniva offered a gorgeous introduction to the region. The hotel is Scandinavian in design and inspired by its natural surroundings. Interiors are calm and light-filled, with expansive windows framing the ever-changing landscape. Dining is a highlight, centred around seasonal, locally sourced ingredients presented in a relaxed and welcoming setting.
Beyond the hotel itself, experiences here bring the destination to life. A highlight was a king crab fishing excursion, travelling out onto the water before returning with the catch. Guests can also access a wide range of activities from river journeys to Northern Lights experiences.
Set within the forest, we had a wonderful dinner at Trasti & Trine that celebrated local produce and the property’s unique personality and rustic charm.
The journey continued into the mountains, beginning with a guided hike through forest and open terrain en route to Bjørnfjell Mountain Lodge. The lodge offers an intimate, alpine-style stay, with warm interiors and a strong connection to the outdoors, ideal for those seeking a more immersive Arctic experience. Time here included outdoor activities, wellness experiences, and a memorable evening bonfire walk. With minimal light pollution, it is also one of the region’s most rewarding locations to witness the Northern Lights that can be visible from the property.
Arriving in Oslo, the journey transitioned into city life in Norway’s vibrant capital. Set between the Oslofjord and surrounding forested hills, the city combines striking contemporary architecture with a rich cultural heritage as the country’s economic and cultural centre.
Based at Hotel Continental, we were perfectly positioned in the heart of the city. . Elegant yet relaxed, it is the ideal base for exploring Oslo. Our itinerary included a series of experiences. A private guided walk through Vigeland Sculpture Park offered insight into Norway’s artistic identity, followed by a visit to the Holmenkollen Ski Museum and a guided exploration of the National Museum. A lunch cruise on the Oslo Fjord provided a scenic perspective of the city, while the day concluded with dinner at the Munch Museum.
Stockholm is Sweden's dynamic capital that is spread across a network of islands where Lake Mälaren meets the Baltic Sea. It has historic charm, particularly in the cobbled streets of Gamla Stan, contemporary design, world-class museums, and an abundance of green space.
Staying at the Grand Hôtel was perfect as it overlooks the Royal Palace and offers a classic European feel with modern amenities, including an extensive spa and multiple dining venues. Our experiences spanned across the city and into the Stockholm's surrounds. A RIB boat journey provided an exhilarating way to explore the surrounding waterways, followed by a traditional Swedish sauna experience by the Baltic Sea, complete with cold-water immersion which is an important Nordic ritual!
A highlight was viewing Stockholm from above during a helicopter transfer, offering a different perspective of the city and its surrounding waterways. This was complemented by a private design tour at Svenskt Tenn and a guided walking tour through Gamla Stan. Dining experiences ranged from Michelin-starred cuisine to a lively Viking-inspired evening, showcasing the diversity of the city’s culinary scene.
Copenhagen is Denmark’s historic and design-led capital, consistently ranked among the world’s most liveable cities. From its iconic harbourfronts to contemporary architecture and globally recognised dining scene, the city offers a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere, shaped by its renowned “hygge” (cozy) way of life.
Staying at Hotel d’Angleterre, one of the city’s most iconic addresses, was an incredible experience. Perfectly positioned in the heart of the city, the hotel offers individually styled rooms and suites that combine comfort and elegance, while service is polished and intuitive. Michelin-starred dining and the Champagne bar further elevate the experience, making the hotel a destination in its own right.
Our time in Copenhagen included a guided walking tour, visits to local markets, dining in Tivoli Gardens, and a hands-on experience at Royal Copenhagen. A floating sauna experience on the harbour provided a memorable insight into local wellness traditions.
The Nordics offer truly memorable travel experience. Across Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland and Iceland, travellers can expect pristine wilderness, rich culture, and understated sophistication, all underpinned by a strong sense of sustainability. They also offer a distinct style of luxury that is refined, authentic, and deeply connected to their surroundings.
Let us create a Nordic journey that is entirely your own. Connect with us today!
