As we edge towards the close of the year, now is the time to look ahead to the many tantalising travel possibilities that await throughout Scandinavia and the Nordics in 2026. To inspire your travels for the coming year, we’ve curated this ‘cool list’, featuring a wonderfully diverse selection of unique experiences – from an overnight husky sledding adventure in the wilds of Swedish Lapland to witnessing a total solar eclipse in Iceland. Without further ado, let’s dive in…
Witness the total solar eclipse in Iceland
Total solar eclipse in Iceland (AI generated image)
On 12 August 2026, a total solar eclipse will be visible from Iceland for the first time since 1954, as the Moon will pass directly between the Sun and the Earth, plunging the sky into darkness. During this exceptionally rare astronomical event, the Sun’s outer atmosphere, the corona, temporarily becomes visible to the naked eye, shining bright like a white halo around the Moon. The path of totality for the eclipse will cross over Western Iceland, including the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, the Westfjords and the Reykjanes Peninsula. As with hunting the Northern Lights, a slice of fortune will be required as clear skies are needed to see the solar eclipse in all its glory. To give yourself the best possible chance, we highly recommend getting to your chosen viewing location with plenty of time to spare, as it’s anticipated that the roads in Iceland will be considerably busier than usual on the day. The next total solar eclipse won’t be visible from Iceland until 2196, making this a genuine once-in-a-lifetime occasion.
Featured itineraries: Iceland 2026 solar eclipse self-drive & Iceland 2026 solar eclipse short break
Pair a stay at the ICEHOTEL with an overnight husky adventure
ICEHOTEL & huskies in Swedish Lapland (Credit: Asaf Kliger/Karl & Moa)
Since its creation in 1989, the ICEHOTEL in Swedish Lapland has established itself as a true icon of Scandinavian design. Every winter, a group of international artists gathers in the village of Jukkasjärvi to sculpt the latest edition of the hotel using ice blocks harvested from the frozen Torne River – an architectural marvel that perfectly showcases human artistic flair in harmony with nature. While sleeping in a hand-carved ice room or art suite is an extraordinary experience in its own right, a stay at the ICEHOTEL is elevated even further by the chance to savour authentic Lappish cuisine and enjoy a series of thrilling winter adventures. While most activities last several hours, those looking to truly immerse themselves in the region’s pristine Arctic wilderness can embark on an overnight husky safari, venturing out to a remote lodge where hearty food, a roaring campfire and a wood-fired sauna await – and, with a little luck, the chance to see the Northern Lights.
Featured itinerary: ICEHOTEL & Husky Adventure in Swedish Lapland
Combine a retreat at Arctic Wilderness Lodge with Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel
Arctic Wilderness Lodge & Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel, Northern Norway
In the far north of Norway on the banks of the Alta River lies Arctic Wilderness Lodge – a sleek, stylish and secluded retreat featuring a panoramic lounge, a fabulous spa and a fine dining restaurant serving seasonal, locally sourced cuisine. Think succulent reindeer and moose from the tundra, fresh fish from the Alta River and Norwegian sea, vegetables from local farms and berries foraged nearby. It’s an idyllic place to slow down, disconnect from everyday life and embrace the beauty of the Norwegian Arctic. Each season has its own appeal, but in winter, there’s the possibility to combine a stay in the main lodge with a night at the neighbouring Igloo Hotel. It’s the northernmost ice hotel in the world, not only featuring intricately carved rooms and suites, but also an ice chapel and an ice bar. From here, you can enjoy the likes of snowmobile tours, husky sled rides, Northern Lights hunts and authentic Sámi reindeer experiences.
Featured itinerary: Arctic Wilderness Lodge & Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel
Explore Svalbard on a mini adventure cruise
Svalbard in summer
As winter’s icy grip loosens and the Midnight Sun makes its return, the summer months open up the possibility of exploring Svalbard by boat – the best way to reach the archipelago’s most remote corners, far beyond the outermost limits of human civilization. On a Svalbard mini-cruise adventure, you’ll depart from Longyearbyen, sailing north aboard the intimate MS Serenissima to discover awe-inspiring glaciers, fjords, mountains and rugged tundra landscapes. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to spot a rich array of Arctic wildlife, such as whales, walruses, seals, reindeer, Arctic foxes, and possibly even a glimpse of a polar bear in the distance. You’ll also visit the former mining town of Ny-Ålesund, one of the world’s northernmost settlements, and sail past 80°N to Moffen Island, renowned for its large walrus population. With no Wi-Fi or mobile signal while on the ship, it’s a rare opportunity to let go of all distractions and fully tune into the otherworldly splendour of Svalbard.
Featured itinerary: Arctic Discovery: Svalbard mini-cruise adventure
Enjoy a boutique, adults-only wilderness escape in Finnish Lapland
Beana Laponia, Finnish Lapland
Finnish Lapland may be synonymous with Santa holidays, but there’s a whole other side to this region beyond the obvious Christmas attractions. For those seeking a wilderness escape with a balance of adventure and relaxation, there’s a plethora of boutique lodges to choose from, many of which are serenely tucked away among snow-laden forests and frozen lakes. Beana Laponia is a standout option around 60 kilometres north of Rovaniemi, offering an intimate, adults-only experience with just 11 rooms, each individually decorated in traditional Lappish style. As well as a full programme of classic winter activities, it offers a private sauna, indoor and outdoor hot tubs, a cosy lounge bar with a fireplace and a restaurant specialising in seasonal, local cuisine. At nearly 70°N, and with minimal light pollution, it’s an excellent place to see the Northern Lights.
Featured itinerary: Beana Laponia Luxury Lapland Break
Discover Nuuk, the capital of Greenland
Colourful houses of Nuuk, the capital of Greenland
Following the opening of Nuuk’s new international airport in November 2024, this has been a landmark year for Greenland’s tourism industry, with new and expanded flight connections making the world’s largest island more accessible than ever before. Although many Greenland adventures focus on Ilulissat and its UNESCO-listed ice fjord, the capital city, Nuuk, is far more than just a convenient gateway. Spread across a rocky outcrop at the entrance to a vast fjord system framed by ancient granite mountains, Nuuk is one of the most remote cities on Earth, home to around 35 percent of Greenland’s total population. While its backcountry is spectacular, with a myriad of hiking trails accessible in summer and autumn, the city itself is a fascinating place to explore. You’ll find an intriguing blend of modern and traditional architecture, a handful of excellent museums, a delightful wooden boardwalk running along the shoreline and an eclectic range of restaurants and cafes. A boat tour on the Nuuk Fjord, meanwhile, is an absolute must, offering terrific views of the surrounding mountains and, at certain times of year, icebergs.
Featured itinerary: A long weekend in Nuuk: Discover Greenland's capital
Drive Iceland’s Silver Circle route
Hraunfossar waterfalls, Silver Circle region
When it comes to planning an Icelandic road trip, the Golden Circle is often the go-to choice, particularly for first time visitors. Look beyond this iconic route, however, and there are plenty of other easily accessible regions within striking distance of Reykjavik that lend themselves to a self-drive adventure brimming with natural wonders. One of these is the lesser-visited Silver Circle – a 146-kilometre loop that encompasses natural hot springs, majestic waterfalls, lava caves and volcanic craters. There’s also the opportunity to enjoy a relaxing soak in the Húsafell Canyon Baths, or take a tour inside the Langjökull Glacier – Iceland’s second-largest ice cap. The Silver Circle lies inland from the town of Borgarnes, around 75 kilometres north of Reykjavik, and can easily be completed as a day trip. It’s a fantastic option if you’re looking to leave the crowds behind and explore an often-overlooked yet remarkably varied part of the country.
Featured itinerary: Iceland's Silver Circle & the Snaefellsnes Peninsula
Explore the Norwegian fjords in winter
Snowy landscapes of Geirangerfjord in winter
While the fjords of Western Norway are at their most popular in the summer months, visiting outside of the peak season brings a host of advantages – not least the fact it’s considerably quieter. Winter brings a softer light as the sun hangs low in the sky, waterfalls that usually tumble into the fjords morph into frozen sculptures clinging to sheer cliffs, and the mountains appear particularly majestic when blanketed in snow. Darker nights also offer the chance to spot the Northern Lights, which, although not as common a sight this far south of the Arctic Circle, can still be seen under favourable conditions. Bergen and Ålesund both serve as ideal gateways for boat cruises and bus tours into the fjords, while the wider region also offers superb rail journeys traversing some of Norway’s most striking scenery, including the famed Flåm Railway and the Rauma Railway.
Featured itinerary: Norwegian Fjords Winter Explorer
