Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Autumn & Winter Experiences in Norway
The skewed hotel With an intriguing architectural expression, counting more than 1,100 windows in an array of different angles, Brekkestranda Fjord Hotel has earned the nickname ‘the skewed hotel’. Offering a number of outdoor activities and indoor indulgences, there is, however, nothing skewed about the hotel’s approach to hospitality. Photo: Brekkestranda Fjordhotell
By Julie Lindén
“The hotel, drawn by acclaimed architect Bjørn Simonnæs, is completely free from straight angles,” says Ruth Dyrhovden of Brekkestranda Fjord Hotel. She adds: “This element gives the building a unique visual value, which is only improved by our magnificent view of the Sognefjord.” The connection with nature is apparent not only in the Viking-esque look of the hotel, but most certainly also in its selection of outdoor activities. Conference and seminar guests, who the hotel can accommodate in numbers reaching 50, can benefit from team-building activities in the wild before retreating to the hotel pub for a well-deserved drink. “We’re open all year round and welcome guests from all over the world. For conference visitors we arrange everything from pick-up at the airport to complete meals and activity plans – some including authentic Viking games and
entertainment,” Dyrhovden says. “We take care of everything for you, so that you can relax and immerse yourself in your own plans.” She explains that many guests visit the hotel for relaxation purposes alone. Fishing is immensely popular as a winding down activity, because of the salmon that thrive in local rivers. Day excursions with the hotel boat will also leave you in awe of this west coast gem, as the Sognefjord is considered to be one of the world’s most picturesque sounds. Add the abundant hiking routes in the hotel area, spectacular sunsets and crisp autumn air, and you’ll find your every cell replenished at Brekkestranda Fjord Hotel. For more information, please visit: www.brekkestranda.no
A taste of the Northern Lights Tromsø is located 360 kilometres north of the Arctic Circle, offering fantastic opportunities to indulge in arctic nature experiences such as the spectacular Northern Lights. By Malin Norman | Photos: Tromsø Safari
Tromsø Safari is organising a wide range of day and night tours, embracing the natural beauty and culture of Tromsø and its surrounding areas. The main attraction is of course the Northern Lights – or, Aurora Borealis. Since 2002, Tromsø Safari’s owners have been offering guided Northern Lights tours, this season available from 5 September to 31 March. “With more than 13 years and over 2,000 aurora tours behind us, we have the most extensive experience in Norway, perhaps in
the whole world,” says managing director Ivar Haugen. A concept with four base stations located in different areas has been developed by Tromsø Safari, each of the camps with a dedicated host and warm shelters for the guests. On the day of the tour, the company will check the weather forecast, together with wind and weather reports from the base stations, to be able to choose the location with the best opportunity to see the awe-inspiring lights.
Photo: Rolf M Sørensen
Photo: Harald M. Valderhaug
More arctic adventures Amongst other exciting activities offered during the year are for example whale and killer whale safaris, Alaskan husky safaris, thrilling Sami reindeer raids, snow-shoe walking and glacier hiking, sea kayaking, stunning midnight sun adventures and more. All tours focus on the nature and history of the area, as well as home-grown food. Tromsø Safari offers guided tours every day of the week, and for most of them basic experience and fitness is sufficient. “With our love of nature and local food, we hope to give our guests an exclusive taste of our arctic surroundings,” says Haugen. For more information, please visit: www.tromsosafari.no
Issue 68 | September 2014 | 71