Exploring the Arctic with the Midnight Sun

Home of the famous White Cliffs, Dover is one of England's most iconic towns. Located on the south-east coast of England just 21 miles across the English Channel from France, Dover – home of the world's busiest passenger port – is the first sight for many visitors arriving from around the world.

This historic town is much more than a gateway to Britain, and offers much to discover, including the 12th century Dover Castle – which overlooks the pretty harbour and houses the extensive Secret Wartime Tunnels – Archcliffe Fort, and the Western Heights, where a series of coastal defences and unspoilt nature reserves await exploration.

Surrounded by the incredible mountains of the Romsdalsfjord, Åndalsnes is often referred to as the 'Alp town by the fjord'. Situated at the mouth of the Rauma River, the town is in one of the most beautiful areas of scenic Norway, and a natural starting point for forest walks in the hilly terrain and short hikes to magnificent viewpoints.

With all its natural attractions, this beautiful destination is one of Norway’s most popular locations for sightseers and a mecca for hikers.[ReadMoreMob] Known as the 'Mountaineering Capital', Åndalsnes is close to the mighty Trollveggen (The Troll Wall), the tallest vertical rock face in Europe – an appealing challenge for many climbers. Many visitors, who wish to enjoy the sights with a little less effort, can take the Rauma Railway into the mountains to discover amazing views.

A scenic cruise along the shores of Toget Island allows you see one of Norway's most astonishing natural wonders - Torghatten Mountain. The mountain is known affectionately as 'the mountain with the hole', Torghatten is famous for the huge tunnel that strikes right through the middle of it and has has to be seen to be believed.

Forming a majestic chain of peaks overlooking the shipping channel, the Seven Sister mountain range is an awe-inspring backdrop to the myriad of islands and Norwegian landscapes. Standing 1,000 feet above the shoreline, these beautiful women are perhaps best observed in all their glory from your ship. It is possible to climb them, and to learn the legend of the trolls who were turned to stone!

Crossing the Arctic Circle takes you into the lands of prolonged days and midnight sun. It is visible on a map - north of which the sun can be seen above the horizon even at midnight during the summer months. However, during the winter the sun stays below the horizon for most of the day. During the cold winter months, light is provided by the moon and stars in addition to the elusive but spell-binding Northern Lights.

The island city of Tromsø is one of northern Norway’s true delights. Rich with neo-classical architecture, the city known as the ‘Gateway to the Arctic’ contains the largest number of wooden houses in Northern Norway, and its old world charm makes it a joy to explore.

A major cultural hub above the Arctic Circle, Tromsø is famed as a viewing point for the colourful Northern Lights that often light up the night sky.[ReadMoreMob] The city’s most recognisable landmark is the must-visit Arctic Cathedral. Built in 1965, the cathedral’s distinctive iceberg-shaped design was inspired by the landscapes of Northern Norway and features a beautiful glass mosaic.

The many museums and galleries in the city include the Perspektivet Museum – set in a neo-classical building built in 1838 that has exhibits from Tromsø’s past, plus the Art Museum of Northern Norway and the Mack Brewery. Tromsø is also home to Polaria, an Arctic aquarium that is popular with locals and tourists alike. The aquarium’s tanks are full of Arctic fish species, and the friendly bearded seals always delight the visiting crowds.

Tromsø, and the stunning landscapes that surround it, are best viewed from the top of the Storsteinen Mountain, which stands 420 metres above sea level. Accessible via cable car, the peak is easy to reach and one of the most popular spots on the edge of the city.

Laying claim to being the world’s most northerly ‘town’, Hammerfest in Norway is also one of the country’s oldest, but has undergone extensive modernisation, resulting in a colourful town on the island of Kvaløya.[ReadMoreMob] Thanks to its location within the Arctic Circle, Hammerfest experiences the ‘midnight sun’ phenomenon between May and July, during which the sun never sinks below the horizon. These long days throughout summer provide the perfect opportunity to explore the region’s rugged landscape, with hiking and fishing popular activities to enjoy.

The town itself has some interesting sights, including The Museum of Reconstruction for Finnmark and Northern Troms, which details the town’s colourful history, and The Polar Bear Society, which, in addition to housing stuffed polar bears, provides information on the town’s early life. Hammerfest is also home to one of 10 monuments that form the Struve Geodetic Arc, a chain of markers that stretch from Norway down to the Black Sea. These UNESCO-recognised monuments helped astronomers Friedrich Georg Wilhelm Struve to work out the size and shape of the planet.

Honningsvåg, on Norway’s North Cape, a fishing community characterised by its charming, pastel-shaded wooden buildings, attracts tourists from all over the world. Often referred to as the top of Europe, Honningsvåg is framed by dramatic rugged mountains and the remoteness of the Arctic Ocean.  

Honningsvåg is the gateway to the Nordkapp (North Cape), Europe’s most northernmost point. Its rocky coastlines, picturesque villages, endless cliff faces and vast snow-capped mountains are a joy to explore.[ReadMoreMob] For two months of summer, the sun is visible 24 hours a day from Nordkapp, and when the sun does set on this extraordinary landscape, the Aurora Borealis lights up the Polar sky. More on these wonderful seasonal changes can be experienced in the North Cape Hall visitor centre, which offers wide-screen film presentations about this Arctic region.

Honningsvåg was completely destroyed during the Second World War, but rapidly rebuilt. The Artico Ice Bar in the city centre – made entirely of ice sourced from the natural lakes of Norwegian Lapland – is worth a visit. While the sea views from the Kompasset Restaurant, and the freshly baked waffles of the Grotten Bar – a huge cave cut into the face of the Cape cliff, both need discovering. 

Cruising by the North Cape in the farthest reaches of northern mainland Norway is always a memorable experience. In the summer, between mid-May and the end of July, you can experience the midnight sun; while in winter this fascinating region near the very top of the world is one of the best places on earth to hopefully catch a glimpse of the elusive Northern Lights.

No matter what time of the year you sail to this mesmerising part of the world you can also marvel at the natural beauty of the North Cape plateau, with its craggy cliff face jutting out into the sea and rising to about 1,000 feet above sea level. At the North Cape you always create memories which will last a lifetime.

Situated at 78° north, deep within the Arctic Circle, Longyearbyen is widely regarded as the world's northernmost town. It is also the largest settlement in Svalbard, located amongst incredible Norwegian Arctic wilderness on the archipelago's largest island, Spitsbergen. 

Set at the end of the Advent Fjord, and framed by flat-topped, snow-covered peaks, Longyearbyen is home to some 2000 inhabitants, several reindeer and the odd polar bear.[ReadMoreMob] The town Longyearbyen was only established as a permanent settlement in 1906 to exploit local coal reserves, and is named after American mining specialist, John M. Longyear.

Only one mine remains working, but Mine 3, which was turned into a living museum in 1996 on its closure, can still be visited. The museum guides are all former miners who give first-hand accounts about life underground. The Svalbard Museum also provides insights into the life of miners, and the other local industry, whaling. The 24-hour sundial reminds visitors that the sun doesn’t set for months during summer, and the Spitsbergen Airship Museum, which has exhibits from the era of polar exploration, is worth discovery.

Tempelfjorden is a fjord branch at the inner end of Sassenfjorden, a part of Isfjorden at Spitsbergen, Svalbard. It is located between Sabine Land and Bünsow Land. The fjord is named after the mountain Templet, which resembles a temple. Every winter, the sailing vessel Noorderlicht is intentionally frozen into Tempelfjorden.

The desolate volcanic island of Jan Mayen is located in the Arctic Ocean between Greenland and Norway.[ReadMoreMob] Inhabited by only a few people, the island is largely unmolested and boasts stunning natural landscapes that are dominated by the incredible Beerenberg stratovolcano - the world's northernmost subaerial active volcano. A cruise alongside this beautiful remote island is a truly unforgettable experience.

Reykjavik – Iceland’s stunning coastal capital and cultural centre – is the world’s most northerly capital. The city combines colourful buildings, impulsive, creative people, extraordinary design, and some of the country’s most beautiful natural wonders.

The cosmopolitan city with big heart is home to the Althing – the world’s oldest parliament, and the National and Saga Museums, which trace Iceland’s Viking history. The impressive Hallgrímskirkja Church bell tower and the rotating Perlan glass dome offer panoramic views off island. Reykjavik’s galleries and exhibitions, including the outstanding Reykjavík Art Museum and National Gallery, feature radical Icelandic design, and there are many public art installations.[ReadMoreMob]

The capital has benefited from a surge in high-quality restaurant openings, offering a broad mix of creative cuisine. Daytime cafés switch to restaurants and bars at night – tapas, concept-dining and burger joints all sit comfortably together. And then there’s the wonderful nightlife.

Located in southwest Iceland – characterised by vast peninsulas, coves, straits and islands – Reykjavik is in easy reach of several must-see geological attractions. The iconic Golden Circle Trail includes the Blue Lagoon Spa, the Thingvellir National Park, the renowned Gullfoss Waterfall, and the incredible Geysir hot springs.

Nauthólsvík Geothermal Beach – Reykjavik’s little bit of paradise – is also unmissable. The popular sandy beach and geothermal lagoon, where cold sea and hot geothermal waters meet to produce higher temperatures, offers hot-tubs, steam baths and various water sports to try.

Reykjavik – Iceland’s stunning coastal capital and cultural centre – is the world’s most northerly capital. The city combines colourful buildings, impulsive, creative people, extraordinary design, and some of the country’s most beautiful natural wonders.

The cosmopolitan city with big heart is home to the Althing – the world’s oldest parliament, and the National and Saga Museums, which trace Iceland’s Viking history. The impressive Hallgrímskirkja Church bell tower and the rotating Perlan glass dome offer panoramic views off island. Reykjavik’s galleries and exhibitions, including the outstanding Reykjavík Art Museum and National Gallery, feature radical Icelandic design, and there are many public art installations.[ReadMoreMob]

The capital has benefited from a surge in high-quality restaurant openings, offering a broad mix of creative cuisine. Daytime cafés switch to restaurants and bars at night – tapas, concept-dining and burger joints all sit comfortably together. And then there’s the wonderful nightlife.

Located in southwest Iceland – characterised by vast peninsulas, coves, straits and islands – Reykjavik is in easy reach of several must-see geological attractions. The iconic Golden Circle Trail includes the Blue Lagoon Spa, the Thingvellir National Park, the renowned Gullfoss Waterfall, and the incredible Geysir hot springs.

Nauthólsvík Geothermal Beach – Reykjavik’s little bit of paradise – is also unmissable. The popular sandy beach and geothermal lagoon, where cold sea and hot geothermal waters meet to produce higher temperatures, offers hot-tubs, steam baths and various water sports to try.

Slicing between the Greenlandic mainland and the pretty islands of Cape Farewell, Prins Christiansund is an example of Mother Nature's work at it's finest. A simply spectacular waterway, which only opens up in the summer when huge icy blockades melt away, this enticing route begs to be explored, with its astonishing landscapes punctuated by soaring snow-topped mountains, magnificent glaciers and granite cliffs

A diversion into the sound on a Fred. Olsen cruise to Greenland is always an unforgettable experience; smaller ships are able to bring you closer to the wonders of Prins Christiansund, to allow you to fully appreciate their natural splendour, and take advantage of unmissable photo opportunities. Look out for incredible wildlife too, as you revel in the unspoilt peace, tranquility and beauty; bearded seals, seabirds such as black guillemots, and even minke and blue whales, are often seen enjoying their spellbinding natural habitat here.

Narsarsuaq is a small settlement in the Kujalleq municipality in southern Greenland, with a population of no more than 200 inhabitants. Around Narsarsuaq, the attractions include a great diversity of wildlife, gemstones, tours to blue-ice glaciers, and an airfield museum.

Just outside of Narsarsuaq is Signal Hill, offering panoramic views of the fjord and the icebergs which can occasionally be seen floating past.[ReadMoreMob] Inland is the stunning Narsarsuaq Glacier which grows out of the ice sheet of Greenland's interior. The stunning blue ice of the glacier is within walking distance and is reached via the picturesque Flower Valley.

Based around its international airport – a former US Military Airbase – Narsarsuaq is one of Greenland’s most popular tourist destinations.

Narsarsuaq is a small settlement in the Kujalleq municipality in southern Greenland, with a population of no more than 200 inhabitants. Around Narsarsuaq, the attractions include a great diversity of wildlife, gemstones, tours to blue-ice glaciers, and an airfield museum.

Just outside of Narsarsuaq is Signal Hill, offering panoramic views of the fjord and the icebergs which can occasionally be seen floating past.[ReadMoreMob] Inland is the stunning Narsarsuaq Glacier which grows out of the ice sheet of Greenland's interior. The stunning blue ice of the glacier is within walking distance and is reached via the picturesque Flower Valley.

Based around its international airport – a former US Military Airbase – Narsarsuaq is one of Greenland’s most popular tourist destinations.

Nanortalik – Greenland’s most southerly town – is unlike any other town in the country. Sat on a small island at the end of a wonderful fjord and surrounded by vast snow-topped mountains, the ‘Place of Polar Bears’ is unique.

The small woodlands and prairies against a spectacular backdrop make this is a nature lover’s paradise. Polar bears live and hunt on the sea ice close to the town and are often seen from the shores of Nanortalik, while seals and whales can also be spotted in the surrounding waters.[ReadMoreMob] In the winter months, visitors may be lucky enough to capture the Aurora Borealis – Mother Nature’s own spectacular display, with curtains of white, yellow and green flashes lighting up the sky.

Beyond its natural wonders, the town has a well preserved historic quarter where there are cafés and an unusual wooden church. Brightly coloured houses line the streets, while the Nanortalik Museum has some fascinating exhibits including the oldest women’s boat ever found, which dates back to 1440 and was found by polar explorer and artist, Eigil Knuth.

As you cruise along the rich azure waters of the Tasermiut Fjord - between huge mountains and daunting ‘Big Wall’ cliff faces - you quickly begin to understand why this stunning part of Greenland – considered one of the 10 wonders of the Arctic – is so popular with keen kayakers and hikers from all over the globe. Rich with beautiful flora and diverse fauna, Tasermiut is a haven for nature lovers too. Keep an eye on the sky to spot majestic eagles as they swoop down into the fjord and spot wild foxes and arctic hares on the shore as you glide through the ‘Arctic Patagonia’ alongside seals, whales and arctic salmon. 

Slicing between the Greenlandic mainland and the pretty islands of Cape Farewell, Prins Christiansund is an example of Mother Nature's work at it's finest. A simply spectacular waterway, which only opens up in the summer when huge icy blockades melt away, this enticing route begs to be explored, with its astonishing landscapes punctuated by soaring snow-topped mountains, magnificent glaciers and granite cliffs

A diversion into the sound on a Fred. Olsen cruise to Greenland is always an unforgettable experience; smaller ships are able to bring you closer to the wonders of Prins Christiansund, to allow you to fully appreciate their natural splendour, and take advantage of unmissable photo opportunities. Look out for incredible wildlife too, as you revel in the unspoilt peace, tranquility and beauty; bearded seals, seabirds such as black guillemots, and even minke and blue whales, are often seen enjoying their spellbinding natural habitat here.

The pretty, ancient church site of Ísafjörður, perched on the peninsular of the Westfjords, has been one of Iceland’s busiest and most important fishing and trading centres for over 250 years. With its fine natural harbour, Ísafjörður is set against a backdrop of steep mountains and an arcing spit that extends out into the deep Skutulsfjörður.

The town centre’s preserved timber and tin-clad buildings are a joy to explore.[ReadMoreMob] Easily navigable streets offer warm cafes, bakeries and welcoming family-run restaurants that serve the finest locally caught seafood all year round. The Westfjords Heritage Museum has exhibits on the town’s maritime history, while the Old Hospital contains archives and photography. The occasional music festival in town provides the chance to experience modern Icelandic culture.

Ísafjörður is also the port from which to discover the beautiful landscape of Vigur, The Paradise Island. Only a short 30-minute boat trip away, the island is home to thousands of puffins, arctic terns, eider ducks, black guillemots and more.

Located in Northern Iceland, Akureyri is a beautiful town best known for its spectacular landscapes, lush vegetation and its diverse wildlife. On your journey to Akureyri you’ll sail through the longest fjord in Iceland, Eyjafjordur, a wonderful prelude to your time on shore. 

The perfect destination for nature lovers, the waters surrounding the town are teaming with rare, native species such as humpback whales, minke whales, white-beaked dolphins and porpoises to go in search of. [ReadMoreMob]Within reach on tours are incredible natural wonders too, such as the Godafoss ‘Waterfall of the Gods’ and Lake Myvatn.

In the town centre, there are many museums, galleries and exhibitions to discover and enjoy, offering an insight into the diverse culture of Akureyri and Iceland as a whole. ‘Arts Alley’ – the main street that runs directly through the town – is Akureyri’s cultural hub. Here you will find the very best galleries, exhibitions and restaurants that the town has to offer.

Located in Northern Iceland, Akureyri is a beautiful town best known for its spectacular landscapes, lush vegetation and its diverse wildlife. On your journey to Akureyri you’ll sail through the longest fjord in Iceland, Eyjafjordur, a wonderful prelude to your time on shore. 

The perfect destination for nature lovers, the waters surrounding the town are teaming with rare, native species such as humpback whales, minke whales, white-beaked dolphins and porpoises to go in search of. [ReadMoreMob]Within reach on tours are incredible natural wonders too, such as the Godafoss ‘Waterfall of the Gods’ and Lake Myvatn.

In the town centre, there are many museums, galleries and exhibitions to discover and enjoy, offering an insight into the diverse culture of Akureyri and Iceland as a whole. ‘Arts Alley’ – the main street that runs directly through the town – is Akureyri’s cultural hub. Here you will find the very best galleries, exhibitions and restaurants that the town has to offer.

Home of the famous White Cliffs, Dover is one of England's most iconic towns. Located on the south-east coast of England just 21 miles across the English Channel from France, Dover – home of the world's busiest passenger port – is the first sight for many visitors arriving from around the world.

This historic town is much more than a gateway to Britain, and offers much to discover, including the 12th century Dover Castle – which overlooks the pretty harbour and houses the extensive Secret Wartime Tunnels – Archcliffe Fort, and the Western Heights, where a series of coastal defences and unspoilt nature reserves await exploration.