Imagine waking up in a secluded cabin after a long day of hiking through Norway’s backyard. You feel well-rested, and the sun shining through a nearby window coupled with the crisp smell of fresh air has you energized for the day ahead. Outside, a gentle breeze ruffles the lush foliage, and the wild critters are rummaging about in search of food. As you cross the threshold out of your lodging, the rays of light warming your face, you see the distant ridgeline ahead, the next stop on your hiking excursion.
These types of authentic adventures are more accessible to global travelers than ever before, as Up Norway, a local agency in Oslo, expands its services. Drawing inspiration from the Norwegian concept of “kos,” or cozy contentment, and the tradition of hut-to-hut exploration, visitors can experience the country’s rugged landscapes with the added perk of personalized itineraries and unique accommodations along the way. Want to learn more? Read on to discover Up Norway’s mission and their outdoor offerings.
The Hut-to-Hut Experience
A practice near and dear to many Norwegians’ hearts, hut-to-hut excursions are exactly what they sound like — locals hike from one cabin to another, soaking up the views of stunning fjords, mountains and forests throughout the journey. This approach also means that adventurers don’t need to pack their own overnight gear, allowing them to fully appreciate the natural scenery around them.
Because the hut-to-hut experience is a major component of local culture and identity, there are over 550 “DNT hytter,” or cabins managed by the Norwegian Trekking Association. Many of these luxurious accommodations are only accessible via foot, ski or bike, promoting an atmosphere of utter seclusion.
Part of Up Norway’s mission in offering hut-to-hut opportunities to visitors is to personalize each traveler’s itinerary based on their interests. The travel company utilizes a combination of local expertise and innovative technology to formulate these individualized plans, factoring in activity levels, desire for cultural immersion and more.
For instance, travelers can visit Jotunheimen National Park and hike through scenic valleys, finishing off their night in a historic cabin like Gjendebu. Or a trek through the Sunnmøre Alps might be their speed. Here, visitors can participate in a summit hike to Slogen and a fjord cruise, finishing off the day with a stay at the legendary Hotel Union Øye. If a rugged experience with luxurious components sounds more appealing, a journey to the Lofoten Islands and the Arctic Circle region is perfect. This option allows travelers to hike all day, relax in remote cabins and even indulge in a floating sauna or two.
Regardless of how visitors choose to customize their itineraries, witnessing the beauty of Norway’s most iconic landscapes like Trolltunga, Ringedalsvatnet or Reinheimen is easier than ever before, now with the added perk of insider knowledge and vetted lodging.
Learn more about Up Norway and the hut-to-hut experience by visiting www.upnorway.com.
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