Not only are there famous icons like the Geirangerfjord in Norway, the Lofoten Islands or the Northern Lights that illuminate the sky above Troms, there are also hidden places waiting to be discovered in Norway that will give you an entirely different experience and define how you view Norway forever through nature, community and through the experience of those you meet.
The hamlet of Havra, a preserved farming settlement located in one of the remote Western fjords, is a great example of one of these intimate, hidden places. You can only access this hamlet on foot, up a very steep hill, or by boat, and time has virtually stood still, as the landscape is still very raw and the wooden structures have been there for hundreds of years, with farming practices carried out traditionally.
Your stay in Havra is not going to be luxurious by normal standards; it will be an experience of immersion and not in an alcohol manner, as talking to the locals about their stories and experiences, walking on trails used for hundreds of years and being awakened to the sound of sheep bells and the smell of saltwater in the air offers new vistas.
If you're looking for an undiscovered paradise in the Coastal region of Norway, Engeloya in Steigen is it! With its long, golden, sandy beaches sitting next to rugged mountain peaks, you’ll likely be able to find a beach all to yourself, even during the peak summer season.
You can cycle over the peaceful roads, gather berries along the way and watch the Midnight Sun sink into the Norwegian Sea at the end of the day - that’s what Engeloya has to offer! Visiting Engeloya is the essence of what travel should be about - open space, peace and bright sunlight.
If you’re drawn to the Arctic yet want to steer clear of the crowds, look for the mountainous interior of Senja Island; it’s just as beautiful as the rugged shoreline! While hiking through these majestic mountains, you’ll see beautiful deep valleys with crystal clear lakes surrounding you, along with steep climbing trails leading through narrow mountain passes.
You will feel as if you’re the only hiker in the area! If you enjoy hiking in a godly creation that is filled with tranquillity, this is your soul-searching adventure that you’re sure to remember for a lifetime!
Rorosmarka National Park is a massive wilderness area containing forests, rivers and open tundra, located in the centre of Norway. Although Roros is well-known as the home of a historic mining town, much of the surrounding area remains unexplored.
In the wintertime, dog-sledging across frozen lakes creates a powerful connection with nature, while in the summertime, you can take long-distance hiking tours through pristine landscapes. The different seasons create their own story, making each visit a unique experience.
Finally, head east and discover Finnskogen, the wooded border area between Norway and Sweden. This enchanting forested area has a wealth of folklore associated with it, including deep forests, mirror-like lakes, and traditional smoke saunas hidden in the woods.
Each day consists of activities such as canoeing, fishing, and simply walking through the woods, while evenings consist of reflecting at the fire's glow. Finnskogen is not about crossing sights off the list but enjoying the moment, and taking your time to experience Norway in an understated yet very rich way.
The thing that makes these hidden gems so exceptional is the intimacy they offer their visitors. They create an opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in Norway on an intimate level, rather than through postcards or during peak tourist times.
With Norwegian Travel Concierge, these remote places are accessible through a series of tailored travel experiences, including private vehicles, local hosts and custom itineraries that turn discovery into something memorable and highly personalised.
For those willing to venture off the beaten path, Norway reveals its most compelling stories quietly, patiently and beautifully.