Independent arrival in Bodø. Short transfer to the hotel, where you meet your tour guide and fellow travellers. Depending on your arrival time, you still have time for a stroll on your own. In winter, Bodø shows its most atmospheric side: the modern coastal town north of the Arctic Circle impresses with its surprisingly mild winter climate, the Arctic light and a high chance of seeing the northern lights. Between rugged mountain peaks, the open sea and a lively cultural scene, Bodø combines urban comfort with nature right on the doorstep.

You set off for one of Northern Norway's most impressive natural phenomena: Saltstraumen, the strongest tidal current in the world. Mighty whirlpools swirl beneath you – a natural spectacle you will never forget. The journey continues through vast fjord landscapes to Narvik, a town known for its dramatic history, its mountains and its location on the Ofotfjord. And if you like, you can end the day with something magical: a train ride through the dark Arctic to where the northern lights shine particularly brightly.

From Narvik you continue west into the vast, quiet landscape of Northern Norway. Across bridges and along calm fjords, the view finally opens onto the island world of Vesterålen. In Sortland, the "blue town", you experience the typical mix of coastal culture and clear winter landscape. The journey continues to Stokmarknes, the birthplace of Hurtigruten. Here you'll find the modern Hurtigruten Museum with the original MS Finnmarken – an exciting optional visit that brings the history of the famous coastal express to life.

Today's stage takes you from Stokmarknes through the sheltered waterways of Vesterålen to Melbu, where you enjoy the short ferry crossing to Fiskebøl – with first views of the striking Lofoten mountains. On Austvågøya you continue to Svolvær, the lively capital of the Lofoten. The town combines traditional fishermen's cabins, galleries and small shops with an impressive backdrop of steep mountains such as the famous Svolværgeita. Here the Lofoten already show their typical character: rugged peaks, deep fjords, colourful fishing villages and a mild coastal climate. The stockfish trade has shaped the region for centuries, and to this day drying racks and small villages tell of this tradition. Art, culture and quiet everyday life let you feel the fascination of this island world.

From Svolvær you first visit Kabelvåg, one of the oldest villages in the Lofoten. At the harbour and around Vågan Church you can feel the long fishing tradition. The new SKREI Museum offers exciting insights into the history of Lofoten fishing (not included). You continue to Henningsvær, probably the best-known fishing village on the islands, famous for its colourful houses, small galleries and spectacular mountain backdrop. Then you drive to Borg to the Lofotr Viking Museum, where the reconstructed Viking longhouse and a light lunch await you. In the afternoon you return to Svolvær with many impressions.

The route takes you on to a glassblowing workshop. You continue to the white beach of Ramberg and then to Å, where traditional fishermen's cabins and old paths tell of the lives of the coastal people. A highlight is Reine, whose dramatic mountain backdrop and deep-blue water are among Norway's most iconic sights. Afterwards you take the ferry from Moskenes to Bodø, while the Lofoten slowly fade behind you in the warm evening light.

From Bodø the route takes you to Kjerringøy. An almost fairytale-like scene awaits you here: historic white wooden houses, lightly snow-covered shores and a tranquillity that feels especially intense in winter. On a guided tour (included) you learn more about life at the old trading post and then enjoy coffee and pastries in the café. In the afternoon you return to Bodø – often accompanied by a colourful winter sky or, with a bit of luck, the first veils of northern lights.

Depending on your flight times, you still have time for a stroll. Check-out should be by 11:00 at the latest. Transfer to the airport and you begin your journey home.