Magnetic North Travel Brochure

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MAGNETIC NORTH . TRAVEL

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Friluftsliv

When you’re surrounded by the wildest, most beautiful landscapes you’ll probably ever see, you’ll understand why Scandinavia has a term for its outdoor life which is ‘friluftsliv’. A deeply personal experience in nature is essential to many people living in this region and this idea has inspired the experiences we offer. Embracing nature without competing or harming it, enjoying the simple things and returning home invigorated all contribute to the idea of ‘friluftsliv’. So whether you’re gliding behind a pack of sled dogs, stopping to admire a fjord view, or listening to the silence of nature, friluftsliv is never far from mind.

Hygge

After a day outdoors, your first thoughts turn to the fire in your lodging. Its warming embrace heats every part of the room and the dancing flames are the focal point for an evening of ‘Hygge’. Hygge is your favourite drink, your favourite food and your favourite company, all rolled into one and warmed up by a cosy atmospheric fireplace, a candle or simply a wonderful room.

To us at Magnetic North, Friluftsliv and Hygge are the height of luxury – revelling in simplicity, in nature and in good design. We want to share this Nordic philosophy with all of our guests in many places, in many ways and all created with you in mind. Please enjoy browsing our inspiration guide and get in touch with us to create your cosy holiday in the Magnetic North. _ _

WELCOME TO THE MAGNETIC NORTH

The Magnetic North is two things: ‘Hygge’ on the inside, and ‘Friluftsliv’ on the outside.

These distinctly Scandinavian ideas are what make our holidays so special.

Let us explain.

We operate our holidays throughout the Magnetic North. This means we can extend your trip to Greenland, Russia, Estonia and Denmark.

Finland

Denmark

Sweden

Norway

Iceland

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Magnetic North Map

Each destination in the guide is marked on the map with a pin and the corresponding page number.

LYNGEN LODGE NORWAY

What makes this place so special…

A twist of fate brought Lyngen Lodge’s owner to a clearing in the forest which opens up to the expanse of water at Lyngen Fjord. His vision to bring guests to this exceptional spot resulted in the construction of a luxury Scandinavian lodge which is in perfect harmony with its perfect surroundings. Food is of an exceptionally high standard. Outdoor life includes a summer of walking, fishing and kayaking and winter below the Northern Lights with dog-sledding, snowmobileing, skiing and snow shoeing. We can offer this trip in combination with a visit to Tromsø and other destinations in northern Norway and Scandinavia.

“In the morning we woke up for breakfast which was served together with the stunning view from the lodge to the Lyngen Alps. We had arrived in the evening and in the darkness unaware of the majestic mountains on the other side of the fjord. All in all the lodge is just lovely.”

Kirsi visited in 2013

Northern Lights Zone: Yes Budget: £££ Available: Year Round Recommended for: Honeymooners, couples and small groups

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MALANGEN FJORD CABINS NORWAY


A drive of just over an hour from the city of Tromsø in northern Norway brings you to an isolated spot next to Malangen Fjord. Spacious cabins and apartments celebrate the stunning fjord view with large windows and balconies. The Aurora is a frequent visitor about the fjord and mountains. One of our favourite hot tub spots of Scandinavia is found in the spa area at Malangen. Guests can use the hotel’s restaurant for meals or stay on a self-catered basis. Car hire is recommended for this option. This is a popular fishing destination in the summer.

“We had a fantastic holiday and we were lucky to see the Northern Lights on three separate nights - we simply had to leave our cabin and walk along the fjord to see them. It was amazing. The hotel staff were helpful and responded to our queries and needs very well. It suited us that the hotel was quiet with very little noise or people around. The cabin was wonderfully cosy, warm and the view of the fjord was magnificent.”

Natasha visited in 2013

Northern Lights Zone: Yes Budget: ££ Available: Year Round

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TRAPPERS LODGE, SVALBARD NORWAY


Midway between mainland Norway and the North Pole, Svalbard island has a truly ‘end-of-the-earth’ feel. On clear winter days you’ll witness dense starry skies and the dancing Northern lights while polar bears wander over the glaciers.

The Trappers Lodge is our favourite place to stay on the archipelago. The rustic lodge is built with driftwood and hunting paraphernalia and is modern without being twee. From here your Arctic experience can take you as near or as far away from the main town as you wish. Don’t miss visiting the ship in the ice which is a fantastic overnight or full day tour.


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SNOW HOTEL KIRKENES NORWAY


One of several snow and ice hotels in Scandinavia, Kirkenes Snow Hotel holds a special place for us. It is small in size but big in character and experience. The hosts simply love offering their guests a stay in their hotel explaining how it is constructed and offering welcome drinks and a hearty meal in the Gabba restaurant. Their new ‘pods’ offer cosy warm accommodation to extend your stay. Winter activities include dog-sledding, snow mobileing and the famous king crabbing.

“The rooms are all individual so a highlight of the trip was looking at all the rooms before everyone settled down for the night. The big thick sleeping bags were snug and warm, and we enjoyed using the sauna the next morning.”


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KATTFJORD CABINS, TROMSØ NORWAY


Cosy, comfortable and traditional, these cabins are popular with couples and family groups alike. The wooden log cabins are located just forty minutes from Tromsø away from any light pollution (in fact the owner has special permission to switch off the street lights during displays of the Aurora). The fjord views have recently included the appearance of sperm whales. Transfers and self-drive options are available as well as a range of winter and summer activities including snow shoeing, dog-sledding, cycling and walking.

Northern Lights Zone: Yes Budget: ££ Available: Dec— Sept (Closed Oct & Nov)

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HUSKY FARM GUEST HOUSE, KIRKENES NORWAY


Live on a working husky farm and enjoy some small group dog sled tours: from day trips to overnight expeditions. Never more than eight people at a time, the sledding is of extremely high quality enjoying some fantastic wilderness settings in the Pasvik Valley – the border river with Russia.

The guesthouse accommodation is comfortable and charming. We love the cosy living area with not a television in sight. In the summer, the owners encourage bird watching with feeders dotted about.

Northern Lights Zone: Yes Budget: £ Available: Year Round

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SEASIDE GUEST HOUSE & WHALE WATCHING NORWAY


Looking westwards, there is little else that separates the Vesterålen and Lofoten Islands from Greenland other than a vast spread of ocean. This is where the Gulf Stream comes closest to inhabited land providing nutrient-rich ocean currents and an ideal feeding ground for whales and bird life. This wildlife focused holiday captures the secrets, stories and excitement of the sea in this northern tip of Norway. Your hostess and third generation owner of the ‘Old Post House’ and Harbour will warmly welcome you to your guesthouse accommodation.

Northern Lights Zone: Yes Budget: £ Available: Year Round (winter departures on request)

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LANDSCAPE HOTEL NORWAY


The fjords of Norway are among the world’s most spectacular sights. The Geirangerfjord is one such gem listed as a UNESCO world heritage site. We think the best accommodation in this area doesn’t seek to compete with such unspoilt beauty but offers a unique vantage point to enjoy it. So the Juvet Landscape Hotel brings nature inside in the most spectacular way. The glass fronted wooden ‘pods’ are scattered among the trees of the Juvet valley and offer a wide screen view on nature. From here you can enjoy the outdoor spa area and a range of year round activities which include skiing, walking, kayaking and fishing.

“Wonderful time at the Landscape Hotel and in the area — wild and beautiful — spectacular.”

Brendan visited in 2012

Northern Lights Zone: No Budget: £££ Available: Year Round

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KAKSLAUTTANEN RESORT FINLAND


The Queen Suite cabins at this resort in northern Finland can’t be beaten for their seclusion and luxury. With a private outdoor hot tub and sauna included, the luxury log cabins are perfect for couples on a romantic holiday or honeymoon. You can also combine your stay with a night in a glass igloo – a perfect place for viewing the midnight sun or Northern Lights.

Outdoor activities are available from the doorstep including dog-sledding, snow mobileing, snow shoeing, horseback riding and more. Standard log cabins are also available for families and small groups.

“The setting is stunning and I managed to propose whilst out on an evening snowmobile ride hunting for the northern lights. Hot tub at night at -10 is certainly an experience.”

Andrew stayed in 2012

Northern Lights Zone: Yes Budget: £££ Available: Year Round

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INARI HOTEL FINLAND


A destination for food lovers, this hotel in village Inari in northern Finland is among our favourite places to eat in northern Scandinavia. The Sami family running the hotel pour a lot of passion into their food and we also love the rooms which overlook the River Juutua. Lake Inari is a glorious site in summer and winter alike with outdoor activities including snow mobileing, snow shoeing, horse sleigh rides and skiing.

“You need to book early for the popular winter months here. The river facing rooms are modern and comfortable and include a sauna. The menus give guests a real flavour of the local surroundings.”

Laura visited in 2011


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LAKE MENESJARVI HOTEL FINLAND


This hotel stands apart for its welcoming and warm atmosphere and insight into Finnish Lapland. Anne, the lady behind the hotel has created the right environment for guests to enjoy simple, comfortable lodging with incredible experiences in nature. These include reindeer sledding, dog-sledding, skiing and snow mobileing. Guests have free use of snow shoes, skis and sleds throughout their stay.

“Fantastically child friendly holiday and wonderfully organized. There wasn’t a single blip and we were warmly welcomed by the staff (very special staff at the hotel - lovely people). I honestly couldn’t believe how wonderful the husky sledging was - such a total thrill.”

The Henrys visited in 2013


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LUXURY VILLA FINLAND


Small groups are exceptionally well catered for at these luxury villas near to Kittilä in northern Finland. Architect-designed and close to the slopes and fells, you’ll enjoy peace and quiet along with the chance to search for the Northern Lights. The villas are modern in style and function, and complimented with traditional Finnish elements such as a sauna and Lappish hut – perfect for cosy gatherings.

“What can I say? Everything was perfect! From the super luxurious chalet to the beautiful food prepared on site for dinner (not forgetting the wine), it was a truly memorable weekend for us. We also enjoyed both the helicopter ride and the reindeer sleigh ride. All the staff who dealt with us on site were extremely friendly and helpful. To top it all, we even managed to catch a glimpse of the Northern lights, so we couldn’t have wished for more.”

Marthe stayed in 2013


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TREE HOTEL SWEDEN


There is something about sleeping in the trees that makes this experience a luxurious holiday, never mind the fact that the accommodation is superb. All the rooms have a unique view on the surrounding forest and valley. The interior of each Tree Room is uniquely designed by the architect, with its own furniture and lighting to complement the individual theme. Throughout the year outdoor activities are available which include dog-sledding, snow mobileing, horseback riding and skiing. The stay can be combined with the Ice Hotel in Sweden or a visit to Luleå where there are further accommodation options.


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ICE HOTEL SWEDEN


The original ice hotel built from frozen slabs gathered from the nearby river Torne. Each year artists sculpt incredible frozen forms in the pristine ice blocks. Rooms range in style and standard from the simple ice rooms through to the imaginative art suites. Warm accommodation includes Scandinavian designed hotel rooms as well as Nordic chalets. We can arrange a selection of winter activities to tailor your trip and extend your stay in other destinations in Sweden and beyond.

Northern Lights Zone: Yes Budget: £££ Available: December — April

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HOTEL RANGA ICELAND


A perfect base to explore the wild and rugged region of south Iceland. The hotel is renowned for its individual and beautiful rooms as well as an exceptionally high standard of service. Some of the rooms have great views of the volcano Mount Hekla which is one of the many day trips you can try from this location. The luxury suites in the hotel are inspired by the seven continents – a popular choice for honeymoons and romantic getaways. The menu in the restaurant covers modern Nordic cuisine with a Mediterranean twist.

“The hotel was a first class operation and the restaurant was superb. Excellent service, food and ambiance.”

Ron visited in 2013

Northern Lights Zone: Yes Budget: ££/£££ Available: December — April

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How we work

The team at Magnetic North Travel spends many weeks visiting and researching great accommodation, fantastic activity providers and the practicalities of travelling throughout the region. We have visited all of the destinations in this brochure – many of the owners and hosts we call friends.

We have a wealth of short break ideas with flexible departure dates as well as a huge stock of knowledge to create a tailored holiday or honeymoon programme. Both options offer you the best value for your budget as you’ll pick and choose the elements that are right for you.

Some of the ideas in this guide are among our favourites. However, we’ll listen to you and offer advice and recommendations based on your wishes and our experience.

Get in touch with us

We’ve put the human back into booking your holiday. You will enjoy a dedicated and attentive service from the moment you get in touch to the end of your trip. We’ll be happy to send you inspiration and ideas for your holiday or to chat through the options with you.

Email: [email protected] Telephone: +44 (0) 845 5195 242

Booking Your Holiday

Please get in touch with us to book your next adventure in the Magnetic North.

Our destinations include: Norway, Sweden, Finland, Iceland, Greenland, Russia and Denmark.

Email: [email protected] Telephone: +44 (0) 845 5195 242

Please note that this brochure offers a hand picked selection of our holidays. For our full range of trips and to view our booking conditions, please get in touch with us or visit our website.

Your financial protection

As full members of Protected Travel Services all monies you pay to us are financially protected in line with the 1992 Package Travel Regulations via a trust account. This means that your funds are secure in an independent account and will be protected against our failure from the moment you pay to the day that you return from your trip.

For more information please contact us or view www.protectedtravelservices.com/company/ consumer-protection.

All flight based holidays are protected by ATOL. Our licence number is 10706.

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Magnetic North Travel Brochure

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