Embark on a five day foodie adventure high above the Arctic Circle in the remote town of Longyearbyen, nestled deep within rugged mountains and icy plains. One can't help but be enamoured by the charm of this idyllic setting, where colourful buildings are in stark contrast to the snow capped hills and mountains that surround them. On this Svalbard holiday we have included lots of gourmet experiences whilst staying at the up-market Funken Lodge with days free to book a wide variety of thrilling Arctic excursions.
You can experience this break at any time of year, so expect complete darkness during polar nights (mid-November to late January) which is great for northern light activities. From February to April, as the sun begins to reappear over the horizon after long winter nights, each day becomes longer than the next. Snow is still on the ground, so embark on a range of winter activities including snowmobiling, dog sledding, ice caving and, if you are lucky, catch a glimpse of the northern lights dancing in the sky above Longyearbyen.
Beneath the midnight sun spot an array of birdlife migrating to Spitsbergen to take advantage of 24 hours of daylight, explore the dramatic coastlines, sail on the icy fjords and even try your hand at summer dog sledding.
Arrive at the Arctic town of Longyearbyen - the main settlement on the island of Spitsbergen, the largest island in the Svalbard archipelago. Take a taxi transfer to the luxury Funken Lodge and check-in for four nights. Tonight join an excursion out to the Camp Barentz located at the end of the road into the Advent Valley. Operated year-round, depending on the season the focus could be on the Northern Lights or the Midnight sun. However one thing is constant - immensely delicious food, free-flowing drink and really convivial company. (D)
Today is left free for relaxing or to book additional excursions - perhaps a guided tour of Longyearbyen or a dog sledding adventure? There is nothing like the thrill of riding through the Arctic wilderness pulled along by a pack of husky dogs, whether on wheels during the summer or on snow in the dark polar nights. Tonight venture to Huset for a unique multi-course dinning experience. Here the incredibly talented chefs use Nordic techniques and tasting combinations with seasonal ingredients coming mainly from Svalbard and the Arctic region. (B,D)
Today is left free for you to book additional excursions - whether a wilderness safari on silent electric snowmobiles or another sustainable option on board the hybrid electric catamaran - MS Barda, exploring Arctic fjords. Perhaps a guided electric bike ride that operates in winter and summer. In winter there are plenty of northern light experiences to chose from, whilst in summer hiking and boat trips are popular. Included today (Mondays, Wednesdays & Saturdays) is an early evening visit to the world's most northly brewery for a 90 minute beer tasting experience. (B)
Today, perhaps book an excursion to visit Mine Number 3 and experience the life of a miner during the days of coal production. Or, visit the North Pole Expedition Museum. This evening head to the cellar of Funken Lodge to Det gamle Nordpolet, where the miners and office staff once collected their quota of alcohol for the week. In this historic setting, enjoy tasting different Champagnes accompanied by some delicious canapes. (B)
Today transfer to the airport for your flight via Oslo back to the UK. (B)
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* why not upgrade with a wine pairing
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