retiretoexplore

Rovaniemi to Ruka Valley

Santa Claus Village sign outside of Rovaniemi Highlights Rovaniemi is home to Santa Claus Village where the Arctic Circle line runs through.  Ruka Valley is a hiking destination.  Between the two, there are reindeers and tons of outdoor activities. Time of Visit:  June 2024 Duration of Visit:  5 days Description Rovaniemi is located at the …

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Places to VISIT

Odda Highlights Our impression of  several places we stayed at in Norway so that you may get an idea if you should consider these places for your Norway adventure. Time of Visit: July – August 2024 Duration of Visit:  42 Days Description We flew  into Oslo and explored the fjords in Southern Norway for 25 …

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Norway on a Budget

Enjoying lunch on the side of the road near Aurland Highlights How to travel Norway on a limited budget.  The cheapest way of efficiently seeing Norway on a budget is car camping.  Time of Visit:  July – August 2024 Duration of Visit:  42 days Description Norway is notoriously expensive.  Hotels, groceries, restaurants, gas and rental …

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Ten Epic Norway Day Hikes

Looking at Lysefjord after hiking to Kjeragbolten Highlights Ten epic day hikes in Norway Time of Visit:  July-August 2024 Duration of Visit:  42 days Description Norway is a hiker’s paradise.  The country’s fjords and mountains provide breathtaking and unique sceneries.  The list of hikes here are by no means inclusive.  There are probably much better …

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Faroe Islands

View from Hvithamar on the Eysturoy Island Highlights Useful information in planning your Faroe Islands trip.  This blog lists the places to visit and things to do by islands.  Suggested itinerary is also provided.  Time of Visit:  July 2024 Duration of Visit:  Nine nights Description The Faroe Islands is an archipelago of 18 islands separated …

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Kerlingarfjöll

Snow covered Mænir towers over the Hveradalir Geothermal Area Highlights Beautiful multicolored hills, geothermal features and hot springs. Time of Visit:  June 2024 Duration of Visit:  Two nights Description Kerlingarfjöll is a geological wonder known for its dramatic landscapes, geothermal activity, and outdoor recreational opportunities. It is located in Iceland’s central highlands about four hours …

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Ring Road On A Budget

Highlights Car camping is the absolute cheapest way to have an Iceland Ring Road adventure.  If you want more comfort but have flexibility, a campervan may be your next option.  The most comfortable way to travel is to rent a regular vehicle and stay in guest houses.  Time of Visit:  June 2024 Duration of Visit:  …

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Landmannalaugar

View of multicolored mountains from the Brennisteinsalda trail Highlights Colorful mountains, hiking and hot springs in the Fjallabak Nature Reserve.   Time of Visit:  June 2024 Duration of Visit:  1.5 days Description Landmannalaugar is located in the Fjallabak Nature Reserve in the Highlands of Iceland.  It is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and unique geological …

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