Hiking and road tours in Scandinavia and Iceland

Traveling is the best way to discover new horizons, immerse yourself in other cultures, and enjoy unrivaled views. Every traveler dreams of finding a place where what they see is breathtaking, where new unexplored worlds open up step by step, leaving an unforgettable experience. This is exactly the kind of unique experience that our road trips and hiking tours in Iceland and the Scandinavian countries offer.

Vikings, medieval castles, ancient churches and cities with thousands of years of history will gladly reveal their past to you... The aurora borealis, majestic mountains, endless glaciers, powerful waterfalls and pristine black sand beaches are fascinating! Every corner of Northern Europe is full of amazing landscapes that are useless to describe in words, you need to see them with your own eyes. KULUAR team leaders have already explored these regions and will be happy to guide you:

• From north to south of Norway by car;
• On a hiking trail to the Norwegian lakes and the Troll's Tongue;
• The Lofoten Islands - a tour with car, hiking and water crossings;
• The Golden Ring of Iceland route and other trekking trails;
• See the aurora borealis and winter landmarks of Iceland by traveling by campervan;
• Drive around the island by car, visiting all the iconic Icelandic attractions.

So, take your shoes, pack your camera and let's go!

"A long time ago, when the world was still ruled by gods, one of them, the supreme judge of the Scandinavian pantheon, decided to create a place where Earth, Sea and Sky would meet in their greatest beauty. He gathered the best natural elements: green valleys, high mountains, deep fjords and the bright northern lights... This is how Norway was born - a country of amazing wild natural beauty, rich history and high standard of living. From the ancient Vikings to modern technologies, from the patriarchal way of life of small settlements to the capital's ultra-modernism - such a diverse beauty is the Road to the North.

Do you dream of touching the magic? You are at the right place, magic is created here! Just imagine how the sky turns into a green-violet formation that gently dances across the surface of the vista. It is best enjoyed in the north of Norway in the Lofoten and Tromsø regions. "What's next?" - you ask 😉 - and then it gets even more interesting, the magic is just beginning.

Norway's climate is far from easy and pleasant. It ranges from temperate in the south to subarctic and arctic in the north. The coast has relatively mild winters and cool summers. The interior and mountainous areas have harsher winter conditions with lots of snow. Therefore, the best time to visit the country is the end of June, July and August, when the weather is most stable and warm. And, of course, it is at this time that KULUAR Club offers group tours to Scandinavia.

However, you should not relax, because it is very difficult to fully predict the weather, so be prepared. Our advice: take good membrane clothes, because you should be prepared for both cold and rain with fog. First of all, knowledge of the layering principle of clothing will come in handy here. And secondly, after bad weather, of course, you realize even more the value of the gentle midnight sun.

The air temperature averages around +15, but it can also warm up above +23. Still, it's humid and windy, so it feels cooler than in a dry and quiet climate.

The geographical location of this Scandinavian country allows its residents to admire two interesting natural phenomena at once - white nights (from June to early August) and the northern lights (from September to early April).

Norway is a country where everyone can find something for themselves. Whether you are looking for breathtaking natural landscapes, rich history, cultural experiences or a relaxing vacation, Norway will leave you with unforgettable memories and a desire to return again.

7 days, 650 km and a steep balanced load, which, by the way, is suitable for travelers with different levels of fitness (time in the car is 20%, and time on hikes is 80%). What will be waiting for you on a tour of the Lofoten Islands? The most famous mountain of the islands! Its name Reinebringen comes from the word "Reine", which means "queen" in Norwegian. Yes, its elegance and grandeur are beyond words...

Rheinebringen is located near the small town of Rheine, which is known for its traditional fishing houses, which are located on the shores of a picturesque bay. From the mountain, from a bird's eye view, they look like toys.

Reinebringen is famous for its panoramic views of the Lofoten, which are striking in their northern exoticism. From the top, you can enjoy unrivaled views of the endless waters of the Norwegian Sea and cherry sunsets.

What do you think is next on the list of Lofoten attractions? That's right, kayaking on the amazingly clear sea waters! Why? Because this exciting trip will allow you to discover the beauty of the Norwegian coast from a completely different perspective. You will see an incredible panorama of the city of Svolvær, which is considered the heart of the region. Its picturesque port, colorful houses and wonderful mountain setting create a unique image that will remain in your memory forever.

The Lofoten Islands have a so-called "pea stone" analog - the impressive Ryten mountain rider, which hangs over beautiful fjords and villages. While hiking on Ryten, you will find yourself among incredible landscapes that are reflected in the endless waters of the Atlantic Ocean.

Despite the relatively short distance (42 km in 6 days), this tour of Norway is not easy - the rocky landscape will constantly remind you of itself, as will the climate, by the way. Although, it does not involve mega-heavy loads, because the stay in the mountains is only a couple of days. The tour is perfect for those who need to switch, but not for long 😉

The right equipment for this climb is a big part of success. The first thing you need to pay attention to is trekking shoes with deep treads on the soles and a waterproof membrane on top. It will keep your feet safe all the way, and this is sometimes slippery boulders, mud, and mountain rivers. The second is a jacket or raincoat with a lining that will not stick to your body.

What does the path look like? It is a completely different road in terms of relief. However, it is well-marked, so there are signs every kilometer to indicate how far it is to Tongue and back. When you reach your destination, you can finally relax and be alone with nature, breathe in its greatness. Yes... The Troll's Tongue and the dawn are here, as the artist will draw... The morning sky among the mountains changes from dark blue to bright orange. Just like at sunset, when the sun is hiding and painting the world in pink and violet-golden tones. These colors contrast with the darker shades of rocks and water, creating a unique atmosphere.

The Troll's Tongue is the result of glacial erosion that has been shaping the rocks for thousands of years - a unique geological formation that has no analogues. Standing on its edge is a thrill, because the lack of a fence and the height of 700 meters fill your body with adrenaline in a way that cannot be compared to anything else! Photos taken during sunset on the Troll's Tongue become real masterpieces. They capture the play of light and shadow, the majesty of nature and a moment of silence.

8 days, 720 km and a modern 9-seater minivan, overnight stays in tents on the territory of comfortable campsites, hot showers and a kitchen. What else do you need for happiness 😉 Oh, of course, there are also water streams, fjords, and mysterious Norwegian rocks. Despite the fact that the route passes through the mountains, it is relatively easy and suitable for tourists with a low level of physical fitness.

Its advantages include:

• moving from the north to the south of the country, you will see the coolest checkpoints without wasting time;
• you do not need to carry a large backpack all the time;
• the car is comfortable in any weather, because the air conditioner works wonders 😉

Among the cons:

• somewhat limited contact with nature;
• insignificant physical activity (although, for some, this may be an advantage).

Well, let's start with a little bit about the gateway to the fjords. Bergen is a city known for its historic Bruggen district, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a row of old wooden houses dating back to the Hanseatic League. It's a cool place, and this is where our journey begins. Furthermore, it continues with a waterfall: Steinsdalsfoss with its picturesque surroundings. A huge stream falling from a height of 46 meters creates an incredible sight that is hard to forget. The icing on the cake is the opportunity to enjoy it from the inside, feel the power of the water and take unforgettable photos.

The Husedalen Valley and 4 waterfalls create a unique cascading effect. Each of them has its own unique character and is exquisite in its own way. The green valleys, steep cliffs and flowering meadows provide the perfect setting for relaxation, enjoyment and photo shoots.

Further along the course, Preikestolen is one of the most beautiful viewpoints in the world. The adrenaline is off the charts! Evening hours here are especially magical when the sun sets behind the horizon, painting the sky and fjord in golden hues. We continue our route to an amazing place that combines natural beauty, extreme sports and the spirit of adventure - Troll's Tongue - here you will feel the true majesty of nature.

On a road trip with the KULUAR club, you will touch the most outstanding natural monuments. And also Norwegian spas, delicacies, Vikings and unique wooden medieval churches. In general, there is a lot to see 😉

According to an ancient legend, a fiery giant named Iceland threw red-hot stone and lava in a fit of overwhelming anger, forming a new land that later became known as Iceland. The name of the country comes from the word "isla", which means "ice". Why? Most of its territory is covered by majestic glaciers. That's who she is, a real goddess who combined the power of fire and cold to create a unique landscape.

Every corner of Iceland is filled with mysteries and natural wonders. Dramatic landscapes that shimmer from huge glaciers to hot springs and volcanoes. There are also mighty waterfalls, geysers, black beaches of the Atlantic Ocean, natural spas in the open air, colorful mountains, the northern lights...

Beautiful light here - shining green and pink streaks in the sky create a magical atmosphere that you will never forget.

Iceland is located on the border of two tectonic plates, which makes its geology unique. Thingvellir National Park is a place where you can see how the North American and Eurasian plates diverge.

A driving tour of Iceland is perfect for those who do not want (or cannot) travel with a heavy backpack, who do not have the opportunity to take a long vacation, but have a desire to see a huge number of attractions in the country. However, even an ordinary hike will be a pleasure. After all, there are no harmful industrial plants here, which means that the air and water are crystal clear, and, by the way, you can safely drink water directly from the tap.

What temperature indicators should I expect when planning a trip?

The proximity of the Gulf Stream has provided Iceland with warmer conditions than one would expect from a northern island. However, the subarctic maritime climate prevails here. The average summer temperature is +12-13°C, with frequent rains. In winter, it is windy, so the temperature of -5°C can feel like -15°C. So we advise you to take warm clothes and raincoats.

The south of the island differs from the north coast in warmer, but even more windy weather; the central region is the driest. Snowfalls are observed mostly in the north. In winter, it is time to observe the northern lights, and in summer - white nights.

Iceland is a must-see! But whether it will be in the format of a hiking trip with tents, a car tour or a trip in a campervan - you can choose, focusing on your strengths and tastes.

A variety of colored mountains, abruptly changing with moss and black lava rocks, a glacial lagoon, lunch on the banks of a raging river, canyons, parks, bridges, and hot springs where you will steam and get high... Icelandic ice cream, famous lamb steaks and the specialty of the house - rotten shark meat 😉 - of course, on request, and much more, which we will tell you about later.

Let's just say that during 13 days of trekking in Iceland with KULUAR club you will be able to fully experience all the advantages of the local routes and be alone with nature. The average level of difficulty of the track is not suitable for everyone. This is a real backpacking trip. Every day you will walk 19-23 km, overcome passes, descents and ascents with a maximum height of 1 km. Only on the 9th day will your legs get a break on the bus, which will take you to the ocean at Vic Beach. Of course, the heaviness in the legs quickly dissipates with romantic gatherings in the tent camp discussing the beauty you've seen 😉

Well, let's go! The Golden Ring of Iceland will reveal the most famous natural wonders of this country. The name Golden Circle was chosen for a reason: the route forms a vicious circle and covers the main tourist destinations, which, like gold, are the real jewels of Iceland. The 300 km long route starts and ends in the capital Reykjavik. The main points of this "gold" include Thingvellir Park, an incredibly picturesque place with lakes and rivers. Then you will see the power of the Gullfoss waterfall. This 32-meter-high beauty pours its waters into a deep canyon (20 meters wide and 70 meters deep). Powerful streams of water create such a roar that the place acquires an additional dramatic effect. On a sunny day, a rainbow is born here because of the water spray, creating a real fairy tale. Gudlfoss looks especially beautiful in autumn, when the leaves turn golden-red-brown, and in winter, when the waterfall freezes, turning into a crystal sculpture.

The Haukadalur geothermal field is famous for its geysers, in particular Strokkur, which erupts every 5-10 minutes, spewing a column of hot water up to 30 meters high. Nearby is the Great Geyser, which gave its name to all the geysers in the world.

The track continues through the blue cliffs of Blakhnyukyur, colorful rhyolite mountains, smoking hot springs and lava fields. We invite you! And also swimming in the Atlantic Ocean, the largest glacial lagoon in Iceland, funny puffin birds, friendly horses and a photo shoot of fossilized trolls 😉

8 days, 1600 km, all travels along the route are made in comfortable campervans. During this period of time you will explore the entire southern coast of the island with KULUAR!

The program includes the Tingvellir National Park, where you will walk between continents and visit both Europe and America at the same time. Enjoy the multi-level "golden waterfall", which consists of two cascades, creating an incredible spectacular effect. The upper cascade falls from a height of 11 meters, and the lower cascade falls from 21 meters.

The oldest bathhouse in Iceland, opened in 1891, will steam your bones and pave the way to the black volcanic beach of Reynisfjara, where huge basalt columns will lead you straight into the sea.

The Dwarf Rocks, also known as Dverghamrar, are one of the most interesting and mystical natural formations in Iceland. According to local legends, they are home to these bearded men (dorgs), who are said to have lived here for thousands of years. It is believed that gnomes guard these places and can only appear at night. Locals believe that they have magical powers and can influence nature. Well, we wish you to meet a worthy one :).

Doorgamrar is a great place for hiking. The routes here are not difficult, which makes them accessible to tourists of all ages and levels of training.

Next on the tour are the Blue Glacial Caves of Svinafedlsjökull, which are formed during ice melt. Their walls have an incredible color, which gives the impression that you are inside a gem. The glacier is constantly moving and changing, creating deep cracks and tall ice towers.

During the 9 days of the tour you will see a real kaleidoscope of the most beautiful places in the world!

You will start your acquaintance with the natural magic of Iceland from the Seltún geothermal zone, which is known for its mud pools and colorful puddles formed by sulfur and other minerals. Also enjoy the tranquility of one of the island's deepest lakes, Kleifarvatn, which is fed by numerous small streams from the surrounding volcanic hills.

The glacial lagoon Jökulsárlón, strewn with icebergs, creates an incredibly beautiful landscape. They, in turn, having different sizes and shapes, reflect light, creating striking color shades - from white to deep blue.

Ice fragments carried by the ocean waves onto the black volcanic sand form the so-called "Diamond Beach" The contrast between the sand and the transparent ice fragments looks extremely impressive.

How can you go without an amazing whale safari! Yes, this tour with KULUAR offers you an incredible opportunity to get to know these grandiose creatures. You will have a chance to get as close as possible to whales in safe and comfortable conditions on a specially adapted tour boat.