Custom tour operator Audley Travel has expanded its Norway program, with the addition of summer and winter trips to the north of the country. Clients traveling with Audley can search for the northern lights in winter (in Tromsø and the Alta region) and visit the Lofoten Islands in summer for outdoor activities including hiking and kayaking.

Norway with Audley

As with all of Audley's trips, the new sample itineraries can be booked as Audley's experts suggest or used as a starting point to work with a country specialist to design their own bespoke trip based on their tastes, budget and wish list.

Luxury Northern lights break in the Arctic Circle

The itinerary explores above the Arctic Circle and is designed to maximize the chance of seeing the northern lights, with an evening catamaran sailing tour across a dark fjord in Tromsø and a guided snowmobile ride across the tundra in the wilderness around Alta. Clients also enjoy the scenery in a more traditional way — a husky sled ride along parts of the Finnmarksløpet route: the world's northernmost husky-sled race. Accommodation close to Alta is in rooms with glass ceilings, for more chances to see the northern lights.

The 10-day itinerary costs from $11,595 per person (based on two traveling) and includes flights from Oslo, transfers, accommodation and excursions. 855 435 1768 / www.audleytravel.com/us/norway

Self-drive tour of the Lofoten Islands

Clients visit in the summer days of midnight sun, staying in classic rorbu (traditional fishing cabins built in the 19th century and now converted into luxury stays) in Svolvær, Nusfjord and Reine.  Excursions include hiking into the mountains from Nusfjord and a fishing trip when, for clients lucky enough to catch a fish, chefs will prepare it for the clients' evening meal.

Across the fjord, clients stay on Manshausen Island, a private island that houses a small number of luxury cabins with fantastic views from the floor-to-ceiling windows. Tours here include a sea eagle safari and a private hike through the mountains which is tailored to the client's abilities and energy level to ensure that they get the best views.

The 13-day itinerary costs from $15,195 per person (based on two traveling) and includes flights from Oslo, transfers, ferry tickets, accommodation and excursions. 855 435 1768 / www.audleytravel.com/us/norway

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