Specialist Nordic tour operator 50 Degrees North has launched two new exclusive travel packages, showcasing Norway's hidden gems through a "hyper-local" lens. These independent itineraries feature boutique stays, immersive cultural encounters, and scenic journeys, designed to offer travellers experiences beyond the typical tourist trail. With a strong focus on local culture, sustainable tourism, and slow travel, these packages provide rare local insights based on in-depth regional expertise. 

Satu Vänskä-Westgarth, Director of Product at 50 Degrees North, comments, “With a focus on local food, history, and culture, these itineraries meet the demand for authentic, immersive experiences that allow travellers to connect with the true essence of Norway. From intimate farm stays to historical insights and stunning landscapes, they provide a unique opportunity to engage with local culture in a way that larger, mainstream offerings often can't.”

Local Secrets of Norway by Rail

Designed for independent travellers, this premium 7-day rail-based itinerary from Oslo to Ålesund via the Gudbrandsdal Valley blends active exploration with cultural discovery.

Key Features:

• Scenic train journey through the Gudbrandsdal Valley and Rauma Line to Åndalsnes
• Accommodation at locally owned boutique hotels offering personalised hospitality and locally sourced cuisine
• Handpicked experiences, such as a farm visits with local tastings, guided canoeing in serene mountain lakes, and an e-bike ride up the iconic Trollstigen mountain road
• Exploration of Ålesund's Art Nouveau architecture and coastal scenery
   

Heroes of Telemark and Hardangerfjord Self-Drive

This 9-day self-drive itinerary from Oslo to Bergen explores Norway's historical and natural landmarks, from the industrial heritage of Telemark to the fjords of Hardanger. Ideal for those seeking autonomy while still enjoying curated local activities and handpicked, authentic stays. 

Key Features:

• Self-drive option for greater flexibility
• Visit to Rjukan, site of WWII's heavy water sabotage
• Activities like RIB safari and local cider tasting
• Accommodation at local farms and mountain lodges
• Exploration of UNESCO-listed sites and Bergen's harbourfront 

The "hyper-local" focus of these itineraries allows guests to experience regional destinations not commonly explored by international tourists, making them a perfect fit for travellers seeking something authentic and unique.

Dates and Prices:

• Available May–September 
• Local Secrets – prices from USD 3,425 / CAD 4,710 / AUD 5,175 (Superior) 
• Heroes of Telemark – prices from USD 4,070 / USD 4,070 / AUD 6,150 (Standard)

For further details, visit

https://fiftydegreesnorth.com/styles/independent-and-self-drive 

Direct links

• https://fiftydegreesnorth.com/tour/local-secrets-of-norway-by-rail
• https://fiftydegreesnorth.com/tour/heroes-of-telemark-and-hardangerfjord-self-drive-tour 

Media Enquiries

marketing@fiftydegreesnorth.com

For press trip enquiries: We generally require a minimum of two confirmed commissions in high profile publications, and a high likelihood for more, before committing to a press trip. Also worth noting that we don't normally cover international flights as they're not included in our packages for regular travelers either. 

About 50 Degrees North

50 Degrees North is a boutique travel operator specialising in authentic, sustainable, and immersive tours and itineraries across the Nordic region, including Norway, Finland, Sweden, Denmark, Iceland, Greenland, the Faroe Islands, and Svalbard, as well as the Baltic States. Since its establishment in 2010, the company has been dedicated to curating exceptional independent and small group tours that showcase the natural beauty, cultural richness, and seasonal magic of the region. Their signature tour, the semi-independent Beautiful Norway, was featured in Traveller Awards: 10 of the Greatest Innovations in Travel (August 2024), while their Lapland Christmas Magic tour won the Luxperience 2024 Inspiring Award. Other accolades include being named Virtuoso's Tour Partner with the Highest Annual Growth (2024), winning the Luxury Family Experience award at the Luxury Travel Gold List Awards (2023), and becoming a Certified B Corporation in 2023, underscoring their commitment to sustainable and responsible tourism.