Travel Journal of a Trip to Norway and Finland

Hi everyone,

Back in 2003, we traveled through Norway—you can check out the journal here: http://norway2003.elgar.be. And in 2007, we headed back to Finland and Norway: http://scan2007.elgar.be.

I hope you get the chance to discover these amazing Nordic countries one day. Feel free to ask me any questions!

Happy reading,

Vivien

I just took a quick look at your site, which I’ve bookmarked to read when I have a clear head. We followed each other’s journey closely that summer... So many great memories. You can also discover these magical places from another angle by visiting my site (signature). PS: Thanks to you, I learned the name of the "Silent People" that had intrigued me.

Hi there, We’re planning a trip to Norway and Finland in August 2009, traveling by train. I read through your travel journal, which is packed with really useful info, especially about accommodation. From what I understand, there were 4 of you. When you stayed at campgrounds, what kind of lodging did you have—a family room or a small cottage with 2 bedrooms and a living area? Also, for 2 adults, can I just halve the prices, or is it not that straightforward? Thanks in advance.

Hi there,

During our trip to Norway in 2003, there were 5 of us, and during our Finland/Norway trip in 2007, we were 5 (in Finland) then 4 from Tromsø onward. I was with my wife and our older kids.

Regarding accommodation, aside from a few hotels booked in major stopover cities, we mostly camped. It's good to know that every campsite has "hytters"—small cabins. These are available for 2, 4, or 6 people. With 5 of us, we sometimes booked the 4-person ones, with the fifth person sleeping on their inflatable mattress. These cabins always have beds and blankets. We always had our sleeping bags with us. They come with an electric stove and a fridge. Depending on the comfort level and price, they may have running water and sanitary facilities. Otherwise, you’ll need to use the campsite’s shared facilities. Sometimes, there are rooms available. We also found accommodations with locals. Lastly, we always had a tent just in case we couldn’t find anything. A few photos of our accommodations are included in the sites linked in my signature.

I see you’ll be traveling by train. In northern Finland and Norway, there aren’t any. But the bus system works really well as a replacement.

Happy planning!

Vivien

hi, I like your site, the Norway photos are pretty cool keep up the good work rafa

Hello,

We’re planning a family trip to Norway in July. I’ve been browsing VF... Great job on your very comprehensive sites with lots of beautiful photos! 🙂

This post made me wonder: is it necessary to bring sleeping bags for the hytters? I thought they were equipped with the essentials—did you use any during your stays in Norway?

Thanks!

Best regards,

Hi there,

In all the cabins we found blankets. We had only brought sleeping bags. The cabins also have electric heating.

Wishing you an excellent preparation for this beautiful country.

Vivien

Thanks for the quick reply!

Hello,

Just a little update on November 1st, 2024!

Back in 2003, we traveled through Norway all the way to the Lofoten Islands, and four years later in 2007, we set off again to Finland and Norway to explore Lapland.

In 2018, we revisited Denmark, Sweden, and Norway.

I hope you get a chance to discover these wonderful Nordic countries someday. Feel free to ask me any questions.

Happy reading,

Vivien