Scandinavian Summer Retreats

Scandinavia is one of the most famously beautiful regions in Europe, if not the world, and never is this more evident than in the summer, when the sunshine glistens across the fjords and sparkles through the cities.

Here are five of the best things to do in the summer in Scandinavia.

Explore Geirangerfjord

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Geirangerford is Norway’s most stunning fjord, and one of the most amazing natural sites in Europe. Take the 20km ferry journey through meandering waters, white cliffs and cascading waterfalls; the only way to see this truly spectacular area of natural beauty.

 Experience Viking Life

Aarhus’s Viking Moot Festival is Scandinavia’s largest, and takes place late July every year. Attracting 25,000 visitors and countless performers, the festival is free and takes place in the Moesgard Museum in Aarhus. There are riding shows, battle re-enactments, old-fashioned markets and plenty more to enjoy, so don’t miss out!

Sweden’s National Day

Sweden’s national day, or Nationaldag to the locals, takes place each year on 6 June, and celebrates Gustav Vasa’s election as King of Sweden on 6 June 1523. The day became a bank holiday in 2005 and is celebrated throughout the country. Catch a glimpse of the Royal Family in their blue and yellow folk costumes at the open-air Skansen Museum, where the King will present flags to prominent members of various organisations and charities. Denmark’s national day is 5 June, but is usually used to hold political rallies and events, rather than celebrations.

Timeless amusement parks

What better way to spend a summer’s day than with all the thrills of the funfair? Denmark is home to 2 of the world’s oldest amusement parks, with Dyrehavsbakken and Tivoli Gardens both just a short distance from the capital Copenhagen. Dyrehhavsbakken (often shortened to “Bakken”) is the world’s oldest, having opened its gates in 1583, but still attracts more than 2.5 million visitors each year. Tivoli Gardens is a beautiful old site which attracts 4 million visitors each year, making it the second most popular seasonal theme park in the world. If you’re feeling brave, then check out Rutschebanen, a rollercoaster dating back to 1914!