Gourmet Arctic Adventures

Light up your winter and escape to snow-shrouded Scandinavia and Iceland to seek out the aurora borealis, and dine under its magical ghostly glow on some of the region’s best local produce

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Lofoten Islands

Clustered together in the Norwegian Sea, high above the Arctic Circle, lie the secluded islands of Lofoten. With their landscape dramatically changing through the seasons, in mid-winter you’ll find these five main islands and their countless rocky outcrops thick with snow and, if you’re lucky, magically lit by the aurora borealis. For a festive trip that reconnects you to nature and serves up a blissful dose of tranquility, Lofoten makes for a unique winter getaway.

Dramatic natural beauty is what draws visitors to these remote islands, best taken in on a winter hike or biking tour – waymarked paths criss-cross Lofoten’s main isles, passing through colourful fishing villages. Temperatures can plummet quickly, so come equipped with warm, wind- and waterproof clothing. Most hotels can suggest circular routes from their doors or, to really get out into the wilds, join a guided snowshoeing trip (xxlofoten.no), departing from the harbour in Svolvær, Lofoten’s largest town (three-four hour tours from Dhs430 per person, depending on weather conditions). Or see the sights from the water, and join a RIB boat trip to speed through icy Trollfjord, looking out for flocks of incredible sea eagles and seals (two-hour tours from Dhs380 per adult, Dhs285 for children under 12; lofoten-explorer.no).

It’s easy to work up an appetite here, and for an intimate experience showcasing fresh fish and locally foraged ingredients, arrange a dinner at Lofoten Food Studio (