3 Scandinavian destinations to discover in 2022

The Nordic countries exert a very special fascination on travellers... Do you want to give more body to your desires? Here are 3 destinations not to be missed on a trip to Scandinavia.

When we think of Scandinavia, we think of the intimidating names of its capitals, the harsh sounds of the northern deities or the inhospitable and majestic landscapes of the polar circles. As many images and sounds that build an imaginary rich in the spirit of travellers. In this article, Wanderlix presents 3 emblematic destinations to discover in 2022 during a trip to Scandinavia. Because covid-19 will not prevent us from dreaming of escape and responding to the call of the North!

Travel to Scandinavia: discovering the Nordic countries

Where is Scandinavia?

Scandinavia generally means Sweden , Norway and Denmark . Indeed, this ensemble has some ethnic and linguistic homogeneity, although it is not necessary to forget the Sami and Finn peoples.

This term also covers a political reality. For example, we think about the rise of nationalisms, and particularly Scandinavism, during the nineteenth century. In contemporary history, Scandinavia stands out for its positioning during the two world wars and the cold war, and then for its accession to international bodies (EU, NATO, etc.).

We usually include Finland and Iceland in the Scandinavian countries. In reality, it would be necessary to speak of "Nordic countries", an unambiguous name.

When is Scandinavia?

Scandinavia irreparably evokes the age of Vikings, which spreads from the 8th to the 11th century. However, the three countries that originally formed it were often united under the same power, as in the Kalmar Union. But the modern term “Scandinavia” appears only in the nineteenth century. So what's his origins?

Let's get back to time. Archaeological discoveries attest to an occupation of the territory as early as 10,000 years before J.C. It is the Samis people, who are gradually pushed back to the North. During the Iron Age, Scandinavia has many influences: Latin, Celtic, Vandal, Germanic...

The arrival of Vikings marks the Scandinavian Middle Ages. It results in a christianization of the territory. During the Kalmar Union, a single monarch reigns over Scandinavia, but the seven-year Nordic War ended in the 16th century.

The modern era is marked by the influence of Protestantism, which will engage Scandinavia in the Thirty Years War led by the Holy Roman Empire. Later, Napoleonic wars will further weaken the territory. It will be necessary to wait for the end of world wars to see a new alliance. The Scandinavian countries will, in particular, block the integration of the European Union.

Why travel to Scandinavia?

A trip to Scandinavia is marked by the majestic landscapes of the territory. Their mysterious beauty lives in our imagination, and it is not for nothing! From the splendid mountains to Kiruna to the sandy beaches of Ystad, to the cliffs and huge fjords in Tromso... Magic works.

The territory offers a mild temperature in summer and an unaltered snow in winter. In the north, the night is extended: it is the opportunity to enjoy the midnight sun, which unfolds without disappearing on the horizon.

But Scandinavia also has a unique character. We think of the legendary conviviality of its inhabitants, the dark mythology of the North or the Samies traditions.

The region is deeply marked by its history. You will feel it by walking through the medieval streets of Bergen, visiting the prehistoric megalithhes of Ale or by browsing the Nordic circuit that passes through Trelleborg, Jönköping and Årsunda.

Let us not forget the religious feasts of this Lutheran territory. Here, Christmas is a real institution: houses light up and church bells ring in the heart. It is an opportunity to discover Scandinavian gastronomy: salmon, herring, apple-fried duck, milk rice...

In winter, Saint Lucia also celebrates the streets of candlelit women's processions. Later, Midsommar, whose rounds and lights of joy paid tribute to the summer solstice.

You will have understood, many reasons can motivate a trip to Scandinavia... Here are three emblematic destinations to discover!

1. The Lofoten Islands

The Lofoten Islands are among the most beautiful landscapes in Norway. Located beyond the polar circle, they are home to vast mountains overlooking the sea. A little as if the Alps dip in the water...

You will also find fishing villages with unique charm, such as Queen or Henningsvaer. Others mark the spirits by their isolation: Sakrisov on its island or Å i Lofoten and its end-of-the-world airs.

Let us not forget the splendid beaches, bathed by pure and transparent waters. Discover Vik beach for the Northern Lights, Haukland for sunset or Unstad for surfing. There are many activities on the islands. You can hike, practice the sled dog or go looking for the Northern Lights!

We advise you to stop in Svolvaer, a pleasant town north of the Lofoten Islands. It is home to a airport and its surroundings are beautiful. You can admire a multitude of small islands and breathtaking sunsets on the mountains. And in order not to spoil anything, it is a must-see spot to uncover boreal dawns.

The second airport is located in Leknes, a smaller southern city, but is close to all the must-sees. However, it is best to plan several drop points: for example, Queen is ideal for exploring the surrounding villages. The bus network will allow you to radiate throughout the region.

2. Stockholm

Stockholm is the largest city and capital of Sweden. It was founded on fourteen islands, which gave it the nickname of "North Venice".

It is a city with amazing geography, where nature is sovereign. In addition to the parks, you sometimes cross the rivers of green and wild hills.

The very heart of the city has an inexpressable charm. All visitors will tell you: in Stockholm, we feel good. Without a doubt a must during a trip to Scandinavia!

Walk through the paved alleys of Gamla Stan, the old town. You will cross the buildings of the 18th and 19th centuries with bright colours, but also historical monuments such as the royal palace. By going to Norrmalm, the modern centre, you can dive into the social life of the capital. The opportunity for a shopping trip, because the Norwegian design love does not stop at HộM and Ikea.

Stockholm has three airports: Arlanda, Bromma and Skavsta. The main flights to Scandinavia are served by Arlanda . You can also go by train or bus, but wait for many stopovers. Finally, you have the option of travelling by car: it’s long, but the road is very beautiful!

3. Rovaniemi

Welcome to the official birthplace of Santa Claus! Rovaniemi is a destination not to be missed on a trip to Scandinavia. And for cause, if the Lapland is a transnational region covering Norway, Sweden and Russia , it is probably the Finnish Lapland which embodies it best with its large snowy plains.

Located at the gates of the Pole Circle, Rovaniemi represents this complex reality. It is an ideal drop point to discover more authentic destinations such as Inari or Pyhätunturi. Generally, you will need to look for authentic Lapland in the East...

Very touristy, the city houses the village of Santa Claus. There are also captivating museums, such as the Arktikum Museum dedicated to the Arctic and the North.

The streets of Rovaniemi were designed by architect Alvar Aalto, but it is its surroundings that will mark the spirits. Just walk a few kilometers to reach the wild nature. You can go on a hiking trip or book activities: sled dog, snowmobile, iced water bath, sauna and steam bath, search for boreal aurora, etc.

How to get there? Rovaniemi houses a airport served by the broad international lines. You can also go by car, train or bus. This is the occasion of a staged road trip to the Pole Circle, an adventure that will remain engraved in your memory!