<p>Enjoy a summer holiday in the Arctic and experience breathtaking scenery and a diverse range of outdoor adventures.</p>
Photo: Deplar Farm

Experience Summer in the Arctic

Enjoy a summer holiday in the Arctic and experience breathtaking scenery and a diverse range of outdoor adventures.

Summer
Published at: 8 Jun 2021
Last updated at: 9 Nov 2023

Whilst the majority of us think of the Arctic as a winter destination with snowy vistas, freezing temperatures and icy activities, summer holidays in the Arctic can be just as enriching. With longer days, fascinating wildlife and diverse outdoor activities in the wilderness, the Arctic is a wonderful destination for a summer vacation.

Serena Norton
Serena Norton

Iceland in Summer

The Fljót Valley in northern Iceland acts as the perfect gateway to outdoor adventures in the Arctic summer. For the ultimate Iceland luxury summer escape, we recommend Deplar Farm, a converted sheep farm that blends into the natural landscape and is surrounded by breathtaking views.

There are many things to do in Iceland in summer, with the midnight sun providing the perfect environment for long summer days enjoying multiple outdoor activities. Staying at Deplar Lodge gives you access to some of the most exclusive rivers in Iceland which are ideal for Arctic char and Atlantic trout fishing. Other popular activities include horseback riding, kayaking, whale watching and fat biking.

Back at the Lodge, relax in the geothermal indoor/outdoor pool, soak in the indoor and outdoor hot tubs or unwind in the sauna and steam room. Enjoy delicious meals that celebrate the surroundings. Dine on locally-sourced fish and pasture-raised lamb and try Icelandic craft brews and wines from the extensive cellar.

Mountain biking in Iceland in summerPhoto: Deplar Farm
Horse riding in Iceland in summerPhoto: Deplar Farm
Sauna at Deplar Farm in Iceland in summerPhoto: Deplar Farm
Bedroom view at Javri Lodge in FinlandPhoto: Javri Lodge

Summer in Finland

With 24-hours of daylight, there is endless time to enjoy the fantastic array of things to do in Finland in summer. Stay at Jávri Lodge and go hiking in Finland’s second-largest national park or explore the trails around the park aboard a fat bike. If viewing the spectacular Northern Lights is on your bucket list, then there is a chance of capturing them towards the end of summer from mid-August onwards. You can also experience the splashes of the Juuta river in Inarie on a guided river rafting adventure. The Lodge itself also provides a chance to truly relax and unwind with two authentic Finnish saunas, a swimming pool and massage treatments available.

If you are looking to hone your skills or learn new ones on your summer holiday in Finland then Octola Private Wilderness offers a wonderful array of activities from survival skills lessons to guided handicraft workshops by a local family. You can also enjoy helicopter tours, nature walks and foraging.

Summer in Sweden

When the snow melts, a whole new world of opportunity awaits close to the Arctic Circle. Summer holidays in Sweden are suitable for both nature lovers and adrenaline-seekers.

Those who seek the tranquility of nature will appreciate a stay at Loggers Lodge, a charming wood-clad cabin surrounded by forest where complete privacy is guaranteed. Here you can enjoy hiking in the Korgen Nature Reserve or a relaxing guided walk through the pine tree forest on your doorstep. Forage for wild berries and learn about the flora and fauna of this spectacular region. Pay a visit to the Storforsen Nature Reserve, home to Northern Europe’s most voluminous rapid or discover the art of fly fishing.

If adrenaline-inducing activities are more your thing, then the Villa at Copperhill Mountain Lodge close to the Åre ski region is the place to stay. Fly like a bird on a paragliding expedition from the peak of Åreskutan, try ziplining over rapids and ravines or explore the mountains by bike or on horseback.

Pine Forest by Loggers Lodge in SwedenPhoto: Loggers Lodge
Cuisine at Loggers Lodge in SwedenPhoto: Loggers Lodge
River in Arctic SwedenPhoto: Loggers Lodge
Rock climbing in AlaskaPhoto: Sheldon Chalet

Summer in Alaska

From May to August, delight in Alaska’s midnight sun which provides epic days of glacier adventures. One of the best places to visit in Alaska in summer is Denali’s magnificent Ruth Glacier, just 10 miles from the summit. With temperatures reaching 60°F, watch as snowy peaks transform into cascading avalanches and search out seasonal delicacies including edible wildflowers, wild greens and berries.

There are plenty of things to do in Alaska in summer, from snowshoe glacier trekking to ice and rock climbing. We recommend staying at the spectacular Sheldon Chalet, an exclusive all-inclusive experience for up to 10 guests. Enjoy a gourmet glacier picnic surrounded by simply breathtaking landscapes, explore crevasses or have a go at rappelling. Back at the lodge, dine on a feast of creative and delectable Alaskan cuisine prepared using locally-sourced, wild harvested ingredients.