Scandinavia

SCANDINAVIA – Go beyond the Surface

I grew up going to Scandinavia every year and since living in California, have been back many times. I love all three countries, Denmark, Norway and Sweden. Each country is very different, the food, the people, the culture and the scenery but all are well worth visiting on the same trip since they are in such close proximity to each other. Most people speak English, so you have no worries in getting around.

To maximize your time and help you create a singular adventure, I am sharing a few of our favorite “how to” tips for enjoying iconic activities in each locale.

How to Museum Hop in Sweden

Over 30,000 islands comprise the archipelago of Sweden’s capital city of Stockholm where the Baltic Sea’s windswept ruggedness offsets the chicness of the trendsetting metropolis. While many of these islands are largely uninhabited, several harbor unique heritage, idyllic attractions and famous museums, over 75 of which can be accessed with the purchase of a Stockholm Card. In addition to entrance fees, this convenient pass includes travel by public transport ranging from boats to buses.

After visiting some of Stockholm’s most acclaimed sites clustered around the port and city center such as the bigger than life installations at Magasin Museum and Foundation for Contemporary Art set off the beaten track combining museum going with island hopping. A short trip to the island of Lidingo delivers you to the home and studio of sculptor Carl Miles at Millesgarden. Delicate water sprites and other whimsical sculptures dot the landscape and the studio displays the artist’s original castings and tools.

Just a 20 minute walk from central Stockholm is the island of Djungarden, home to the world’s only preserved 17th century ship which is proudly displayed inside the Vasa Museum. This is an absolute must see. Every time I go, I am awed at the story, and the beautiful ship. On the same island is the open air museum of Skansen where you can hear shoemakers, bakers and other craftsmen in period dress recount Sweden’s fascinating history. Relive your favorite hits of more recent history, the 1970’s at ABBA, this is a fun museum and I am a fan of the Swedish pop band.

I saw them in London and it was the most outstanding show I have ever been to. The audience was jumping in their seats.

A boat tour is the best way to arrive upon the picturesque village of Vaxholm providing you with a panoramic glimpse of the wooden facades painted in delicate pastels before up close encounters with local traditions like fika, a social coffee break with pastries. Get a taste of history at the Vaxholm Fortress Museum dating back to the 16th century.

How to Hike in Norway

Famous for easily accessible fjords and mountains, Norway offers some of the most stunning scenery in all of Scandinavia rife with opportunities for outdoor adventure. One of the most breathtaking exhibits of natural wonders is Lysefjord, a 26 mile long fjord where you can hike to vantage points such as Preikestolen. The Pulpit Rock, towering 1,900 feet over the pine fringed cliffs. Wear sturdy hiking boots and follow the well marked trail leading from Oygardsstol Kjerag Panoramic Restaurant to Kjeragbolten. Take a boat ride to see the wonderful waterfalls.

Bergen is one of my favorite towns. Go see the lakeside villa of composer Edvard Grieg. You can effortlessly traverse one of Europe’s highest mountain plateaus during a train ride from Bergen to Oslo. The Bergen and Oslo Pass is another smart way to maximize your fun and save money. Vigeland Sculpture Park and the Munch Museum are popular attractions. I always go to the fish market - amazing selection - on the waterfront.

How to Picnic in Denmark

Copenhagen serves as a perfect destination for picnicking in the summer months. Everyone rides a bike and you can rent one from several local docking stations equipped with a touchscreen navigation for seamless sightseeing. We can help you rent a bike with electric assist GPS to make your ride all the more leisurely. Pedal over to Meyers Deli, a smashing place to buy your picnic in the fashionable neighborhood of Frederiksberg. Go eat your lunch in the palace gardens, or the Rosenborg Gardens.

Just north of the city, the Dyrehaven offers incredible bike trails or you can rent a horse and explore the woodlands on horseback. Take out one of the solar-powered GoBoat along Copenhagen’s quaint canals is another way to explore the city sites. Flash your Copenhagen Card which included unlimited use of public transport and access to 72 attractions. End your day by going to the Restaurant Tarnet in the Christiansborg Palace Tower, the highest building in the city for a smashing view.

All three countries have wonderful crafts, so shopping is a must.

Go on our website www.froschvacations.com and find a Scandinavia offer.

Maureen Jones

All Horizons Travel/Frosch

825 Santa Cruz Ave

Menlo Park, CA 94025

650-961-2340 direct

maureen.jones@frosch.com