Arctic Luxury in Svalbard

Your adventure begins by flying from the UK to Oslo, from which you’ll fly to Longyearbyen, the world’s northernmost town and the main settlement in Svalbard – roughly half-way between the northernmost tip of mainland Norway and the North Pole. During the summer months, the sun never dips below the horizon here, bathing Svalbard in 24/7 daylight. On arrival, take the airport shuttle bus to Funken Lodge, a stylish boutique hotel on a hilltop with wonderful views overlooking Longyearbyen. Spend the rest of the day at leisure, either relaxing at the hotel or exploring the town, where colourful timber houses are built on stilts to keep them elevated above the permafrost.

For somewhere so small and so remote, there’s a remarkably plentiful choice of shops, cafes, bars and restaurants in Longyearbyen – and even the world’s northernmost brewery, which uses glacier water in making its delicious range of beers. In the evening, you might fancy visiting Huset, Longyearbyen’s renowned fine dining venue, or perhaps you’ll be tempted to try Funken Lodge’s own restaurant, Funktionærmessen, which offers exceptional four-course and seven-course tasting menus. Funken Bar, meanwhile, is a delightfully cosy spot to enjoy a glass of wine or an expertly mixed cocktail. 

Today, you’ll leave the civilization of Longyearbyen behind as you sail aboard Isfjord Ekspressen to Isfjord Radio, a former radio station built in 1933 on Spitsbergen’s west coast, now functioning as a boutique wilderness hotel. On arrival, you’ll be welcomed by your hosts, who’ll tell you all about the fascinating history of this unique destination. Afterwards, you may wish to unwind in the sauna, keeping an eye out for whales swimming by in the ocean down below. Later on, a delectable five-course dinner is served, showcasing the finest locally sourced Arctic produce.

The following morning, enjoy breakfast at Isfjord Radio, followed by a choice of optional excursions (for an additional supplement), presenting the opportunity to explore the pristine surrounding nature. You could, for instance, embark on a RIB boat adventure to the bird nesting cliffs of Alkehornet and the majestic Esmark Glacier, or you could set off on a full-day guided hike, with chances to observe walruses and an abundance of Arctic birdlife. Do bear in mind that due to the possibility of polar bear encounters, you must be accompanied by a guide with suitable protection when venturing outside at Isfjord Radio. In the evening, reconvene back at base, perhaps taking a refreshing dip in the sea before enjoying another fabulous dinner. 

You have some more time today for optional excursions from Isfjord Radio and further chances to spot the likes of walruses, seals, Arctic foxes, Svalbard reindeer and polar bears – always, of course, from a safe distance, and accompanied by a guide. In the late afternoon, Isfjord Ekspressen will return to bring you back to Longyearbyen, where you’ll check into Funken Lodge for the final night of your trip. 

Enjoy one last breakfast at Funken Lodge before taking the shuttle bus back to the airport for your flight back to Oslo, and finally to the UK.