23 May Spotlight on… Svalbard
Svalbard is made for incentive trips. Taking people to the edge of the earth, in the Polar Night or under the midnight sun, located just 800 miles from the North Pole, it is definitely out of the ordinary.
When you combine the stunning Polar wilderness with the warmth of Longyearbyen, something special happens. The air is crisper, the senses are sharpened. The juxtaposition of the seemingly unending Arctic desert with beautiful hotels, unique experiences and delicious dining options will stay with you for a lifetime and leave you with an exceptional adventure trip to the North Pole.
How to get there
It’s easier than you think. With daily flights between London and Oslo, it’s just a short connecting flight from Oslo to Svalbard, making it a surprisingly accessible incentive destination.
Where to Stay
With hotel options to suit every group demographic, our top picks would include the Coal Miners Cabins, previously a home turned into the miners and now host to 76 rooms in a funky, relaxed and cosy style in the southern part of Longyearbyen.
The Radisson Blu Polar Hotel, Spitsbergen also makes the list; located in the heart of Longyearbyen and with 95 recently renovated rooms with a sprinkling of Polar spirit, it’s a perfect base for your Arctic adventure.
What to do
During the light winter season (March to May), snowmobiling is easily the best way to explore Svalbard. Visit amazing wilderness destinations like the East coast of Spitsbergen through to taking in the epic views at Elveneset.
Another popular option is a dog sledding tour to take you into the deafening silence of the Arctic. The pitter-patter of paws on the snow and the squeaking of the sled will the only noise for endless miles.
During the summer, a boat trip is an absolute must. Boats can be chartered for private groups and take you out to the glistening Adventfjord and beyond, where an exclusive BBQ lunch can be set up in front of a stunning glacier.