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Northern Highlights with optional St. Petersburg extension

Escorted tour, 11 nights (14 nights with St. Petersburg)

Northern Highlights with optional St. Petersburg extension

To Book

Call us on

01274 875 199

Or Contact us by email

Prices

Do you love the buzz of the city but also hanker for the

peace and tranquility of the countryside? If the

answer is yes then this holiday is perfect for you!

We have made this tour for those people who not only love city life but love the countryside too. Rolled into one holiday, we have mixed three countries with three capital cities, and absolutely dozens of Scandinavia's most celebrated attractions. You could be in the heart of Norway's famous fjords on one day, and the next day you might be having dinner in Sweden's capital city, Stockholm.

Highlights of the tour include visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Geirangerfjord, Norway's only site listed for it's incredible beauty - and that's saying a lot about a place that's continually voted as the world's most beautiful country! You will also experience Stockholm's diverse landscape by exploring its nearby forest region, and a tour of the City Hall where the prestigious Nobel Prize ceremony is held each year. Last but not least the final leg of the tour will take you to Helsinki, Finland's capital city where you can explore its busy market place, underground temple and the famous Uspenski Cathedral.

Day 1 - Arrive Oslo

Transfer from Oslo Gardermoen Airport to hotel in connection with your flight arrival. Dinner and accommodation at Radisson BLU Scandinavia Hotel Oslo, ideally situated close to the Karl Johans Gate and Royal Palace.

1 night OSLO - Radisson BLU Scandinavia Hotel

Day 2 - Oslo to Ulvik

After breakfast departure from Oslo, driving via Honefoss along the charming Halling Valley to the tourist resort town of Geilo. Buffet lunch at Bardøla Mountain Hotel. After lunch, cross the wild Hardanger Mountain Plateau to Fossli, stopping to view the thundering Vøringsfoss Waterfall with a vertical drop of 180m. Descend the amazing Måbødal Canyon to the idyllic Hardanger Fjord. Short ferry crossing, followed by drive along the Ulvik Fjord, a branch of the Hardanger Fjord, to the picturesque village of Ulvik. Dinner and accommodation at Brakanes Hotel, ideally located on the banks of the fjord.

1 night ULVIK - Brakanes Hotel

Day 3 - Ulvik to Bergen

After buffet breakfast, start of scenic tour along the beautiful Hardanger Fjord, famous for its many fruit orchards, via the towns of Øystese and Norheimsund, arriving in Bergen around midday. Afternoon 2 hour tour of Bergen, including a visit to the popular Fish and Flower Market, the famous Bryggen Harbour with its gabled packhouses, and the old Hanseatic Quarter. You will also ride on the funicular to Mt. Fløien, for the best views of the city and fjords way below. Dinner and accommodation at Radisson BLU Hotel Norge, centrally located on Ole Bull's Square, close to the pedestrian shopping streets and within walking distance of the old Bryggen Harbour.

1 night BERGEN - Radisson BLU Hotel Norge

Day 4 - Bergen to Flåm to Balestrand

After breakfast, departure from Bergen and drive via Dale to the town of Voss. Descend the Nærøy Valley, passing the amazing Stalheim Canyon, to the fjordside village of Flåm. Board your train for an exhilarating ride on the amazing Flåm Railway to Myrdal, a masterpiece of engineering ascending 2.838ft in less than one hour. The descend from Myrdal to Flåm offers opportunities for photo shots of exciting waterfalls and mountain scenery. After a short rest in Flåm, start of approx. 2 hours cruise by boat along the narrow Aurlands and Nærøy Fjords, both branches of the Sognefjord, the longest and deepest fjord in the world. Enjoy the spectacular scenery of cascading waterfalls, sheer mountain cliffs, snow-clad peaks, and a variety of wildlife. After disembarking at Gudvangen at the head of the Nærøyfjord, continue by coach across the Vika Mountains to Vangsnes, for the short ferry crossing to the beautiful resort of Balestrand. Dinner and accommodation at Kvikne's Hotel, superbly located on the banks of the fjord and surrounded by mountains.

1 night BALESTRAND - Kvikne's Hotel

Day 5 - Balestrand and A Day in the Fjords

Day free in Balestrand, giving you the opportunity to enjoy the outstanding beauty and nature of the fjords. The day starts with a traditional Norwegian buffet breakfast in the hotel's elegant dining room. You may want to spend the morning relaxing on the hotel terrace, breathing in the fresh mountain air and enjoying the spectacular views. We can also recommend a visit to the local aquarium and art gallery, or you may prefer to rent a bike or rowing boat from the hotel, or even go on foot up to the nearest mountains. A walking tour of the village of Balestrand, with its historic buildings and other interesting sites can also be arranged. Dinner and accommodation at Kvikne's Hotel.

1 night BALESTRAND - Kvikne's Hotel

Day 6 - Balestrand to Geiranger

After breakfast, departure from your hotel by ferry from Dragsvik to Hella, followed by a scenic tour along the northern side of the Sogn Fjord to Sogndal. The tour continues by road to Fjaerland, passing under the Jostedal Glacier, the largest in Europe, to the village of Skei at the northern end of beautiful Lake Jolster. Descend to the beautiful Nord Fjord, making a detour at Olden to visit the world-famous Briksdal Glacier. The journey up to the glacier will be made in open cars to give you the best of views. Afterwards, lunch will be served in sight of the glacier. During the afternoon the tour continues via Loen and Stryn, to the picturesque village of Hellesylt, From here you go on board the ferry for the one hour's cruise along the spectacular gerianger Fjord, possibly the most impressive of all the Norwegian fjords. During the cruise you will pass close by some magnificent waterfalls, such as the Bridal Veil and the Seven Sisters. Dinner and accommodation at the excellent Union Hotel, overlooking the Geirangerfjord.

1 night GEIRANGER - Union Hotel

Day 7 - Geiranger to Oslo

From the top of the famous Serpentine Road, you have the opportunity to digest some amazing views of the fjord, before crossing the rugged Grotli Mountains to Lom, well known for its 14th century stave church. The tour continues via Lake Vaga, before descending the magnificent Gudbrands Valley to the popular tourist town of Lillehammer. Lunch in Lillehammer. After lunch, the journey continues alongside Lake Mjosa, Norway's largest lake, back to Oslo. Dinner and accommodation at Radisson BLU Scandinavia Hotel Oslo.

1 night OSLO - Radisson BLU Hotel Scandinavia

Day 8 - Oslo to Stockholm

After breakfast departure from Oslo, continuing by coach towards the Swedish border. Cross into the attractive province of Varmland to arrive in the city of Karlstad on Lake Vanern, the largest in Sweden. Lunch in Karlstad. After lunch, the tour continues through a landscape of forests and sparkling lakes to reach the Swedish capital in the late afternoon. Dinner and accommodation at the Clarion Hotel Sign, first-class hotel centrally located.

1 night STOCKHOLM - Clarion Hotel Sign

Day 9 - Stockholm

The day starts with a 4-hour guided tour of the city. Famous sights include the Royal Palace, Parliament Buildings, Cathedral, Royal Theatre etc. You will also visit the enchanting Old Town (Gamla Stan) with its narrow cobbled streets and numerous antique shops. Highlight of the tour is a visit to City Hall, with its impressive blue and golden halls, where the Nobel Prize banquet is held each year. Afternoon free in Stockholm, with possibility to visit the famous Vasa Museum or take one of the popular canal tours. Accommodation at the Clarion Hotel Sign.

1 night STOCKHOLM - Clarion Hotel Sign

Day 10 - Stockholm to Helsinki

Morning free in Stockholm. Afternoon transfer from hotel to pier, for embarkation on a luxurious cruise ferry of the Silja Line. 17.00hrs: Departure from Stockholm, sailing slowly through the picturesque archipelago past numerous small islands. Dinner on board. Choice of entertainment, bars, shops and casino. Accommodation is in 2-berth outside cabins (seaside) with shower/WC. We recommend you to bring an overnight bag for this cruise, to avoid having to bring suitcases to and from your cabin.

1 night ONBOARD - Silja Line Cruise Ferry

Day 11 - Helsinki

Enjoy your buffet breakfast as you sail into Helsinki harbour. After disembarkation, 3-hours guided tour of Helsinki. Famous sights include the Senate Square, Uspenski Cathedral, Parliament House, Finlandia Hall, Sibelius Park & Monument, Underground Temple, and much more. During the afternoon you can explore the busy market place or the many souvenir shops close to the harbour. Finnish crystal and leather goods are an excellent buy. Dinner and accommodation at the Radisson BLU Royal Hotel, another first-class hotel centrally located.

1 night HELSINKI - Radisson BLU Royal Hotel

Day 12 - Helsinki Departure or Train to St. Petersburg

Buffett breakfast at hotel. Those passengers ending the tour in Helsinki will have a private transfer to Helsinki Vantaa Airport to connect with your homebound flight.

Passengers continuing to St. Petersburg transfer by coach from the hotel to the railway station at 1000. Departure from Helsinki on train 'Allegro' for St. Petersburg. On arrival in St. Petersburg there is a coach transfer from the railway station to the hotel combined with an hour's guided boat cruise along the neva River and a visit to St. Isaac's Cathedral. A Welcome Dinner including a shot of vodka (of course, we are in Russia!) and a glass of wine are served at the hotel during the evening.

1 night ST. PETERSBURG - Ambassador Hotel

Day 13 - St. Petersburg

Buffet breakfast at the hotel. The day begins with a transfer to Neva River cruise harbour for cruise by hydrofoil to Peterhof, including the Grand Palace and lower parks with fountains. Lunch at local restaurant. After lunch there is a tour of the world-famous Hermitage Art Museum and the State Rooms of the Winter Palace. Return to the hotel for dinner.

1 night ST. PETERSBURG - Ambassador Hotel

Day 14 - St. Petersburg

Buffet breakfast at hotel and 3 hours panoramic tour of the city by coach with local English-speaking guide. St. Petersburg is a city of outstanding architectural beauty, famous for its magnificent palaces, cathedrals, fountains and bridges and the tour includes sights such as the Square of Arts, The Russian Museum, the Cathedral of Our Savious on the Spilt Blood, Griboedov Canal, Nevsky Prospect, the Palace Square with the Winter Palace, the spit of the Basil's Island, the Menshikov Palace, the Senate Square, and the Bronze Horseman. A visit will also be paid to Peter and Paul Fortress. Lunch at local restaurant. After lunch, transfer to town of Pushkin followed by a visit to Catherine's Palace including the famous Amber room. Return to St. Petersburg. This evening you will be taken to see a colourful Russian folklore show at the Nikolaevsky Palace, with snacks during the intermission. Dinner at the Dostoevsky Restaurant.

1 night ST. PETERSBURG - Ambassador Hotel

Day 15 - St. Petersburg Departure

Buffet breakfast at the hotel followed by transfers to St. Petersburg Airport to connect with homeward flights.

Departure Day: Tuesdays by air from London Heathrow
Departure Dates: Oslo to Oslo - 25 June 2013; 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30 July 2013; Oslo to St. Petersburg - 2 & 23 July 2013
Duration:  Oslo to Oslo - 11 nights; Oslo to St. Petersburg - 14 nights

Please Note: Alternative departure airports are available subject to flight schedules and availability (supplements may apply). Please telephone 01274 875199 for further details.


Radisson BLU Scandinavia Hotel, Oslo ****

The Radisson Blu Scandinavia Hotel, Oslo boasts the ideal location next to the Royal Palace and near Vigeland Sculpture Park, top shopping areas and Aker Brygge. In addition to comfortable hotel rooms with first-class amenities, guests enjoy access to a fitness room, swimming pool and saunas and the breathtaking views of the Oslo Fjord from Summit, a bar on the 21st floor.

Each of the 497 expertly decorated rooms and suites at this Oslo accommodation features a blend of contemporary design and classic comfort while treating guests to premier amenities. Many of the rooms were renovated in the unique Ocean Style, a fresh, Nordic design inspired by the natural beauty of the Norwegian sky, ocean and nearby fjords. All rooms include Free high-speed, wireless Internet access and specially designed mattresses for unbeatable comfort and rest.

This hotel offers guests restaurant variety in Oslo. Both ENZO and Brasseriet delight guests with regional ingredients and international dining. Start a day of sightseeing with the Super Breakfast Buffet, hosted by Brasseriet, and remember to enjoy a cocktail while overlooking the Oslo fjord at Summit, the in-house bar.

This accommodation offers some of the best facilities and services, including the hotel fitness centre in Oslo. The hotel dazzles guests with an on-site fitness room, Clef's d'or-certified concierge, swimming pool and premier security services. As a family-friendly accommodation, the hotel offers enviable children's services that include play areas and additional in-room bedding.


Brakanes Hotel, Ulvik ****

Beautifully positioned hotel with excellent amenities. Indoor heated swimming pool with sauna, steam bath, small gym and library to ensure you get the most out of your stay. This grand hotel has lovely gardens overlooking the fjord which makes leaving the hotel almost impossble! There is a spacious dining room serving excellent cuisine, and evenings can be spent in the lounges and bars. All rooms have TV, mini-bar and telephone and lifts to all floors. Boat hire available from reception.


Radisson Blu Hotel Norge, Bergen ****

Located in the heart of the city adjacent to the popular city park, Lille Lungegåardsvann. Housing the city's premier seafood restaurant, the hotel offers beautifully renovated guest rooms which come with excellent amenities such as Free high-speed Internet access. The perfect base for exploring Bergen, the hotel is within walking distance to the historic Maria Church, Rosenkrantz Tower, Håkan's Hall as well as the city funicular to Mount Fløien, an area that seduces visitors with its breathtaking views over Bergen and the Atlantic Ocean. Perfectly situated, the hotel is an easy 5 - 10 min. walk to these top attractions: Bergen's fish market, the city funicular to Fløien, Maria Church, Håkan's Hall and Rosenkrantz Tower.


Kvikne's Hotel, Balestrand ****

At Kvikne's the best traditions of innkeeping go right back to 1752. The Kvikne family, who still own the hotel today, took over in 1877 and a continuous process of development has been going on from that day to this. 

The hotel was built in the "Swiss" style. Much new building, reconstruction and extension has gone on since, but none of it has altered the special character of this place. Kvikne's is a modern hotel with old world charm and atmosphere and with 200 guest rooms is one of the largest tourist hotels in Norway. The hotel is graced with an extensive collection of artworks and antiques, which give it its special style. The list of prominent guests is a long one. Kaiser Wilhelm II of Germany was a frequent guest in Balestrand. Royalty, emperors, presidents, prime ministers, film stars and artists from many countries can be found on the guest list.

There are a number of different room categories available at the hotel.  Taber Holidays use as standard rooms on a high floor in the New Wing of the hotel with a view of the gardens and fjord.  These rooms have twin beds, a seating area, desk, TV, telephone and bathroom with bath/shower and WC.  A small number of twin rooms are also available in the Old Wing of the hotel which are simply and traditionally furnished in keeping with the old style of the hotel and have a view of the fjord.  These rooms are available at a supplement.  The Old Wing also has a small number of Junior Suites which have a separated seating area and bedroom and a view of the fjord. Please ask our reservations staff for applicable supplements.

The hotel serve a traditional Scandinavian buffet for dinner with a broad selection of cold meats, fish and salad along with a number of hot dishes featuring meat, fish and vegetarian options. A large buffet breakfast is also served.

The hotel has extensive lounges in the old building with wonderful views of the fjord and a cosy bar next door to the reception desk.


Union Hotel, Geiranger ****

The Hotel Union was built in 1891 by A. Shieldrop of Ålesund. The building was originally of wood, inspired by the Swiss or dragon-head style, closely linked to Art Nouveau and Jugend architecture, and identical to the timber-built hotel at Øye. In 1899, the hotel was purchased by Julie and Karl Mjelva. The Mjelvas were extremely enterprising, opening an automobile manufacturing plant, a power station and a cooker factory all on the same site. The cooker factory is still in operation today, with a new owner, but at a different location.

Today the hotel has evolved into one of the finest hotels in Norway. It is spacious with generously proportioned, stylishly furnished lounges and lobby areas, in warm, attractive colours. More than enough space for many, or simply a quiet corner for oneself. The atmosphere is relaxing. Everywhere, large panoramic windows let in light and views of the wonderful natural surroundings. Enjoy a cup of good coffee as you gaze over the Geirangerfjord, the most beautiful fjord in the world.

Hotel Union has 197 rooms, including 6 deluxe suites and 13 junior suites. All rooms are attractively furnished and decorated with care and attention to detail. Not all have views of the fjord, but all have fine views of the surrounding countryside, bringing nature right into your room.

The 6 deluxe suites are all different and individually furnished. The size of each suite varies, but all have their own bedroom and lounge, making them ideal for small meetings. The junior suites are modern and well-equipped and most suites have fjord views. Please ask for the supplement to upgrade to a suite.

When it comes to food the philosophy of the hotel is to present good Norwegian cuisine based on the very best ingredients and locally sourced produce. All food is freshly cooked, and many of the finest recipes have followed the hotel for generations. The hotel has two restaurants, Restaurant Fjorden and Restaurant Julie. Nina Grieg Terrace has spectacular views of the Geirangerfjord and the surrounding mountains and is a popular place, on a warm summer's evening to relax over a light lunch, a cup of coffee or a glass of wine.

There three bars - Vognfabrikken in the basement inspired by the hotel's unique veteran car collection, The Lobby Bar by the reception and The Nightclub, also in the basement where all the entertainment takes place including live dance musuc six nights per week.

Café Løsta is right by Union Bath & Spa, and is easily accessible for bathing guests. Enjoy a light meal in your bathrobe, or have it served inside the Union Spa. Café Løsta offers light meals, a salad buffet and a drinks and beverages menu.

Union Spa is the absolute icing on the cake. Here one encounters nature anew, within the framework of treatments based on the centuries-old secrets of many cultures, where the most valuable element is water. Water provides joy and pleasure for all ages! Such an experience provides mental and physical exercise and harmony, combined with positive moments in addition to feeling energized. In the swimming pool area you can swim indoors and outdoors, and relax in quiet zones in between. There is a sauna and for children there is a separate slide, grotto and games to play. A variety of treatments are available in the spa and can be pre-booked for your stay. Please telephone us on 01274 875199 for further information and prices.


Clarion Hotel Sign, Stockholm ****

Stockholm's largest hotel is located in the heart of Stockholm city adjacent to the Central Station and Arlanda Express facing the Norra Bantorget Square. The hotel is brand new, built in 2008, and is a spectacular building dominated by granite and glass, leaning over the square reflecting the green park. The hotel has a wonderful Aquavit Grill & Raw Bar, contributed by Marcus Samuelsson of New York’s Aquavit restaurant. The eighth floor of the hotel holds Selma CitySpa+ where you can indulge yourself in the sauna, gym, spa with a spa treatment and/or in the heated outdoor pool, all with a fantastic view of Stockholm. All rooms are non-smoking and have TV, telephone, hair dryer, Internet access and some of the most comfortable beds we have ever slept in in the whole of Scandinavia! Lift to all floors.


Radisson Blu Royal Hotel, Helsinki ****

One of the most conveniently located hotels in Helsinki city centre with abundant choice of activities and entertainment. The Finnish National Gallery and Helsinki's best shoppng centre are also within walking distance of The Radisson Blu Royal Hotel. All of the rooms offer premier amenities that include air conditioning, coffee and tea provisions, Free high-speed, wireless Internet access, a marble bathroom and Super Breakfast Buffet. In the evening guests at the Radisson Blu Royal Hotel can enjoy one of the best Helsinki restaurants without leaving the hotel, at the Michelin-rated Grill It! which boasts some of the best steaks, Arctic prawns and chocolate cake in the city!


Ambassador Hotel, St. Petersburg ****

Luxurious hotels started appearing in European cities as early as the 18th century, and the Ambassador became a popular place where the nobility liked staying.The Ambassador Hotel is located in the historic centre of St. Petersburg, a 7-minute walk away from Sadovaya (Sennaya Ploschad’) Underground Station. St. Isaac and St. Nicholas Cathedral, the Mariinsky Theatre, and the Yusupov Gardens are all in the immediate vicinity of the hotel and you can visit them while you take a walk.

There are 251 comfortable rooms at the hotel. Each room is equipped with air-conditioning, Internet access, a direct international and inter-city telephone line, interactive and satellite TV, a mini-bar and a safe. Bath rooms are equipped with big mirrors and somewhere are decorated with mosaic. All the rooms have a beautiful view on the historic city center, cozy courtyard or Rimsky-Korsakov avenue.

The hotel's restaurants of the Ambassador Hotel are remarkable for their elegant St. Petersburg style and top quality cuisine that keeps up traditions of the art of cookery.

The Ambassador Hall is located on the ground floor of the hotel in the glassed-in atrium designed in the classical style. In the middle of the hall there is a stage for musicians, which promises that the guests will be able to enjoy live music concerts organized by the hotel.The Lobby Bar is near the Ambassador Hall.

In Le Vernissage panoramic restaurant with a beautiful view of the historical city centre, you can try dishes prepared by the chef Dmitry Ivanov. Recipes of royal Russia, a special light menu and season novelties will be appreciated even by gourmets. The restaurant can be used for banquets for a large number of guests. Not far from Le Vernissage, there is the Gallery Bar where one can sit back and watch sports broadcasts.

The restaurant serves a breakfast buffet from 07:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. offering a large choice of appetizers, main courses and fresh pastry baked in its own bakery.

Ambassador Hotel invites St. Petersburg residents and guests to visit its beauty and fitness center . Enjoy 16-meters swimming pool, Finnish saunas, gym room, beauty salon services. Our professional staff includes cosmetologists, visage specialists, manicure and pedicure specialists, and hair stylists.

The fitness centre is open daily 24 hours and the beauty salon is open daily from 10 AM to 8 PM.

The swimming pool, Finnish saunas, gym room are free from 7 AM to 11.30 AM.

Our Escorted Tour Partners - Robinson Scandinavia
These tours are operated by our partners Robinson Scandinavia with whom we have a long standing relationship. Robinson are known for the very high standard of service they provide and appeal to those people who seek a standard of accommodation and services far above that often offered in a package tour program. Whether visiting one of the fascinating Nordic capitals, experiencing the breathtaking beauty of the Norwegian fjords, or cruising the Baltic, you will find the very best has been selected for your comfort and enjoyment.

Tour Language
Robinson Scandinavia operates this program of tours in English only.

Tour Escorts
Tour Escorts have been specially chosen, not only for their outstanding knowledge of the countries and places you will visit, but also for their personal appearance and proven ability to look after people. Likewise, uniformed coach drivers are employed not only for their years of driving experience, but also for their dedication to giving friendly service and attention to the needs of their passengers.

Guaranteed Departures
No minimum number is required! All departures are guaranteed - no matter the number of persons booked.

Children
Out of consideration to other passengers, and because such tours are generally considered unsuitable for younger children, children under 12 years of age are not allowed on these escorted coach tours.

Visas
All nationalities require a visa for visiting St. Petersburg which may be obtained from your nearest Russian consulate or embassy. Taber Holidays will be happy to supply on request a visa support letter to help expedite the issuing of a visa.

Luggage Handling
Luggage handling is included in all hotels, however you will be responsible for handling your own luggage when embarking and disembarking from cruises.

To book call 01274 875 199 or Contact us by email

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