Tromsø in Norway is one of the best places on Earth to catch a glimpse of the aurora borealis. Its charms certainly won over Prince Harry, who visited recently with his new love. For a fabulous Arctic getaway, look no further…
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle recently enjoyed a getaway to Norway
EXPLORE
On dark polar nights, the elusive aurora borealis (Northern lights) can be spotted from Tromsø. But for unbeatable viewing, make the half-hour drive east to the Lyngen Alps – a hiker's paradise with spectacular glaciers and great terrain for off-piste skiing.
TASTE
Perched on Tromsø's twinkly harbour is Fiskekompaniet – a refined restaurant with an ever-changing menu of fresh Nordic dishes (think skreimølje – cod meat served with its liver and roe). For fusion cuisine, book a table at Presis (pictured), a lively tapas spot serving Norwegian and Spanish plates for sharing.
INDULGE
With temperatures that can drop to -19C, where better than Tromsø to update your collection of cold-weather gear? For pieces that blend form with function, Norrøna is a good place to start. Or head to Twist'em Skis, a concept store and workshop where you can design and build your own pair of pro skis.
STAY
In snow-dusted Ersfjordbotn (above) – a small village just outside Tromsø – sits the cosiest of cabins: a peaceful, wood-clad den with two bedrooms, low-energy lighting and a dramatic craggy backdrop.
Decked out in neutral colours, the cabin's interior gives a firm nod to Scandinavian style and has all of the creature comforts you could wish for. Curl up beside the half-moon window and watch as the light shifts across the deep sapphire sky, or wander down to the fjord to spot killer whales as they glifde through the cool Norwegian waters.
WHAT TO WEAR
La Mer Lip Balm, £45; visit cremedelamer.co.uk
Bear crewneck sweater, £205, Perfect Moment; visit perfectmoment.com
Cozy Carnival boots, £100, Sorel; visit sorelfootwear.co.uk
Rates for the cabin in Ersfjordbotn begin at £143 per night via Airbnb; visit airbnb.co.uk/rooms/3470864. Norwegian flies from London to Tromsø from £67one way including taxes; visit norwegian.com/uk.
