An Extended Journey Through Baltic Legends and Norway’s Fjordland

Spanning 14 islands, more than 50 bridges and many more museums, Sweden’s capital is naturally known as the ‘Venice of the North’. Gently pedal on a cultural discovery of this Baltic Sea archipelago; tread the cobblestone streets to the iconic city hall, the world’s first open air museum, the adored ABBA exhibition, and the royal family residence of Drottningholm where the opera house still retains original stage machinery. Heighten your interest with two other UNESCO heritage sites, a woodland cemetery and the archaeological site of Birka. Dine at the Hornhuset district, perhaps only after strolling small streets that narrow to 90cm at Mårten Trotzigs Gränd. And for further sustenance, wander down to fashionable Strandvagen Boulevard and open-air Hornstull Marknad for new and vintage goods.

Visit Visby on the island of Gotland for authentic Swedish riches. Well-preserved walls protect the city and set the scene for what lies within. You’ll be warmly welcomed with cuisine, culture, nature and Viking archaeology. With a long history and UNESCO World Heritage ruins dating back to the 12th century, this orderly medieval town rejoices in being one of Scandinavia’s best-preserved towns. Roam peaceful streets on foot or by bike to boutiques selling warm woollens for winter and shelves laden with local crafts. Visit the lengthy Lummelunda Cave in a nature reserve, experience the traditional Swedish coffee ritual and taste beer at the local brewery. Soak up the history and atmosphere in well-groomed Visby for a slice of time gone by.

Compact yet richly packed with Soviet history and architectural charms, there’s plenty to explore in Riga with its UNESCO-acclaimed medieval old town, where cobbled streets wind up at colourful squares. Gaze at the wonderful eclectic buildings, from gothic and baroque, to innovative art nouveau. Listen to the Latvian National Opera, drink age old liqueur seasoned with 24 herbs, or find plenty of personal space on the 20-mile stretch of fine, sandy beaches. Build up an appetite whilst bartering at Riga’s flavourful Central Market. Then step down into cosy restaurants that serve up hearty Latvian truffle and seafood dishes. Known as the Pearl of Latvia, it’s easy to understand why.

On the shores of the Baltic Sea lies the oldest city in Lithuania, complete with legends and fables. Visit museums and quaint fishing villages, admire beautiful weathervanes and Thomas Mann’s home. Head for the UNESCO Curonian Spit and get back to basics in Nida, bird watch in Kretinga and stand tall on Europe’s highest sand dunes. Breathe deep in a relaxing sauna to rejuvenate body and soul before tasting dried and smoked fish with sides of potato. And as you slowly sip Lithuanian beer, you’ll go with the flow hearing sober soviet history and fascinating Baltic tales of fairies. Described as a shining water land, feel safe in the knowledge that Klaipėda’s own mermaid protects her city from danger, whilst the River Dangė provides strength.

Delve into Poland’s ‘city of freedom’ with intriguing architecture and its tempestuous history. Visit old St Mary’s Church, delve into Chopin’s heritage and relax with an organ recital. Walk the 500-metre length of the town's heart - Dlugi Targ - to visit statues, murals, churches and observe classic Polish men and women amassing on benches. Step back in time to discover the events leading up to the Second World War and the fall of communism. Visit vital accounts of Polish history in museums and brace as you venture to a concentration camp. Reflect on a lighter ambiance to quench your thirst with amber tea in customary cafes or choose one of the 30 bars on ‘beer street’ if you need something a little stronger. Seek views for miles from the Town Hall bell tower, tread aboard a private boat tour on the Motlawa River and visit one of the largest castles in the world. And if that wasn’t enough, Gdańsk is the place to go for dumplings.

Rejoice in one of the happiest and most vibrant capital cities in the world. Relax like a local alongside joyful Danes and varied culture; the Gefion Fountain, the Little Mermaid statue, Old Citadel, the Amalien Palace with four Rococo buildings, medieval history, charming fishing villages, leading examples of sustainable living and - of course - flaky Danish pastries. Cycling is the preferred way to shuttle across town and it’s well worth the pedal to enjoy the trendy, cosy neighbourhood of Norrebro, Christiansborg Palace and the waterfront home of Christian Andersen. Genuine, vibrant and welcoming... rather like the smiles of those that live here.

A flawless illustration of a small coastal Nordic village. Set on fertile ground between a deep fjord and high mountains, impressive waterfalls cascade through polished rock. Not only astoundingly exquisite, Hellesylt holds a long and rich history. Wind your way to sustainable Geiranger where lush vegetation grows, wild waterfalls flow and snow-covered mountains shelter deserted farms. Catch your breath as you walk on air at Geiranger Skywalk for the best views of Europe’s jewel of all fjords. Wherever you weave, you’ll find inner peace and preservation in this deeply sacred site of Mother Nature’s innocence and quiet.

An aromatic scent will capture your senses in this city of roses. Perched on the edge of a fjord, extensive views of a stunning 222 snow-clad mountains further heightens Molde’s appeal. Absorb the sounds of jazz as you ramble amongst rose gardens discovering art, folk museums, nature paths and cycle trails. Take the high ‘Atlantic’ Road or drop deep underground into caves to reach the marble clad Troll Church. And as you enjoy freshly caught seafood in the crisp coastal air, you’ll understand the influence of Molde’s heady scent.

Nested deep between towering mountains are narrow valleys, a mile-deep fjord and a little village called Flåm. Surrounded by breathtaking beauty, visit the Borgund Stave Church museum or board the astonishing Flåmsbana train, often titled the world's most beautiful rail journey. Climb aboard and witness waterfalls, fjords and farms so remote you wonder how they got there. Fish, cycle or experience a RIB safari through the slender Nærøyfjord - part of the UNESCO world heritage - as you appreciate the surreal landscape. Head into the abyss on the dramatic Stegastein, or - for the less adventurous but no less curious - sip homemade specialties at the local brewery.

Rejoice in one of the happiest and most vibrant capital cities in the world. Relax like a local alongside joyful Danes and varied culture; the Gefion Fountain, the Little Mermaid statue, Old Citadel, the Amalien Palace with four Rococo buildings, medieval history, charming fishing villages, leading examples of sustainable living and - of course - flaky Danish pastries. Cycling is the preferred way to shuttle across town and it’s well worth the pedal to enjoy the trendy, cosy neighbourhood of Norrebro, Christiansborg Palace and the waterfront home of Christian Andersen. Genuine, vibrant and welcoming... rather like the smiles of those that live here.