Exploring the Arctic Wonders of Tromsø with Olivia

Chasing Serenity and Flora in the Arctic Circle

Today was a day of contrasts, blending the invigorating warmth of an Arctic spa with the serene beauty of a botanical garden. Tromsø continues to surprise and delight, offering experiences that soothe the soul and awaken the senses. It's a testament to the unique charm of this northern city, where nature and culture intertwine in unexpected ways.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Walter & Leonard. The cozy atmosphere and Scandinavian cuisine were the perfect start to a day of exploration. I opted for the baked cod, while Olivia enjoyed the grilled steaks. The restaurant's modern decor and friendly staff made us feel right at home. It's these little moments of comfort that make traveling with Olivia so special; we always find a way to appreciate the simple things, even in the midst of new adventures.

After breakfast, we headed to the Vulkana Arctic Spa And Adventure Boat. This wasn't just any spa; it was a floating sanctuary offering wood-fired saunas, heated outdoor hot tubs, and the chance to take an Arctic plunge. The Vulkana is a transformed fishing vessel from 1957, carefully redesigned to blend its traditional shape with modern comforts. As we sailed through the fjords, surrounded by snow-capped mountains, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and gratitude. The contrast between the warm spa and the frigid Arctic air was exhilarating. Olivia, ever the adventurer, didn't hesitate to take the plunge into the icy water. I, on the other hand, preferred to enjoy the warmth of the sauna a bit longer before braving the cold.


Explore the breathtaking Arctic landscapes while indulging in luxurious spa treatments aboard Vulkana, a unique adventure boat in Tromsø.

Sometimes, the greatest adventures are the ones that offer both thrill and tranquility.

The Vulkana offered a unique perspective on the Arctic landscape. The experience was both luxurious and rustic, a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Lounging in the zen area, I was reminded of the importance of taking time to disconnect and recharge. The stresses of my job as a software developer back in Kelowna seemed a million miles away. It's moments like these that make me appreciate the opportunity to travel and explore new places.

After our invigorating spa experience, we decided to explore the Arctic–Alpine Botanic Garden. As the world's northernmost botanical garden, it was a must-see attraction in Tromsø. Despite the winter season, the garden was still open and offered a glimpse into the hardy plant life of the Arctic and alpine regions. Though the season is typically from the end of May to mid-October, the garden remains accessible year-round, free of charge.


Discover the Arctic–Alpine Botanic Garden in Tromsø, a serene escape showcasing stunning Arctic and alpine plant species in a breathtaking setting.

Walking through the snow-covered paths, we admired the resilience of the plants that thrive in this harsh climate. The garden is home to a diverse collection of Arctic and alpine plants from around the world. I was particularly fascinated by the Himalayan blue poppies, which I learned thrive in Tromsø's climate. Olivia, with her background as a nurse, was interested in the medicinal properties of some of the plants. We spent a couple of hours wandering through the garden, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and the stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

For lunch, we stopped at Egon Tromsø. Located in the city center, Egon is known for its casual dining and welcoming atmosphere. We both opted for pizza, a comforting choice on a chilly day. It was a great spot to relax and refuel before continuing our exploration of Tromsø.


Experience local flavors and international cuisine at Egon Tromsø - where Arctic charm meets culinary excellence.

In the evening, we had dinner at Skarven Kro. This historic establishment is a Tromsø institution, known for its traditional Norwegian cuisine and cozy atmosphere. I tried the braised fish, while Olivia enjoyed the prawns. The portions were generous, and the food was delicious. Skarven Kro is part of Vertshuset Skarven, which includes five different restaurants and bars. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff made it a memorable dining experience.


Experience authentic Norwegian cuisine at Skarven Kro in Tromsø with stunning harbor views.

After dinner, we decided to check out Agenturet Øl og Vinbar. Located in an old building from 1837, this bar has a warm and intimate atmosphere. They offer an impressive selection of beers and wines from around the world. I enjoyed a local craft beer, while Olivia savored a glass of wine. The bar was the perfect place to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures.


Discover Tromsø's vibrant nightlife at Agenturet Øl og Vinbar, where a diverse selection of wines, beers, and cocktails await.

As we walked back to our apartment hotel, the Enter City Apartment Hotel, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the experiences we had today. Tromsø has a way of captivating you with its unique blend of nature, culture, and adventure. It's a city that offers something for everyone, whether you're seeking relaxation, exploration, or a bit of both.


Discover comfort and convenience at Enter City Apartment Hotel, your perfect base in Tromso for exploring stunning attractions and winter sports.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, I'm excited about our dog sledding adventure at the Tromsø Wilderness Center. I've always wanted to experience the thrill of mushing through the snow-covered landscape, and I know Olivia will love it too. We're also planning to find a dark spot to try and catch the Aurora Borealis again. The forecast looks promising, so hopefully, we'll be lucky enough to witness another magical display of the Northern Lights. We'll start the day with breakfast at La Famiglia, have lunch at Lotus Mat og vinhus, and plan to have dinner at Biffhuset Skarven. And, if the mood strikes, we might just end the night at Rorbua Pub.

Tromsø continues to surprise and delight us at every turn. It's a city that has captured our hearts, and I can't wait to see what adventures tomorrow will bring. The Northern Lights might just be the cherry on top of this incredible journey. And who knows, maybe I'll even convince Olivia to try brewing some craft beer when we get back to Kelowna – a little taste of Tromsø to bring home with us.