Located 1,300 kilometres south of the North Pole, Svalbard is, without no doubt, one of Norway's most exotic and challenging destinations when it comes to ski touring.
Imagine vast glaciers and impressive summits in treeless surroundings. Thanks to Svalbard’s remote location, you can enjoy these idyllic winter landscapes on untracked runs, free from crowds and obstacles. The location also means that you can go skiing right up until the end of June. And if that isn’t exciting enough, you can also go skiing under the midnight sun from as early as April.
On a sail-to-ski expedition, you will be based on a boat, accompanied by professional guides with extensive local knowledge that allows them to tailor the tours according to the current weather and snow conditions.
Alternatively, you can choose to stay on dry land. A good base for a skiing adventure is Longyearbyen, Svalbard’s largest town on the island of Spitsbergen. This small coal-mining town has a wide range of accommodation options, from cosy guest houses to full-service luxury hotels.
The most adventurous travellers have a chance to experience the Arctic nature up close on a ski touring camp-based expedition or on a Nordic ski touring trip from north to south or west to east.
The polar environs are home to several rare and hardy Arctic creatures. During the winter months, these landscapes turn into a playground for species like reindeer, polar bears and arctic foxes.
Last but not least: Stay safe and find out about the avalanche risk before you set out. Read more about safety in the mountains here and about local conditions on varsom.no.
Discover Svalbard
Getting here and around
Remember that Svalbard is not part of the Schengen area, so passports must be brought by all non-Norwegian visitors.
Get in-depth travel information on Svalbard’s official website.
Safety in the mountains
Norway is an incredible place to explore, with untamed mythical landscapes, mountains, valleys, and fjords. Before you enter the outdoors, get familiar with the nine simple rules of the Norwegian mountain code to help you stay safe.
- Plan your trip and inform others about the route you have selected.
- Adapt the planned routes according to ability and conditions.
- Pay attention to the weather and the avalanche warnings. This is especially the case for ski tourers - check the current situation in your area on varsom.no and make sure you follow the advise given.
- Be prepared for bad weather and frost, even on short trips.
- Bring the necessary equipment so you can help yourself and others.
- Choose safe routes. Recognize avalanche terrain and unsafe ice.
- Use a map and a compass. Always know where you are.
- Don’t be ashamed to turn around.
- Conserve your energy and seek shelter if necessary.
Get inspired
Let the adventure begin.