7 romantic winter getaways

Top-class restaurants, cosy streets, and snowy nature within short distance. Oslo has a lot to offer during winter. And if you really want to warm things up with your partner, book your own sauna for the evening at SALT and take part in a ritual that is deeply rooted in the Nordic lifestyle.

SALT is a nomadic art project currently situated along Oslo’s harbour promenade and overlooking the capital’s Opera House. In addition to a private sauna experience, SALT offers fresh food, concerts, and festivals.

“It is simply just a romantic experience in the middle of Oslo”, Lange promises.

Escape your everyday life and walk hand-in-hand into the cold, dark wilderness in Trysil. Here, far from both the village and your wooden cabin, you can experience a starry sky that is so bright, it lightens up the snow under your feet. Romantic, right?

This scenic holiday spot close to the Swedish border is known for its clear sky, and stargazing tours are actually a thing here.

“If you are really lucky, you might even witness the northern lights”, Lange says, and also points out that Trysil is Norways largest ski destination.

That means slick slopes and groomed trails, several eateries serving local food, and hotels that suit your budget.

Find a map and slide your finger from Northern Norway and towards the North Pole. Do you see the group of islands halfway across the Arctic Ocean? That’s the Svalbard Islands – a haven for adventurous couples. Here, you will experience rich wildlife, Arctic nature, and old mining towns with a stark and eerie beauty.

“A romantic getaway to Svalbard and the town Longyearbyen is something you’ll never forget”, Lange says. He recommends a stay at Basecamp Hotel, where you can enjoy an informal atmosphere and rooms decorated with driftwood, sealskin, and slate.

The hotel is located in the middle of Longyearbyen and close to the restaurant Huset, an eatery that isn’t just known for its exquisite flavours – the restaurant takes your date night to the next level with one of the largest wine cellars in Scandinavia.

The white wilderness at Svalbard also offers lots of adventurous activities such as dog sledding and northern lights safaris. Maybe you will spot a polar bear from a distance? Just remember that if you do, never ever try to approach it.

This coastal town in Southern Norway is famous for being one the best places to experience the Norwegian summer vibe. However, Lillesand is a great place to get lost for a few days in the wintertime as well. 

Dress warmly and take a relaxing walk in the town centre, along the narrow streets that curves elegantly between white wooden houses. Or find a rock along the scenic coastal line and share a blanket and something warm to drink whilst enjoying each other and the view.

Lange recommends that you end the day with a romantic dinner and a night at the charming Lillesand Hotel, which is situated close to the town centre.

Surrounded by steep mountains and wooden houses with snowy roofs, Kvitfjell looks like a scenery from a Norwegian folk tale. Here in the middle of the Gudbrandsdalen valley, you will find everything you need for a weekend with your loved one by your side.

Gudbrandsgard Hotel is popular amongst couples and is situated just a short walk from groomed trails and a top-class ski resort.

“This is a place where you can enjoy fresh food, spa facilities, and an evening in front of the fireplace”, Lange says.