Latest news with #active travel
Forbes
23-07-2025
- Forbes
Hut-To-Hut Hiking In Norway: Stunning And Authentic
Cabin in a fjord, Lofoten Islands getty Traditionally rooted in simplicity, community, and a deep connection with nature, hut-to-hut travel was recently featured in Forbes as a top-ten active travel trend. More specifically, hut-to-hut hiking in Norway has long been a cherished ritual for Norwegians. Up Norway is reimagining this classic tradition by curating immersive journeys that combine rural cabins with boutique stays, regional cuisine, and cultural encounters, offering an experience both authentic and refined, and more accessible to global travelers. This is a fresh take on the classic Norwegian hut-to-hut hiking experience, connecting travelers with nature, local culture, and themselves. Norway is home to more than 550 'DNT hytter' (cabins managed by the Norwegian Trekking Association), many of which are only reachable by foot, ski, or bike. These range from simple wooden huts in the mountains to family-sized lodges with modern conveniences. You can experience Norway's dramatic landscapes with personalized journeys through areas including Jotunheimen, Aurlandsdalen, the Sunnmøre Alps, Lofoten, and beyond. DNT's new mountain hut Skalatarnet, at the summit of Skala, at sunset, Loen, Norway getty Recently, architects have been blending modern design and eco-friendly materials with nature and the traditions of cabin life. But the real magic lies in the journey between the huts - stillness in alpine meadows, foraging in the wild, swims in glacier-fed lakes, and candlelit bonfire dinners with fellow hikers. These natural elements reflect the Norwegian ethos of "kos," or cozy contentment. Hut-to-hut travel focuses not just on the destination, but on the transformative power of the journey. Experiences are tailored to a traveler's preferences, fitness level, and interest in cultural immersion. In Jotunheimen National Park, you may hike across dramatic ridge lines and deep valleys, spending nights at historic DNT cabins such as Gjendebu (Norway's oldest cabin, dating back to 1871), Memurubu (a scenic spot located on the shores of Lake Gjende), and Gjendesheim (nestled below the Besseggen ridge). Mountain range and lake Gjende in valley, Jotunheimen, Norway getty In the Aurlandsdalen Valley, sometimes referred to as Norway's Grand Canyon, travelers can follow a historic path dating back to the Viking era and beyond, from Finse to Flåm, staying in huts before concluding at the tranquil 29|2 Aurland eco-lodge, a riverside retreat known for its organic kitchen, artisanal interiors, and strong sustainability initiatives. The Sunnmøre Alps offer a striking contrast between wilderness and luxury, where a summit hike to Slogen and overnight at Patchellhytta is paired with a fjord cruise and a stay at the legendary Hotel Union Øye, a historic hideaway housed Norwegian royalty and European nobility since the 19th century. Exterior and garden of the boutique Norwegian fjord Hotel Union Øye getty Adventurous travelers may opt for more demanding trails through Reinheimen and Romsdalen, combining hut-to-hut treks with via ferrata climbs, trail running and summit hikes. You may prefer more accessible itineraries such as in the Hardangerfjord region where travelers can take on iconic hikes such as Trolltunga, a dramatic rock ledge jutting 700 meters above Lake Ringedalsvatnet, or the Queen's Trail (Dronningstien), a scenic cliffside route with panoramic views of the fjord and surrounding orchards. The summer view of Trolltunga (The Troll's tongue) in Odda ( Ringedalsvatnet lake, Norway). getty In the north, the Lofoten Islands and the Arctic Circle Region near the Helgeland coast feature itineraries that mix day hikes, remote cabin stays, fjord kayaking, floating saunas, and storytelling with local guides. You'll often find opportunities to engage with Sámi culture, meet foragers or local farmers, and sample cuisine that reflects the surrounding landscape, such as a two-day hike to Rabothytta in the Helgeland region, known for its dramatic granite peaks, glacial landscape, pristine lakes, and coastal archipelago, followed by a restful culinary farm stay at by the fjord. Routes are crafted not just for adventure, but for reflection, connection, and a deeper appreciation of Norwegian traditions, and the balance of challenge and comfort. For all travel topics, check out my award-winning travel podcast, Places I Remember with Lea Lane . And subscribe to my new Substack where I write about all things interesting!
BBC News
18-06-2025
- Automotive
- BBC News
Traffic camera planned outside more Wirral schools
Traffic cameras could be installed in five more locations in Wirral in a bid to stop dangerous driving outside Council has announced plans for the cameras to be placed outside schools in Bromborough, Liscard, Birkenhead and is part of the part of the Schools Streets scheme, which sees roads temporarily closed to traffic during school drop-off and pick up Liz Grey, chair of Wirral Council's environment, climate emergency and transport committee, said the scheme means "a safer, calmer and more environmentally friendly atmosphere for families at the start and end of the school day". The plans follows the successful rollout at Greenleas Primary School in Wallasey earlier this School Streets scheme creates a mainly car free zone outside schools with the exception of residents or those working in an area at specific times. It also promotes active travel to schools rather than people going by car."This technology has been really successful at Greenleas, ensuring children are able to get to and from school safely," Ms Grey areas where the new cameras are proposed are: Raeburn Primary School in Bromborough, Liscard Primary School in Liscard, Christ Church CE School in Birkenhead, St Albans Primary School in Wallasey, and St George's Primary School in Wallasey.A consultation is now taking place for people to raise any concerns and runs until 28 council said the cameras will be installed when and if funding becomes available. Listen to the best of BBC Radio Merseyside on Sounds and follow BBC Merseyside on Facebook, X, and Instagram. You can also send story ideas via Whatsapp to 0808 100 2230.
