Seafood and Sustainability: New Gastronomy and Northern Lights trip to Tromsø, Norway, with The Aurora Zone

Northern Lights travel experts, The Aurora Zone, has launched a brand-new sustainable food-focused trip to Tromsø, in Norway. Over the four days (three nights), enjoy fresh fish – caught minutes from the restaurant – delicately pan fried in butter with locally-picked chanterelles; try the award-winning famous Norwegian brown cheese expertly paired with smooth regional wine by the in-house sommelier; join the Sámi reindeer herders for a traditional feast served under the stars; and learn how to catch fish with the local fishermen on a fjord cruise, before preparing and cooking the catch with the onboard chef. Throughout this trip, hunt for the magical aurora borealis on two bespoke evening cruises (maximum 12 people) on the fjord and dine under the mesmerising Northern Lights.

Staying in the centre of Tromsø, dubbed ‘The Paris of the North’, guests can immerse themselves in the lively city full of traditional and modern events, varied nightlife and cultural activities – all with an emphasis on dining and Northern Lights.

Designed with gastronomy in mind, guests will feast at a selection of establishments. In addition, two dinner cruises will whisk travellers away from any light pollution and increase the chances of seeing the Northern Lights while eating delectable cuisine.

Sustainability is key on this tour: Norway has long been a global pioneer in sustainable fishing methods and all the boating companies pride themselves on quality over quantity with strict catch limits in place. In addition, all the food eaten on this trip is locally sourced, right down to the wine and cheese included with dinner.

One highlight includes dining at Fiskekompaniet, a spectacular seafood restaurant with ocean views ranked in the Top 20 Restaurants in Tromsø on TripAdvisor. Located in the central harbour, the chef will take guests on a tasting tour of the sea using only the best, local produce the suppliers can provide.

Take the time to meet and talk to the indigenous Sámi people who have practiced traditional reindeer herding since the 17th century. Sit around the campfire and savour a traditional three course dinner lovingly prepared by the Sámi guides, including a delicious strew made from an age old recipe that has been passed down through the generations.

Don’t leave Tromsø without learning the art of fishing with the locals. First, explore the deep blue fjords around the city that are teeming with marine wildlife. Look out for majestic sea eagles and flocks of migratory birds in the air, and several species of whale and dolphin as they hunt herring in the waters while learning the basics behind using handheld tackle. The following day, join a dedicated small fishing tour on the Arctic waters and delve further into the magic behind this popular pastime. The seas are teaming with catfish, coalfish, pollock, haddock, halibut and Norwegian Skrei, the king of cod; after catching lunch, prepare and cook it with the chef before sampling the fresh food.

Throughout the tour, stay at the centrally located four-star Clarion Hotel – The Edge. The modern hotel overlooks the bustling local harbour, Tromsø Sound bridge, and the magnificent Arctic Cathedral. Make the most of the sky bar and rooftop terrace on the 11th floor, a wonderful way of looking out across the vibrant city.

A three-night Gastronomy and Northern Lights tour to Tromsø, departing between 1 December 2022 and 29 March 2023, costs from £1,245 pp (two sharing) and includes return airport transfers, accommodation at Clarion Hotel – The Edge, three breakfasts, two lunches, and three dinners (including dinner at Fiskekompaniet) plus a Polar Fjord Cruise, visit to the Reindeer Camp with dinner and Northern Lights Watch, Arctic Fishing Tour, and Northern Lights Dinner Cruise. Cold weather clothing will also be provided – except for on the dinner cruise – and guests will also benefit from fully-qualified guides and instructors during the activities.

For more information on The Aurora Zone, please call 01670 785 012 or visit www.theaurorazone.com