Oslo, Norway (October 1, 2024) – Up Norway, the leading curator of sustainable luxury travel experiences in Scandinavia, has launched its latest bespoke insider itinerary: The Culinary Discovery Route. This 14-day journey was designed for groups of foodie friends looking to explore Norway’s culinary landscape while immersing themselves in the natural beauty of the region. Tailored for six guests, this gastronomic adventure combines world-class dining at both MICHELIN-starred establishments and charming eateries, hands-on culinary experiences like sea foraging in the fjords, private cooking classes with a Bocuse d’Or World Champion, sustainable fishing, guided culinary tours, and scenic explorations of Bergen, Beckerwyc, Rosendal, and Stavanger. Renowned for its innovative approach to traditional Nordic cuisine, Norway’s culinary scene is celebrated worldwide for its emphasis on sustainability, local ingredients, and rich cultural heritage. The exclusive itinerary also includes a whisky tasting of ocean-aged spirits on a remote island, farm visit, tastings of cheese, cider and kveik beer, expedition dining, swim with migrating salmon, and a sensory experience in an abundant garden. Car service, with a dedicated driver for the entire journey, seamlessly transports guests to each of the stunning destinations on the itinerary. Additionally, trips with Up Norway feature a comprehensive digital itinerary with insider tips and 24-hour direct chat support with the team. This exclusive journey is priced for groups of six at NOK 1.02 M (approximately $97K USD).
Day 1-3: Bergen – A Gateway to Gastronomy
The journey begins in Bergen, a UNESCO City of Gastronomy. After settling into the stylish Skostredet Hotel, where the decor elegantly blends Scandinavian craftsmanship with Japanese finesse, travelers embark on a private guided culinary walk through the city’s historic streets to sample local delicacies. Discover the rich stories behind Bergen’s most popular brewery and enjoy a whisky and gin tasting. On day two, guests will set sail on a private culinary fjord adventure, where they’ll forage from the sea, go fishing, and enjoy their fresh catches prepared right on the boat. Day three includes a day trip to Fedje Island to visit the Feddie Ocean Distillery, where guests will delve into the art of whisky-making and sample the unique maritime flavors crafted on this remote island, known for its small-batch production and ocean-aged spirits. In the evenings, savor exceptional dining experiences at Colonialen, a celebrated restaurant offering contemporary Nordic cuisine with an emphasis on local ingredients, and MICHELIN-starred restaurants BARE, renowned for its minimalist approach and seasonal tasting menus, or Lysverket, where the focus is on modern Norwegian cuisine with international influences.
Day 4-5: Bekkjarvik Harbor – Culinary and Coastal Delights
Enroute to to Beckerwyc House, a brand-new boutique hotel renowned for its island gastronomy concept led by Bocuse d’Or World Champion Ørjan Johannessen, travelers will enjoy a private farm visit at Ostegården, famous for its award-winning Fanaost cheese. The farm visit includes an introduction to cheesemaking class and cheese tasting, providing a hands-on experience of traditional Norwegian dairy practices. Back at Beckerwyc, guests will participate in small group cooking experiences and savor local specialties like smalahove, a traditional dish made from a sheep’s head, at the guest house. From Beckerwyc, travelers can explore the island’s scenic roads, hike the Sherpa stairs, a meticulously crafted stone path offering stunning views, or enjoy a leisurely meal at Olaskjæret, a quaint seaside eatery known for its fresh seafood and charming atmosphere.
Day 6-7: Fjord and Folk Culture & Expedition Dining at the Iris
In Rosendal, travelers will experience a private cider farm visit and learn about Norwegian folk culture with a traditional Hardanger fiddle performance. But the real highlight planned is an expedition dining experience at the innovative Iris/Salmon Eye, a floating restaurant and art installation set against the backdrop of Norway’s majestic fjords. After arrival via seaplane, a multi-course meal at this unique dining venue features sustainably sourced seafood and local ingredients all prepared by top Norwegian chefs in an immersive environment designed to highlight the natural beauty of the surrounding fjords.
Day 8: Scenic Route Ryfylke and Energihotellet
Guests will journey along the Scenic Route Ryfylke, a breathtaking drive through some of Norway’s most picturesque landscapes, stopping for a guided tour of Peter Zumthor’s Allmannajuvet, a historic zinc mine turned art installation. This experience showcases Zumthor’s stunning architectural work, blending modern design with the rugged natural landscape. The day concludes with a local food and drink pairing dinner at Energihotellet. A kveik beer tasting showcases a traditional Norwegian farmhouse ale known for its unique fermentation process and rich history.
Day 9-10: Salmon Safari and The Bolder
Before heading to off grid luxury cabins for a two-night stay, a unique salmon safari includes a guided tour through the river, learning about salmon habits and habitat, and an opportunity to witness the incredible migration of these fish. Guests will also enjoy breathtaking views on a guided hike to Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock).
Day 11-14: Stavanger – Urban Gastronomy
The culinary adventure concludes in Stavanger where guests will indulge in a memorable final dining experience. On top of dinner at either Renaa, renowned for its innovative take on Norwegian cuisine, or the MICHELIN-starred Hermetikken, celebrated for its modern, seafood-focused menu, they can explore the vibrant city and visit Flor og Fjære. After a short boat trip to get to the renovated farmhouse from 1870, the stunning floral paradise and garden island offers a feast for the senses. Frode Selvaag, also known as Ryfylkekokken, serves delicious small dishes of self-produced and local ingredients cooked over flames on the beach, in the garden, in the greenhouse and further inland in the jungle.
Travelers can contact Up Norway customer service to tailor the itinerary for smaller groups or individual couples. For more details or to book your culinary adventure, please visit https://upnorway.com
