It’s back on the calendar due to popular demand!
Between 2010 and 2015, we conducted numerous tours in Scandinavia, but we set them aside while exploring other parts of the globe. We’re thrilled to reintroduce this incredible destination to our calendar and can’t wait to return to what we consider “a must-do motorcycle tour at least once in your lifetime.” Many of our customers find themselves drawn back to the Nordics again and again.
This tour is designed to showcase as many highlights as possible within a two-week timeframe, including the Arctic Circle, Nordkapp, Lofoten Islands, Atlantic Road, Trollstigen, Geiranger Fjord, and more. Our route will take us across Sweden to the Gulf of Bothnia, north through Lapland and Finland to Nordkapp, and then south along Norway’s stunning Atlantic Coast to the Lofoten Islands, before making our way back through Geiranger Fjord to our base at Oslo Gardermoen Airport.
The allure lies in the vast, sparsely populated landscapes and the sense of adventure as we journey north through the stark and dramatic environments beyond the Arctic Circle, reaching Europe’s northernmost point at Nordkapp, where the Atlantic and Arctic Oceans converge. Riding along empty roads that hug the rugged coastline, we’ll travel south along the Atlantic Road to the breathtaking Lofoten Islands and the stunning fjordlands of Southern Norway. While we may not witness the Northern Lights, there’s a chance we could experience the magical midnight sun, typically visible from mid-May to the end of July.
Our base at Oslo Gardermoen Airport serves as an ideal starting point for exploring the Nordics, eliminating the lengthy journey from Ireland, which typically involves three days of intense riding and several ferry crossings at a minimum.
Key Information
More Information
2025 Suggested flights:
- Arrives Oslo Gardermoen Friday 4th July
- SAS depart Dublin 16:50
- Norwegian airlines depart Dublin 10:15 (One stop flight)
- Option to fly out on Thursday 3rd July with Norwegian Airlines (direct), spend the day is Oslo center and make your way to the hotel early afternoon on Friday 4th.
- Depart Oslo Gardermoen Sunday 20th July
- SAS depart Oslo Gardermoen 10:15am
- Norwegian airlines depart Oslo Gardermoen 1.35pm
Itinerary *Subject to change
4-Jul | Ireland | Oslo Gardermoen |
5-Jul | Oslo Gardermoen | Hudviksvall |
6-Jul | Hudviksvall | Lulea (S) |
7-Jul | Lulea (S) | Inari (F) |
8-Jul | Inari (F) | Honningsvag |
9-Jul | Honningsvag | High |
10-Jul | Storslett | Fjellkysten |
11-Jul | Fjellkysten | Lofoten Islands |
12-Jul | Lofoten Islands | Lofoten Islands |
13-Jul | Lofoten Islands | Bodo |
14-Jul | Bodo | Mo I Rana |
15-Jul | Mo I Rana | Trondheim |
16-Jul | Trondheim | Valldalen |
17-Jul | Valldalen | Valldalen |
18-Jul | Valldalen | Sogndal |
19-Jul | Sogndal | Oslo Gardermoen |
20-Jul | Oslo Gardermoen | Ireland |
Tour Summary:
Day 1
Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred from the airport for the handover of motorcycles, followed by a comprehensive tour briefing. There will be no riding scheduled for the arrival day.
Days 2, 3 & 4
We’ll begin our journey from Oslo to Nordkapp, traversing Sweden to the Gulf of Bothnia before heading north into Finland and Lapland, crossing the Arctic Circle. Our carefully planned route allows for a swift ascent to the northern reaches of Lapland/Nordkapp without being overly strenuous, enabling a more relaxed ride south along the stunning Norwegian coast.
Days 5 & 6
We’ll reach Europe’s northernmost point at the remote Nordkapp. Staying nearby, we have the option to visit the Nordkapp Visitor Center in the afternoon or later, hoping to catch a glimpse of the midnight sun . After our time at Nordkapp, we’ll follow the E6 road south , which will accompany us for much of our journey.
Days 7, 8 & 9
Continuing our adventure still within the Arctic Circle , we’ll venture south to the breathtaking Lofoten Islands . Here, the landscapes appear almost fantastical, with steep mountain peaks rising behind the glacial waters of crystal-clear fjords, reflecting the blue sky and colorful fishing huts along the shores. On Day 9, we’ll take an afternoon sailing back to the mainland.
Days 10, 11 & 12
Our route will take us along some of the quietest roads, arguably the highlights of the trip, as we hug the Atlantic coast while heading further south and back across the Arctic Circle after nearly a week. We’ll arrive in Trondheim , the largest city we’ll visit on the tour, before detouring onto the iconic and often-photographed “Atlantic Road.” Although only 8 km long, this engineering marvel is a truly spectacular sight.
Day 13
Nestled among some of Norway’s most beautiful fjords, we’ll take a well-deserved rest day, with optional ride-outs and boat trips available to explore the fjords.
Days 14 & 15
Our journey will conclude as we navigate the highlands and traverse the numerous tunnels on our way back to Oslo.
Highlights
Nordkapp
Imagine a remote northern location where the Atlantic and Arctic Oceans converge, their icy waters blending together. This place is Nordkapp, or North Cape, situated in Western Finnmark, Northern Norway. Here, the only land separating you from the North Pole is the Svalbard archipelago, and from mid-May to late July, the sun never sets. Many visitors come to witness the midnight sun or enjoy sunsets over the Barents Sea from the North Cape Plateau. This is the closest point to the North Pole on the mainland. The regions adjacent to Sweden, Finland, and Russia remain untouched and pristine, showcasing a breathtaking mix of sea and mountains, especially in Lofoten, Vesterålen, and the Lyngsalpene peaks—truly unmatched in Europe. The people of Northern Norway embrace their freedom, living in harmony with nature. The Sami, Norway’s indigenous community, have coexisted with the land for over 2,500 years, cultivating a rich Sami culture in these Arctic territories.
Lofoten Islands
No matter the season, Lofoten offers a breathtaking journey through stunning natural landscapes. The scenery is both striking and rugged, yet there are sheltered areas that provide refuge from the harshness of exposed terrain, especially during strong winds. The wild ocean, turbulent seas, jagged alpine peaks plunging into the water, quaint fishing villages, and pristine white beaches with crystal-clear waters create an enchanting experience. There are plenty of secluded spots and delightful detours to discover along the way. Many travelers have found that winter can be just as captivating as summer, with the Arctic winter being an ideal time to witness the northern lights—a mesmerizing display of color and light. You can enjoy a unique experience with fewer crowds. Regardless of when you visit Lofoten, its distinctive charm will leave lasting memories for many.
Norways Fjordland
The fjord landscape was shaped thousands of years ago during Norway’s numerous Ice Ages, as meltwater and glacial activity carved deep valleys that were later filled by the sea. This process also created countless lakes and waterfalls, and more than 9,000 years ago, farmers and fishermen began to settle in this stunning environment. Today, Norway boasts a high standard of living, and Norwegians no longer have to fight against the forces of nature for survival. Many enjoy their leisure time exploring the great outdoors by foot, ski, bike, canoe, kayak, or sailboat. There remains a strong tradition of gathering nature’s bounty through hunting and fishing, as well as foraging for berries and mushrooms.
While Norway may not be the most affordable holiday destination, it offers incredible experiences amidst breathtaking scenery that everyone can enjoy. You can embrace the landscape, live off its resources, savor it slowly while traveling comfortably by land or sea, or immerse yourself in the charm of our small towns and cities as you discover all that Norway has to offer.
Atlantic Ocean
Nothing rivals the ocean’s might—our primary transport route for centuries, a vital source of income, and the gateway to countless recreational activities. Few places immerse you in the ocean’s essence like Atlanterhavsvegen. Here, you’ll feel the impact of winter storms and bask in the summer sun. The road is a visual marvel, gracefully connecting a series of islets through seven elegant bridges. The stunning natural surroundings, combined with modern engineering, create a truly unique driving experience. The journey takes you from the lush cultural landscape of the coast through moorland to the rugged cliffs of the exposed Hustadvika bay. Don’t miss the chance to watch the sun dip below the horizon from this advantage point. Atlanterhavsvegen has been hailed as one of the world’s most beautiful drives, offering an exhilarating glimpse into a formidable landscape where the winds can be fierce.
Geiranger – Trollstigen
The drive along Trollstigen is undoubtedly more dramatic than what most people are accustomed to, but one of the unique aspects of driving in Norway is the prevalence of settlements even in the most remote locations. You’ll find houses perched on narrow mountain ledges and crags, reflecting our deep connection to the landscape that has sustained us throughout history. The Geiranger-Trollstigen route boasts numerous highlights, including the eleven hairpin bends of Trollstigen and the breathtaking view from Ørnesvingen down to the Geirangerfjord, both of which are sure to quicken your heartbeat. Expect to encounter lush valleys, sheltered strawberry-growing areas, steep mountains, and dizzying viewpoints that showcase some of Norway’s most stunning scenery. Be sure to allocate plenty of time for your journey, as stops are encouraged—whether you’re up for a challenging hike to a lofty summit or simply want to take in the views.
Included:
- Return transport of your motorcycle from our base in Gorey, Co. Wexford to Oslo Gardermoen Airport with option to join the tour without transport element.
- B&B accommodation in quality 3-5 star hotels. Please note that in some more remote regions we may be using carefully selected guesthouses / accommodation or best available in the area. All accommodation is carefully selected considering quality, location, amenities and character.
- Tour guide(s)
- Detailed route maps / itinerary etc. allowing some self-guiding if preferred.
- Ferry from Lofoten Islands to mainland
- Other ferries
Not Included
- Any travel costs to get to the start and from the finish point for the tour.
- Lunches / Evening Meals
- Entry to Nordkapp Visitor Center (optional)
- Personal travel, accident and medical insurance (covering matters such as medical expenses, repatriation, cancellation, curtailment, loss or damage to property)
- Motorcycle insurance cover, motorcycle breakdown cover or recovery costs. Depending on your insurance provider, Green Card local insurance may need to be purchased at the various borders at a relatively low cost of typically €10 – €20 per country.
- Entrance fees to sights and parks, optional local excursions or local activities, (except where stated)
- Lunches or snacks (except where stated). Any meals whilst on board ferries. Evening meals on rest/optional ride out days.
- Personal spending money, tips, souvenirs or other extras.
- Personal documentation (eg visas, passport), vaccinations, personal taxes, border crossing fees, motorcycle documentation
- Costs of motorcycle repair (parts, labor or other related costs), tyres
- Fuel, oil & other motorcycle consumables
- Toll road fees, traffic fines or other charges relating to breach of the law
- Any other item not specifically included in the price.
We are pleased to offer a carefully selected range of 3- to 4-star hotels for our tour customers. Over the years, we have built a diverse portfolio of trusted accommodations worldwide, focusing on places with character and exceptional service. Hotel standards can vary significantly by region—for example, a 4-star hotel in Africa or South America may differ from those in Europe. In more remote areas, we may choose top-rated 3-star hotels or the best available alternatives, often including charming family-run properties that provide a warm, authentic experience. Above all, comfort and satisfaction are our priorities, and we aim to provide distinctive, memorable lodging on every journey.
Pre trip we provide you with Tour Specific Information that gives you detailed information about how to prepare and plan your tour, and what to expect when on tour. These are a few FAQs that many people have. If you have any further queries or concerns please do not hesitate to contact us.
What are the roads and driving like?
The road conditions, surfaces, and driving standards in the Nordic countries rank among the best globally. This tour’s itinerary features relatively long daily distances of around 500-550 km for the first 4-5 days, but these are manageable thanks to the excellent infrastructure. After this initial stretch, the daily distances decrease significantly to an average of about 300 km per day, allowing us to fully experience Norway’s breathtaking Atlantic Coast.
What bike is suitable to bring?
Generally speaking we recommend adventure or touring style motorcycles as the most suitable. However, sport-touring and cruiser motorcycles may also be suitable subject to you being comfortable riding it for the distance / duration of the tour and considering the road conditions as described above.
What riding experience do I need?
Generally speaking we recommend all participants to be experienced tourers in Europe and/or beyond. Obviously, some destinations are easier than others, as classified by our difficulty ratings, and should you have concerns please do not hesitate to contact us. It is your responsibility to ensure your motorcycling skills are up to the requirements for this tour. Obviously advanced riding skills increase enjoyment factor and reduce risk.
Do I have to ride in a group?
No! We do not make you ride in convoy and we offer you the freedom to decide how you would like to ride. However, we find most people prefer to ride with the group without the need to navigate. We use either the ‘drop off’ or ‘buddy’ systems when group riding (depending on country and complexity of navigation); these are tried and tested systems of group riding and allow riders to ride at their own pace. Full details are provided at pre-trip briefings. Daily departure times are set every evening for the following morning depending on the days route and points of interest. If you prefer to ride on your own, we provide you with a map and route cards with recommendations for lunch or coffee stops and hotel information. We offer a very flexible approach with an emphasis on maximum enjoyment.
Is this ride suitable for a passenger?
Yes. Pillion passengers should be experienced tourers / travelers.
What is the average group size?
Our groups are normally between 8 – 14 riders (some riders will have passengers). Most riders are from the Ireland, but we do also have overseas riders who may take part. From time to time we may split into smaller groups depending on itinerary.
What documents do I need?
You will need your original documents as follows:
- Passport and Driving Licence. Passengers only need their passport. As a general rule, passports should be valid for at least 6 months after the end of the tour; however, this may be shorter in some European countries.
- If you are bringing your own motorcycle, you will also need your motorcycle registration document (RF101 / log book) and your motorcycle insurance.
- In addition, you must have valid travel/medical insurance.
- Visas as required. Please ensure that you are fully aware of all passport and visa requirements and that you allow adequate time to obtain them.
- We recommend an international driving permit available from: https://www.theaa.com/driving-advice/driving-abroad/idp Whilst driving permits are not always accepted or demanded they are handy to have!
What will the weather be like?
Depending on season / time of year we will advise expected weather conditions in the pre-trip information and also suggest the most suitable gear based on our experience. It is imperative that tour participants have suitably adequate gear. Please note our tour calendar is carefully planned taking into account the most suitable seasons / local weather for the destination. However, as much as we would like, we cannot always guarantee the best weather. Particularly considering the un-predictable climates the world has been experiencing.
What about my health when I am abroad?
You need to be physically fit and healthy and also take the necessary health precautions. It is essential for you to consult your doctor or travel clinic for up-to-date medical travel information prior of travel, particularly if you have a pre-existing medical condition. Please ensure that you are fully aware of all official travel advice, local customs, current affairs, travel requirements and medical/travel advice. Please check with your GP regarding recommended inoculations.
Do I need Travel / Medical Insurance?
It is a condition of you travelling with us that you are adequately insured. Your insurance policy must cover you for the costs of any medical expenses, medical treatment or repatriation needed, due to injury or illness on this trip, including those that occur whilst motorcycle touring, either as the rider or a passenger. It is important that your insurance company understands that the main purpose of your trip is motorcycle touring, using your own large capacity cc motorcycle or a rental motorcycle. Your insurance must cover you for the full duration of the trip and for all countries we travel through.
In addition, we strongly recommend that your insurance policy has cover for loss or damage to your personal belongings, delay at your outward or homeward point of departure, personal liability, overseas legal expenses and cancellation and curtailment. We do not refund your deposit simply because you failed to take out insurance in sufficient time. Some travel insurance policies do not cover motorcycle travel over a certain cc or for a prolonged duration.
Minimum Numbers
We require a minimum number of 8 riders on this tour. If we do not have this number of bookings, then we reserve the right to cancel the tour.
Preparation for Shipping (if applicable)
- All rider/pillion gear including boots and helmets should be packed into a kit/sports bag and labeled with the owners name, bike make/model and registration. One kit bag permitted per person.
- Please note loose items or items tied onto the motorcycle will not be transported.
- Bin liners, rubbish bags, cardboard / plastic boxes etc are not acceptable.
- Motorcycles should be in a clean and presentable condition both for outbound and return shipments. If your motorcycle is considerably dirty post trip please wash it before returning it.
- All Luggage (hard and soft panniers) should be left unlocked and removable from the motorcycle if necessary for transport purposes.
- Alarms should be switched off or in “Ferry” mode for transport purposes.
- Fuel level should be kept relatively low. All our depots are within a few km of fuel stations.
- Keys for both the motorcycle and luggage should be left with the motorcycle.
- At handover we will require a signed customs declaration form and a photocopy of the registration document / log book stapled together. Customs declaration from will be emailed pre-shipment. These should only be handed over in hard copy at time of delivery.
- Do not email copies in advance.
- We will not accept original copies of registration documents/log books.
Overlanders accepts to make arrangements so that travel services, such as transportation and accommodation facilities and other services, will be provided to the customer in accordance with the travel schedule(s) predetermined by Overlanders.
Booking:
• Overlanders may accept a booking online, via telephone or email. To confirm a booking a deposit is required – once the deposit is received the booking is confirmed. Spaces will not be reserved without deposits.
• Overlanders reserve the right to cancel an online booking or refuse a booking at any time.
Payments & Fees:
• All payments must be made in full at least 60 days prior to the shipment date. Failure to pay outstanding balances prior to this date results in automatic cancellation.
• Deposits amounts are NON-REFUNDABLE or transferrable within 60 days of shipment date
• Exceptions may be made on a case per case basis considering demand / cancellation list etc.
• We strongly suggest having adequate Travel Insurance in place at the time of booking.
Flights:
• It is your responsibility to confirm suitable flights / collection times. Please contact us for recommendations. Should an airline change their schedule, we will do our best to facilitate but it may not be possible considering our shipping schedule/logistics.
Costs Included in the Travel Fee:
• Transportation fees and charges for transportation facilities used are those expressly indicated in the travel schedule.
• Re: Guided Tours – please see the specific tour brochure for a list of inclusions and exclusions
Costs not included in Travel Fee:
• Any expenses other than those listed in the inclusions will not be included in the travel fee.
• Re: Guided Tours – flights, visas, and any other expenses related to getting to the starting point and from the finishing point are not included in Travel Fees (unless otherwise stated)
Passport & Visa & Travel Requirements:
• Please ensure that you are fully aware of all passport and visa requirements and that you allow adequate time to obtain them. We personally recommend that you travel with a passport that has a minimum validity of 6 months remaining at all times.
• Please ensure that you are fully aware of all official travel advice, local customs, current affairs, travel requirements and medical/travel advice. Please check with your GP regarding recommended inoculations.
Travel Insurance:
• It is imperative that adequate Travel Insurance cover (including medical repatriation) is activated at the point of confirming your booking. Some travel insurance policies do not cover motorcycle travel over a certain cc or for a prolonged duration.
Cancellation/Amendments/Refund Policy:
• Please note that all payments and deposits are non refundable nor transferrable if cancellation accrues within 60 days of the shipment / tour date (whichever comes sooner).
• Where possible we will try to accommodate any amendments you wish to make.
• In the event of curtailment no refunds shall be made.
• Refunds may be processed via the original method of payment, except for cash transactions where refunds will be provided by cheque.
Feed back / Complaints:
• Customer satisfaction is very important to us and to help us further improve our service we value any feedback both positive and negative. Please email info@overlanders.ie