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20-Day Backpacking Itinerary for Scenic Mountains, Waterfalls & Wild Swimming in Scandinavia & the UK

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Day 1: Arrival in Oslo & Local Nature Introduction

Morning: Arrive in Oslo and settle in. Begin with a leisurely walk around the Oslofjord waterfront enjoying stunning views of fjords and city greenery.

Afternoon: Take a tram to Frognerseteren for easy access to forest trails, perfect for your first taste of Norwegian nature with panoramic views of Oslo’s lakes and hills.

Evening: Walk back towards the city center via the Vigeland Park, admiring the sculptures and natural surroundings before resting.

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Day 2: Hiking and Swimming at Nordmarka

Morning: Head to Nordmarka forest just north of Oslo, great for hiking and several freshwater lakes for wild swimming.

Afternoon: Explore trails around Sognsvann Lake, a popular spot to bathe in crystal clear water surrounded by tall pine.

Evening: Enjoy a peaceful night camping or staying in a simple cabin within Nordmarka to immerse fully in nature.

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Day 3: Train to Bergen & City Fjord Views

Morning: Take one of Norway’s scenic trains from Oslo to Bergen, known as the gateway to the fjords.

Afternoon: Upon arrival, stroll around Bryggen UNESCO Wharf and walk up to Mount Fløyen for panoramic views of the harbor and surrounding mountains.

Evening: Relax by the harborfront and get an early night for next day’s fjord adventure.

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Day 4: Fjord Cruise & Waterfall Hike

Morning: Join a fjord cruise on the Norwegian fjords, passing sights like Seven Sisters Waterfall and deep blue waters.

Afternoon: Disembark for a hike along hidden trails to nearby cascading waterfalls perfect for photographing and refreshing swims.

Evening: Stay in a nearby mountain lodge or guesthouse for an authentic fjord experience.

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Day 5: Hiking From Bergen to Hardangerfjord

Morning: Take a local bus to the Hardangerfjord area, renowned for its dramatic mountain scenery and famed waterfalls.

Afternoon: Hike towards the stunning Vøringsfossen Waterfall, with viewpoints providing breathtaking panoramas.

Evening: Camp or lodge near the fjord for a tranquil night surrounded by nature sounds.

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Day 6: Fruit Orchards & Hardangervidda Wild Swimming

Morning: Explore the Hardanger region’s fruit orchards, especially apple and cherry blossoms in early summer.

Afternoon: Head onto Hardangervidda National Park for hikes that offer opportunities for wild swimming in glacial lakes.

Evening: Enjoy an overnight stay at a mountain cabin or wild camp.

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Day 7: Train to Flam & Aurlandsfjord Adventures

Morning: Travel by train to Flam, one of the most scenic train routes in Europe, along steep mountainsides and fjords.

Afternoon: Discover the Aurlandsfjord by kayak or boat, ideal for wild swimming and admiring less visited waterfalls.

Evening: Stay at a guesthouse in Flam with spectacular fjord views.

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Day 8: Hike to Stegastein Viewpoint & Nearby Waterfalls

Morning: Hike to the Stegastein Viewpoint for sweeping views over Aurlandsfjord and surrounding mountains.

Afternoon: Explore nearby trails leading to hidden waterfalls and natural swimming holes.

Evening: Return to Flam for a restful evening surrounded by peaceful fjord scenery.

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Day 9: Norway to Scotland - Arrival in Glasgow

Morning: Fly or take a ferry+train to Glasgow, Scotland’s cultural hub and gateway to the Highlands.

Afternoon: Stroll city parks like Kelvingrove Park or along the river to ease into the environment.

Evening: Enjoy some local Scottish cuisine and prepare for the mountain adventures ahead.

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Day 10: Travel to Glencoe & Begin Highland Trekking

Morning: Take a bus to Glencoe, one of Scotland’s most dramatic mountain valleys and legends.

Afternoon: Begin trekking the surrounding hills with panoramic views of rugged peaks and deep lochs.

Evening: Camp or stay at a local hostel with stunning mountain vistas.

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Day 11: Hike to Waterfalls & Wild Swimming Lochs

Morning: Venture to Glencoe’s waterfalls such as the Hidden Falls or The Fairy Pools nearby.

Afternoon: Explore crystal-clear lochs ideal for cold but refreshing wild swims, surrounded by towering cliffs.

Evening: Enjoy quiet reflection by campfire or lodge by the glen.

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Day 12: Bus to Isle of Skye & Fairy Pools Exploration

Morning: Travel north by bus to the Isle of Skye, famous for wild landscapes and natural pools.

Afternoon: Explore Fairy Pools, famed for vivid blue pools and cascading waterfalls perfect for swimming.

Evening: Stay in Portree or a nearby village to experience island life.

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Day 13: Hiking The Quiraing & Coastal Views

Morning: Hike the Quiraing ridge for epic scenery of dramatic cliffs and hidden valleys.

Afternoon: Follow coastal paths to secluded bays and rock pools, ideal for wild swimming.

Evening: Return to your accommodation and enjoy local seafood.

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Day 14: Morning Ferry to Mallaig & Travel to Fort William

Morning: Take the ferry back to mainland at Mallaig, enjoying sea views and possible wildlife sightings.

Afternoon: Bus/train to Fort William, base for Scotland’s highest peak, Ben Nevis.

Evening: Prepare supplies and rest before the challenging hike the next day.

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Day 15: Day Hike up Ben Nevis

Morning: Begin early to tackle Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest mountain, offering stunning summit views over Scotland.

Afternoon: Descend carefully, stopping at scenic spots and mountain lochs for rest and possibly wild swims if conditions allow.

Evening: Celebrate your achievement with a hearty meal in Fort William.

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Day 16: Journey to Swedish Lapland - Kiruna Arrival

Morning: Fly or train to Kiruna in Swedish Lapland, gateway to Arctic mountains and pristine lakes.

Afternoon: Explore local hiking trails around Kiruna, with opportunities for wild swimming in Arctic-clear lakes.

Evening: Stay in a guesthouse or lodge to enjoy the peaceful arctic evening light.

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Day 17: Abisko National Park Hiking

Morning: Travel to Abisko National Park, renowned for mountainous trails and scenic beauty including the famous Abisko Canyon.

Afternoon: Hike the trails to find waterfalls and swimming spots amidst dramatic northern landscapes.

Evening: Overnight at the STF Abisko Turiststation or camp under the midnight sun.

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Day 18: Wild Swimming in Lapland & Relaxation

Morning: Spend the morning wild swimming in mountain streams or lakes such as Lake Torneträsk.

Afternoon: Leisure walk or rest day with short nature walks around the peaceful national park.

Evening: Enjoy a quiet evening with potential for star gazing or relaxation.

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Day 19: Train to Lund - Arrival and Orientation

Morning: Travel from Kiruna to Lund, transitioning from wilderness to vibrant university town.

Afternoon: Explore Lund’s botanical gardens and parks for a gentle introduction to your new city.

Evening: Unwind at a café or local pub preparing for your studies ahead.

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Day 20: Day in Lund & Preparation for University

Morning: Visit Lund Cathedral and stroll historic streets to soak in local culture and architecture.

Afternoon: Final shopping for university essentials and enjoying a local meal.

Evening: Pack and reflect on the breathtaking natural landscapes experienced during your journey.

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Time and Cost Estimates

  • Nordmarka Hiking & Swimming: 4-5 hours, Cost: Free
  • Bergen City & Mount Fløyen: 3-4 hours, Cost: Tram €8, Fløibanen funicular €11
  • Norwegian Fjord Cruise (Day 4): 5-6 hours, Cost: Approx. €75
  • Vøringsfossen Waterfall Hike: 2-3 hours, Cost: Free
  • Hardangervidda National Park Visit: Full day, Cost: Free
  • Flam to Aurlandsfjord Kayaking/Boat: 3-4 hours, Cost: €35-€50
  • Scenic Train Oslo-Bergen: 6-7 hours, Cost: Approx. €60
  • Bus to Glencoe & Isle of Skye travel: Several hours, Cost: €40-€60 total
  • Accommodation Hostels/Cabins/Campsites: Average per night €25-€40, Total ~€500-€700
  • Ben Nevis Hiking & Local Transport: Full day, Cost: Bus €10
  • Flights Kiruna to Lund: Approx. €80-€120

Total Estimated Cost: Approximately €900 - €1200 (excluding food and personal expenses)

Tips

If you want to extend your trip, consider adding more days in Sweden’s Lapland or exploring additional fjords and islands in Norway for further wild swimming and mountain adventures. For a shorter trip, focus on one country such as Norway or Scotland to reduce travel time and immerse deeper into the local landscapes. Booking accommodation and transportation early is advisable during peak summer months.

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