What is 'Nordic'?
The meaning of 'Nordic' in different languages
The word 'Nordic' is widely used internationally to refer to the countries in Northern Europe, but what does it actually mean? In English, 'Nordic' is used to refer to the group of Nordic countries. In Swedish, we use the word 'Nordisk' , and in Dutch we often speak of the Nordic countries or the Norden . Although these terms sound similar, they are sometimes confused with terms such as Scandinavia or even the Arctic region . In this article, we will list the differences and nuances.
Which countries are included in the Nordic countries?
The term Nordic countries refers to:
- Sweden
- Norway
- Denmark
- Finland
- Iceland
In addition, the autonomous regions of Greenland (Denmark), the Faroe Islands (Denmark) and Åland (Finland) also belong to the Nordic region. What unites these countries and regions is their geographical location, their historical and cultural ties, and their cooperation within the Nordic Council .
The difference between Scandinavia and Nordic
Many people use Scandinavia and Nordic as synonyms, but that is not correct. Scandinavia strictly refers to Sweden, Norway and Denmark , as these countries share a Germanic language and Viking history. Finland and Iceland are outside of Scandinavia, but within the Nordic region.
The Arctic: What is and isn't Nordic?
Where does the Arctic begin?
The Arctic region lies above the Arctic Circle (66°33′ north latitude) and includes parts of several countries, including Northern Norway, Swedish Lapland, Finnish Lapland, Iceland and Greenland . This is the region where the midnight sun in summer and the polar night in winter occur.
Is Arctic the same as Nordic?
Not quite. Some parts of the Nordic countries are within the Arctic region , such as Lapland in Sweden and Finland or Northern Norway. But the Arctic region also includes parts of countries that are not considered Nordic, such as Canada, Russia and Alaska (USA) .
The importance of the Arctic for Nordic travel
The Arctic is a major destination for travelers seeking an authentic Nordic winter experience . Think of activities such as admiring the Northern Lights , taking a dog sledding tour , and staying in an ice hotel or a snowmobile experience . Holmstock Travel offers various trips that perfectly match this Arctic experience.
Nordic experiences - Top Tips:
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Northern Lights travel Finland:
Northern Lights travel informationA bucket-list item for many: Seeing the Northern Lights - the Aurora Borealis. The best chances of seeing the Northern Lights can be found among others. in Northern Finland / Finnish Lappland.
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Baltic States in all Luxury:
read moreLet us surprise you with the trip we have put together for you. You like luxury and classic locations? A Holmstock Premium trip to enjoy.
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Åland - Tour
Come along. to ÅlandA pearl of a trip, put together by Team Holmstock and a place where we would love to go because we can enjoy it so much.
Sápmi and Lapland: the land of the Sami
What is Sápmi?
Sápmi, also known as Lapland , is the homeland of the Sami , the indigenous people of the Nordic Arctic. Sápmi stretches across Norway, Sweden, Finland and Russia , and covers a large part of the area above the Arctic Circle.
Sápmi vs. Lapland: What's the Difference?
Many tourists use the term Lapland to refer to the entire northern part of Norway, Sweden and Finland, but actually Lapland is a province in Finland and Sápmi is the broader cultural region of the Sami . In the context of Nordic travel it is important to understand that Lapland is a touristic term, while Sápmi represents a cultural and historical area.
The Sami culture and its role in Nordic travel
The Sami have a unique culture that is strongly connected to nature. Traditional activities such as reindeer herding , wearing colorful gákti clothes , and singing joik songs are part of their heritage. Tourists can experience this culture in Sápmi by taking part in reindeer safaris or visiting a Sami village .
Nordic travel: what can you expect?
Nordic holidays in winter
A Nordic winter trip means adventure in a fairytale snow landscape . Popular winter activities are:
Seeing the Northern Lights
A husky safari through the snow
Skiing and snowboarding in Lapland
Spend the night in a glass igloo or ice hotel
A visit to Santa Claus in Rovaniemi
Holmstock Travel offers tailor-made Nordic winter trips for travelers who want an authentic Arctic experience.
Nordic travel in summer
Summer in the Nordics brings long days with the midnight sun and beautiful nature.
Activities such as:
Hiking in the Norwegian fjords
A road trip along the Swedish lakes
Kayaking between the archipelagos
Spotting wild animals such as moose and bears
make a Nordic summer trip an unforgettable experience.
Why choose a Nordic trip with Holmstock Travel?
Holmstock Travel specializes in Nordic holidays and offers complete trips to Scandinavia, Finland, Iceland and the Arctic . With our expertise and tailor-made trips we ensure a unique experience that perfectly matches your wishes.