Fjord cruises and the ‘great outdoors’ experience

Greenland is the world’s largest island, but also the least densely populated country in the world, with less than 60,000 residents on the whole island. Although Greenland is much closer to the North American continent, particularly Canada, it has had strong political ties with Europe since the first Norse settlers came to the island in the 10th century. The name ‘Greenland’ is thought to have been coined by an early Icelandic settler, Erik the Red, who hoped that a pleasant name might attract more settlers. The fact is ‘Whiteland’ might have been a more appropriate name, as much of the mountainous interior of the island is covered with snow and ice. Greenland’s scenery is awe-inspiring, and it affords endless opportunities for hiking and walking holidays, wildlife safaris on the trail of the musk oxen and whale watching tours.

Why Go?
Greenland’s terrain of snow capped mountains and sparkling fjords is a wonderful place to enjoy cruises and walking holidays. Take a dog-sledding or snowmobile tour across the frozen landscapes, or try the luxurious option of a Greenland fjord cruise holiday.

When to Go?
The main tourist season in Greenland is in the summer. This is a good time for fjord cruises when temperatures are at least the better side of zero on the thermometer, although hardly flip-flops and shorts weather. Spring is also a good time to visit as the winter snowfall is still in place, which makes it a good time to enjoy dog-sledding and snowmobile tours.

How to get there?
Kangerlussuaq Airport (SFJ) in the west is the main airport hub in Greenland for both international and domestic flights. The main routes for flights to Greenland are via Copenhagen Airport (CPH) with Scandinavian Airlines and Air Greenland. There are also flights with Air Iceland from Keflavik International Airport (KEF) in Iceland, flying to Ilulissat Airport (JAV) in the west of Greenland and Nuuk Airport (GOH), which is just outside the capital.

Must see
A trip to Greenland gives you the opportunity to see the Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights. This extraordinary phenomenon is best seen in the south and east of the country, in places such as Kulusuk and Ammassalik. Disko Bay and the towns in South Greenland are the best places to arrange accommodation and to organise tours by land, sea or air, ensuring you get the very best views of the superb landscapes and wildlife of Greenland. In the tiny capital Nuuk, there are a handful of museums and galleries, including the National Museum of Greenland.