9 ways to have a memorable family holiday

Text: Benedicte Klyve

 

There is no amusement park or zoo in Svalbard, instead the wilderness offers great and close experiences for both children and adults. Get close to nature and discover the good feeling of being in the present – together.

1. Svalbard Museum

Get the most out of your trip to Svalbard with a visit to Svalbard Museum, and dive into the exciting polar history. Here you will get a good and basic understanding of what Svalbard once was and what it is today. The Arctic animals are guaranteed to be a highlight for the children.

2. Wildlife in Longyearbyen

A walk east towards the Advent Valley might offer a rich wildlife for the enjoyment of all ages. Right outside the city centre, just a few hundred meters into the valley, a lot of bird’s nest. Here you will find species such as King eider, Barnacle goose, Brant, Red phalarope and Red-throated loon. Maybe you also spot the sneaky polar fox hunting for bird eggs or the reindeer grazing on the tundra?

3. Take a selfie with the famous polar bear sign

Continue the walk past all the birds in Advent Valley, pass the locals dog yard and you will spot Svalbard’s most photographed spot. The polar bear warning sign! The surroundings are strikingly beautiful and beyond this area there is deserted wilderness all the way up to the North Pole.

4. Activities at the shoreline

Welcome to “the beach” as the locals calls it. The place where people gathers to barbecue, sunbathing and swimming. With light days and nights, locals love spending time outdoors to take advantage of the Midnight sun. Here, all ages gather, and children love to sift through rocks and driftwood and sort them by shape, size, and colours. Build something creative out of what you find, only your imagination sets the limits. What about an arctic summer swim – would you dare to try? Swimming at 78 degrees north is a “thing” here in Svalbard.

5. The historical cableway centre

The old coal cableway centre is located at the top of Skjæringa and Sysselmannsgården on the west side of Longyearbyen. An important historical building that was used to transport coal from the mines to the harbour. A place you should add to your must-do list. Enjoy the view and be impressed by architecture of the building. From the building there is a rope swing, which will provide a lot of fun for the kids.  

6. For kids at all ages – boat trips

On our RIB boat tours the age limit is 8 years if the passenger is accompanied by an adult.  If you would like to arrange an unforgettable private tour for your family, then send us an email and we will do out best to customise a tour which suit your needs.

7. A family’s adventure at sea

If you want to explore exciting and beautiful places on Svalbard during the summer, you need to go on a boat trip. Choose between a 5-hour glacier safari by RIB boat, 8-hour RIB safari to Pyramiden or a 7-hour walrus safari. On the walrus safari the boat will provide a heating system and toilet on board.

8. Dogs on wheels

Dog sledding is popular year-round, and this summer tour is perfect for those who love dogs. Eager huskies await you in the dog yard, ready to take you on a trip out Advent Valley. The guide provides thorough instructions on how to drive the wagon, handle the dogs, and act as a «musher». You’ll go in pairs with us to drive the wagons. The tour has a minimum age limit of 8 years.

9. For the reading enthusiast

Longyearbyen public library is newly refurbished and opened its doors in 2019. The shelves contain a rich selection of books for children. Settle down in the nice seating areas with a good book. After you finish your visit at the library, you can visit the world’s northernmost café and chocolatier. A cocoa and homemade polar bear chocolate is highly recommended.

Simple tips for a successful family holiday

• Planning your vacation is the key to a successful vacation for the whole family. Get more knowledge about which season you prefer to travel to Svalbard.
• Get some packing tips for your vacation. Remember to pack the kid’s favourite teddy bear and a couple of toys in your suitcase.
• Avoid fully booked tours – book your activities in advance to avoid unpleasant surprises.
• We offer either connection rooms at Svalbard Hotell | Polfareren or apartments at Svalbard Lodge – suitable for the whole family.
• In Longyearbyen there is a lot of fun, fascinating and exciting things to take pictures of. Let the children take their own pictures on vacation!
• Always carry extra snacks and clothing in your bag.

 

Focus on what is important! Be inspired by seeing the world through the eyes of a child and feel the excitement about being in of the most pristine places on earth.