Traveller editor Amy Sohanpaul explores two of the Nordic's greatest Arctic escapes – Hotel Arctic in Greenland and Norway's Arctic Wilderness Lodge.

Hotel Arctic, Ilulissat

The Hotel Arctic is an extraordinary place to stay. Set on the shores of Greenland’s Ilulissat Icefjord – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – it’s the furthest flung four-star hotel in the north. Surrounded by spectacular icebergs, resplendent in every light, it’s perfectly positioned for adventure all the way, all year round.

Summer presents the best time to spot whales, which travel here for food in abundant numbers. The hotel offers safaris, with boat trips to spot the numerous species – there are minke whales, humpbacks, fin whales and narwhals in these waters, and the sight of large pods or the spectacular rise of a gigantic humpback bursting forth from and splashing back into the sea are unforgettable experiences. Summer is also the perfect time to head out on a kayak, or on one of the hotel’s luxury boat cruises, as well as setting off for a highland hike during the long days of the midnight sun. Winter winners are dashing husky ride excursions, and, of course, the chance to see the celestial dance of the Northern Lights.

Whatever the weather, the hotel offers a luxurious base, from meals based on the freshest, finest local ingredients; and inviting rooms and suites that offer fabulous views of the Icefjord or the port. Among the accommodation, the Arora Cabins are the standouts – mountain side retreats with panoramic views of the delightfully named Disko Bay. During the summer the vast surrounding windows showcase the illuminated midnight landscape, in the winter the changing colours and magical movement of the Northern Lights.

Arctic Wilderness Lodge, Alta

With just 24 rooms and suites, this Norwegian retreat on the banks of the Alta River is a wonderfully exclusive high Artic destination. All rooms and suites celebrate the wilderness, with floor to ceiling windows overlooking the river and Arctic beyond. Settle into sumptuous comfort and watch the river run through this wild and lovely expanse during the summer months, in the winter, watch the Northern Lights shimmy and shine above. Winter also offers the chance to stay at the lodge’s sister property – the Igloo Hotel, built anew each season. Guests can enjoy sparkling grandeur of the ice-carved interiors with the option of heading back to the comfort of the lodge.

The fun stretches out all year round. Speed off on a snowmobile in search of the Northern Lights or a spot of ice-fishing in the winter. This is also the perfect time to go reindeer sledding and to experience Sami culture. Take to the river in the summer for some packrafting, or to the skies in a helicopter to survey the splendour below. There are opportunities to go whale watching in a fjord above the Arctic Circle or to saddle up for a horseback ride through the surrounding woods.

On return to the lodge a culinary adventure awaits – their new Maku Restaurant offers a notable menu and overlooks the river. Like all experiences here, the food reflects the best of the seasons. Dishes are based on what’s nearest and freshest, from salmon from the Alta, King Crab, Reindeer with lingonberries, to cloudberry based desserts. Life is sweet here, in both sun and snow.