SILVEROPUS, TRAVEL REIMAGINED

In Sweden, the word “fika” is so important it is used as both a noun and a verb. Fika, which is often translated into a coffee or tea break, is much more than that. It is about reconnecting with yourself, your environment and the people around you in a leisurely and thoughtful manner, which is exactly the intent of the Fika by the Fjords tour hosted by SilverOpus, a specialty, upscale tour company for curious and adventurous mature travelers. 

SilverOpus evolved from Discover Scandinavia Tours, founded by Marcelo Guimaraes in 2013. The new brand represents the company’s expansion into unique tours of Brazil, Switzerland and the United Kingdom. 

The 11-days/10-nights Fika by the Fjords exemplifies the SilverOpus tour goal to make travel more authentic, inspiring, joyful and comfortable. Offered in May, July and August, Fika by the Fjords combines the “wow” factor of traditional Norway with unexpected areas of Sweden. 

“In Norway, we explore the fjords and scenic towns like Balestrand and then in Sweden we vacation like the natives,” Guimaraes said. 

“It’s a combination of must-see visitor highlights and sights typically missed by the average tourists. This Scandinavian adventure attracts both first-time visitors, as well as guests who are already familiar with the region but crave a more in-depth look.”

Joining the professional tour director who accompanies the group throughout their journey are expert local guides eager to share the culture, history and cuisine of the land they love. The tour, with each departure limited to just 14 guests, begins in Bergen, where travelers explore the colorful and historic harbor district of Bryggen, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, before heading to a dinner of regional Norwegian dishes and the comforts of Hotel Opus XVI, a boutique hotel steeped in the musical heritage of Edvard Grieg.

A leisurely fjord cruise to the scenic village of Balestrand follows, with a stay at the historic Kviknes Hotel, built in 1752 on the shores of the majestic Sognefjord. Over the next two days, travelers explore the area by boat, cruising past dragon-style villas and stopping for a visit at a cider farm.

The Flåm Railway connects SilverOpus guests from Balestrand through breathtaking waterfalls and valleys as they wind their way to the next destination, modern yet traditional Oslo. Diverse experiences, including a hike to the famous Holmenkollen ski jump, are followed by the ideal urban retreat that is the Hotel Amerikalinjen. 

While in Sweden, guests will stroll through Trollhättan, known for its scenic waterways, take in a cooking class featuring fresh blue mussels, indulge in the seaside spa ambiance of the Gullmarsstrand Hotel, and enjoy the sights of the vibrant city of Gothenburg. Guests will also sample organic sparkling wines at Ästad Vingård, kayak through tranquil waters, visit the idyllic island of Skaftö on Sweden’s west coast and bask in the coastal charm of Helsingborg. 

Well-appointed private transport connects travelers with train and boat experiences in style. Luggage and airport transfers are provided, as is 24/7 support before, during and after the trip. Private extensions before and after the tour help to expand the pleasure of discovery.

“Fika is all about taking the time to enjoy life,” Guimaraes said. “SilverOpus offers travelers the opportunity to do just that at unforgettable destinations and with amazing people.”