Norway opens 'slow-life villages' to tourists

The “Open Village” model initiated by the cruise line Hurtigruten has brought tourists to the most remote coastal communities in the country, providing a unique experience not found on traditional tours.

Travel to the ends of Norway

Running only during the summer, from May to September, the “Open Village” program allows passengers on Signature Line cruises to visit three isolated villages: Bessaker, Træna and Sæbø.

These are places where regular trains do not stop, with the number of visitors per trip limited to 500 people, just enough to make connections without disrupting the peaceful rhythm of village life.

Unlike industrial tourism experiences, “Open Village” encourages real interaction between visitors and residents.

There is no additional cost to visitors, while each village receives NOK 250 (about USD 25) from Hurtigruten for each tourist. This funding goes directly to supporting the local community in developing services, culture and livelihoods.

Cultural connection - sharing life

At Bessaker, visitors will be greeted by live music, a festive parade, wood carving activities, and the chance to enjoy traditional meat soup, coffee and homemade cakes.

The village is also home to many cultural relics such as Osen Bygdetun or Helleristninger/Gravhaug, an ancient rock carving site.

Træna Village, known as one of Norway's oldest fishing communities, offers a more flexible travel experience: visitors receive a small guidebook and explore the Petter Dass Chapel, the village museum and spiritual and historical sites on their own.

In Sæbø, passengers are invited to attend a church concert performed by local musicians in a community-based art space. Additionally, a visit to the Avalanche Centre with a local guide helps visitors learn more about the nature and life in Norway's rugged mountains.

Sustainable tourism development

More than just an economic activity, the “Open Village” program is rekindling hope for small coastal villages that are under pressure from residents leaving and lacking development opportunities.

“In a village of only 170 people, there are 12 businesses that directly benefit from this model, from bakers and artists to restaurants and tourist attractions,” said Knut Johan Monkan, a representative of the Bessaker community.

Without support from Hurtigruten, he stressed, places like the FABrikken restaurant, or the 2023 Norway's best bakery Stokkøy Bakeri, might not have been able to survive.

According to Mr. Odd Tore Skildheim, Director of Product Development of Hurtigruten, the goal of the program is not only to create unique experiences for tourists but also to bring practical value to local people.

Norway introduced a tourist tax this year, after record numbers of visitors put pressure on infrastructure and the environment at popular destinations.

In that context, the “Open Village” initiative emerged as a humane solution: not only helping to reduce the load on overcrowded areas but also contributing to a more even distribution of tourism benefits to less-known communities.

baomoi.com

Source: https://baolaocai.vn/na-uy-mo-cua-nhung-lang-song-cham-don-du-khach-post649664.html