midsummer night retreat
reignite your life force
MEDITATE, REJUVENATE AND EXPLORE
THE LAND OF THE VIKINGs
JUNE 18 - 24TH, 2026
BERGEN and BJØRNEfjord, NORWAY
NORway Midsummer light fjord Retreat
Experience the transformative power of the nordic midsummer, where eternal light meets ancient landscapes. In this intimate week-long journey, you'll restore your vital life force through meditation, relaxing yoga, and Nordic wellness traditions that honor the elements—pure ocean air, crystalline fjord waters, and the grounding presence of the surrounding mountains. From Bergen's historic architecture to a renowned fjord sanctuary, discover how Norway's most iconic settings become the perfect backdrop for regenerating vitality and reigniting your life force from within.
Reignite life force
June 18-24, 2025 3 nights Bergen | 3 nights Bjørnefjorden
become lit from within
The Norwegians call it "livskraft"—vital life force—and it flows most powerfully where nature, ancient wisdom, and intentional practice converge. This seven day journey, limited to an intimate group, offers a rare opportunity to rediscover this essential energy under the guidance of a native Norwegian.
Beginning in historic Bergen, medieval capital of the Viking kings and gateway to the fjords, you'll immerse yourself in centuries-old culture while experiencing daily meditation and restorative practices. Each day also includes free time for resting or exploring on your own. The journey continues to Solstrand, a historic wellness resort on the stunning Bjørnefjord, where the view of mountains meeting crystalline waters under the endless light of the midnight sun set the tone for calm and clarity.
Here, surrounded by Norway's raw beauty, you'll experience the profound renewal that comes from combining ancient Nordic wisdom with modern wellness practices. Through contact with the elements—invigorating fjord swims, grounding walks on ancient stone paths, breathing fresh clean air—and nourishing your body with healthy local cuisine, you'll feel your vitality returning. The eternal midsummer light creates a unique energetic environment where transformation happens naturally, where stress dissolves, and where your inner fire reignites.
This carefully curated experience doesn't just offer relaxation—it offers a complete recalibration of your nervous system and a reconnection to the life force that modern life so often depletes. You'll return home not just rested, but revitalized with practices and insights that continue to nourish your well-being long after the midnight sun fades.
ITINERARY
This carefully curated journey and intimate group setting offers you an authentic Norwegian immersion and profound restoration on multiple levels, revitalizing you through meditation, yoga, nature and the timeless power of the fjords at the peak of midsummer.
fjord fiesta
fjord fiesta
midsummer magic
midsummer magic
June 18-21 (3nights)
Part 1: BERGEn
On June 21st, our journey continues south to the charming village of Os, where our group will gather to reach our historic retreat haven. Our destination is Solstrand, one of the region's most acclaimed hotels since 1896, nestled right alongside the pristine Bjørnefjord where we'll arrive as the endless midsummer light bathes the landscape in golden hues.
For three full days, you'll immerse yourself in Nordic wellness traditions and deep restoration. Morning meditation and yoga sessions overlook the fjord's crystalline waters, resonating with the natural rhythm of waves and mountains. Between structured sessions, you'll experience traditional Nordic wellness through invigorating fjord swims, the award-winning spa's multiple pools and saunas, and serene walks along the oceanside promenade. The hotel's acclaimed kitchen celebrates local food producers, serving fresh Scandinavian cuisine that honors the region's culinary heritage. (See bottom of page for all details).
On June 23rd, we'll gather for a special midsummer celebration—a centuries-old Nordic tradition—to close our transformative week together.
The journey begins in BERGEN, nicknamed gateway to the fjords and one of the first strongholds of Viking royalty, is famous for its surrounding 7 mountains, bustling fish market, and unique mix of architecture including the Hanseatic port and Viking fortress. In the mornings we will continue our program of yoga, meditation and a private retreat room, whilst afternoons will mainly be reserved for sightseeing, excursions and exploring. Each day will end on a high note with a new culinary experience in some of Bergens renowned restaurants.
Part 2: BJORNEFJORDEN
June 21 -24 (3 nights)
Departures
The last morning of June 24th you will have the option to stay on in Bergen or leave by train, boat or plane to continue on your journey or return home. There will be an optional activity organized for those leaving later in the day or following day.
June 24 morning
Set along the pristine shores of the Bjørnefjord, Solstrand has been welcoming guests since 1896, when Norway's first prime minister Christian Michelsen created this haven for "gathering strength" away from city life. For 125 years, this historic retreat has offered respite in one of Norway's most stunning coastal landscapes, just 30 kilometers south of Bergen. Today, that same restorative energy infuses our retreat experience. The hotel's award-winning spa features an infinity pool that seems to merge with the fjord, multiple hydrotherapy pools, three distinctive sauna and steam rooms, and a beautiful path leading down to the water's edge for refreshing fjord swims. The wellness facilities blend seamlessly with the magnificent open landscape, offering panoramic views across the fjord’s crystalline waters.
LEARNING/HEALING MODALITIES
Meditation and Yoga Nidra
Sound healing
Sauna and pools
Cold water therapy
Nature hikes
Restorative yoga
Breathing techniques
PROGRAM
experience the magic of the fjords
Just south of Bergen lies Bjørnefjorden—a hidden gem among Norway's coastal treasures. While less dramatic than its famous neighbors, this tranquil fjord offers something increasingly rare: pristine beauty without the crowds. Here, mirror-like waters reflect ancient mountains and ever-changing Nordic light, creating a natural sanctuary where true restoration becomes possible.
The crystalline fjord waters and pure coastal air naturally reset your nervous system, while the endless summer light energizes your spirit. This is where discerning Norwegians themselves escape for renewal, drawn by the authentic rhythm of coastal life undisturbed by tourism. Every swim in these glacial waters, every breath of mountain air, every quiet moment gazing across the fjord becomes an opportunity for profound revival. A beautiful coastal path, lovingly created by the hotel, offers a scenic walk into the charming village of Os—connecting you to local life at your own pace.
Solstrand's exclusive setting—welcoming no tour buses or large groups—preserves this sense of intimate sanctuary. The atmosphere feels more like a private coastal estate than a hotel, where serenity and exclusivity allow you to fully surrender to the restorative power of this remarkable landscape. You'll leave this hidden sanctuary with a profound sense of vitality, calm and wellbeing—the essence of Norwegian livskraft.
MEDITATION, YOGA NIDRA AND NORDIC highlights WITH Ragnhild G. ISDAHL
With over 22 years of experience in various yoga and meditation forms, Ragnhild became a certified meditation teacher in 2020, learning from Michael Stasko and others. She now conducts online meditations not only to help individuals cope with fear and uncertainty, but to foster curiosity, clarity and self-transformation.
Ragnhild is naturally inclined towards guiding meditations, taking people on inner journeys she has crafted to manage stress and tap into inner wisdom, calmness, and creativity. Intrigued by the inner workings of the mind and our ability to harness its power, she followed the teachings of Gregg Braden, Bruce Lipton, and Joe Dispenza, participating in a transformative retreat with them in New Mexico. Recently, she enhanced her expertise with a Yoga Nidra teacher certification under Rachel Brownbridge and Claudia Menger. In 2023, Ragnhild began guiding people on retreats, blending inner and outer explorations.
Throughout this retreat, she will lead guided meditations, yoga nidras, creativity sessions, and Nordic wellness rituals, orchestrating meetings with healers, teachers, and experts to enrich the expedition experience.
ingrid jaegeR
Ingrid is a restorative yoga teacher from Bergen, Norway and holds a master’s degree in social anthropology. Ingrid has been attracted to Eastern philosophies, yoga and in particular India and the Himalayan region since her teenage years. Ingrid has lived, traveled, studied and worked for more than three years in India and Nepal and completed her master’s degree in the Indian Himalayas. She took her first yoga class in Bergen in 1998 and has not stopped practicing and learning since then.
Ingrid believes that yoga should be accessible for all ages and all physical abilities - so that yoga can be a tool for deeper relaxation and well-being in everyday life. She has studied classical yoga, restorative yoga, yin yoga, children’s yoga, chair/senior yoga and office yoga. She is passionate about sharing her knowledge and experience with anyone who wants to find inner peace and strength and to feel better in their bodies. The acrobatic and esthetic facets of yoga are not her priority, and she believes that yoga in its essence is primarily about the inner journey and experience. Ayurvedic wisdom and techniques have also come to inform her practice, and she is inspired to keep on learning and sharing her passion.
HUMAN DESIGN AND SOUND HEALING WITH BIRGITTE BAKKE
Birgitte is a holistic therapist, aerial yoga insructor, sound healer and Human Design teacher. She is passionate about the Human Design system and has used it as a guide for over 16 years. She studied the system for 7 years under Richard Beaumont and has been teaching the basics for 10 years. She is an experienced lecturer, and both a musician and a sound bath facilitator. Sound also comes into the bodywork that she does. She is a skilled therapist specialized in assisting the body to release old patterns and/or trauma through various tools like; osteopathy, reflexology, massage, sound and energy healing. Birgitte lives and teaches in Bergen, Norway.
Human design is the science of differentiation, a synthesis of ancient wisdom and modern science.. By mechanically describing your unique energy blueprint it offers a strategy on how to make better decisions and navigate life with much greater self-awareness and ease.
During the stay in Bergen, Birgitte will perform sound healing and be available for human design consultations.
In this extended retreat, you will:
Experience deep healing and connection through various group healing sessions, using sound and frequency as a vector for accessing higher awareness
Learn about the capacity we have to heal and transform our own bodies with the power of our minds, using many different techniques from grounding and sauna to plunging in the fjords
Experience guided meditation and Yoga Nidra and get personalized tips and techniques for continued practice
Experience the authentic nordic lifestyle through a deep connection to nature, the elements and ancient nordic rituals and food, hiking and swimming
Enjoy the high vibration setting of fun and connecting with an intimate and international group
Rest, relax and rejuvenate!
HighlightS
Sightseeing and nature
Authentic nordic cuisine
Meeting local experts
Unique hikes and excursions
Tasting of local delicacies
Nordic sauna and wellness rituals
Midsummer’s Eve ceremony
ACCOMMODATION
Our exclusive hotel in Bergen was built in the 1800’s and has hosted many of Norway’s renowned explorers of the past including polar explorer Roald Amundsen. The hotel is a member of the historic hotels of Norway.
This is a special and highly sought after family-owned property for an authentic and unique experience.
ABOUT YOUR HOST, RAGNHILd
the new viking
Born in Norway but raised across the US, England, France, and Norway, Ragnhild embodies a modern-day Viking with a deep connection to her adventurous ancestry. Her DNA compels her to explore new horizons, mirroring the sagas of her forebearers. Formerly an international luxury brand specialist and product developer, Ragnhild, rooted in her Nordic heritage, is passionately drawn to nature, holistic health, wellness, and the realm of the metaphysical.
In 2001, a transformative trip to India ignited Ragnhild's exploration of yoga and meditation, expanding her understanding of the human body, mind, and soul.
A lifelong interest in the power of creativity and the mind's potential has driven Ragnhild to integrate insights from both the left and right brain, generating fresh ideas. Since an early age and growing up far from her native homeland, she has been intrigued by her Viking heritage, bestowed with an ancestral name meaning "battle advisor."
Originally conceived as a TV concept, "The New Viking" has evolved into a vessel for guiding people on their personal journeys through various courses and retreats - exploring new horizons and facilitating new connections, insights and inspiration.
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GETTING TO/FROM NORWAY
ARRIVAL (TO BERGEN)
Travel and transfers to and from airport (Bergen Flesland BGO) are not included. Retreat begins in Bergen and ends in Bergen. Arrival in Bergen on the 18th afternoon. Taxi transfer to Bergen city where the trip will begin. (Details will be provided upon registration). If you would like to arrive to Bergen by train from OSLO, this is a scenic route and highly recommended. Please inquire for details before booking travel.
DEPARTURE (FROM BERGEN)
Departure from BERGEN (BGO) Flesland airport June 24th, any time. Checkout 11 am and optional program in afternoon for those who stay. . You can also leave by train to Oslo, it is a scenic route and takes around 7 hours. If you wish to prolong stay contact me to arrange.
AIRLINES:
Many major airlines fly to Norway, SAS, Air France, Norwegian, British, Lufthansa and more. Contact our expert travel agent HOUSE OF TRAVEL doris@houseoftravel.net for help with air travel, specify that you are with The New Viking.
Contact The New Viking here for more info and advice on travel to and from Norway or tips to continue your journey in Norway.
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WEATHER AND UNWEATHER IN NORWAY
Norway is indeed the land of the Midnight Sun, but you need to be prepared for the possibility of midnight rain… NORWAY AND THE WEST COAST ESPECIALLY are known for their “UNWEATHER” which means unpredictable! Pack accordingly. Temperatures may vary, and even though the sun may be out all night, it can get cool in the evenings. Bring proper footwear, hiking boots if you plan to partake in hiking/ walking, waterproof sneakers, wool sweater, rain jacket. And you might not need it. Casual elegant for evenings, perhaps one or two nicer outfits for Bergen outings. Heels not recommended as cobblestones abound in this medieval town and you will walk a lot. Try to pack in suitcase with wheels that is easy for you to move yourself as we travel. You may need to move your bags from bus to restaurant to train etc. and trolleys are not always available. Viking style!
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what's included
Luxury accommodation in Bergen (3 nights) - single occupancy in 4 star historically classified boutique hotel. Full breakfast buffet.
Accommodation 4-star fjord hotel 3 nights) with breakfast, and 3 dinners.
Private transfers from Bergen to fjord hotel.
Sightseeing and excursions.
All breakfasts included.
Dinner every evening. Two lunches (when we have group activity) .
All group yoga and sound healing with private instructors.
Meditation and yoga nidra sessions.
All classes and talks.
Pools/ spa/ sauna access.
Not included:
Airfare.
Airport transfer to meeting place in Bergen and from Bergen to airport at the end. Lunch some days are not included. Drinks are not included.
Private sessions with any of the instructors for yoga, sound, human design or other are not included.
We also recommend that you take TRAVEL INSURANCE for your trip including your airline ticket in case of any unforeseen conditions! Please review the terms and conditions.
Travel to Norway is very easy, but double check if there are any visa requirements for your passport/ nationality! Generally travel to Norway is very easy. Do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.
You will be asked to sign a waiver before you participate in the activities of the retreat. This retreat is suitable for all fitness levels. Yoga and hikes are optional.
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Price & registration
Retreat price: Early Viking (registered before January 31st) $5500 per person. $5000 pp for double occupancy. Link will be provided once we have your request form and have connected with you.
Once you have registered there is a non-refundable deposit of 1000$ to hold the space, the balance to be paid by March 30th.
Please note:
As we have access to highly sought after boutique properties that are small businesses and family owned, and Norway is at peak tourist season in June, we need to secure our space by confirming the number of participants as soon as possible and are not able to refund once the retreat is booked and paid for. See terms and conditions for details.
