A breathtaking European island is among the rare destinations where visitors can hike and kayak in peace, free from the crowds of tourists. Svalbard in Norway offers genuine serenity in Europe.
With just 2.4 overnight stays per km2, the Arctic archipelago is the least crowded island destination on the continent. Accessible from mainland Norway, Svalbard feels like a true frontier. During summer, the midnight sun illuminates vast, silent glaciers and wide fjords, creating one of the few places in Europe where visitors can hike, kayak, or simply relax in complete solitude.
Svalbard’s distinctive approach to tourism further sets it apart, offering a truly unique experience for travelers seeking unspoiled wilderness. More than two-thirds of the archipelago is safeguarded by national parks and nature reserves, where polar bears, Arctic foxes, and reindeer roam freely. Strict environmental regulations govern visitor access and travel to preserve the delicate ecosystem.
Accommodation remains limited, primarily consisting of traditional hotels and small hostels in Longyearbyen, with few new developments planned.
Once a growing industry, cruise tourism is now being reassessed. As Norway strengthens its environmental policies, the future favours smaller, low-impact expedition cruises over large ships.
Sean Kelly, co-founder of BookRetreats.com said: “From the Arctic quiet of Svalbard to the agricultural valleys of Chios, these islands have managed to avoid the tourism pressure we’re seeing elsewhere.
“And it’s not just about remoteness. These destinations have built tourism sustainably by prioritising local economies, conservation, and small-scale development.
“It proves that with the right approach, it’s possible to protect both the travel experience and the livelihoods of the communities who call these islands home.”
Located just 1,300 km from the North Pole, Longyearbyen is the world’s northernmost urban community. While most residents are Norwegian, the town is also home to people from around 50 different countries.
With a population of approximately 2,100, Longyearbyen fosters a strong sense of unity and fellowship.
Though Svalbard is part of the Kingdom of Norway, two of its settlements are predominantly inhabited by Russians and Ukrainians. Around 450 people reside in the modern mining town of Barentsburg, whereas fewer than 10 remain in the abandoned Soviet ghost town of Pyramiden.
According to its official website, “The residents always take precautions when venturing outside the settlements by carrying a firearm as protection against polar bears. This is one of the few places in the world where it’s not uncommon to see mothers pushing a pram while carrying a rifle on their back. Everyone who lives here must show respect for the majestic nature we have chosen to be a part of, and we are all fully aware that we are guests in the realm of the polar bear.”
One of the travellers shared his experience on the TripAdvisor forum and wrote: “Svalbard is not exactly a popular destination, and many are not even aware of it. But the fact is that it has a lot to offer.
“I visited Svalbard in January, when there is a 24-hour darkness, but even that didn’t prevent me from enjoying it. I arrived by air. The air fare is quite expensive since there is only one carrier that provides commercial flights.
“On arrival, there is a bus waiting that takes the passengers into the town of Longyearbyen. This distance can also be walked, takes about 1 hour, but it is not advised since you may encounter polar bears. I did do it, however. As for the accommodation, there are several hotels and lodges, but some are open only in the summer season.”
Another user wrote: “We saw bears by the dozen (29 in total), Walrus by the tonne, more bird species than you could imagine, plus puffins, seals, and reindeer.
“But Svalbard is not just about wildlife. On shore, we experienced energetic and contemplative walks, we saw an array of beautiful wild flowers that we couldn’t believe would grow in an Arctic wilderness. We visited historic sites, had a barbecue on the bow, took a polar plunge, and basked in the midnight sun.”