At Magnetic North Travel, we believe holidays have the power to transform. By deepening knowledge and experience of nature, responsible travel fosters a lasting connection with the world. That’s why we take responsibility for our impact while creating meaningful opportunities for guests to explore natural landscapes through local people and traditions. Our goal is simple: to inspire a deep respect for nature that extends beyond the journey itself. We achieve this by designing experiences that are both responsible and rewarding.
In every destination, local people represent Magnetic North Travel as guides and hosts. Each brings unique skills—some are outdoor leaders, such as kayakers, hikers, and cross-country skiers. Others are craftspeople, including felt makers, foragers, and fishermen. We employ them directly, ensuring fair pay and sustainable livelihoods.
We also prioritise independent, family-owned accommodation whenever possible. These providers, in turn, source food and supplies from local businesses, offering guests an authentic taste of the region. Supporting these businesses strengthens local economies and ensures that responsible travel benefits communities as well as visitors.
Our travel philosophy is inspired by the Norwegian concept of “Friluftsliv”, meaning “free air living.” This tradition encourages people to embrace outdoor life, learn from nature, and find joy in simple experiences. Rooted in the landscapes of the Nordic region and Canada, it has shaped generations of communities and continues to inspire our guests.
Friluftsliv means different things to different people, but at Magnetic North Travel, we stay true to its core values. Each of our destinations offers its own local traditions and stories, seamlessly woven into our holidays. We believe in exploring nature at its own pace, using traditional, non-intrusive methods such as hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing rather than motorised transport like 4x4s or snowmobiles. These choices align with our commitment to responsible travel, minimising environmental impact while enhancing the experience.
We also take great care in selecting accommodations that uphold strong environmental policies. Our partners prioritise energy efficiency and use renewable energy sources such as wind power and sustainably harvested biofuel. We communicate these efforts to our guests and provide practical advice on reducing their environmental impact—whether it’s minimising water consumption, respecting local wildlife, or supporting community businesses.
Sustainable and responsible travel begins with the journey itself. We offer flexible travel options by land and sea to help reduce carbon footprints. Our group sizes remain small, typically between 2 and 12 people, to ensure minimal impact on both the environment and local communities while enhancing the overall experience.
Landscapes and people are not just the backdrop of our journeys—they are integral to them. We encourage guests to connect with the places they visit by learning about the people who have lived and thrived there, both past and present.
Our guides promote “landfull” experiences—immersive journeys that engage with both the cultural and physical landscapes. Each of our holidays offers unique insights into a destination, preserving traditions and ways of life that have long respected nature. Responsible travel means understanding these histories and traditions while ensuring they remain valued for future generations.
Where possible, we integrate cultural experiences such as local festivals, family visits, and traditional skills workshops. Guests can learn bread baking, felt making, wild foraging, and more—gaining a hands-on appreciation for time-honoured practices. We also provide guidance on cultural norms to ensure every interaction is respectful and meaningful.
At Magnetic North Travel, we don’t dictate how travel should change a person. Instead, we create space for reflection, discovery, and learning. Our aim is simple: for guests to return home with new perspectives, a deeper respect for nature, and a renewed connection to the world around them. Responsible travel isn’t just about the trip itself—it’s about its lasting impact.