Mountain & Fjord: Creativity & Yoga Retreat in Norway with Mary
Your TourHero
Hello and Happy Travels! My name is Mary Bue and I'm a songwriter, musician, retreat guide, music + yoga teacher, runner, vegan, former yoga studio owner, and life-long student based out of Minneapolis, Minnesota and often roaming this beautiful world.
I have been a performing songwriter since 1998 and have DIY toured almost every state in the continental USA. In 2020, I was so grateful to be awarded ‘Best Songwriter’ from City Pages (Minneapolis) recognizing the release of my 8th album ‘The World is Your Lover.’ The songs I write are inspired by dreams, travels, love for the environment, and, alas, some heartbreak.
I also study mantra and love to share these healing sounds, chanted in the Bhakti (devotional) style during or after yoga classes as ‘sonic blessings’ or savasana serenades. Yoga-wise, I received my first 200 hour teacher training certification in 2009 at Whole Life Yoga in Seattle, WA in the yoga lineage of Viniyoga, or the Yoga of T.K.V Desikachar, followed by 300 hour advanced training in MInneapolis at Yoga Center Retreat (Minnesota), and another 200 hour training in Rishikesh India to study Nada Yoga (the Yoga of Sound). I've pursued continuing ed in Trauma-Informed Yoga via Firefly Yoga International, and yoga for depression & anxiety, pranayama, meditation, yoga nidra, ayurveda, prenatal, tantra, goddess sadhana, and more.
I've privately led & co-led retreats in Minnesota, Wisconsin, New Mexico, and internationally to Bali, Malta, and Italy. I'm so excited to partner with Tour Hero to broaden the horizons with this journey to the land of my ancestral Heritage - Norway.
Looking forward to meeting you on this or another adventure! Big love, Mary
Duration
8 days · 7 nights
Travel Date
Jun 16 – 23, 2024
Activity Level
Moderate
Group Size
12 – 15
Transportation
Van
Tour Price
Your Fellow Explorers
Age range
18+
Travel interest
Wellness, gentle yoga, creativity, meditation, nature
Your Local Guide
A division of Europe Incoming, a DMC with more than four decades of experience under their belt, Ertha is a company that centers itself around trips that help travelers attain a true feeling of wellness. If your goal is to relax and recharge in a gorgeous setting, they are here to help! Yoga retreats, spa trips, quiet vacations in iconic locations – no matter what you’re looking for, Ertha can help design a customized trip that matches your exact needs.
Embark on an unforgettable wellness journey of self-discovery and renewal through the power of creativity and yoga, with elements of sound, music, writing, and Norway's breathtaking nature at the base of this transformation. You'll spend your first few nights nestled on the Venabygdsfjellet plateau, surrounded by stunning views of nature and fresh mountain air. Here, cocooned in the beautiful Venabu Hotel, partake in guided sessions of holistic wellness activities that include gentle yoga, meditation, mantras, and writing practice. With Mary's sonic blessings, immerse yourself in the beauty of sacred mantras, hymns, and her original music. You'll have the chance to embark on a full-day hike, immersing yourself in the healing powers of nature. Then, travel to the fairytale town of Alesund for more moments of peace and restoration. Here, you will have the opportunity to experience the magic of the famous Alesund fjords on a cruise, highlighted by majestic mountains and incredible waterfalls.
Take this unforgettable journey with Mary — book now to secure your spot.
Cancellation policy
TourHero, the retreat host, and the tour operator reserve the right to cancel or reschedule this trip up until March 11, 2024. If the departure is canceled out of your control, you will be alerted by March 11, 2024 and will receive a full refund.
In this case, TourHero is not responsible for your preparation expenses, such as airline tickets, extra accommodations, loss of work, or any other cost associated with preparing for your trip. We recommend booking travel insurance, along with refundable flights/accommodations in case of cancellation.
Refunds for deposits
We will hold your spot as soon as you put down your deposit. However, if you decide to cancel your trip, we will be unable to refund your deposit.
Refunds for fully-paid trips
You may change or cancel your trip by March 11, 2024 for a refund, excluding the deposit. After this date, no refunds will be given. To change or cancel your trip, please email travelers@tourhero.com.
Trip cancellation due to COVID-19
A full credit will be issued if the tour is canceled when there is full border closure due to COVID-19 travel restrictions. This credit can go towards booking a future TourHero tour. We suggest buying your own travel insurance for coverage of cancellations within 30 days of the tour commencing for reasons other than a full tour cancellation.
Your TourHero
Hello and Happy Travels! My name is Mary Bue and I'm a songwriter, musician, retreat guide, music + yoga teacher, runner, vegan, former yoga studio owner, and life-long student based out of Minneapolis, Minnesota and often roaming this beautiful world.
I have been a performing songwriter since 1998 and have DIY toured almost every state in the continental USA. In 2020, I was so grateful to be awarded ‘Best Songwriter’ from City Pages (Minneapolis) recognizing the release of my 8th album ‘The World is Your Lover.’ The songs I write are inspired by dreams, travels, love for the environment, and, alas, some heartbreak.
I also study mantra and love to share these healing sounds, chanted in the Bhakti (devotional) style during or after yoga classes as ‘sonic blessings’ or savasana serenades. Yoga-wise, I received my first 200 hour teacher training certification in 2009 at Whole Life Yoga in Seattle, WA in the yoga lineage of Viniyoga, or the Yoga of T.K.V Desikachar, followed by 300 hour advanced training in MInneapolis at Yoga Center Retreat (Minnesota), and another 200 hour training in Rishikesh India to study Nada Yoga (the Yoga of Sound). I've pursued continuing ed in Trauma-Informed Yoga via Firefly Yoga International, and yoga for depression & anxiety, pranayama, meditation, yoga nidra, ayurveda, prenatal, tantra, goddess sadhana, and more.
I've privately led & co-led retreats in Minnesota, Wisconsin, New Mexico, and internationally to Bali, Malta, and Italy. I'm so excited to partner with Tour Hero to broaden the horizons with this journey to the land of my ancestral Heritage - Norway.
Looking forward to meeting you on this or another adventure! Big love, Mary
Duration
8 days · 7 nights
Travel Date
Jun 16 – 23, 2024
Activity Level
Moderate
Group Size
12 – 15
Transportation
Van
Embark on an unforgettable wellness journey of self-discovery and renewal through the power of creativity and yoga, with elements of sound, music, writing, and Norway's breathtaking nature at the base of this transformation. You'll spend your first few nights nestled on the Venabygdsfjellet plateau, surrounded by stunning views of nature and fresh mountain air. Here, cocooned in the beautiful Venabu Hotel, partake in guided sessions of holistic wellness activities that include gentle yoga, meditation, mantras, and writing practice. With Mary's sonic blessings, immerse yourself in the beauty of sacred mantras, hymns, and her original music. You'll have the chance to embark on a full-day hike, immersing yourself in the healing powers of nature. Then, travel to the fairytale town of Alesund for more moments of peace and restoration. Here, you will have the opportunity to experience the magic of the famous Alesund fjords on a cruise, highlighted by majestic mountains and incredible waterfalls.
Take this unforgettable journey with Mary — book now to secure your spot.
Timeline
- Day 1 · (June 16) Venabu Hotel
- Arrive at airport
- Transfer from airport to Venabu Hotel (not included in price — see below for directions)
- Check-in at Venabu Hotel
- Meet & Greet / Happy Hour
- Dinner
- Opening Ceremony, introductions, gentle yoga, meditation, yoga nidra 'sleep of the yogi'
- Day 2 · (June 17) Venabu Hotel
- Breakfast
- Late morning (1.5 - 2 hours) — Creative process introduction, yoga, meditation, writing practice
- Free time
- Lunch (not included in price)
- Late afternoon — Yoga, meditation, “sonic blessings” (Mary will sing to everyone during savasana/relaxation)
- Dinner
- Rest
- Day 3 · (June 18) Venabu Hotel
- Breakfast
- Full-day guided hike near Venabu
- Lunch (not included in price)
- Dinner
- Optional gentle yoga & sonic blessings (1 – 1.5 hours)
- Day 4 · (June 19) Venabu Hotel
- Breakfast
- Late morning (1.5 - 2 hours) — Creative process, yoga, meditation, writing practice
- Free time
- Lunch (not included in price)
- Late afternoon yoga asana & sonic blessings
- Dinner
- Concert of Mary's original music on the hotel grand piano
- Day 5 · (June 20) Venabu Hotel & Hotel Brosundet
- Breakfast and check out of accommodation
- Travel to Alesund (transfers not included in price)
- Check-in at Hotel Brosundet
- Dinner
- Gentle yoga practice & grounding meditation
- Day 6 · (June 21) Brosundet Hotel
- Breakfast
- Fjords cruise in Alesund
- Lunch (not included in price)
- Free time
- Dinner
- Rest
- Day 7 · (June 22) Brosundet Hotel
- Breakfast
- Late morning (1.5 - 2 hours) - Creative process, yoga, meditation, writing practice
- Free time
- Late afternoon (1 hour) yoga asana & sonic blessings
- Dinner
- Closing ceremony (1.5 - 2 hours)
- Day 8 · (June 23) Departure
- Breakfast and check out of accommodation
- Transfer to the airport (not included in price)
- Journey ends
Details
Day 1
Journey to the beautiful Venabygdsfjellet plateau and get settled at your serene hotel — meet your fellow retreat companions over dinner and an opening ceremony
How to get to Venabu Hotel
Arrive at Oslo Lufthavn (OSL) airport or Bergen Airport (BGO) and take a train to Ringebu Station. Once you arrive at Ringebu Station, catch a bus (from Ringebu Skysstasjon) or a taxi ride to Venabu Hotel. The journey from Oslo Lufthavn (OSL) to the hotel will take approximately 3 – 4 hours. The journey from Bergen Airport (BGO) to the hotel will take approximately 14 hours. We recommend traveling from Oslo Lufthavn (OSL) airport if possible.
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Welcome to your first day on this enchanting wellness journey, set amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Norway. With a focus on creativity and yoga, this retreat promises to be a magical experience of inner exploration and transformation. Once you've arrived at our sanctuary — the stunning Venabu Hotel — nestled on the Venabygdsfjellet plateau and surrounded by the breathtaking wilderness of Rondane National Park, spend some moments getting checked in and settled.
Take a deep breath and soak in the peaceful atmosphere as we have a Meet & Greet session to get to know each other. As we create a sense of community and connection, sip on a rejuvenating Happy Hour drink while you get to know your fellow retreat companions.
As the evening arrives, prepare to nourish your body and soul with a sumptuous welcome dinner with the group, featuring dishes perfectly curated to fuel your journey towards wellness. Then, we move into our Opening Ceremony. This is a magical moment of intention-setting and self-discovery. After proper introductions, experience the beauty of gentle yoga, designed to awaken your inner spirit and help you unwind after a day of travel. Immerse yourself in meditation, allowing your mind and body to find harmony and balance. Finally, sink into a session of yoga nidra (the 'sleep of the yogi'), where you'll drift off into a deep state of relaxation. Once we're ready to close the night, head to bed in the comfort of your room — let the serenity of this stunning location and the promise of a transformative journey fill you with excitement for the days to come.
Day 2
Unleash your inner creativity and soothe your soul with guided yoga, meditation, and “sonic blessings”
Rise and shine — we hope you had a restful sleep last night. As you start the day, awaken your senses and nourish your body with a wholesome breakfast as you prepare for a day of self-exploration and transformation. During our late morning session, Mary will introduce you to the transformative power of a daily creative practice. You'll explore how our stunning natural surroundings can inspire creativity and be guided through a holistic practice that incorporates yoga asana, breathwork, meditation, mantra, and optional creative writing/painting/drawing. This session is designed to help you connect with your inner creativity and unlock your full potential.
After the session, enjoy some free time to explore the picturesque surroundings of Venabu Hotel, or simply relax and bask in the tranquility of your surroundings.
In the late afternoon, return to the yoga mat for a low-to-medium intensity yoga asana practice, followed by a deep relaxation with “sonic blessings” - a savasana serenade of sacred mantras, hymns, and original music performed by Mary. As you sink into a state of deep relaxation, allow the healing power of sound and music to soothe your mind, body, and soul.
As the day draws to a close, we will come together to savor a delectable dinner, carefully crafted to nourish your body and fuel your transformation. Enjoy a restful night's sleep, filled with the promise of another day of exploration and soulful creativity.
Day 3
Go on a full-day guided hike near Venabu and immerse yourself in the alluring beauty of the wilderness
After a hearty breakfast, we'll embark on a guided hike nearby, where you'll discover breathtaking vistas and explore the stunning natural surroundings. This invigorating activity is sure to awaken your senses, challenge your limits, and leave you feeling energized and refreshed. We'll stop for a delicious lunch (not included) amidst the serene beauty of the mountains.
Eventually, we'll return back to the hotel in time to freshen up and have a delicious dinner as a group. End your day with an optional gentle yoga and sonic blessings session — this 1-1.5 hour practice will help you release tension and soothe your mind, body, and soul. As you immerse yourself in the healing power of sound, allow yourself to let go and enter a state of deep relaxation.
Day 4
Sonic blessings and creative bliss: experience the transformative power of yoga asana, breathwork, meditation, mantra, writing, and live music
Wake up to a nourishing breakfast and join Mary for a late morning session of creative process, yoga, meditation, and writing practice that is designed to bring about a sense of peace and self-discovery. Through gentle yoga asana, focused breathwork, meditation, mantra, and optional creative writing/painting/drawing exercises, you will tap into your inner self and explore the depths of your creativity.
Then, enjoy some free time to explore the surrounding wilderness or make use of the hotel's splendid amenities. Later in the afternoon, experience a rejuvenating yoga asana practice followed by additional sonic blessings. Let the ethereal savasana serenade of sacred mantras and hymns soothe your soul.
Savor a sumptuous dinner before joining Mary for an enchanting concert of her original music on the grand piano. Lose yourself in the melodies and let the music transport you to an alluring place of deep relaxation and uplifting peace.
Day 5
From wilderness to fairytale town — journey to Alesund and settle into the sanctuary of our next hotel
The day begins with a delicious and nourishing breakfast, preparing you for the journey ahead. Today, we will bid farewell to the serene wilderness that surrounds Venabu Hotel. Our next destination is the charming town of Alesund.
How to get to Alesund
Catch the bus from Venabu towards Ringebu and alight at Ringebu Skysstasjon. From here, transfer to Ringebu Stasjon and catch the train to Dombås Stasjon. From Dombås Stasjon, transfer trains and journey onwards to Åndalsnes Stasjon. Here, you will transfer by bus to Ålesund Rådhus. From here, it is a 5-minute walk to Hotel Brosundet.
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Upon arriving, get checked into the hotel and sink into a state of relaxation after this long day of travel. The hotel's cozy and inviting atmosphere will leave you feeling immediately at home. Come together in the evening for a wholesome dinner, sharing stories and experiences from our journey so far. After dinner, a gentle yoga practice session and some grounding meditation will allow us to find our center. You'll have the opportunity to release any tensions or worries and connect with the present moment.
Day 6
Cruise through the fjords of Alesund and marvel at the majestic mountains and cascading waterfalls
Awaken to a beautiful day in Alesund, one that starts with a hearty breakfast to prepare you for an exhilarating fjords cruise. As we traverse the fjords, take in the jaw-dropping natural beauty of our surroundings, highlighted by majestic mountains and cascading waterfalls. Cocooned in the heart and soul of Mother Nature, this is an experience to remember forever.
After the cruise, you'll have some free time to relax back at the hotel before enjoying a delicious dinner. Rest well and soak in the memories of this unforgettable day.
Day 7
Cultivate your creativity, enjoy some free time, and reflect on your journey during our closing ceremony
After a wholesome breakfast, engage in a transformative creative process of yoga, meditation, and writing practice. Like previous sessions, Mary will guide you through a holistic practice incorporating yoga asana, breathwork, meditation, mantra, and optional creative activities. In the afternoon, enjoy some free time before a late afternoon session of low-to-medium intensity yoga asana practice followed by sonic blessings.
As the day comes to a close, savor a delicious dinner before attending our closing ceremony. Reflect on your time in Norway, celebrate your growth, and connect with the friends you have made on this transformative journey!
Day 8
It’s time to say goodbye and head home
We've come to the final day of our retreat in Norway — we hope you have had a wonderful journey connecting with your creativity, the gorgeous natural landscapes of Norway, and your inner self. After one last breakfast this morning, it’s time to leave the hotel behind and make your way home. We hope to see you again — travel safe!
How to get to Oslo Lufthavn (OSL) airport
There are various ways you can get to Oslo Lufthavn (OSL) airport from Brosundet. You can take a flight from Alesund (AES) to Oslo Lufthavn (OSL), which will take about 2.5 hours. Alternatively, there are bus routes that you can combine with train routes. One option is to walk from the hotel to Ålesund Rutebilstasjon (10 minutes), catch the bus from Ålesund Rutebilstasjon to Åndalsnes Stasjon, transfer to the train station and catch the train from Åndalsnes Stasjon to Dombås Stasjon, and transfer to another train to travel from Dombås Stasjon to Oslo Lufthavn Stasjon. This journey will take you about 8 hours.
Accommodation
Venabu Hotel
Escape to the stunning Venabygdsfjellet plateau, nestled on the edge of the breathtaking Rondane National Park in Norway, and discover a haven of peace and tranquility at the eco-certified Venabu Hotel. With a focus on quality activities and excellent food, this destination is perfect for nourishing both body and soul. Immerse yourself in the contrasting landscapes, from the rich farmland to the elemental beauty of the national park, and experience the rejuvenating power of accessible wilderness. The light and airy rooms, built in the traditional Norwegian style, offer the perfect sanctuary to rest and restore after a day of adventure. Admire the extensive collection of Norwegian art displayed around the hotel and let yourself be transported to a world of beauty. The well-appointed property features a spacious lounge with an open fireplace, a bar, a yoga studio, a gym, a terrace, a games room, and a library, among other fantastic amenities. Room type: Double occupancy, twin beds.
Hotel Brosundet
Immerse yourself in the fascinating history of the picturesque town of Alesund at Hotel Brosundet. Housed in a beautifully renovated warehouse, this stylish hotel boasts breathtaking sea views and is the perfect base for your Norwegian adventure. Explore the fairytale town of Alesund, unwind in the secluded nature of the surroundings, or simply soak up the peaceful vibes of this charming hotel. The property features a fitness center and relaxation area, complete with a sauna, to help you unwind and rejuvenate after a day of exploration. Savor delicious seafood at the on-site restaurant and enjoy drinks at the bar, while taking in the stunning views of the Ålesund Strait. The comfortable guest rooms offer flat-screen TVs, desks, tea/coffee facilities, and complimentary Wi-Fi, ensuring a comfortable and relaxing stay. Room type: Double occupancy, twin beds.
Included
- 4 nights at Venabu Hotel
- 3 nights at Hotel Brosundet
- Shared double occupancy in accommodation
- All breakfasts
- All dinners
- Fjords Cruise in Alesund
- Full-day guided hike near Venabu Hotel
- Transfers during the Fjords tour
- All wellness activities led my Mary, as described in the itinerary
Not included
- Flights
- Arrival transportation
- Departure transportation
- Transportation to Alesund
- All food and drinks not mentioned in inclusions
- Optional add-ons
- Travel insurance
- Gratuities
Available add-on
Single supplement room upgrade for the entire trip
Want a little more privacy? Select this single supplement add-on and have a room all to yourself at both hotels on this trip.
Price: EUR 442
3 spots left
Cancellation policy
TourHero, the retreat host, and the tour operator reserve the right to cancel or reschedule this trip up until March 11, 2024. If the departure is canceled out of your control, you will be alerted by March 11, 2024 and will receive a full refund.
In this case, TourHero is not responsible for your preparation expenses, such as airline tickets, extra accommodations, loss of work, or any other cost associated with preparing for your trip. We recommend booking travel insurance, along with refundable flights/accommodations in case of cancellation.
Refunds for deposits
We will hold your spot as soon as you put down your deposit. However, if you decide to cancel your trip, we will be unable to refund your deposit.
Refunds for fully-paid trips
You may change or cancel your trip by March 11, 2024 for a refund, excluding the deposit. After this date, no refunds will be given. To change or cancel your trip, please email travelers@tourhero.com.
Trip cancellation due to COVID-19
A full credit will be issued if the tour is canceled when there is full border closure due to COVID-19 travel restrictions. This credit can go towards booking a future TourHero tour. We suggest buying your own travel insurance for coverage of cancellations within 30 days of the tour commencing for reasons other than a full tour cancellation.
- Single supplement add-on - Unsplash: Rhema Kallianpur
- Venabu Hotel - Venabu Hotel
- Venabu Hotel - Venabu Hotel
- Venabu Hotel - Venabu Hotel
- Brosundet Hotel - Brosundet Hotel
- Brosundet Hotel - Brosundet Hotel
- Wrap yourself up in pure nature. Venabu Hotel is nestled on the Venabygdsfjellet plateau and surrounded by the breathtaking wilderness of Rondane National Park in Norway. - Venabu Hotel
- Immerse yourself in meditation and sink into a session of yoga nidra (the 'sleep of the yogi'), where you'll drift off into a deep state of relaxation. - Hans Vivek
- Be guided through a holistic practice that incorporates yoga asana, breathwork, meditation, mantra, and optional creative writing/painting/drawing. - Carli Jeen
- In the late afternoon, return to the yoga mat for a low-to-medium intensity yoga asana practice, followed by a deep relaxation with “sonic blessings” - a savasana serenade of sacred mantras, hymns, and original music performed by Mary. - Shashi Chaturvedula
- Go on a full-day guided hike near Venabu and immerse yourself in the alluring beauty of the wilderness. - Venabu Hotel
- End your day with an optional gentle yoga and sonic blessings session to help you release tension and soothe your mind, body, and soul. - Ale Romo
- Experience the transformative power of yoga asana, breathwork, and meditation. - Venabu Hotel
- In addition to Mary's savasana serenade, join her for an enchanting concert of her original music on the hotel's grand piano. - Jordan Whitfield
- Our next destination is the charming town of Alesund. - Facebook: Hotel Brosundet
- Housed in a beautifully renovated warehouse, Hotel Brosundet boasts breathtaking waterfront views. - Hotel Brosundet
- Cocooned in the heart and soul of Mother Nature, this is an experience to remember forever. - Unsplash: Snowscat
- During our closing ceremony, reflect on your time in Norway, celebrate your growth, and connect with the friends you have made on this transformative journey! - Samuel Han
- Mingle with your fellow retreat companions over a delicious welcome dinner before an opening ceremony. - Unsplash: Karolina Kołodziejczak
- After a wholesome breakfast, engage in a transformative creative process of yoga, meditation, and writing practice. - Unsplash: Monika Grabkowska
- Join the group for a nourishing breakfast before an inspiring day ahead. - Pexels: Taryn Elliott
- Head to the docks and get ready to cruise through the fjords of Alesund! - Wikimedia Commons