As senior citizens, we hiked and cycled the basically flat St.Olav Waterway part of the route from Turku, Finland out through the archipelago to Mariehamn. Ruben did a wonderful job organizing all aspects of the journey. We met a variety of interesting and friendly people and enjoyed touring historical museums and medieval churches in the scenic countryside. We had a fantastic time and greatly appreciated the level of detail and care that Nordic Pilgrim provided!

Todd & Deb, USA

As a young woman, I found it exciting to plan my first pilgrimage. I didn’t want to miss any beautiful places on this trip and, above all, I wanted to feel safe. And I didn’t have months to walk. The Gudbrandalsleden 14-day package from Nordic Pilgrim and the service they offer around it suited me well. Together we discussed some adjustments, so that it was completely to my liking. I was able to experience the beautiful, overwhelming nature of Norway from the peace and security that everything was well arranged for me. I was able to climb the grandiose mountain area of Dovrefjell, knowing that a warm meal and a nice bed were waiting for me in the evening. I could wander through forests and cross rivers using stepping stones, knowing that I would arrive at a place where the fire was already burning in the stove and there were newspapers for my wet shoes. My journey became unforgettable because I was able to fully focus on what I came for. In two weeks I completely immersed myself in the beautiful ancient nature of Norway. For me it couldn’t have gone better or better!

Marieke Pluimakers, The Netherlands

Nordic Pilgrim did a fantastic job organising the trip from Selånger to Stiklestad. Ruben tailored the daily stages to match out abilities. The hosts were very friendly and helpful. The accommodation was ideal. The luggage was transported from place to place which meant we only had to carry a day pack. I am very happy to recommend Nordic Pilgrim. Photo montage of the trip.

David Ross, Northern Ireland

St. Olavsleden was my first full pilgrimage. I walked from Sundsvall to Trondheim in 2019. Before the trip, I was so determined but yet so unsure. I just wanted to walk. I was lucky to find Nordic Pilgrim. With the accommodations and meals settled, I could enjoy the route more carefree. I still had some issues here and there, both physical and mental. Nordic Pilgrim’s online company and support helped a lot. I highly recommend Nordic Pilgrim.

Chin-Yu Lee, Taiwan/Norway

Ruben (Nordic Pilgrim) was my anchor before and during my St Olavsleden. He was always available and didn’t mind me messing up the schedule he’d so carefully constructed for me. Also when I needed a friend to talk to (because a pilgrimage is about more than only walking) he was there. I felt very safe and taken care of during the whole trip. I strongly recommend the luggage-service – it gives you so much more opportunity to relax and enjoy during the walking. Don’t feel guilty about this ‘luxury’; pilgrims are not obliged to suffer and it’s okay to ask for help. Trust Ruben and you’ll have a once in a lifetime experience!

Francine Postma, The Netherlands

The first year I had to give walking St. Olavsleden up after a week. The second year my son found Nordic Pilgrim – and their help made all the difference. I had such great experiences along the way each day, and in each of the places where I stayed, I received such a warm welcome. I am so glad my son found you. Nordic Pilgrim made the hike possible that gave me many great memories.

Barb Goode, USA

Walking alone on the St. Olavsleden was one of the most intense experiences that I have ever had. Full of unforgettable moments in the beautiful nature of Sweden and wonderful encounters with lovely people. It was one of the best decisions in my life to accept this adventure. Thanks to Nordic Pilgrim for the perfect organization of my trip and the always reliable contact.

Rebecca from ‘Rebeccas Welt‘, Germany

Nordic Pilgrim’s personal approach and handling of practical matters proved more than welcome when I had a silly accident and could not continue due to a broken ankle. I was so very pleased that Nordic Pilgrim was there for me at that moment.

Danielle Koornneef, The Netherlands

Nordic Pilgrim helped me with arranging my pilgrimage in the summer 2017 from Sundsvall to Östersund. My experience on the ‘road’ couldn’t be better. I walked on my own and only met nice people, stayed at nice places and enjoyed good food. When I’ll walk the next stage I will not hesitate to ask Nordic Pilgrim for help again. I still think of the pilgrimage with a smile and feel the peace inside me.

Conny Petersen, Denmark

Scott Skiles
Scott Skiles
October 10, 2023
recommends
Our experience with Nordic Pilgrim was outstanding on every level. We began our communication with Ruben early on because we were wanting to see if we could do a "custom" trip. We wanted to experience both the St. Olav Waterway and a portion of the St. Olavsleden pilgrimage trail within a three week time frame. This was somewhat challenging, but Ruben worked hard on it and created an amazing custom itinerary that gave us both experiences. We are so grateful he was able to do this, because the Waterway and the St Olavsleden experiences are quite different from one another, and both are wonderful. We were able to focus on the experience of walking these trails and not worry at all about lodging, food, ferry and train schedules, or what kind of support we would have in case of unexpected challenges. We arrived one morning to board a ferry at a somewhat remote dock on one of the Åland Islands, and found a note left by a pilgrim hiker saying that you have to contact the ferry the previous day in order to be able to get on the ferry that day. Of course, Ruben knew this and had already called and insured our passage. Ruben was an ever-present help and his responsiveness was amazing. When we messaged him with a question, I don't think we ever waited more than two to three minutes for a response... and most of the time the response was immediate. We had one day that we needed to make a fairly significant itinerary change, and Ruben arranged it immediately with skill and grace. Ruben gave us great advice in terms of when it might be good to have pack transfers, which he arranged for us, and when it would be better, because of ferry schedules, to carry our packs. He also gave great advice about certain portions of both trails that might be good to divide into two days of hiking instead of one. Not only was Ruben's consultation, organization, and follow-thru outstanding, but the manner of his communication was always warm, friendly, humorous, personable, and enjoyable. Basically, not only is Ruben extremely competent, but he's also a good guy! The lodging arranged through Nordic Pilgrim included some of the kindest people we've met, and also some GREAT food! We absolutely recommend Nordic Pilgrim to anyone who is considering the St Olav Waterway or the St. Olavsleden experience. They are highly competent, highly organized, and are good people as well! You won't be sorry. Scott and Karen, USA
Christopher Szarke
Christopher Szarke
September 30, 2023
recommends
My experience with Nordic Pilgrim was outstanding. I originally planned St. Olavsleden on my own, usually being a very independent traveler. Unusual weather, traveling late in the season, and communication challenges prompted me to shift course during the first few days and request Ruben to take over. It was the best decision I could have made. Ruben's communication is outstanding. He's very prompt, clear, & organized. I was given the freedom to focus on the meaning of this pilgrimage while he did skillful planning for my food & lodging each day. The price is very reasonable. An unexpected part of this experience was getting to know several very interesting hosts, which added a depth of knowledge to local history & culture that I would have otherwise missed. I cannot speak highly enough of my experience with Ruben & Nordic Pilgrim. I'm already looking ahead to other travel possibilities through him. Thank you, Ruben! Christopher USA
Ina van Zandwijk
Ina van Zandwijk
August 8, 2023
recommends
Dankzij de geweldige organisatie van Nordic Pilgrim voelde het wandelen van het Olavspad als een 'all-inclusive'-vakantie. Het enige wat ik gedaan heb, was 'walk-eat-sleep-repeat', al het andere was fantastisch verzorgd door Nordic Pilgrim. Ik hoefde mij geen zorgen te maken over de overnachtingen en het eten, het was allemaal bijzonder goed geregeld. Door alle gastadressen werd ik erg vriendelijk ontvangen en goed verzorgd. Dat maakte het hele Olavspad tot een heerlijk wandelfeest. Ik zou iedereen aanraden om Nordic Pilgrim in te schakelen bij de organisatie/boekingen/overnachtingen/hulp/tips langs het prachtige Olavspad 👍
Els ten Berge
Els ten Berge
August 8, 2023
recommends
Onbezorgd wandelen en fietsen over de pelgrimspaden in Scandinavië. Overnachten in accommodatie bij mensen thuis, in een kleine hut, zelfs in een museum. Meestal goed eten en overal een warm welkom. Mocht er iets zijn is Ruben van Nordic Pilgrim bereikbaar. Ook ons bagagevervoer was goed geregeld. Kortom een aanrader als je een zware tocht wat lichter wilt maken. Geen tent op je rug maar lekker trappen of stappen!
Maurice Kruk
Maurice Kruk
July 10, 2023
recommends
Nordic Pilgrim/Ruben heeft alle accommodaties voor mij geregeld voor de hele route van Sundsvall tot en met Trondheim. Alles bleek ter plekke inderdaad voortreffelijk geregeld te zijn. Iedereen was op de hoogte van mijn komst en dieetwensen. De informatie over de route en accommodaties was correct. Het was een mooie mix van verschillende soorten onderkomens, van een eenvoudige hut tot een goed hotel. Regelmatig toonde de gastgever grote belangstelling voor mij als reiziger, wat kon leiden tot goede gesprekken met elkaar. Ook qua gastgevers een mooie mix van verschillende mensen. Fijn was ook dat Nordic Pilgrim/Ruben vooraf alles goed heeft gecommuniceerd en keuzes, inclusief de consequenties (ook financieel), heeft voorgelegd. Op vragen reageert hij altijd snel. Ook was er zo nodig contact onderweg. Deze persoonlijke benadering is erg fijn om te ervaren. Kortom, van harte aanbevolen!
Tarvo Nurmeots
Tarvo Nurmeots
December 9, 2022
recommends
I wanted express my gratitude to Nordic Pilgrim for their help on my journey. I did it on the last minute notice and everything got arranged within 24 hours. Just amazing how helpful they were. Plus I wanna give additional shout out to all the hosts along the way. Thank you so much for being there when I neede you!
Mabel Frumau
Mabel Frumau
September 22, 2022
recommends
It felt so nice that Nordic Pilgrim was always there when you needed them. Quick replies and always helpful. Also during arranging the trip, questions were answered clearly and promptly. The accommodations were so different each time and most of the time really nice and surprising. As were the hosts. Had an amazing experience! A tip is to download the trip, so you can see in Google maps when you are off track. I only learned that at the end of the trip ;-) and bring a thermos for tea and coffee. Really recommend doing the trek, and let Nordic Pilgrim arrange the trek. It is worth it!
Wouter Schoemaker
Wouter Schoemaker
July 14, 2022
recommends
Nordic Pilgrim neemt je alle zorgen uit handen rond de logistiek van de wandeling. Hierdoor kan je je volledig concentreren op het wandelen. Voor mij hebben ze de accommodaties geboekt en alle maaltijden geregeld. En bij vragen krijg je binnen enkele minuten al een reactie, waarmee je direct verder kunt. Erg tevreden en ik zou zo weer gebruik van ze maken.
Doris Kunst
Doris Kunst
June 24, 2022
recommends
Very reliable, super organized and always ready when problems arise along the way! 5 Stars + Thanks for your help. Feeled very safe all the time.
Gaby Stemkens-Wijers
Gaby Stemkens-Wijers
June 18, 2022
recommends
What a relaxed way to get familiar with walking a pilgrimage, or in our case: a part of it. We just had to focus on the walk. The rest was arranged by Nordic Pilgrim. And perfectly! We chose to walk the Stiklestad-Trondheim route. We had 7 wonderful days. This definitely tastes like more! Gaby Wijers The Netherlands