Learn world class ski technique — from a World Cup Athlete and Arctic Vanlife

Vegard Bjerkreim Nilsen wants to take you on a journey like this. Foto: Roger Elde/Utedoen.no

This winter, adventure meets technique in the heart of the Arctic.Arctic Vanlife and Vegard Bjerkreim Nilsen – former World Cup skier and head coach of Skikurs Harstad – are teaming up to launch a completely new kind of experience:ski technique courses and guided mountain hikes – on wheels

Vegard Bjerkreim Nilsen. Foto: Privat

“We want to make it easier for people to experience Northern Norway at its best — with skis on their feet and freedom on four wheels,” says Vegard Bjerkreim Nilsen.

From January 2026, travelers can rent a fully equipped Arctic Vanlife campervan, live close to nature, and join professional cross-country training sessions guided by one of Norway’s most technically skilled ski coaches.Courses include classic and skate technique, winter hiking, and mountain touring, all tailored for beginners and experienced skiers alike.

“The idea is simple — wake up in your van, make coffee, and step right into the ski track,” says Espen Bless Stenberg, founder of Arctic Vanlife.

After a long day gliding through snow-covered valleys, participants can park right in the center of Harstad and recharge at Våg Havbadstue — a floating sauna experience where guests can relax in warm steam before taking a refreshing dip in the icy Arctic sea.It’s the perfect mix of Norwegian wellness, adventure, and raw northern nature.

Check out Ski course Harstad here

Participants can choose between weekend packages, family adventures, or corporate experiences — all starting directly from Evenes Airport, where warm campervans and local instructors are ready to take you into the Arctic wilderness.

After a long day in the mountains, skiing with Vegard, you can park your van in the city centre of Harstad and relax at Våg Havbadstue. Foto: Våg Havbadstue

🌨️ Facts

• Instructor: Vegard Bjerkreim Nilsen — former World Cup skier, NTNU sports science graduate

• Partner: Arctic Vanlife — Northern Norway’s iconic campervan rental brand

• Locations: Evenes, Harstad, Kvæfjord regions

• Courses: Classic & skate skiing, winter hiking, mountain touring

• Highlight: End the day with sauna and Arctic sea swimming at Våg Havbadstue, Harstad

• Launch: January 2026

Book a campervan from Arctic Vanlife here

🏔️ A New Way to Explore the Arctic

This isn’t about competition — it’s about connection, mastery, and pure northern magic.Under the northern lights, with skis beneath your feet and a campervan as your home, you’ll discover what true Arctic freedom feels like.

All over Europe the winter season is getting shorter and shorter, but above the Polar Circle we still have cold winters and proper slopes. Foto: Roger Elde

The people at Kvæfjordløyper put down many hours every winter to make sure the slopes are prepared for skiers. Foto: Roger Elde

Want to know more about Vegards ski course? Read here