Winter Retreat

WINTER RETREAT IN JOSTEDALEN

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Dates: 22nd–27th of February 2027

Place: Jostedalen and Luster

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Five nights in the heart of Norway's winter landscapes, combining
glacier adventures with fantasy portrait photography.

Hidden in the valley of Jostedalen, Villa Fjellheim will be our base
for a unique winter retreat. Here, dramatic Norwegian landscapes
provide the backdrop for photography, creativity, and outdoor
adventure. Guided by experienced instructors, you'll spend your days
exploring glaciers, frozen waterfalls, fjords, and mountain roads
while creating your own fantasy-inspired imagery.

This retreat combines photography, outdoor exploration, and creative
practice. It is for anyone who wants to spend time in nature, develop
their photography, and create memorable images in extraordinary
surroundings.

Nigardsbreen Glacier

One full day is dedicated to Nigardsbreen Glacier.

We will hike approximately 7 km on snowshoes to reach the glacier
front, travelling through snow-covered valleys and changing winter
light. Skiers are welcome to bring touring skis if preferred.

Ice caves are never guaranteed, as they form and disappear from year
to year. Whether caves are accessible or not, we will spend time
exploring the glacier's striking blue ice, frozen textures, and
sculpted formations.

Exploring the Luster Region

During the retreat, we will visit some of the region's most beautiful
winter locations, including:

Frozen waterfalls
The still waters of Lusterfjorden
The winding mountain roads of Sognefjellet and Turtagrø, with views of
Store Skagastølstind
Sow-covered forests and woodland trails
Frozen rivers and lakes around Hafslo

Fantasy Photography

The retreat includes workshops and guided sessions focused on
fantasy-style photography, including:

Self-portraits
Photographing each other
Character creation
Sorytelling through imagery
Working with movement, emotion, and atmosphere in winter landscapes

Participants will take turns as both photographers and models in a
supportive and encouraging environment.

A large collection of fantasy dresses (primarily in EU sizes M, with
some available in S and L), cloaks, props, and accessories will be
available to borrow throughout the retreat. There is no need to bring
your own unless you would like to, though participants outside the
available size range may prefer to bring their own outfits. We
encourage participants not to purchase new outfits or props
specifically for the retreat unless they are making a sustainable
choice.

Accommodation

Villa Fjellheim is a spacious mountain villa with plenty of room to
create, relax, and spend time together.

Evenings are slow and unhurried. We will share meals, review
photographs, exchange ideas, and enjoy the stillness of the valley
after dark. On clear nights, there may be opportunities for
stargazing, and with a bit of luck, the northern lights may appear
overhead.

Meals will be prepared together in the villa's communal kitchen.

Food, transport, and fuel costs are shared among participants and are
not included in the retreat fee.

Practical Information

Photographers of all experience levels are welcome.

If you would like to learn self-portrait photography, you will need a
camera with an interval timer, remote shutter release, or time-lapse
function, whether owned or rented.

Please bring:

 

Camera
Suitable winter clothing
Insulated winter footwear
A tripod

A detailed packing list will be provided before the retreat.

Throughout the week, Brita will share practical advice on staying warm
and comfortable outdoors in winter conditions. Modelling outside can
be physically demanding, even for those accustomed to cold weather,
and model participation is always optional.

Instructors & Hosts

Special Guest Instructor

Vanessa @thesongoftheswan

A professional photographer and educator whose work is known for its
distinctive fantasy aesthetic. Vanessa will share her creative
approach to portraiture, storytelling, and working with atmosphere in
natural landscapes.

Maria – Creative director, photographer, and visual storyteller.

Brita – Self potrtait photographer, dress and props resposible
 

 

Fitness/hiking level

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Moderate to high. We will try to make the hikes as easy as possible, but some elevation is to be expected. Since we are several instructors, we can also split the group if not everyone wishes to join the glacier hike. You will also need to carry a backpack with camera gear and your chosen outfit.

About the Glacier hike: The hike to and from the glacier is straightforward, but it does add up to about 13 kilometers in one day. You’ll be using either skis (only if you prefer skiing and have your own!), mountain boots, or snowshoes, and while there are no steep sections, it is still considered a full winter mountain day trip.

 

If you have any further questions on hiking you can add then in the sign up form

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More information on the Sognefjord region in winter can be found here

Cost

15,000 NOK per person

Minimum participants: 6

Maximum participants: 14

Booking & Payment

The total amount is divided into two payments:

Accommodation fee paid directly to Villa Fjellheim
Course fee paid to Wildress Retreats

Wildress Retreats and Villa Fjellheim are separate companies, each
responsible for their own service. Participants book accommodation
through Villa Fjellheim and the photography retreat through Wildress
Retreats.

Further payment details will be provided upon registration.

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Note on payment: Wildress Retreats offers photography retreats that consist of multiple travel services purchasedseparately by the participant. Because these services are booked and paid for individually, the retreat is considered a combined travel arrangement rather than a package holiday. Eachthird-party supplier is responsible for their own service, while Wildress Retreats has an obligation to provide clear information but does not hold full responsibility for external services. Read our full terms here