We are planning a 4 1/2 month trip to Europe starting end of July. We are going to Norway first(maybe)since we thought it would be coldest. This however will start our Schengen clock ticking so we will head down and around the continent ending up in Scotland/England/Ireland. Which would be the best country of those three to end the trip and not freeze or should we do it the other way around starting out of Schengen area? We will be leaving around mid-Dec. Thanks!
Posted by
Camano Island, WA, usa
1518 posts
I would do Scotland and Ireland sooner as it gets windy and wet. A lot of the historical sites, except in the cities start to close in October. You may have snow in Norway...but that doesn't stop them.
Posted by
New York City, NY, USA
5678 posts
I've been in Scotland the middle two week of September and had a great trip. On the other hand, the heather is in bloom middle to the end of August. By September the Heather is fading. In Scotland, I suspect Ireland, you just have to always be prepared for rain. Pam
Posted by
OP
Penang, Pinang, Malaysia
11 posts
We are thinking then to start in Ireland/Scotland and head to Norway in mid/sept. then head S to Germany, Austria, N Italy, France. Hopefully this will give us the least potential for freezing. We have been living in HOT Asia for almost 2 yrs.
Posted by
Danville, VT
12040 posts
The coast of Norway has a surprisingly moderate climate. Even as far north as Trondheim and Narvik remain ice-free throughout the winter. However, the later you go in the year, the shorter the days. This becomes particularly relevant in Norway. BTW, for planning purposes, Norway IS a member of the Schengen Zone, even though they are not in the EU.
Posted by
OP
Penang, Pinang, Malaysia
11 posts
Yes, we realize once we get to Norway we will only have 90 days. We plan to spend 1 1/2 months in Ireland/Britain. Maybe Ireland more as I think it is less expensive??