Lorraine Kelly reveals why you won’t see her naked in a sauna for Norwegian Odyssey: “Nobody wanted to see that from me”

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After filming her new travel show in Norway, Lorraine Kelly noted many parallels between the country and Scotland.

Originally from Glasgow, the presenter has firsthand experience with Norway, having visited multiple times for her Channel 4 series, ‘Norwegian Odyssey,’ in both warm and cold weather. She’s clear about the cost: “Norway is expensive, and anyone considering a trip should be aware of that, but it’s absolutely worth the money.”

So what was the highlight of your trip, Lorraine?

Seeing the Northern Lights was an incredible experience. I’d tried to catch them on previous trips to Sweden, Finland, and Orkney, but never succeeded. It was especially frustrating when I was staying at the Ice Hotel in Sweden and people in Dundee were seeing them – we saw absolutely nothing! So, I was really hoping to see them in Norway, but we only had three days to try. Then, suddenly, a huge wall of green light appeared, with hints of pink. The entire sky lit up green, with the light stretching overhead like a green rainbow.

So famous people get a special performance, huh?

It was amazing, truly! But honestly, we just got really lucky. Even Tom, who actually gets paid to find the Northern Lights, was amazed and said it was spectacular, so we knew we were witnessing something extraordinary.

Where were you?

We were traveling just past North Cape, the northernmost point of Norway. We were on a Hurtigruten ship – these ships offer cruises, but they also serve as local transportation, connecting small towns along the fjords. It’s a fantastic way to travel because the coastline is incredibly rugged and uniquely shaped. You’re right in the heart of the scenery and can see a lot of wildlife – we even spotted orcas and sea eagles!

You also explored Hjørundfjord, and many locals believe it’s the most beautiful fjord on Earth. Is it, perhaps, truly deserving of that title?

It was an incredible experience. The ship sailed deep into this tight fjord, and the captain had to expertly turn it around in the limited space. You get so close to the cliffs you feel like you could almost touch them. The scenery makes you feel wonderfully small, which is actually a good thing – it really makes you appreciate how amazing the Earth is. The blue sea, white snow, and rocky cliffs – it’s all just breathtaking!

The Sunnmøre Alps are well-known for their incredible hiking trails. Are you prepared to do some serious climbing, or did you hire someone to tackle the most dangerous parts?

Honestly, it wasn’t dangerous at all – the trails were actually quite easygoing. They’ve built these charming little shelters dotted around, which is great if the weather turns. But what really stuck with me was the smell. That incredible, crisp pine scent just transported me back to my hiking days in the hills of Perthshire. It was such a lovely memory!

We spotted you gathering food along the beaches of the Lofoten Islands. You wouldn’t attempt that back in Britain, would you?

It’s just so beautiful and peaceful up there. I spent time with some amazing women – they’re like mermaids! – collecting seaweed from the beach. They use it to create both food and skincare products.

Did you put it on your face or in your mouth?

I’ve discovered they use different kinds of seaweed for all sorts of things! Some become delicious seasonings, while others end up in beauty products. Honestly, using them felt incredibly soothing and healing on my skin. But then again, almost everything in Norway just feels so pure and natural, it’s hard to say if it’s the seaweed specifically or just the overall environment.

I just did a cold water plunge, and honestly, the feeling afterwards is incredible! You come out feeling totally energized and buzzing with enthusiasm – like you could take on the world. It’s like your brain is firing on all cylinders and your body is tingling all over. The whole experience starts with warming up in the sauna, where everyone – especially the Norwegians – are relaxed, chatting, singing, and maybe enjoying a little drink before taking the plunge!

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I definitely wasn’t going to appear nude – that’s not something anyone would want to see! I think a swimsuit is more than enough, and I didn’t want to subject anyone to anything beyond that.

Is there anything there for those of us who are less rugged than you?

I was amazed by the cities, especially Tromsø. Being so far north, I expected something different, but it was surprisingly beautiful and modern. I particularly enjoyed the Polar Museum – I’ve always been fascinated by the stories of early explorers, and Sir Ernest Shackleton is a personal hero of mine.

Authors

Ed GrenbyAssociate Editor, TopMob

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2026-01-14 11:38