There is almost nothing more inspiring than Norway’s towering mountains and jaw droppingly spectacular fjords.
Here are a few photos that might tempt you into visiting this rugged Nordic country with its staggeringly gorgeous scenery.
1) Molde is the gateway to the Troll Mountains. We travelled on the famous Rauma Railroad and saw incredible scenery.
2) Lysefjord. Taking a small craft, motor out from the historic town of Stavanger through Lysefjord, to view the Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen) from below. The day I was there, mountain goats were clambering on the steep hillsides as well.
3) Bergen. One of the most called at cruise ports in Europe, old Bergen, with its fish market and ancient wooden buildings, is atmospheric and intriguing. Definitely take the cable car to the top for spectacular views.
4) Flåm. This tiny harbour at the mouth of the Aurlandfjord fjord is most known for its world renowned railway. This engineering marvel travels up to Myrdal station at the top of the mountain, passing Voss waterfall on the way, and, ultimately, connecting with Oslo.
5) Stalheim Hotel for panorama views of Nærøydalen. Over one hundred years old, the panoramic views from the Stalheim Hotel are spectacular. Only a half hour drive from Flåm, the hairpin turns on the road from the hotel down to Nærøydalen valley below are death defying.
6) Tysfjord and Vestfjord and Lofoten Islands. Every autumn the killer whales and herring swim up the Tysfjord and Vestfjord. Nature safaris are organised to see this annual event. The Lofotr Viking Museum at Borg is not to be missed. You can take a short cruise on an historic Viking long boat as well as seeing a recreation of a Viking longhouse.
7) Lofoten is known for the old fishermen’s cabins (rorbuer) that have been restored and turned into modern accommodation for travellers.
8) Nordkapp. By cruise ship, you will call at Honnigsvej and then take a coach to the northern most tip of the European Land mass. You will see reindeer and Sami up here.
8) Kvaløya (the whale island) for Villmarkssenter. Tove Sørensen’s centre for huskies is a must visit. There are about 300 dogs raised here exclusively for sledding.
The Roaming Scribe’s trip to the Arctic Circle was sponsored by Fred. Olsen Cruise Line.