Norway - Incredible Experiences

Comprising the western and northernmost part of the Scandinavian Peninsula, the Svalbard archipelago and the isolated island of Jan Mayen, Norway conjures up images of majestic fjords, marauding vikings, the icy landscape of the Arctic Circle and rich mystical folklore. The winter months offer visitors in the north the opportunity to traverse vast expanses of tundra by dogsled or to catch a glimpse of the incredible aurora borealis blazing across the night sky. Summer brings with it the astonishing spectacle of the midnight sun. Year round visitors can enjoy boat cruises to the Svalbard Archipelago to visit seabird colonies or meander among the towering cliffs of the turquoise fjords. With a bit of luck, you may even spot a polar bear. This fascinating country is also home to a slew of appealing, cosmopolitan and world-class metropolises offering every first-world city delight.

Oslo

Set on Norway’s breathtaking southern coast, and surrounded by the lush, rolling hills of the Marka region and the rippling waters of the Oslofjord, Oslo is the perfect playground for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of both winter and summer activities. However, mother nature is not the only artist at work in this vibrant, cosmopolitan city. Norway’s capital is also home to a rich and prolific arts community and is filled with world-class galleries such as the astounding National Gallery Norway and the intriguing Munch Museum. Other popular attractions include the Viking Ship Museum, home to the world’s best-preserved Viking ships, and The Norwegian Museum of Cultural History, Europe’s largest open-air museum. Throw in a thriving nightlife and a unique culinary tradition and you get a smorgasbord of Nordic delights.

Stavanger

Located in southwestern Norway, the compact city of Stavanger has been dubbed Norway’s ‘Oil City’, as it is considered Europe’s energy and oil capital. This Norwegian coastal town boasts a charming historic town, and spectacular surrounding scenery of magnificent fjords, striking mountains, and pristine white beaches. Stavanger serves as the perfect jumping-off point for exploring neighbours like the world-famous Pulpit Rock, ‘Preikestolen’, at Lysefjorden. Meander through the 12th-century Stavanger Cathedral, enjoy a stroll along the port’s picturesque waterfront, and discover over 100 wooden heritage buildings in the town’s centre, said to be the best-preserved buildings in Norway and even Europe. Don’t miss a visit to the Norwegian Canning Museum, Norwegian Petroleum Museum, and the Stavanger Art Museum.

Lofoten Islands

They have been called ‘the islands of the Gods’ and ‘the most beautiful place on earth’ – and when you visit the Lofoten archipelago you will realise why. Located just off the coast of northern Norway, this is a wonderland of steep, jagged peaks rising up from a cobalt ocean. In winter, the mountains are blanketed in snow and the white sand beaches glisten beneath rainstorms. The summer months bring meadows dusted with wildflowers and deep green valleys. Besides their scenic splendour, the Lofoten islands are an adventure nirvana. Choose from hiking, climbing, fishing, kayaking, horse riding, skiing, whale watching, or Arctic surfing. If you are lucky, you may even catch a glimpse of the Northern lights while riding the North Atlantic breakers under a midnight sky. For a cultural experience, visit the picturesque fishing village of Nusfjord with its 19th-century wooden huts perched on the water’s edge beneath rugged cliffs.

Sogndal

Resting on the sloping shores of Norway’s longest and deepest Fjord called Sognefjord, the beautifully-situated village of Sogndal is a popular destination for nature lovers. It is framed by breathtakingly beautiful scenery, making it one of the most beautiful destinations in the world. It serves an excellent base from which to explore the magnificent landscapes scattered with natural treasures. View the impressive Jostedalsbreen Glacier, explore the Sognefjellet Mountains and admire the beautiful waterfalls and small groups of islands. Other highlights include: the collection of medieval wooden Stave Churches, the Flam Railway and the Sogn Fjord Museum. Don’t miss the opportunity to discover the network of remarkable hiking trails and enjoy spectacular Fjord Cruises.

Harstad

Situated on Norway’s second-largest island of Hinnoya, the town of Harstad is a gateway to Vesteralen and Lofoten. It serves as a great base from which to explore the scenic surroundings. Visitors can look forward to the array of cultural attractions, enjoying hiking in the surrounding mountains, as well as fishing and kayaking under the midnight sun. Gourmands will delight in the variety of top-notch restaurants. Ocean lovers can jump on a thrilling whale safari and enjoy a diving trip in the Norwegian Sea. Lucky visitors can catch a glimpse of the magical Northern Lights, enjoy excellent skiing opportunities in winter and go island hopping to a collection of Norwegian islands

Lillehammer

Lillehammer, meaning ‘little rocky hill’, is perched on the banks of the picturesque Lake Mjosa in southern Norway. This popular skiing town gained international notoriety when it successfully hosted the 1994 Winter Olympic Games. Many of the town’s popular tourist attractions can be attributed to this event, however, the town is undeniably an attraction in itself. With its beautifully preserved traditional wooden buildings, some of Norway’s most spectacular scenery right on its doorstep and its main street lined with lovely boutiques, excellent restaurants and delightful cafes, this laid back town is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, food lovers and shoppers alike. Whether you are seeking art, culture, historic sites or some exciting adventure in the wild, you will find plenty to thrill and entertain you in this charming holiday resort.

Situated in the heart of southern Norway, the village of Al is set midway between the Norwegian cities of Bergen and Oslo. The surrounding landscape is characterised by lush forests, mountains and glistening lakes. It serves as an ideal base for visitors wishing to explore the remarkably scenic terrain. There are a number of fantastic skiing opportunities in winter such as taking to the snowy mountain slopes as well as enjoying long haul cross country skiing. While in summer, visitors can enjoy the vast network of cycling and hiking trails traversing the magnificent landscapes. Don’t miss a visit to the Hallingskarvet National Park.

Bodo

Bodo is set on a peninsula in northern Norway and has a beautiful harbour embraced by mountains. It has great nightlife and dining, and a thriving creative scene. The city hosts 2 annual music festivals, while its centre is dotted with amazing street murals – mostly the legacy of a travelling arts festival that visited Bodo in 2016. Visitors with a penchant for aerodynamics should pop into the Norwegian Aviation Museum. Roughly 10 minutes from the city is Saltstraumen, where the planet’s strongest tidal stream creates powerful whirlpools in the bay. Another nearby attraction is Mjelle Beach – with its rose-pink sands. Thirty kilometres from Bodo lies Kjerringoy, with white sand beaches and a beautifully preserved 19th-century trading post that is still in operation today.

Geilo

Located in the highlands of southern Norway, Geilo is the gateway to two exceptional reserves. Hardangervidda is Norway’s largest national park, known for its wild reindeer and glittering waterways. Hallingskarvet is set on a mountain plateau at nearly 2000 metres high. Its snow-covered peaks and sheer mountain slopes are home to rare and beautiful wildlife species such as Arctic foxes and snow owls. The region offers a smorgasbord of outdoor activities – alpine and cross country skiing, snow shoeing, sleigh rides, ice fishing and glacier trekking in winter; hiking and horse riding in summer. Age-old Viking burial grounds and archaeological relics have been unearthed at Fekjo on the shores of Ustedalsfjorden Lake.

Molde

Perched on the Romsdal Peninsula of More og Romsdal county, Norway, Molde is a magnificent destination of breathtaking vistas known for its vibrant jazz scene and flourishing, exquisite roses. Visitors can take in a total of 222 mountain peaks from the views at Varden (which is set a mere ten-minute car trip from the city centre) enticing photographers and artists to the destination. Decorated with numerous gorgeous rose gardens, the town was given the nickname ‘town of roses’ in the early twentieth century. The oldest annual jazz festival in Europe is held here – the Molde International Jazz Festival – creating a wonderful celebratory atmosphere and bustling artist population. Architecture enthusiasts should make sure to visit the mesmerising glass and stone Kjell Kosberg.

Aurlandsvangen

Aurlandsvangen is a village in southwest Norway. This popular retreat makes a great road trip destination and boasts dramatic scenery and some excellent walking trails. Aurlandsvangen famously lies at the end of the Laerdal Tunnel (the world’s longest road tunnel at 24.5 kilometres), but it is the Aurlandsfjellet – also called ‘the Snow Road’ – which holds most interest for travellers as this winding, high-altitude 45-kilometre track offers spectacular views of the surrounding fjords and mountains. Be sure to stop at the lookout point of Stegastein, though note that the road is generally only open between June and October each year because of heavy snowfall. While in the area, stop in at the interesting Vangen Church and the Aurland and Laerdal Tourist Office to pick up a map of popular walking routes in the region.

Trondheim

Set in central Norway, on the southern shore of the Trondheim Fjord, Trondheim is a fascinating historical city known as the cultural, religious and technological centre of Norway. With its wide streets of bright wooden warehouses, and classy boutiques, cafes and restaurants, Trondheim provides a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds. The city’s star attraction is its majestic Nidaros Cathedral, widely regarded as the most spectacular church in Scandinavia. Other must-sees include the National Museum of Decorative Arts, the historic fortress island of Munkholmen, and the medieval Archbishop’s Palace, which houses the incredible Norwegian Crown Regalia exhibit. Night owls will enjoy the vibrant, youthful nightlife scene while outdoor and ski enthusiasts will delight in the range of ski slopes in the town’s beautiful surrounds.

Bergen

Known as the ‘gateway to the fjords’, Bergen is a delightful, picturesque city surrounded by the fjords of Norway’s western coast and seven spectacular forested mountains. The landscapes offer an incredible wonderland for outdoor sports; however, for many visitors the highlight is simply wandering along the narrow, cobbled streets, strolling in and out of bustling cafes, nibbling on some of the excellent local dishes and mingling with the friendly locals. There is plenty to thrill history buffs with an abundance of museums and rows beautifully preserved tiny wooden Hanseatic houses painted in an array of cheerful colours. With its dynamic cultural life, excellent range of restaurants, impressive art galleries and booming nightlife, it is almost impossible not to fall in love with this enchanting ‘trebyen’ (wooden city).

Alesund

The postcard-perfect port town of Alesund lies on Norway’s west coast, surrounded by the snowy Alps, turquoise fjords and a pretty archipelago. The town provides art-worthy scenes at every angle, with its brightly coloured patchwork of houses scattered along the quay backed by towering snowy peaks. The surrounding landscapes offer a massive array of adventures, including hiking, skiing, kayaking, sea kayaking and more. Take a boat trip to Hjorundfjord, go night-skiing in the Sunnmore Alps, take the challenging Slogen hike or a tamer walk up to the Mount Aksla lookout for panoramic views. Alesund is filled with heritage architecture, particularly many vibrant art nouveau buildings, and is scattered with an array of fascinating museums to explore. Other highlights include a wonderful local culinary scene, a picturesque lighthouse, and numerous record shops.

Kristiansand

Kristiansand lies on the southern coast of Norway. This small city is a celebrated tourist destination, with a wide range of family-friendly activities on offer. In addition to Dyreparken (Kristiansand Zoo and Amusement Park), an enormous complex with a comprehensive range of rides, kids will love hanging out at the city beach of Bystranda. Culture enthusiasts, meanwhile, will relish the traditional wooden houses of Kristiansand’s Old Town district (known as Posebyen); the engaging Sorlandets Museum, which displays fine art; the astonishing neo-Gothic Kristiansand Cathedral; and the historic ruins of the Christiansholm Fortress, which date from the 17th century. Finally, outdoor enthusiasts can look forward to picnics and walking trails in the Ravnedalen Valley Nature Park and the Baneheia Outdoor Area, while popular boat excursions can be organised from Fiskebrygga (the Fish Quay in Kristiansand).

Kirkenes

Located in northeastern Norway, Kirkenes is a small town set about 400 kilometres north of the Arctic Circle near the Russian and Finnish border. It serves as the capital of the Barents Region and as a gateway to Norway’s scenic East. The undeniable highlight of this charming town is the opportunity to view the breathtakingly beautiful Aurora Borealis, or the Northern Lights, as they dance across the night skies. Visitors can look forward to a wide selection of activities including learning about the region’s local history at the Borderland Museum and visiting the Snowhotel which is created out of fresh snow each winter. Don’t miss the opportunity to view the Russian Soldier Monument which commemorates the area’s liberation from Nazi occupation. Other popular activities include: king crab safaris, ice fishing, quad biking, dog sledging, snowmobiling, river trips and hiking.

Gryllefjord

Set on Senja Island along the Gryllefjorden, in Torsken, Norway, Gryllefjord is a breathtaking destination appealing to nature lovers and photographers. Dramatic mountains rise up all around the town, reflecting in the massive expanses of blue water. Visitors can enjoy fishing in the lake, exploring a myriad of spectacular hiking trails, and relaxing at the harbour. With its very small population, brightly coloured cottages and magnificent vistas, the town offers a truly idyllic escape for travellers seeking an escape from big-city stress.

Voss

The lovely little lakeside town of Voss is known world-wide as the adrenaline capital of Norway. The surrounding landscape is characterised by snow-capped mountains, lush valleys and forests, fast flowing rivers, breathtaking waterfalls and crystal clear lakes. This exquisite terrain forms an ideal playground in which to indulge in a remarkable range of adventure-sports. Summertime outdoor activities, include hiking, mountain biking, horseriding, kayaking, canyoning, bungy jumping, skydiving, paragliding, white water rafting and more. In winter the town transforms into a winter wonderland featuring two renowned ski centres, over 55 kilometres of pristine alpine runs and around 20 ski lifts. The town also boasts an impressive food heritage which visitors can experience at a local farmhouse restaurant dating from the 1700s. The farmhouse serves hearty portions of Norwegian specialities including traditional style lamb meat, sour cream porridge, as well as cured and seasoned meat. If you are seeking thrilling adventures, extreme surrounding and some local culinary delights, Voss won’t fail to impress.

Senja

Lying off the coast of northern Norway, the island of Senja is a scenic paradise and world-class mountaineering destination. Here, jagged peaks and dramatic promontories meet a cobalt ocean, and hiking to the top of these mountains affords incredible 360 degree views. You can even walk beneath the midnight sun in summer, or ride the ski slopes beneath the northern lights in winter. The coast offers excellent fishing, while kayaking will allow you to explore the islets dotted nearby. Senja is working towards becoming a Certified Sustainable Destination – one that preserves culture and nature and minimises the effects of tourism.

Alta

Located in west Finnmark, Alta is a town on Norway’s rugged northern coast. It features incredibly magical nighttime scene in the sky with the Aurora Borealis lighting it up during the winter months. Visitors flock here to explore the breathtakingly beautiful surrounding landscapes scattered with ancient rock carvings. Wonderful activities include learning about the area’s history and viewing ancient petroglyphs at the World Heritage Rock Art Centre, also known as the Alta Museum; and exploring the lush green Sautso-Alta Canyon.

Aurlandsvangen

Kristiansand

Tromso

The tiny, bustling city of Tromso lies in the northernmost part of Norway, on a small island 349 kilometres north of the Arctic Circle. Visitors are often surprised by the extent of Tromso’s delights: sophisticated art, fascinating history, fine cuisine and boisterous nightlife. Despite its northern location, the city enjoys a relatively moderate climate and numerous attractions. Paramount are the arctic aquarium, home to bearded seals and a panoramic cinema playing films on the Arctic wilderness; the world’s northernmost botanical gardens, with arctic and alpine plants from all corners of the globe; and the Science Center of Northern Norway, home to the country’s largest planetarium. For a bird’s eye view of the striking natural surrounds and the chance to see the enthralling northern lights, catch a ride up the town’s popular cable car.

Flam

Idyllically situated at the innermost side of an arm of the massive Sognefjord, the picturesque village of Flam is among the busiest cruise ports in Norway. The village is surrounded by an extraordinarily beautiful landscape complete with towering and often snow-capped mountains, some breathtaking waterfalls, and lush green forested areas. Flam is perhaps best known as a stop off point on Norway’s most scenic train route. This route was named by Lonely Planet as one of the world’s most incredible train journeys and while many visitors merely pop in for a day visit, they are missing out as Flam is the perfect place to extend your stay for a night or two. Those discerning enough to do so will be richly rewarded with excellent opportunities for outdoor activities including, among others, hiking, cycling, kayaking and fishing. The village boasts a lovely little local brewery as well as a few excellent restaurants serving a variety of traditional Norwegian meals. With all this and more on offer, it is no surprise that this charming village receives over 500 000 visitors a year.

Svolvaer

Set on the southern coast of the Norwegian island of Austvagoya, and forming part of the Lofoten archipelago, the port town of Svolvaer is sandwiched between a spectacular backdrop of striking mountains and the dazzling Vestfjorden Sea. The town is a hub of activity within this quiet, remote region, and provides an excellent base from which to explore the beautiful surrounds. Gourmands can sample mouth-watering cuisine at the many excellent restaurants, while history enthusiasts will enjoy a tour of the fascinating Lofoten Krigsminnemuseum, which provides insight into the events surrounding World War Two. Those with a taste for danger can go rock climbing on the infamous Svolvaergeita outcrop and even jump between the two ‘goat horns’ (jagged pinnacles) of the structure. Bird lovers will delight in the area’s magnificent feathered species, especially the population of mighty sea eagles.

Stranda

Situated in the More og Romsdal county of Norway, Stranda rests on the shores of one of Norway’s most magnificent fjords. Standa is made up of three smaller villages: Hellesylt, Geiranger, and Liabygda. It provides a great base from which to explore the regions wonderful array of attractions including the world-renowned Stranda Ski Resort, lying just to the east in the Alps og Sunnmore, where adventure enthusiasts can ski the 17 downhill runs, 15 kilometres of cross-country skiing trails and snowmobiling. After a long day on the slopes, visitors can relax in a steaming hot sauna, enjoy a cold locally brewed beer and enjoy a delicious dinner.

Honningsvag

Set in Norway’s Nordkapp Municipality in Finnmark county, Honningsvag is the country’s northernmost city and also the northernmost city in Europe. This Arctic city serves as a great base from which to explore the magnificent surrounding area featuring spectacular natural landscapes dotted with picturesque fishing villages. It is a port of call for cruise ships which come and go, especially during summer and along with them come many tourists. It is also known for its fascinating traditional cuisine, rich cultural heritage and interesting history. View the cod-drying racks lining the harbour, learn about local history at the Nordkappmuseet, and visit the Honningsvag Church. Don’t miss the Bamse-Statue.Other popular activities include: ice fishing, camping, and boat tours.

Narvik

Narvik is a community in Norway’s far north, resting on the Ofotfjord and encircled by rugged mountains. It is a Certified Sustainable Destination – one that actively strives to preserve culture and nature and to minimise the footprint of tourism. The town is heaven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering some of Norway’s finest hiking and skiing, including extreme alpine skiing for the adventurous! For spectacular scenery, take a train journey on the Ofatbanen railway that winds along a track over the fjord, or take a stroll on Halogaland Bridge. Narvik is known for its clear skies and is one of the best places in Norway to see the northern lights and the midnight sun.

Molde

Loen

Situated in the Stryn Municipality in Sogn og Fjordane county in Norway, Loen is set in the inner part of the Nordfjord region. This tiny fjord-side village serves as a gateway to the magnificent glaciers in the surrounding area. Visitors can take the Loen Skylift to Mt. Hoven and view the magnificent fjord-dotted landscape from above. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the stunning Jostedalsbreen National Park, Lodalen Valley, and the Briksdalsbreen. Other popular activities include hiking along a network of scenic trails through the majestic mountains, walking along the stone-paved paths traversing Mt.Skala and spending a night in the old stone tower at the summit. Other popular activities include canoeing, fishing, boat tours, skiing and swimming.