Bergen: The Jumping off Point for Fjord Land
While Oslo is better known, start your trip in Bergen, a surprisingly charming city on the west coast that is the gateway to the Fjords. Nestled between seven mountain peaks, outdoor adventures are easy to find. A short walk from Bergen’s famous fish market is Norway’s only funicular. Take a quick ride out of the city and into the quiet solitude of Mt. Floyen. Once there choose from several different hiking trails or simply wander on your own path through woods dotted with gnarled trees and fresh blueberries ripe for the picking.
For the most relaxing and scenic way to get to the heart of Fjord land, board the Sognefjord ferry and sit-back and enjoy the passing view during the five-hour journey to Flam.
Flam: The Central Spot for Fjord Adventures
Flam is one of the bigger towns in the region and a good base to explore the area. After checking into the Fretheim Hotel in the heart of town, walk a few steps to the embarkation point for the Fjord Safari. This high-flying Zodiac tour gets up close with the wildlife, waterfalls and gorgeous landscape of the World Heritage listed Aurlandsfjord and Naeoyfjords. During the tour, the guide will describe the fjord, peppering his talk with local stories, tales and legends. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for seals, eagles, goats and porpoises.
Other active options in and around Flam include hiking, biking and kayaking. A not-to-be missed attraction is a trip on the Flam Railway. Roughly 10 miles long, the Flam Railway is one of the world’s steepest lines and affords travelers views of spectacular mountainside scenery complete with wildflowers, wildlife and waterfalls.
To get a flavor for the culture, visit several nearby towns like Undredal, to try the famous brown goat cheese and view one of Norway’s 28 remaining Stave churches.
Guided Glacier Hike
A trip to Fjord land would not be complete without getting up close and personal with a glacier. From Flam drive 2.5 hours to Jostedal and check into the quaint Jostedal Hotel. The following morning head two miles up the road to the Breheimsenteret for a unique chance to hike on a glacier. Hikes range from a one-hour easy family walk, to a more extensive (and exciting) blue ice walk on the Nigardsbreen glacier. The blue ice walks are moderate hikes that transverse the glacier face. On the ice, glacier features that aren’t visible from afar are jaw dropping including stunningly clear blue water pools. One of the highlights of the hike is the chance to hike through two large crevasses. Be sure to bring a suitable jacket. Hiking boots, crampons and ice picks are provided.
In Fjord land impressive scenery dazzles around every turn. Stunning waterfalls, grazing goats and picture postcard views make an ideal backdrop for an active vacation in this Northern European wonderland.
Dena Braun - Dena Braun, a.k.a. The FitGlobetrotter, has crossed the globe to bring the best active luxury and spa travel destinations to readers of ...
