The second happiest nation on the earth (in line with the United Nations World Happiness Report) can be considered one of my favourites! With so many pristine and extraordinary locations to select from, it was a tricky determination, however I’d like to share a few of my favorite spots with you based mostly on my many visits…
The UNESCO-listed fjords are actually on many travellers’ bucket lists! I found that the gathering of steep, glacially-carved valleys have been severely breathtaking with exceptionally dramatic landscapes of towering cliffs, inexperienced hillsides, spectacular waterfalls and glowing blue waters, dotted with quaint villages with conventional picket homes. I liked how unearthly serene they have been – to me, they felt like a peaceable escape from the hustle and bustle of on a regular basis life!
I discovered them positioned alongside the western coast of the nation, the fjords stretch from the southern area close to Stavanger to the northern reaches close to Tromsø. Bergen, which is called being the gateway to the spectacular fjords, can be Norway’s second-largest metropolis and I fell in love with it. Fashioned by glacial exercise over hundreds of thousands of years, these gorgeous landscapes are actually listed as UNESCO World Heritage websites!
I flew into Bergen and spent an idyllic two weeks right here, I went on a cruise to the majestic Geirangerfjord (which I assumed was probably the most scenically spectacular of all of the fjords), hiked the famed Pulpit Rock and Trolltunga (the Instagram-famous troll’s tongue cliff!), and kayaked within the serene waters of Nærøyfjord.
I additionally marvelled on the cascading waterfalls in picturesque Flåm, witnessed the spectacular Northern Lights close to Tromsø, took a visit to Jostedalsbreen glacier (the biggest ice sheet in Europe) and explored the attractive historic metropolis of Bergen which had a beautiful UNESCO-listed Bryggen Hanseatic wharf and fairly vibrant picket homes lining its previous harbor.
This attractive coastal city utterly charmed me! I found it was a real gem, with putting, Instagram-worthy Artwork Nouveau structure and really enticing vibrant buildings lining the streets and waterfront, all set in opposition to a wide ranging fjord backdrop. I liked its upbeat cultural vibe, its bustling maritime environment, and thriving artwork scene!
Nestled on the west coast of the nation, I discovered it sat on a slim peninsula surrounded by a number of islands and the Norwegian Sea, close to the much-loved Geirangerfjord and Hjørundfjord (in Møre og Romsdal county. It’s house to round 47,000 folks, and is known for its putting Artwork Nouveau structure (I noticed heaps)!.
I drove an extended seven hours from Bergen however it was price it! I stayed for 3 days on the Insta-worthy 4-star boutique Lodge 1904 and visited the Artwork Nouveau Centre and learnt concerning the city’s architectural historical past, and climbed the 418 steps to the Aksla Viewpoint and noticed attractive panoramic views of the archipelago.
I additionally wandered by means of the picturesque streets of the previous city, took a day journey to the close by Geirangerfjord (which was severely gorgeous!), and loved native delicacies in eating places positioned alongside the bustling harbour.
This group of islands are quick turning into a much-sought after journey vacation spot! I personally found they have been certainly really breathtaking with steep mountain peaks, shimmering waters, a rugged shoreline and post-card fairly fishing villages with conventional purple rorbu (fishermen’s cabins).
It felt tranquil and awe-inspiring, with a vibe of untouched wilderness, wealthy Nordic heritage, a easy lifestyle and pure magnificence that created a serene, nearly mystical environment!
I found it tucked away in Norway’s Nordland county inside the Arctic Circle, they stretched alongside the Norwegian Sea. House to round 24,000 folks, they boast a wealthy Viking and fishing heritage, with settlements relationship again over 1,000 years. Their cod fishing business has sustained the area for hundreds of years, however at the moment, they appeal to over 1,000,000 vacationers yearly, drawn by their extraordinary magnificence and Northern Lights viewing alternatives.
I flew into Leknes Airport (positioned on Vestvågøy, one of many important islands) from Oslo in the course of the winter and stayed for an awe-inspiring six days. I had the magical expertise of recognizing the Northern Lights from the distant seashores in Uttakleiv, went on an unbelievable whale-watching tour from Andenes (orcas, sperm whales, and humpback whales migrated to the Norwegian coast to feed largely from October to January).
I additionally stayed in conventional purple rorbu cabin in Reine, hiked to the scenic viewpoints like Tjeldbergtind, tried enjoyable Arctic browsing at Unstad Seashore, explored the Viking historical past on the Lofotr Viking Museum, and skilled the gorgeous fantastic thing about the snow-covered fishing village, Henningsvær.
This attractive metropolis is called being a gateway to the Norwegian fjords! A part of the inspiration for the fictional Frozen within the hit Disney animation, I discovered the town to be a beautiful gem of a spot with a vibrant Bryggen Wharf lined with enticing picket buildings, medieval landmarks, charming timber hillside homes, and a surprising fjordside setting, all framed by misty mountains and luxurious inexperienced landscapes! I liked its laid-back vibe and historic appeal blended in with fashionable vibrancy!
I discovered it was nestled on Norway’s west coast in Vestland County, it sits between the North Sea and the encircling Seven Mountains, serving as a gateway to the Norwegian fjords. Based in 1070, it has a wealthy maritime historical past as a key Hanseatic buying and selling hub and was as soon as Norway’s capital. I came upon it was the nation’s second-largest metropolis, house to round 290,000 folks, and is called one of many rainiest cities in Europe!
I flew in to Bergen Airport from Oslo (which took an hour) and stayed for a really charming three days. I strolled by means of the historic Bryggen Wharf, rode the Fløibanen funicular to the highest of Mount Fløyen and noticed very good panoramic views, visited the Edvard Grieg Museum at Troldhaugen, took a scenic fjord cruise to Nærøyfjord, hiked the paths of the Seven Mountains which surrounded the town and browsed its quirky unbiased shops and cute al fresco cafes.
This dramatic cliff is an Instagrammer’s dream! In any other case referred to as the ‘troll’s tongue’, it’s some of the spectacular scenic cliffs within the nation and I used to be in awe of its dramatic, gravity-defying rock ledge which jaw-droppingly jutted over a surprising fjord and had really breathtaking panoramic views of Norway’s rugged wilderness! It felt each epic and exhilarating!
Positioned in Vestland County in western Norway, about 20 km from the city of Odda, it was shaped over the past Ice Age, round 10,000 years in the past, by means of glacial erosion. Because the ice retreated, I came upon from native guides that it sculpted the panorama, forsaking this putting cliff that extends horizontally from the mountain, hovering an unbelievable 700 meters above Lake Ringedalsvatnet!
I’ve to confess it wasn’t straightforward to get to although. I drove from Bergen to the village of Tyssedal the place I stayed within the cosy however very spectacular Tyssedal Lodge (the views have been simply breathtaking!) and from there it was an 8 km taxi journey (which took simply 10 minutes) to the Trolltunga trailhead at Skjeggedal.
After I was there and I began a really lengthy 27 km round-trip which took me a brutal however stunning nine-hour hike! On the hike there was important elevation achieve (round 800 meters) so I used to be glad I used to be bodily match sufficient to do it and correctly ready. It took me a full day however it was actually very price it – it was a undoubtedly a kind of as soon as in a lifetime journey experiences!
Like most of the hikers I selected to remain in a single day and watch a really spectacular dawn on the cliff. I camped up within the designated tenting space near the cliff the place I arrange a tent, there have been a couple of inns and a number of other mountain lodges within the space however these have been positioned near the city of Odda. There have been additionally guided hikes out there which was the safer choice!
I assumed Norway’s fashionable capital was additionally very enticing! I actually loved its harmonious mix of previous and new structure, from the historic Akershus Fortress to the modern, fashionable Opera Home, together with its vibrant cultural scene and ample inexperienced areas – all set in opposition to a backdrop of dense forests and the shimmering Oslofjord. I assumed it blended modern stylish and historic appeal simply completely!
Sure, it was costly, and sure, it didn’t have an extended checklist of world-famous sights, however I assumed it was clear, laid-back and had a really stunning setting. I used to be additionally actually admired its progressive, eco-friendly pleasant and its deal with sustainability and inexperienced areas.
It was positioned within the southeastern a part of the nation on the head of the Oslofjord, it was based in 1040 and has been Norway’s capital since 1814. In the present day, I discovered that it was house to round 697,000 folks, which makes it the nation’s largest metropolis.
I flew in from Oslo Airport from London Heathrow and I stayed for 3 days. That was sufficient time to discover the Viking Ship Museum, marvel at modern artwork within the Astrup Fearnley Museum, stroll by means of the historic Vigeland Sculpture Park, catch a shifting efficiency on the Oslo Opera Home, see the Edvard Munch’s well-known portray, ‘The Scream’ on the Munch Museum, and unwind within the fairly waterside Aker Brygge and Tjuvholmen districts.
Location: Southeastern a part of the nation.
Finest time to go to: Spring and Summer season (for cultural festivals, gentle temperatures, and metropolis sightseeing).
Actions on supply: Visiting museums, exploring Vigeland Sculpture Park, fjord cruises, mountaineering in Nordmarka, and having fun with native delicacies.
Map Location and Instructions
My highlights…
Staying on the 4-star Saga Lodge Oslo, WorldHotels Crafted – I liked the stylish boutique decor, the restored Nineties constructing it was housed, using pure supplies like wooden in my visitor room and the very good location on the modern Bogstadveien Road!
7. Flam
This small village was so fairly it felt like a postcard! I found it was house to breathtaking fjord views, gorgeous pure surroundings, a historic church and the dramatic Flåmsbana Railway, which wound by means of the encircling mountains. It me, it felt serene and timeless – like a real tranquil escape!
I unearthed this gem within the wild and fantastic coronary heart of Western Norway, on the interior finish of the Aurlandsfjord (a department of the bigger Sognefjord). It had a historical past rooted in its strategic fjord location and a present inhabitants of round 350 residents. It additionally attracts many guests who’re drawn to its magnificence in addition to the long-lasting Flåmsbana railway.
I arrived from Bergen by way of the scenic Flåmsbana Railway which took me 4 hours and I stayed for an idyllic three days on the stunningly positioned Flåm Marina Lodge.
I rode scenic Flåmsbana railway (and came upon it was one of many steepest practice rides on the earth!), cruised the gorgeous Aurlandsfjord and Nærøyfjord, hiked the picturesque surrounding trails, visited the historic Flåm Church, explored the fascinating Flåm Railway Museum, and loved scrumptious domestically crafted brews at Ægir Brewery.
Location: Western a part of the nation, within the Aurland municipality.
Finest time to go to: Late Spring to Early Fall (for scenic practice rides and out of doors actions).
Actions on supply: Using the Flåm Railway, fjord cruises, kayaking, RIB boat excursions, and mountaineering trails in Aurlandsfjord.
Map Location and Instructions
My private highlights…
Taking a 15 minute drive from Flam to the unbelievable close by Stegastein Viewpoint which was a contemporary building fabricated from wooden and glass which prolonged 30 meters from the mountainside. I’ve to confess it was very vertigo-inducing however seeing the breathtaking views over the spectacular Aurlandsfjord made it price it!
8. Henningsvær
I assumed this was one of many prettiest villages within the Lofoten Islands! After discovering it and being in awe, I felt it deserved a particular point out of its personal! Right here, picturesque colourful conventional Norwegian fishermen’s cabins, scenic harbours, cosy eateries, and a bustling waterfront sit perched on rugged islands, set in opposition to a backdrop of mirror-like waters and towering granite mountains. To me, it felt laid-back, with a novel creative vibe blended with a robust sense of native custom and group.
I got here throughout it completely tucked away within the Lofoten Islands within the Nordland county, located inside the Arctic Circle within the northern a part of nation. Its historical past is rooted in fishing relationship again to the 18th century and at the moment has a inhabitants of round 500 residents.
I flew into Leknes Airport after which drove two hours to achieve Henningsvær, as soon as right here I stayed in an unbelievable transformed fisherman’s cabin at Henningsvær Rorbuer and explored the colourful fishing harbour.
I additionally visited the cool KaviarFactory and noticed modern artwork exhibitions, loved very good native delicacies at Fiskekrogen Restaurant, strolled by means of the charming streets lined with quaint outlets and galleries, managed to catch a magical glimpse of the Northern Lights and soaked up the unbelievable surroundings!
Location: Northern a part of the nation, within the Lofoten archipelago.
Finest time to go to: Summer season (for having fun with the fishing village’s distinctive appeal and scenic views beneath the Midnight Solar).
Actions on supply: Strolling by means of the village, kayaking, mountaineering, and exploring artwork galleries.
Map Location and Instructions
My private highlights…
Having an oat-milk Islatte espresso within the cool gem the Klatrekaféen restaurant – I liked the quirky and really artistic decor which included gentle shades comprised of bronze cutlery and driftwood mobiles hanging from the ceiling!
9. Skudeneshavn
I assumed this picturesque coastal city was tremendous cute! I completely fell for its charming previous city, with largely traffic-free, slim winding streets lined by white picket homes and a picturesque harbour, all set in opposition to a backdrop of open blue seas and distant islands. I additionally liked its relaxed, nostalgic vibe and charming nautical really feel.
Nestled on the southern tip of Karmøy Island in Rogaland County, in southwestern Norway, it was initially a historic fishing village based within the Nineteenth century. In the present day, with a inhabitants of round 3,300, I came upon that it stays one of many nation’s best-preserved cities from the crusing ship period.
It was a 4 hour drive from Bergen and I stayed for 2 days on the cosy and homely visitor home Reinertsenhuset in the course of the summer time. I wandered by means of the idyllic Previous Skudeneshavn and browsed the quaint cafes, charming native outlets, and artwork galleries.
I additionally discovered time to go to the Maritime Museum and delve into the city’s seafaring previous, loosen up on the gorgeous sandy Sandvesanden seaside, discover the Mælandsgården Museum and study Nineteenth-century life there, and benefit from the annual Skudefestivalen, which celebrated conventional Norwegian boats and tradition!
Location: Southwestern coast, on the island of Karmøy.
Finest time to go to: Summer season (for heat temperatures and coastal walks by means of the charming village).
Actions on supply: Strolling excursions by means of historic streets, visiting the previous city, exploring close by seashores, and having fun with native seafood.
Map Location and Instructions
My favorite highlights…
Visiting the Majorstuen Antikviteter (an fascinating vintage store and cafe rolled into one!) – I liked the quirky nostalgic decor which got here full with carved picket chests, previous pianos, bronze candlesticks, vintage artwork, the tremendous pleasant aged couple who ran it (Johannes had so many tales to inform!) and tasting unbelievable waffles which got here with selfmade raspberry jam!
10. Fredrikstad
This historic metropolis has a status for having the best-preserved previous cities in Scandinavia! I assumed it was gorgeous for its spectacular, well-preserved fortifications of the Previous City (Gamlebyen) which had cobblestone streets lined by charming historic buildings and bustling market squares. It liked its relaxed, historic vibe in addition to its vibrant arts scene.
I discovered it hidden in plain sight in southeastern Norway on the mouth of the Glomma River, about 90 kilometers south of Oslo, it was based in 1567 and is understood for its well-preserved fortress. Because the nation’s sixth-largest metropolis, came upon that has a inhabitants of round 83,000 residents.
I drove an hour from Oslo (there have been additionally practice and bus choices) and spent two days on the hygge-esque Lodge Fredrikstad and from there I explored the fascinating historic Previous City (Gamlebyen), and visited the Fredrikstad Museum and delved into the town’s historical past.
I additionally walked alongside the town partitions and noticed very good panoramic views, loved arts and performances at Blå Grotte, shopped on the vibrant farmers’ market, browsed quaint shops and vintage outlets and took a ship journey alongside the Glomma River to see the town from a distinct perspective!
Location: Southeastern a part of the nation.
Finest time to go to: Spring and Summer season (for exploring the previous city and having fun with out of doors actions by the river).
Actions on supply: Exploring the previous city, biking alongside the river, strolling excursions, and having fun with native markets.
Map Location and Instructions
My private highlights…
Exploring the extra fashionable a part of the city Vestsiden (West Aspect), which is a part of the fashionable metropolis centre and stumbling throughout the Fredrikstad Cathedral that includes gorgeous stained-glass work by Emanuel Vigeland and a putting steeple!
11. Jotunheimen Nationwide Park
This was an enormous and distant mountainous wilderness! I used to be in awe of how the nation’s hottest nationwide park was house to actually jaw-dropping surroundings, with dramatic alpine landscapes, towering peaks, glacial valleys, turquoise mountain lakes, gorgeous rocky and glacial shores, and charming mountain lodges – all set in opposition to untouched, protected wilderness. It had a wild and adventurous really feel, making it the proper place for me to embrace solitude!
Positioned within the southern a part of the nation, it spanned the counties of Innlandet and Vestland, between Oslo and Bergen. Established in 1980, it coated round 1,151 sq. kilometres and is steeped in folklore and Norse legends. A haven for out of doors adventures, I noticed that it attracted hikers, cross-country and alpine skiers, cyclists, and climbers from throughout Europe.
It boasts the biggest focus of mountains over 2,000 meters in Northern Europe, together with the nation’s 29 highest peaks, with Galdhøpiggen (2,469m) standing because the tallest. Alongside its distinctive Arctic-alpine flora, I came upon from native guides the park is house to various wildlife, together with reindeer, foxes, martens, wolverines, lynx, and the uncommon golden eagle!
It took me a 5 hour drive from Oslo and I stayed for an adventurous three days within the cosy however fashionable Filefjellstuene Lodge which was positioned on the gateway of the park (the views from my room there have been simply breathtaking)!
I hiked the well-known Besseggen Ridge and noticed breathtaking views over Gjende and Bessvatnet lakes, climbed the nation’s highest peak, Galdhøpiggen, trekked by means of the distant Utladalen Valley, explored the gorgeous glaciers of Smørstabbrean and stayed in a single day on the Gjendesheim the scenic mountain lodge.
My private highlights…
Studying from the native guides about why it was referred to as the “House of the Giants” – they advised me that in line with native legend’s legendary historic Jotuns (giants) roamed the huge wilderness!
12. Svalbard
This was a distant and otherworldly Arctic archipelago! I found a wide ranging and distinctive magnificence spot full of huge icy landscapes, towering glaciers, and snow-covered mountains, which have been contrasted by the colorful picket buildings of the small city of Longyearbyen, which actually stand out in opposition to the stark Arctic wilderness!
To me, it felt uncooked and adventurous with a mysterious and otherworldly Arctic environment and I liked getting a glimpse into how a really hardy group lived on the sting of the world!
It was tucked away within the Arctic Ocean, between the nation’s mainland and the North Pole, round 800 kilometres north of the Norwegian mainland. I heard from the locals that it was first found by Dutch explorers in 1596 and later settled for coal mining.
It’s really one of many northernmost completely inhabited locations on Earth, with round 2,500 residents (largely settled in Longyearbyen), and I additionally liked it’s additionally a implausible wildlife-spotting vacation spot the place polar bears, Svalbard reindeer, walruses, and Arctic foxes roam its distant lonely lands.
I took a 3 hour direct flight from Oslo to Longyearbyen (the primary settlement) and spent 4 days right here on the cool and quirky 4-star Svalbard Hotell.
When right here, I explored the fascinating vibrant city of Longyearbyen, took a ship journey to the gorgeous Nordenskiöld Glacier, noticed the essential International Seed Vault, noticed magnificent polar bears, explored ice caves beneath glaciers, and even handle to expertise the magical Northern Lights!
Location: Arctic Ocean, north of mainland Norway.
Finest time to go to: Late Spring to Summer season (for experiencing the Midnight Solar and wildlife sightings).
Actions on supply: Glacier kayaking, mountaineering, snowmobiling, canine sledding, and wildlife viewing, together with polar bears.
Map Location and Instructions
My private highlights…
Happening a guided boat tour which I booked within the metropolis centre to Moffen Island was was identified walrus sanctuary – we needed to keep 300 meters away resulting from strict safety legal guidelines however it was superb to see them noisily lounge round on the island’s seashores!
13. Reine
I used to be severely in awe of this picturesque Lofoten Island village! I liked its breathtaking and dramatic fjord setting, the place towering peaks rose sharply from the blue-green waters, conventional purple rorbuer fishing cabins lined the shore, and crystal-clear waters mirrored the gorgeous Arctic panorama!
I liked how peaceable and awe-inspiring it felt, with a novel mix of conventional fishing village appeal and the uncooked, dramatic fantastic thing about the Arctic wilderness!
It was tucked away within the Lofoten Islands, within the northern a part of the nation, on the island of Moskenesøya, alongside the scenic E10 freeway. It’s was house to round 300 folks, and I found from an area information that it had been a key fishing hub for hundreds of years.
I flew into Leknes, then drove alongside the E10 freeway and stayed for a dreamy three days. I hiked the long-lasting Reinebringen and noticed breathtaking panoramic views, stayed in a conventional purple rorbuer cabin by the water, kayaked by means of the scenic Reinefjorden, took a ship journey to the distant village of Vindstad and hiked to Bunes Seashore, visited the charming Reine Cultural Middle, and explored the close by fairly fishing villages of Hamnøy and Sakrisøy.
Location: Northern a part of the nation, within the Lofoten archipelago.
Finest time to go to: Summer season (for scenic hikes and views of the fjords in the course of the Midnight Solar).
Actions on supply: Climbing Reinebringen, boat excursions by means of fjords, fishing, and images.
Map Location and Instructions
My favorite highlights…
Staying on the 4-star Reine Rorbuer – by Traditional Norway Resorts – I used to be completely charmed by the tastefully renovated conventional fishermen’s cabins (rorbuer) which have been thoughtfully transformed into cosy rustic-chic havens – mine got here with a helpful kitchenette, domestically hand crafted purple rugs and unbelievable Arctic Ocean and mountain views!
14. Rondane Nationwide Park
That is the oldest Nationwide Park within the nation! I assumed it was gorgeous, with craggy mountain peaks, rolling plateaus, glacial lakes, and huge, rugged open landscapes. I used to be utterly taken by its tranquil and wild vibe – it had a distant environment that made me really feel totally immersed in unspoiled nature!
I discovered it positioned in central Norway, it spanned the counties of Innlandet and Trøndelag, between Oslo and Trondheim. Established in 1962 as Norway’s first nationwide park, it coated 963 sq. kilometers and is house to considered one of Europe’s final wild reindeer herds.
I drove 4 hours from Oslo and stayed for 3 days, I hiked the scenic Rondslottet, the best peak at 2,178 meters, explored the tranquil Rondvatnet Lake, noticed wild reindeer roaming the huge plateaus, trekked the long-lasting Dørålseter to Bjørnhollia route, stayed within the cosy and conventional mountain lodge Smuksjøseter, and took within the severely breathtaking views alongside the Rondane Triangle mountaineering path!
Location: Japanese a part of the nation.
Finest time to go to: Summer season (for mountaineering and having fun with Norway’s oldest nationwide park).
Actions on supply: Climbing, wildlife recognizing, images, and tenting.
Map Location and Instructions
Rondane Nationwide Park
My favorite highlights…
Trekking the 17 kilometers Venabygdsfjellet to Mysusæter path which was a little bit of a problem because it took 6 hours to finish! It took me by means of open mountain plateaus, lush birch forests, fairly purple Alpine flowers, spectacular views of the encircling Rondane mountains and the occasional conventional Norwegian cabins which have been referred to as hytters!
15. Trondheim
I assumed this historic metropolis was an actual gem! I found it very enticing place with an Insta-worthy scenic waterfront nestled alongside the Nidelva River, vibrant picket wharfs at Bakklandet, and the gorgeous medieval Nidaros Cathedral which was a Gothic masterpiece!
I used to be utterly gained over by its vigorous but quaint and comfortable vibe. It felt each historic and timeless, but nonetheless filled with youthful power from its college, together with a thriving cultural and meals scene.
It was nestled like a proud gem in central Norway alongside the Trondheimsfjord, about 500 km north of Oslo, it was based in 997 AD as Norway’s first capital. In the present day, it’s the nation’s third-largest metropolis, house to round 210,000 folks, and I learnt from an area information is known for its wealthy Viking historical past and the long-lasting Nidaros Cathedral.
It was a seven hour drive from Oslo however I assumed it was price it! I stayed for an extended weekend on the stunning and really romantic Britannia Lodge and explored the majestic Nidaros Cathedral, and walked by means of the charming Bakklandet district which had vibrant picket homes, visited the Previous City Bridge (Gamle Bybro) and noticed attractive river views.
I additionally admired historic artefacts on the Archbishop’s Palace Museum, took in panoramic cityscapes from Kristiansten Fortress, walked throughout the enticing Previous City Bridge which was in-built 1681 and loved the vigorous waterfront environment at Solsiden which was full of stylish eating places and cafés.
Location: Central a part of the nation.
Finest time to go to: Summer season (for festivals, cultural occasions, and exploring the Nidaros Cathedral).
Actions on supply: Visiting Nidaros Cathedral, exploring Bakklandet, biking alongside the river, and having fun with native delicacies.
Map Location and Instructions
My highlights…
Eating on the very artistic and stylish Troll Restaurant – I liked the distinctive forest decor, the gentle, dim lights (the place I nearly felt like I used to be in a troll’s cave!) and the way my dish was garnished with domestically grown edible flowers!
16. Stavanger
This attractive coastal metropolis actually wowed me! I used to be utterly charmed by its mixture of charming white and vibrant picket homes, gorgeous fjord landscapes, scenic harbours, gentle sandy seashores and spectacular historic landmarks. It felt vibrant but laid-back vibe, with an inviting historic appeal and a thriving meals and humanities scene.
Nestled alongside the North Coastline, about 300 km southwest of Oslo in southwestern Norway, I noticed it was house to the putting Tenth-century Stavanger Cathedral. Based in 1125 and traditionally a fishing hub, it’s now Norway’s oil capital, with a inhabitants of round 144,000, which I discovered made it the nation’s fourth-largest metropolis.
I drove six hours from Oslo and stayed for 3 days on the elegant and romantic 4-star Lodge Victoria and when right here I explored the charming Previous City (Gamle Stavanger) with its white picket homes, visited Stavanger Cathedral and hiked to the long-lasting Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) and was handled to breathtaking fjord views.
I additionally squeezed in stress-free on the sandy shores of Solastranden Seashore, noticed the putting Swords in Rock (Sverd i fjell) monument, and found Norway’s fascinating oil historical past on the Norwegian Petroleum Museum!
Location: Southwestern coast of the nation.
Finest time to go to: Summer season (for mountaineering to Pulpit Rock and having fun with out of doors actions alongside the coast)
Actions on supply: Climbing to Pulpit Rock, fjord cruises, exploring the previous city, and visiting museums.
Map Location and Instructions
My highlights…
Looking the lovable Kant boutique present retailer which was full of domestically produced prime quality artisan produced items together with maritime themed gadgets – I particularly liked the lovable lighthouse, anchors, the cosy Nordic jumpers, the cool hand printed cow T-shirts and the gorgeous crab espresso mugs!
17. Nigardsbreen Glacier
This was a spectacular a part of the Jostedalsbreen Glacier! I’ve to confess I used to be in awe of this spectacular magnificence spot which had putting blue ice, dramatic crevasses, and towering glacial formations, all set in opposition to the rugged mountain landscapes of Jostedalsbreen Nationwide Park. It felt uncooked and adventurous, with an awe-inspiring, otherworldly vibe and a way of untouched Arctic wilderness!
It was positioned in Jostedalsbreen Nationwide Park in Vestland County, western Norway, round 10 kilometres north of Gaupne. A department of Jostedalsbreen, I learnt from native guides it has been advancing and retreating for 1000’s of years, with important ice loss in latest a long time resulting from local weather change, but it stays considered one of Norway’s most accessible glaciers for guided hikes.
I drove half-hour from Gaupne and based mostly myself on the very spectacular Melkevoll Bretun Tenting which was positioned on the entrance to the park. The following day I launched into the Brief Glacier Stroll which solely concerned reasonable effort, simply together with a brief hike and a few ice strolling so it was okay for a newbie like me!
It took 4.5 hours and in that point I noticed towering blue ice formations, deep crevasses, shimmering ice caves, and very good panoramic views of the encircling rugged mountains and glacial valleys.
Alternatively, I came upon it was additionally doable to go on a extra superior Blue Ice Hike which took 4-5 hours and was extra strenuous, concerned steeper terrain and the hiker’s had to make use of crampons and ropes to navigate the extra tough ice formations and crevasses. There was additionally a better and shorter family-friendly tour out there too.
Location: Western a part of the nation.
Finest time to go to: Summer season (for glacier mountaineering with guided excursions and favorable climate circumstances).
Actions on supply: Glacier mountaineering, guided excursions, images, and visiting close by lakes.
Map Location and Instructions
My favorite highlights…
Seeing the unbelievable ice caves which have been full of good blue hues, an enchanting array of patterns together with ripples and pitting on the cave partitions and the echoey sound of my voice made which created a really distinctive auditory expertise!
18. Femundsmarka Nationwide Park
This was a distant and unspoilt wilderness space! I additionally thought it was stunning for its huge, untouched areas of wilderness, shimmering lakes, historic pine forests, rugged mountains, and a tranquil, off-the-grid environment that felt really uncooked and wild!
I got here throughout it within the jap a part of the nation close to the Swedish border, it spans components of Innlandet and Trøndelag counties, with Lake Femunden as its central characteristic. Established in 1971, it coated 573 sq. kilometres and I noticed it was full of massive reindeer herds – a part of Norway’s final remaining populations of really wild tundra reindeer!
I drove an hour from Røros and based mostly myself within the very rustic however cosy Båtstø Tenting Web site in Elgå (which was positioned proper on the fringe of the park for 3 days.
When right here I paddled throughout the huge Lake Femunden, hiked by means of historic pine forests and the extraordinary rugged terrain, noticed wild reindeer in Grøtådalen, kayaked within the tranquil distant lakes of Røa, and explored the fascinating previous Sámi settlements.
My private highlights…
Climbing the very scenic 10km Elgåhogna Path which me 5 hours on an reasonably steep elevation finally reaching the summit of Elgåhogna (which is the best peak within the space) – as soon as there I may see unbelievable panoramic views of the slate-blue Femunden Lake under, dense pine forests, and even glimpses of the distant snow-dusted peaks throughout the Swedish border!
19. Solund, Sogn og Fjordane
This was a distant and rugged island! I assumed it was postcard-perfect, with dramatic coastal surroundings that includes 1000’s of scattered islets, rugged cliffs, and charming fishing villages with conventional picket boathouses and white-painted properties, all set in opposition to the backdrop of the open North Sea. To me, it felt wild and tranquil, with an untouched coastal escape vibe that basically drew me in!
Norway’s westernmost island municipality, I stumbled throughout it on the outermost fringe of Sogn og Fjordane, the place the Sognefjord meets the North Sea. Traditionally a fishing and maritime group, it’s now house to round 750 folks.
I caught an categorical boat from Bergen which took 2.5 hours to Hardbakke (its municipal centre) and stayed for an idyllic two days on the Insta-worthy Værlandet Havhotell Lodge (the fjord views have been simply extraordinary)!
I explored the gorgeous island-dotted seascape by kayak, visited the Utvær Lighthouse (which was Norway’s westernmost level) and hiked the rugged trails of Ramsdalsheia.
I additionally discovered time to find the area’s maritime historical past on the Solund Coastal Museum, and navigate by means of the slim tidal straits of Nærøyfjorden’s outermost reaches on a enjoyable skippered RIB (inflexible inflatable boat) tour!
Location: Western a part of the nation, within the Sognefjord area.
Finest time to go to: Summer season (for boating, mountaineering, and exploring the scenic archipelago).
Actions on supply: Boating, kayaking, mountaineering coastal trails, and exploring the archipelago.
Map Location and Instructions
My private highlights…
Happening the skippered boat tour was an superior expertise – choosing up excessive speeds, darting by means of slim inlets, getting up near cascading waterfalls, and recognizing attractive harbour seals sunbathing on craggy coastal rocks.
Location of Norway
Norway is positioned within the Nordic space of Northern Europe and the North Atlantic, together with Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Sweden, the Faroe Islands and Greenland.