This is part of our Hidden Europe series of routes. They cover smaller distances focussing on a specific geographical area. With shorter journeys, they are designed to be stress-free. Although this route lends itself to an active lifestyle with a huge amount of adventure activities to choose from, equally, the Norwegian Fjords is one of the most beautiful parts of Europe so it is also attractive for those who want to just marvel at nature!
Bergen, Norway, is a vibrant and picturesque city surrounded by stunning natural landscapes. Whether you’re interested in exploring its rich history and culture or enjoying outdoor adventures, Bergen has plenty to offer. Here are some of the top things to do in Bergen:
With its combination of natural beauty, cultural richness, and outdoor activities, Bergen has something to offer travelers of all interests.
Balestrand is a picturesque village located on the northern shore of the Sognefjord, Norway’s longest and deepest fjord. This charming village is nestled amidst breathtaking natural surroundings, making it a popular destination for tourists seeking serene landscapes, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences.
Natural Beauty: Balestrand is renowned for its spectacular natural beauty. The village is surrounded by towering mountains, lush forests, and crystal-clear waters. The stunning landscapes of the Sognefjord region, with its deep blue fjord waters and dramatic cliffs, are a major draw for visitors.
Outdoor Activities: Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to do in Balestrand. The area offers excellent opportunities for hiking, with numerous trails catering to different skill levels. Mount Hoven, with its panoramic views accessible by the Loen Skylift, is a popular hiking destination.
Cultural Heritage: Balestrand has a rich cultural heritage. The village has been a source of inspiration for artists, both past and present. Painters like Hans Dahl and Nikolai Astrup found inspiration in Balestrand’s unique light conditions and stunning vistas. Visitors can explore local art galleries to appreciate the artistic legacy of the area.
Historic Architecture: The village boasts historic and well-preserved architecture, including Swiss-style and dragon-style buildings. Notable among them is St. Olafs church, built in the stave church tradition, featuring distinctive twin spires.
Local Cuisine: Visitors can savor traditional Norwegian cuisine in local restaurants. Seafood, particularly salmon and trout, is a highlight on many menus. You can also try local delicacies and drinks, including cider made from regional apples.
Boat to Flam – 1.5 hours
Flåm is a small village located in the heart of the Norwegian fjords, known for its stunning natural beauty, serene atmosphere, and its position as a gateway to some of Norway’s most iconic fjordland experiences. The village is characterized by towering mountains, lush green valleys, and cascading waterfalls. The Aurlandsfjord’s calm, crystal-clear waters are perfect for reflecting the stunning scenery.
You will have a little time to explore the quaint little village before stepping aboard the Flåm Railway (Flåmsbana) which is one of the world’s steepest railway lines. It will take you on a thrilling journey through the mountains, passing through numerous tunnels and offering spectacular vistas of the fjords, waterfalls, and countryside. You will then change train to take the iconic Bergen line to Voss.
Flam railway and train to Voss – 2.5 hours
Voss, located in the Hordaland region of Norway, is a charming town surrounded by stunning natural landscapes. It’s a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Here are some of the things you can do in Voss:
Extreme Sports and Adventure Activities: Voss is known as the adventure capital of Norway. You can indulge in various thrilling activities such as paragliding, skydiving, BASE jumping, white-water rafting, and kayaking. The town also hosts the annual Ekstremsportveko (Extreme Sports Week), featuring various extreme sports competitions.
Skiing and Snowboarding: During the winter months, Voss is a fantastic destination for skiing and snowboarding. Voss Resort offers slopes for all levels, and there are opportunities for cross-country skiing in the surrounding areas.
Hiking: Explore the stunning Norwegian landscapes by hiking in the Voss area. Popular trails include the hike to Mt. Lønahorgi and the Voss Trail, which offers beautiful views of the fjord.
Fjord Tours: Take a scenic boat tour on the nearby Nærøyfjord, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The fjord’s dramatic landscapes and crystal-clear waters are a must-see.
Voss Folk Museum (Voss Folkemuseum): Learn about the region’s history and culture at this open-air museum, which features historic buildings, exhibitions, and artifacts.
Vangskyrkja Church: Visit the beautiful Vangskyrkja Church, known for its distinctive architecture and stunning stained glass windows.
Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in Norwegian culture by attending local events, concerts, and festivals. Voss Jazz Festival and Voss Cup are some of the annual events to look out for.
Voss Waterfall Park: Explore the beautiful Tvindefossen and Skjervsfossen waterfalls, both easily accessible from Voss.
Outdoor Picnicking and Relaxation: Take advantage of the peaceful surroundings and enjoy a picnic at one of the local parks or by the lakeside.
Mountain Biking: If you’re into mountain biking, Voss offers a range of trails suitable for all levels of riders.
Shopping: Stroll through Voss town center and explore local shops for souvenirs, handmade crafts, and Norwegian products.
Dining: Savor Norwegian cuisine in Voss’s restaurants and cafes. Try traditional dishes like rakfisk (fermented fish) and fårikål (lamb and cabbage stew).
Voss is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, and its stunning natural beauty makes it an ideal destination for those seeking adventure and a taste of Norwegian culture.
Train to Bergen – 2 hours
Return to Bergen for another night to rest after a whistle-top adventure of the fjords. By now you might be more itnerested in the places to relax and eat and drink! Bergen offers a lively and diverse nightlife scene with options for everyone, from cozy pubs to trendy clubs and live music venues. Here’s a glimpse of the nightlife in Bergen:
Bryggen: The historic Bryggen area comes alive at night with its charming pubs and restaurants. It’s a great place to enjoy a drink with views of the harbor.
Fisketorget: While the Fish Market is primarily a daytime attraction, some seafood restaurants in the area stay open in the evening, offering fresh catches and seafood dishes.
Clubs and Bars: Bergen has a range of clubs and bars catering to different tastes. Venues like Hulen, Inside Rock Café, and HAVN offer live music, DJs, and a mix of music genres.
Kvarteret: This cultural center hosts concerts, club nights, and events. It’s a hub for the local music and arts scene.
Rick’s Café: Known for its cozy atmosphere and extensive drink menu, Rick’s Café is a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
The quickest way to get to and from the UK will be to book a flight to Bergen. You can also fly to or from Oslo and we can arrange your train travel to the fjords. Alternatively, if you want to travel from the UK to the Fjords all the way by train, then please get in touch and we can plan a route for you!
Turn your fjord holiday into a truly memorable experience by adding on these specially selected experiences which have been designed to fit in seamlessly with your core route. Please note that these experiences will extend the duration of your itinerary. Please contact us before booking if you want to alter any of the activities.
From Balestrand, take a small passenger ferry direct to Fjaerland (1 hour) which, in our opinion, is the nicest and quietest fjord in Norway! This is as remote as it gets, so expect complete tranquillity. You will be staying at the family-owned 3-star Fjaerland Fjordstove hotel which only has 14 rooms so must be booked early! You can either do nothing (for one in our busy lives!), relax in a sauna, hire a kayak or go for walks.
Included, is a trip to the Glacier museum and visit to the glacier itself!
Cost: £619 per person (based on 2 sharing)
Added on as a detour from: Balestrand
Total nights added to itinerary: 2
Visit the lesser-know area of Ardal for an incredible adventure of kayaking, hiking and mountain biking. Very popular with Norwegians, but hardly discovered by foreigners, this is a really hidden gem of Norway. You will experience hiking, kayaking and mountain biking in one of the most beautiful areas of Norway.
Your itinerary is:
Day 1 – From Balestrand, you will take a boat to Sogndal and then bus to Ardal. Arrive in the afternoon, check in to the hotel and then head to the water for 3 hours of kayaking on the fjord.
Day 2 – Rent a mountain bike and cycle a 3 hour route on mostly flat ground and then all the way down from Sletterust to Øvre Årdal, experiencing the spectacular hairpin turns from Tusenmeteren and down the mountainside.
In the afternoon, start your hike with your guide through the spectacular mountains, passing waterfalls, rivers, bridges and more. You will be staying at a typical Norwegian farmhouse up in the mountains, where few tourists go!
Day 3 – Hike back down to Ardal for one more night in Ardal.
Day 4 – Take your onward transport by bus and boat back to regain your route in Flam.
Cost: £929 per person (based on 2 sharing in the 3 star hotel and farmhouse)
Added on as a detour between: Balestrand and Flam
Total nights added to itinerary: 3
More snow falls in Myrkdalen than almost anywhere else in Europe and is known for its excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities. The resort offers a variety of slopes suitable for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels, from beginners to experts. There are groomed trails, off-piste areas, and terrain parks for freestyle enthusiasts. The ski season typically runs from November to April, but this can vary depending on snowfall.
The price includes accommodation in the 4 star Myrkdalen ski resort hotel and a 2 day ski pass.
Cost: £799 per person (based on 2 sharing)
Added on as a detour from: Voss
Total nights added to itinerary: 3
(more nights can be added – enquire for price)
The Trolltunga hike is one of Norway’s most iconic and challenging trekking experiences, renowned for its dramatic rock formation that resembles a troll’s tongue jutting out over a precipice. Located near the town of Odda in the Hordaland region, this guided hike offers stunning views of the surrounding fjord landscapes and is a bucket-list adventure for many outdoor enthusiasts. You will travel by bus from Voss to Tyssedal for the first night and then glamping on the mountain on your second night before returning to Tyssedal for your last night and returning back to Voss by bus.
Cost: £1279 per person (based on 2 sharing in the 3 star hotel and in a dome of up to 6 in the mountain)
Added on as a detour from: Voss
Total nights added to itinerary: 3
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