Comprising of the western and northernmost part of the Scandinavian Peninsula, the Svalbard archipelago and the isolated island of Jan Mayen, Norway is a collection of majestic fjords, marauding Vikings, the icy landscape of the Arctic Circle and rich mystical folklore. The country's snowy winter months offer visitors in the north the opportunity to traverse vast expanses of tundra by dogsled or catch a glimpse of the incredible aurora borealis blazing across the night sky. Summer brings with it the astonishing spectacle of the midnight sun and the chance to enjoy many outdoor adventures. 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. In contrast to its picturesque natural landscapes, this fascinating country is home to a slew of appealing, cosmopolitan metropolises offering every first-world city delight.
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.
Tucked in the nook of the Hardanger fjord, Ulvik village is idyllically placed against a towering backdrop of soaring snow-capped mountains, mighty fjords and untouched landscape. The surrounding area features magnificent mountain scenery, spectacular views of the gleaming fjord and a lush, fertile countryside brimming with a variety of fruit orchards for which the area is known. The picturesque hills surrounding the village provide endless opportunities for cycling and hiking in summer and cross-country skiing in winter, while the village itself offers a range of public services, including quaint shops and tempting cafes as well as a slew of galleries exhibiting the works of the area’s thriving arts and crafts community.
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).
Tucked away on the northern shore of the mighty Sognefjorden in Norway’s Sogn district, the peaceful village of Balestrand offers a quieter refuge than its more touristy neighbours, even during the busier summer season. Any disturbances are likely to be caused by a run-in with a deer or two. The fjord and town are surrounded by incredible, postcard-perfect mountain peaks reflecting on the water, making it a photographer’s paradise. Take a five-minute stroll down from the Balestrand Hotel to the pretty harbour to sample some delicious traditional currywurst at the cute and quirky Viking Ship Wiener Stand or enjoy a huge buffet lunch at the grand 18th-century Kviknes Hotel, which is famous for its small but impressive landscape art collection, as well as its exhibit of extraordinary historic carved wooden furniture.
Located at the eastern end of the beautiful Geirangerfjord, is the tiny village of Geiranger. It serves as a great base from which to explore the scenic surrounds. Like something out of a fairytale, the fjord one of the most famous in Norway. Considered to be among the most scenically outstanding fjords, it was added to UNESCO`s list of World Heritage sites. Lined by steep majestic snowcapped mountains reaching 1700 metres in height, Geirangerfjord is the jewel in the crown of the Norwegian fjords. The landscape features wild waterfalls, lush green vegetation and a deep, dark blue fjord. Visitors can look forward to a wide selection of wonderful activities including enjoying a fjord sightseeing trip and exploring winding roads with their hairpin bends and breathtakingly beautiful views.
As previously described
