Mountains, fjords, northern lights: experience Norway at its best
It doesn't always have to be a beach holiday in the south: Norway has a lot to offer with its breathtaking scenery, flora and fauna and Scandinavian flair.
11 November 2021
Norway, called Norge by the locals, is to many what Italy is to others with its southern flair. Gigantic fjord landscapes, rugged wilderness, small fishing villages and of course the spectacular northern lights make the Scandinavian country a very special destination. In the midst of almost untouched nature, holidaymakers can take a deep breath, unwind and enjoy the tranquillity of this sparsely populated country on the North Sea.
Fjords as far as the eye can see
No country is as famous for its fjord landscapes as Norway. The Hardanger region in particular is known for its picturesque fjords, picturesque landscapes, waterfalls and glaciers. The beautiful Nærøyfjord, which has the reputation of being one of the most beautiful in Norway is also around this area. This 17-kilometre-long tributary of the Sognefjord will amaze you with rock faces up to around 1,800 metres high that frame the fjord. Since 2005, it has also been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Geirangerfjord is one of the most famous fjords in Norway. A trip through this 15-kilometre-long fjord is said to be just as breathtaking as the one through the Nærøyfjord. A trip across the deep green water offers travellers great views of steep cliffs, forested mountains and several waterfalls that plunge several hundred metres into the depths.
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If on ships you get seasick quickly, Flekkefjord is the place to go. There is the unique possibility to visit the fjord with the Flekkefjordbanen. On the four-wheeled rail bike, which runs on a disused railway line, you can cruise the fjord from Flekkefjord to Sira and enjoy the fabulous views.
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Hiker's paradise in the national parks
If you haven't had enough of the indescribably beautiful nature in Norway, you should definitely plan a visit to one of the many national parks on your list. Powder snow, glaciers and emerald green mountain lakes are waiting for travellers in the Jotunheimen National Park, which is named after the highest mountain range in Scandinavia: Jotunheimen. Those who take on the challenging hike up one of the peaks, such as Galdhøpiggen, will be rewarded with unforgettable experiences. Another popular national park is Rondane National Park, a region with diverse wildlife and countless hiking opportunities. How about a tour to the Rondvassbu cabin by the picturesque mountain lake, for example?
Enjoy Scandinavian charm, museums and cuisine in Norway's cities
Many travellers to Norway start their route in the capital of Norway, Oslo. The city on the south coast of the country is a wonderful starting point to travel the country from south to north, but it is also the gateway to the Oslofjord. Those who stay in the green capital can choose between a variety of museums and art galleries: Holmenkollen Ski Museum with its ski jump or the Viking Ship Museum, where original Viking ships from the ninth century can be admired. There are also some great sights to see here, such as Akershus Fortress or the Royal Castle, and a great selection of culinary hotspots and bars. A little further west in the country is the second largest city of Bergen, known as the gateway to the fjords. Framed by a picturesque mountain panorama, here you have a wonderful view of the sea and can stroll through the famous colourful little houses at the harbour.
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Zig-zagging up the mountain: The Trollstigen
Above Bergen, a little further north, lies Norway's most famous serpentine road - and it lives up to its name. The Trollstigen (Troll Ladder) is a route with eleven curves and a gradient of about 12 percent. If you don't get sick during the turbulent ascent, you will be rewarded at the top of the viewing platform with a magnificent view of the surrounding mountains and can see all the way down to the starting point of the route, which is also a magnificent sight.
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Natural spectacle high up in the north: The Aurora Borealis
The north of the country is particularly popular in autumn and winter, as this is when you are most likely to see the Northern Lights during the cold, clear winter nights. Popular destinations include the area around Tromsø and the Lofoten Islands, a group of around 80 islands that are all connected by bridges and tunnels. If you want to experience the Aurora Borealis, wrap up warm and head for a high vantage point, of which there are fortunately several. One also needs luck to see them, as the northern lights only appear rarely and the conditions have to be right: No clouds should cloud the starry night, then you will experience a natural spectacle of green, yellow and blue lights that you will never forget.
If your route takes you to Tromsø, don't miss out on exploring the largely untouched nature. There are reindeer everywhere and caution is advised when driving, as they like to run onto the road. But also the fauna in the North Sea is absolutely worth seeing: Those who take a boat tour here have the possibility to observe orcas and killer whales in the turquoise blue water. A special highlight is certainly a tour with a ship of the famous Hurtigruten fleet. From the charming mail ships of Norway you can not only watch the animals but also the northern lights in a unique ambience.
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