NORWAY
The Astonishing Land of the Fjords
So what is a Fjord?
Fjord is one of the few Norwegian words that have become international, especially in English where it is used directly.
A fjord is a deep, narrow and elongated sea or lakedrain, with steep land on three sides. If the geological formation is wider than it is long, it is not a fjord. Then it is a bay or cove.
The fjords were formed by the giant glacier tongues that through several ice ages have shaped the landscape. A fjord is thus a U-shaped undersea valley,
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In this photo i am cruising the Nærøyfjord in a rib boat, which is the narrowest Fjord in the world.
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But Norway is so much more than the Fjords, it is such a picture perfect country, with so much to do, loads of adventure, great food, art, and lovely people! I was so lucky to have experienced this slice of heaven.
A SECLUDED PEACEFUL FIRST STOP
Firstly we decided to stay at Solstrand Hotel and Bad for some relaxation and spa time (we had a hectic program before Norway). And it was just the right place. The gardens are beautiful and the spa and wellness area just right. The highlight is their heated outdoor infinity pool with views of the fjord. The rooms are decorated modestly but the views were just lovely. I recommend staying at Solstrand at the end of your trip to relax after all the adventure you will have. to take the Fløibanen Funicular that goes up Fløyen Mountain for panoramic views and hiking trails.
BERGEN
Next we drove to Bergen city and we stayed at Bergen Bors Hotel, centrally located, beautiful interiors, and they have a Michelin star restaurant. As a European City of Culture and World Heritage City, Bergen offers world-class experiences and culture. Located in the heart of the fjords, Bergen has the ideal combination of nature, culture and interesting urban attractions.Take the Fløibanen Funicular that goes up Fløyen Mountain for panoramic views and hiking trails.
BRYGGEN IN BERGEN
Bryggen was built after the great fire in 1702 and is included on UNESCO's World Heritage List. The world heritage site consists of the old Hanseatic wharf and buildings, and one of the best known urban areas from the Middle Ages in all of Norway. Hidden behind the iconic Bryggen front lies a hidden world of passages, small shops, galleries and artist studios, and this is where this photo is taken.
BERGEN FOOD SCENE
The food in Bergen is amazing, and i really recommend you going to the fish market, the restaurant Fjellskal was wow wow wow! And if you are a fan of hot dogs like we are you have to eat at the king of hot dogs (photo), Trekroneren. You can thank me later. Now to the fancy restaurants; Lysverket is a restaurant located in the beautiful art museum. Run by chef/owner Christopher Haatuft, it was newly awarded with its first Michelin star. Loved every artsy bite.
BIKING FROM MYRDAL TO FLAM
We took the train from Bergen on a scenic railway journey to Myrdal station. There we picked up our bikes and cycled down to Flåm. En route we stopped a million times to take in all the amazing and dramatic nature, steep hills, majestic waterfalls, and stunning viewpoints.I could easily say this was one of the highlights of our trip.
FLAM
The small picturesque village of Flåm, is situated innermost in the Aurlandsfjord and is home of the Flåm Railway. A ride on Flåmsbana is said to be one of the worlds most beautiful train journeys. There are so many activities to do in Flam and the surrounding area, like biking, hiking, longest zipline, cruising...and more.A place full of Viking history is the AEgir microbrewery, a very popular local brewery pub. The building is inspired by Norse mythology and reminiscent of a stave church (photo).
FJORD SAFARI
A RIB boat safari though Aurlandsfjord and up the Nærøyfjord.These fjords are two of the worlds most beautiful and dramatic fjords. There are maximum 12 passengers and a guide in each RIB boat, so it almost feels like you are on a private tour. The boat stops at several places en route and the guide tells interesting stories about the local history of the fjords (we had a really good guide, and actually he looked like a viking). You will also have a good chance of seeing some marine wildlife and birds in their natural element, we saw some seals!
STEGASTEIN VIEWPOINT
30 meter long, 4 meter wide platform, and 650 meters in altitude, you will get an incredible view over Aurland and the fjord landscape.Stegastein is one the most photographed viewpoints in the region.I recommend to take the shuttle bus from Flam up to the viewpoint, as the road is bendy and narrow.
VIKING VILLAGE NJARDARHEIMR IN GUDVANGEN
In the Viking village Njardarheimr you will experience an authentic village showing how the Vikings lived 1000 years ago when Gudvangen got its name. Here are no dressed up actors, but real Vikings of all ages who have the Viking era as a lifestyle. They know their history and have unique knowledge about the Viking life and would love to share it with you!
HOTEL 29|2 AURLAND (AND FARM)
Honoring traditions, yet merging them seamlessly with modern design and luxuries - this small family run boutique hotel offers something unique in the modern world; A quiet and quaint place to feel at one with yourself and nature once again.The hotel has ten rooms in four different buildings.I really loved this hotel and how much love has been poured into each detail. Photo is taken of one of the cabins and the owner Bjorn. Thank you Bjorn for showing us around and telling us about the fascinating history of the place and how much you are doing to ensure sustainable tourism.
STORFJORD HOTEL
You know when you enter a place and your jaw drops? This is Storfjord, Jaw Dropping beautiful.The views overlook the Storfjord and the Sunnmøre Alps. I would sit for hours enjoying the panorama. Here you feel at home, The rooms are spacious and a comfortable place to stay. An inspiration where Norwegian traditions meets modern design. Everyday the hotel prepares a gourmet fine dining experience using the best local produce. Activities are plentiful around the property like hiking, fishing, kayaking... but also it is a great base to explore some of the most famous attractions like Garangerfjord and the Atlantic Road. ​
AURORA BOREALIS
The northern lights, or the aurora borealis, are beautiful dancing waves of light that have captivated people for millennia. And it is on many people's bucket list or wish list! No one can guarantee seeing the lightsWe were so lucky to have experienced them from our hotel Storfjord one night in September! I started screaming as our Norwegian friend laughed when we told him we are planning on going to Lofoten Islands to see the lights, so we dropped Lofoten from the itinerary.The best place in Norway to see the Northern lights is North, like Svalbard, Tromso, Lofoten. September and March are statistically the best time since the solar activity that causes the Northern Lights is higher during that period.
ALESUND
One of Norway's most unique cities. Famous for its Art Nouveau architecture, Ålesund is the cultural centre of the Sunnmøre region. A devastating fire in 1904 left much of Ålesund in ashes.The rebuilding resulted in a city that contains some of Europe's best examples of Art Nouveau architecture.A very interesting way to see the city is by kayaking. Or you could hike up 418 steps to the Mount Aksla viewpoint.
STAY IN A LIGHTHOUSE!
The Room 47 of Hotel Brosundet is at the Ålesund’s Molja Lighthouse. Measuring only three meters across, this is where we stayed one night. Downstairs they built an elegant and amazingly compact bathroom. Upstairs is a circular bedroom with a custom-fitted bed.​You will have to walk around 5 min from the main hotel building to the edge of the Ålesund harbor. Unfortunately you have to carry your own bags so plan ahead.​But this was such a unique experience and i highly recommend it, maybe for 1 night only :)
DEVOLD
"there is no bad weather only bad clothing" i heard this several times in Norway, and the popular Norwegian brand has made garments since 1853
THE THIEF HOTEL, OSLO
STEALS YOU AWAY FROM EVERYDAY LIFE ! The Thief is a luxury hotel located in the heart of Oslo, Norway. This hotel offers guests a unique blend of modern sophistication and Scandinavian design, making it the perfect choice for travelers seeking a luxurious stay. This luxe Norwegian seaside gem feels like a chic art museum with works from renowned artists. The stylish rooms, nearby beach, rooftop terrace, and pampering spa treatments will steal you away for sure.
OSLO OPERA HOUSE
Please walk on the roof! The Norwegian nature is free for everyone to walk in, and The Oslo Opera House, which opened in 2008, was built as an extension to this idea. The often massive media attention created by the architecture of the Opera House has helped attracting internationally renowned opera and ballet performers to Oslo. The ever changing ensemble constantly consists of a fruitful combination of highly acclaimed national and international performers.
THE MUNCH MUSEUM, OSLO
The Munch Museum in Oslo is a must-visit destination for art lovers and cultural enthusiasts. It is dedicated to the works of the famous Norwegian painter, Edvard Munch, who is widely considered one of the greatest artists of the modern era. The museum houses an extensive collection of Munch's paintings, including his most famous work, "The Scream". Visitors can immerse themselves in the artist's world and explore his unique style and themes, which range from the deeply emotional to the fantastical. In addition to Munch's works, the museum also showcases a selection of contemporary art and exhibitions.
THE VIGELAND SCULPTURE PARK, OSLO
The Vigeland Sculpture Park in Oslo is a unique and beautiful outdoor museum, showcasing the works of Gustav Vigeland, one of Norway's most famous sculptors. The park is home to over 200 bronze, granite, and cast iron sculptures, arranged in a harmonious and thought-provoking display. Visitors can wander through the lush green park and admire the sculptures, which depict a wide range of human emotions and experiences, from joy and playfulness to anger and frustration. The centerpiece of the park is the "Monolith", a towering column of intertwined human figures that is sure to leave a lasting impression. Whether you're an art lover or simply enjoy being surrounded by nature, the Vigeland Sculpture Park is a must-visit destination in Oslo.