Beauty of the Fjords

Set off on a scenic drive through the breathtaking Romsdal Valley, following the winding salmon river that carves through one of Norway’s most sought-after landscapes. 

Along the way, take in the dramatic, snow-capped peaks of Mount Romsdalshorn and Mount Trolltindane before arriving at the famous Troll Wall. This is the highest vertical and overhanging wall in Europe and climbers from all over the world visit here to test their skills. From here, continue to the village of Bjorli, a popular Norwegian ski resort, where you’ll have time for a short stop. 

Then, relax on the return journey to Åndalsnes, retracing your route through the picturesque Romsdal Valley.

Additional Information

Most of the sightseeing will be from your tour vehicle with walking at your discretion during your short stops.

This short panoramic drive serves as a perfect introduction to the city of Bergen. Begin with a drive through the old districts of Sandviken and Skuteviken - once areas of industry - before continuing along the peninsula of Eidsvaag, boasting scenic views of the surrounding mountains. In the city centre you will pass St Mary’s Church before arriving at the famous Bryggen. This UNESCO-listed district is a colourful reminder of the important role that Bergen played as a member of the Hanseatic League. Your drive continues past the Fish and Flower Market before stopping on the Nordnes peninsula to take in views of the old Hanseatic quarter. Continue up into the rugged hills and pause at Helleveien to take in the views of the islands that surround Bergen. Returning to the city, you will pass the 13th-century Haakson’s Hall and the Rosenkrantz Tower.

Additional Information

Most of the sightseeing on this excursion is from your tour vehicle. Walking during your short stop is at your discretion.

Step aboard the Golden Train for a scenic ride through some of the most scenic mountain formations in Norway. 

After walking the short distance to the railway station in Åndalsnes, board the train and ride 35 miles along the line to Bjorli, while admiring the picture-postcard scenes from the large windows. The Golden Train gets its name from a daring mission in April 1940. As Norway faced invasion, soldiers and volunteers raced through Romsdalen by train, protecting over 50 tonnes of gold from enemy forces - safeguarding the nation’s wealth in a true act of bravery. Your ride will take you along the course of the Rauma River, ascending the Romsdal Valley and passing the Horn of Romsdal and the 'Troll Wall' mountain face. Enjoy views of waterfalls, cross bridges, and ride through two spiral tunnels that allow the train to ascend further up into the valley. 

After stepping off the train at Bjorli Station, take some time to leisurely explore this mountain town. Soak in the scenery before heading back to the station for your return journey to Åndalsnes. With another chance to enjoy the landscapes along the way, you’ll arrive back where your guide will stroll with you to your ship.

Additional Information

This excursion will involve essential walking of approximately 600 yards, on mostly flat, paved terrain. Further walking in Bjorli is at your discretion. The train journey will take approximately 50 minutes in each direction with around 30 minutes of free time in Bjorli.

This full-day adventure follows the Atlantic Ocean Road, renowned as one of the world’s most scenic drives. Set off from Åndalsnes by coach, following the Isfjorden to Åfarnes, where a short ferry ride takes you to Sølsnes. 

From there, enjoy a 90-minute drive packed with scenery, crossing bridges and passing through an underwater tunnel, before reaching the highlight of your tour, the Atlantic Ocean Road. As you embark on your journey along the route, get ready to capture photos of the surrounding scenery before you pause at a viewpoint along the way. Opened in the 1980s, the Atlantic Ocean Road spans nearly five miles, bringing you close to the raw power of the Atlantic. Nicknamed “The Road in the Ocean,” this winding route rises and falls from islet to islet across the boundless sea. 

Next, stop in the village of Bud for a two-course light lunch at a local restaurant. Enjoy a fish soup made with local salmon, served with homemade bread, followed by dessert and a choice of tea or coffee. Afterwards, reboard the coach for the return journey, passing through the fishing village of Elnesvågen before taking the ferry from Sølsnes back to Åfarnes. From there, continue by coach to Åndalsnes.

Additional Information

Most of the sightseeing is from your tour vehicle. A short walk of approximately 100 yards is required to reach the viewpoint at the Atlantic Ocean Road, and the lunch venue. The walkway at the Atlantic Ocean Road viewpoint may be slippery when wet. There are a few steps to negotiate to reach the lunch venue. The Atlantic Ocean Road is narrow with a number of curves; therefore this excursion is not suitable for those who suffer from motion sickness. Most dietary requests can be catered for at the lunch venue. Please request this at the Explore Ashore desk on board your ship at least 48 hours before your excursion.

Visit a traditional farm, sample local delicacies and experience a true slice of authentic Norwegian life. Perched in the mountains of Isfjorden, Woldstad Farm has been run by the Woldstad family since 1654, made up of 12 buildings including a boathouse and a summer barn. Your host will welcome you and provide you with an insight into life on the farm. 

Get a true taste of Norwegian culture with stories from the farm, homemade specialities, and local treats. Tastings take place in a converted barn-turned-restaurant and change with the seasons. This may include svele pancakes with homemade jam, local cheese or apple and blueberry pie. With a demonstration, you will get to try baking your own svele! 

Before leaving the farm, take some time to explore the farm shop and local art gallery.

Additional Information

Approximately 500 yards of walking is required, much of which will be on uneven ground. Visitors are required to negotiate some steps too. There is a short coach transfer to and from the farm, taking approximately ten minutes. The transfer is not accompanied by a guide and you will be met at the farm by your hosts. The refreshments served will vary, depending on availability during the season.

Visit the ancient Rødven Stave Church, one of the few remaining stave churches in Norway, before viewing the famous ‘Troll Wall’. Leaving Åndalsnes by coach, you’ll pass through the village of Isfjorden, known for its quaint clothing and woodworking factories, before continuing through Torvikeidet and Eidsbygda. 

Your journey leads to the historic Rødven Stave Church, a preserved medieval landmark. Dating back to 1300, Rødven Stave Church stands proudly on its original site, protected by the Society for the Preservation of Ancient Norwegian Monuments. These wooden stave churches are icons of medieval Norwegian architecture, built with tall wooden columns, or “staves,” supporting steep, layered roofs. Once, over 1,000 of them spread across Norway, but many disappeared after the plague left villages abandoned and others outgrew their small churches. You will have the opportunity to step inside and discover the unique architecture and atmosphere belonging to one of only 30 surviving stave churches in Norway. 

Before heading back to the port, you’ll make a short stop at Trollveggen (the Troll Wall). With its 3,300-foot vertical and overhanging wall, it is Europe's highest perpendicular rock face.

Additional Information

There will be approximately 300 yards of essential walking during this excursion with some uneven ground and a couple of steps to access the church.

See the sights in and around the small village of Geiranger on this panoramic drive, accompanied by fjord and mountain views. 

Leaving your ship behind, travel past the octagonal 19th-century Church of St Geiranger – whose angular architecture contrasts with the surrounding rugged hillscape. Pass alongside the fjord before reaching Eagle’s Road, where 11 hairpin bends wind their way up through the mountains. Pause to enjoy the view at the aptly named Eagle Bend – looking upwards, you may be able to spot the swooping form of a bird of prey. Return along the same route, passing through Geiranger, to reach your next stop at the Flydal Viewpoint. This scenic spot offers one of Norway’s most popular views, taking in the village far below and your ship anchored in the Geirangerfjord, surrounded my dramatic mountains. 

A short drive will bring you back to Geiranger and your ship.

Additional Information

Walking during your short stops is at your discretion. At the Flydal Viewpoint you can choose to explore further, which will involve some uneven terrain and steps. Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed. This excursion is not recommended for vertigo sufferers and those prone to travel sickness, due to the winding mountain roads.

The Geirangerfjord is without doubt one of the most fascinating sights in Norway. Mountains tower above you on both sides with numerous waterfalls cascading down the mountain side. From the pier start climbing the road to the Flydalsjuvet Gorge from where you can admire this remarkable fjord-community from a different angle. 

Continue uphill past Lake Djupvatn (translated to English the name Djupvatn means “deep lake”) and up the hairpin road to the summit of Mount Dalsnibba, from where you’ll have a spectacular view of the Geirangerfjord far below and the magnificent mountain peaks all around. From the summit, almost 5000 feet above sea level, you will drive carefully down the same road. 

Returning to Geiranger, you pass along the fjord side before the road suddenly starts winding up the mountainside in 11 hairpin-bends. At the uppermost bend, called the Eagle's-Bend, stop to enjoy the more spectacular views in front of you. In the distance you may see old farms, stubbornly clinging on narrow shelves high above the fjord. For generations families made their living there, and today great efforts are being made to restore and preserve these relics of the past.

Additional Information

This excursion follows the same route as the 'View of Geirangerfjord' excursion, but with the addition of the visit to Mount Dalsnibba. It is not recommended that you book both excursions. This excursion is not recommended for vertigo sufferers and those prone to travel sickness due to the winding mountain roads. Walking on this excursion is mainly at your discretion. Views are subject to favourable weather conditions.

Geirangerfjord is considered to be the site of secular pilgrimage for those in search of fantastic fjordic views. It is a haven of tranquillity flanked by the towering rocky hills. 

On this tour, enjoy a challenging – but rewarding - hike above the fjord, behind a waterfall and back down for some delicious tea and waffles. Begin with a walk out of Geiranger, along country roads, to Westeras Farm which offers views across the fjord. Continuing your walk for approximately 30 minutes, you will likely hear the Storseterfossen waterfall before you see it. A cascade of water bursts out of the cliffside, thundering down to join the waterway below. Enjoy an up-close experience by taking the path which passes behind the curtain of water before continuing up to Westerasfjellet Mountain, towering over 800 feet above the village. From here, Geiranger and its fjord appear like a scale model. 

Your final stop along the way is at a local cafe, located within an old farm, for traditional Norwegian waffles and a choice of tea and coffee. After an excellent opportunity to take the weight off your feet and enjoy a sweet treat, continue along the main road to your awaiting tour vehicle, ready to transfer you back to the port, having challenged yourself and been suitably rewarded with magnificent views.

Additional Information

This is a very strenuous hike and you must have an excellent level of physical fitness and mobility to take part. You will cover approximately five miles and encounter uneven terrain and steep gradients. Outdoor clothing and hiking shoes are essential. This excursion may be cancelled in the event of bad weather for safety reasons.

Often described as ‘the world’s most beautiful fjord’, Geirangerfjord is certainly one of Norway’s natural masterpieces. This excursion provides an opportunity to experience the fjord in a unique way. A walk from the ship will take you to the kayak centre, where you’ll be given a life jacket and a safety briefing before taking to the water in a two-person kayak. Your guide will lead the way as you head out into the fjord – a location that is even more impressive at water level. Gaze up at the steep mountain walls, as high as 4900 feet in places, where you can spot farms perched high on the rocky ledges and get up close to waterfalls cascading into the fjord. You’ll pause regularly for your guide to tell you stories about the history of Geiranger, its nature and its people. 

After this experience, you’ll head back to the kayak centre where you can stroll back to the ship.

Additional Information

Kayaking is a physically demanding activity with participants needing to have a high level of fitness and upper body strength. Previous kayaking experience is not necessary, but you must be a competent swimmer to take part and not suffer from any existing back, arm, or shoulder pain. Two-person kayaks are used, and individual participants will be paired together or with a guide. You will spend approximately two hours on the fjord. There will be a walk of approximately half-a-mile in each direction between the cruise pier and kayak centre.

Experience the beauty of Geirangerfjord from the water on this fun and exhilarating excursion. A short walk will bring you to your rigid inflatable boat (RIB), where you will meet your captain guide who will provide you with some safety instructions and you'll be fitted with a water and windproof buoyancy suit. 

Then it’s time to step on board your boat for this unique experience. Feel the wind in your face as the boat speeds up and glides along the fjord. Slowing down, your captain will point out the small farms clinging to the mountains alongside the fjord and take you as close as possible to the Seven Sisters and Bridal Veil waterfalls – a truly unforgettable experience. 

Finally, return to dry land for the short stroll back to your ship.

Additional Information

This excursion involves walking a total distance of approximately 500 yards, with a gangway and a short uneven grassy walk up unmade steps to the changing area and boats. You must be able to climb in and out of the boat unaided. We do not recommend this excursion for those suffering with back problems as the ride can get a little bumpy.

Experience Norway from the top of Mount Hoven as the Loen Skylift takes you from fjord to sky in just five minutes. Departing from Nordfjordeid by coach, sit back and enjoy the scenery as you head alongside the Innvikfjord, a branch of the Nordfjord. Arriving at the Nos viewpoint, pause to take in the views over the Nordfjord region. 

After some time to capture the memory with your camera, your drive continues to Loen. Since opening in 2017, Loen Skylift has become one of Norway’s most celebrated attractions. Arrive at the Fjord Station in the small village of Loen. Here, you will join a scenic five-minute cable car ride and start your ascent to the top of Mount Hoven at a height of over 3300 feet. On arrival at the Mountain Station, you will be greeted with a 210-degree panoramic view overlooking Mount Skåla and Lake Lovatnet in the east, Jostedalsbreen Glacier and Olden in the south, and the Nordfjord, winding its way towards Stryn in the west. Take some time to appreciate the view at your leisure. 

Finally, the cable car brings you back down to the fjord-side to meet your tour vehicle. On your return to Nordfjordeid you will pass Hornidal Lake, which is Europe’s deepest at 1686 feet.

Additional Information

This excursion involves minimal essential walking and the distance you walk is at your discretion during time at the summit. Loen Skylift is fully accessible for those using walking aids or wheelchairs. Views are subject to weather conditions on the day of your visit.

Your guide will meet you at the quayside, ready to introduce you to the fjord-side town of Nordfjordeid. Begin your walk alongside where the River Eid merges with the fjord, granting the town its name. Pass by Malakoff, a former military camp which is now used to host a popular annual rock festival. Your guide will point out several memorials to fallen soldiers and the statue ‘Sørgande Mor’, depicting a grieving mother. Strolling through the old town area of Eidsgata, you will notice the many small wooden houses here which lead to the old church, dating back to 1849. Finally, it is time for a visit to the aptly named Sagastad Museum. The museum is home to a reconstruction of the Myklebust Viking ship, the largest Viking ship ever found in Norway. Spend some time browsing the exhibition and perhaps step onboard the 98ft ship. A short walk will bring you back to the quayside, or you may choose to continue your exploration of Nordfjordeid independently.

Additional Information

Expect to walk a little over one mile during this excursion on mainly even and flat terrain and at a moderate pace.

Enjoy a scenic drive through the scenery surrounding Nordfjord, without the need to walk long distances. Board your tour vehicle at the quayside and begin your scenic journey, accompanied by a commentary from your local guide. Winding your way through the quaint villages and rugged mountains, you’ll make photo stops along the way at the Kvalen and Nos viewpoints, which boast views from over 1,600 feet above sea level. As you approach the furthest reaches of the Nordfjord, a short stop will be made in the pretty fjord-side town of Stryn before you continue inland towards Lake Hornidal. As well as Europe’s deepest lake at 1,686 feet, this vast body of water is also Europe’s clearest lake as it contains no glacial runoff. Take in lake views framed by snow-capped mountains before returning to Nordfjordeid.

Additional Information

This is a coach-based excursion with most of the sightseeing taking place from your vehicle. Expect to walk approximately 100 yards in total during your short stops. This excursion includes several tunnels and some windings roads which may not be suitable for guests who suffer from vertigo or travel sickness.

Join a half-day excursion to the Stadlandet peninsula, known for its beaches, dramatic weather and unique cultural history. Begin with a drive from Nordfjordeid, heading west alongside the Nordfjord before continuing inland. Enjoy views of lakes, mountains and small villages before arriving on the Stadlandet peninsula. Your first stop is at the historic coastal village of Selje. With less than 700 inhabitants, Selje retains its authentic, local town traditions and due to its remote location, is not considered a tourist hotspot. Enjoy some free time here, perhaps taking a stroll along the white sands of Selje Beach. Returning to your tour vehicle, continue to the West Cape. This is Norway´s westernmost point with a mainland connection, towering over 1600 feet above the Atlantic. On a clear day, you will have a panoramic view far around and below, including the fierce waters of the Stadhavet Ocean, the Sunnmøre Alps, the Hornelen Peak and the Ålfot glacier in the background. On your return journey to Nordfjordeid, you’ll pass through the quaint village Bryggja, nestled on the northern shore of Nordfjord.

Additional Information

At each stop, walking is at your discretion but expect to walk approximately half a mile in total if you choose to fully explore each location. There are no refreshments served during this excursion, therefore it’s recommended that you bring a packed lunch with you. This excursion will involve a scenic coach journey of approximately 90 minutes on the outward journey and two hours on the return journey.

Join a water safari on the Nordfjord to get as close as possible to the natural treasures of Norway. Your captain and guide will meet you at the pier and show you to your rigid inflatable boat (RIB), just a few steps away. After a short safety brief, you will be provided with a flotation suit, life jacket and goggles before stepping onboard and taking a seat. As you depart from the harbour, you’ll enjoy passing views of your ship and the village of Nordfjordeid. 

Moving out into the fjord and into the open water, the pace will soon pick up. The scenery swiftly changes as the townscape is replaced with views of the fjords and the surrounding mountains. There will be several stops during the trip, providing both photo opportunities and the chance for your guide to provide some commentary on each area. A short stop will also be made at a salmon farm where you will have a small taste of Norwegian smoked salmon. Heading further out into the Nordfjord, you will arrive at a waterfall where you may wish to taste the fresh glacier water. 

After your adventure, return to Nordfjordeid and your ship.

Additional Information

There will be minimal walking during this excursion, but a good level of mobility is required to embark and disembark the boat unaided. This excursion takes place onboard a rigid inflatable boat (RIB) with open- air seating for up to 12 passengers. The boat can travel at hide speeds and therefore this excursion is not recommended for those suffering with back or neck discomfort as the ride can get a little bumpy.

As the highest mountain road in Norway, The Sognefjell Mountain Pass offers unrivalled views across Jotunheim National Park and is home to 27 of the country’s highest peaks. It has been awarded the status of a National Tourist Route due to the spectacular and wild mountain scenery it passes through. Your journey begins with an ascent from Fortun to Sognefjellet Mountain, where you will be able to see historic sites and waterfalls before arriving at the mountain plateau. Enjoy a stop here to take in the impressive scenery that surrounds you. You’ll also learn a little of the road’s history, whose tarmac was laid by a group of 200 unemployed youths in the 1930s before opening to traffic in 1938. You’ll return to Skjolden via the same route.

Additional Information

Most of the sightseeing will be from your tour vehicle with walking at your discretion during any short stops. We recommend a warm jacket and sturdy footwear, as snow may be encountered.

Some of Skjolden's most beloved residents are, in fact, llamas. This unique excursion will introduce you to them and the beautiful nature that surrounds Skjolden. 

From your ship, walk with your guide over the Fortun River on your way into the Mørkid Valley. Your destination is the Skjolden Llama Farm, where you will meet some lovable llamas and learn about life on the farm. The owner also grows raspberries in season and has a flock of sheep – an old Norse breed. With the assistance of some volunteers from your group, the llamas will be gathered into a small area of the field and haltered. After some handling instructions, team up with a llama and walk at a leisurely pace along the riverbank. Simon Page, the owner of the farm, is originally from England. He has been farming in Skjolden since 2002 and will accompany you on your walk. Back at the farm, return your llama to the field and take some time to relax with a hot or cold beverage and cookies. 

Finally, say goodbye to your new friends and stroll back into Skjolden village. Return to the ship, or if time allows, stay in town to shop or explore independently.

Additional Information

The walk will cover approximately two miles with some gradients and uneven surfaces. Outdoor clothing and footwear are essential and, depending on the conditions on the day, you may get dirty. Whilst the llamas are used to visitors, it is important to follow the instructions provided by your host while in their company. A high level of physical fitness is required to participate.

Walk from the ship to the very end of Sognefjord and through the centre of Skjolden. 

This village lies in the very heart of Norway, at the foot of the tallest mountains of Northern Europe – the Jotunheimen Range. From here, a fairly short hike takes you through unspoiled nature up to Sengjaberget, the Bedrock Viewpoint some 400 feet above town. The reward for the climb is a seemingly endless panoramic view over Eidsvannet Lake, Skjolden, and Eide Farm. The latter is one of the largest farms in the area, pivotal in this area where a living is eked out on steep, fjord-side toeholds. The far-reaching view includes the turquoise waters of Lustrafjord, framed by lush green mountains on either side. 

Your return journey follows a similar route with a descent.

Additional Information

The hike requires approximately two miles of walking with an elevation gain of approximately 400 feet. You will encounter some uneven ground and steep gradients. An excellent level of physical fitness is required and participants should wear sturdy, outdoor footwear. Layered clothing is recommended, along with a hat and gloves.

This excursion combines two of Norway’s special traditions – the iconic stave churches and the country’s vital shipbuilding industry. From Skjolden, your coach will take you along the southern bank of the Lustrafjord while you relax and enjoy the passing scenery. 

Arriving in the town of Urnes, you will visit Norway’s oldest and most highly-decorated stave church, built around 1130 AD and added to UNESCO’s World Heritage List in 1979 – Norway’s first addition to the list. The church has a scenic setting on the shores of the Lustrafjord, with a backdrop of towering mountains. Take some time to appreciate this peaceful location before visiting inside the church, where your guide will point out the intricate decorations and carvings of lions, serpents and dragons that adorn the walls. 

After your visit, continue to the nearby Ornes Shipyard, where you can look forward to a guided tour of the workshop. Here you will learn about both modern and historical shipbuilding techniques that root back to the Viking era. Many of these ancient traditions are kept alive at the shipyard today. Finally, travel back to Skjolden along the ‘Romantic Road’ on the south side of the Lustrafjord, which offers views of lush landscapes and picturesque villages.

Additional Information

This excursion will involve a drive of approximately 50 minutes in each direction along the same route. Expect to walk approximately 500 yards in total during your stops. Accessing the church involves walking on grassy terrain which is on a gradient. There are up to five steps to negotiate at each venue. This excursion will involve standing for up to two hours with very few seating opportunities available. Depending on the number of participants, it may be necessary for the group to split into two, with one visiting the shipyard first.

Jostedal National Park is home to Nigardsbreen Glacier, which spreads out across 300 square miles. Your journey will take you from Skjolden to above the thaw line. You’ll see a varied landscape, firstly as you journey along the fjord which is surrounded by lush green scenery, then through the Jostedal Valley, with its traditional agricultural scenery. 

Continue to Jostedal Glacier National Park, the largest ice field in mainland Norway and a remnant from the last ice age, some 18,000 years ago. Situated at the foot of the Nigardsbreen Glacier is the Breheim Glacier Centre, an information centre for the National Park. The centre features exhibitions, a souvenir shop, cafe and a view of the glacier. Enjoy some free time to explore here independently. 

Afterwards, continue to the Nigardsbreen Nature Reserve where a stop will be made to see the mighty Nigardsbreen Glacier in the distance (approximately two miles away). The glacier is one of the ‘arms’ stretching from the Jostedal Glacier into the valley, although it has retreated considerably in recent years.

Additional Information

This excursion will involve a drive of approximately one hour in each direction, which will involve some tunnels and winding mountain roads. You will need to walk approximately 500 yards in total.

Join an adventurous trip in a RIB (rigid inflatable boat), in the company of a local guide. Feel the breeze in your hair and enjoy beautiful views of the fjord, mountains and waterfalls. The tour starts at Skjolden Brygge and takes you along the north shore of the Lustrafjord. 

From the fjord you will have fine views of the farms and villages where people have worked for centuries. There will be short stops at various places of interest along the way, allowing you to take photographs and learn about local history. These should include the old Otta Tunnel, the village of Sørheim and the old juice factory Lerum. A highlight of your trip is the stunning Feigumfossen waterfall, 715 feet high. If you are lucky, porpoises and fjord seals may come up to the RIB boat to greet you! 

Your ride back to Skjolden takes you along the south side of the fjord, passing more attractions and waterfalls along the way.

Additional Information

You will spend approximately one hour out on the fjord. A warm suit with a hood, goggles and a life jacket will be supplied. Views will depend on the weather, and wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed. You may get wet from sea spray. We have graded this excursion as 'Moderate' because you must be able to climb in and out of the RIB boat unaided, and additionally you will need to walk up to 800 yards from the cruise ship to the landing-stage where you board the RIB boat. Water conditions can be rough, making the ride very bumpy, so it is not advisable to join this tour if you suffer with back problems.

Go sightseeing around the beautiful Hardanger region on this excursion. First take a short orientation drive through Bergen, passing the Fish and Flower markets, the 13th-century Bergenshus Fortress, medieval King Håkon’s Hall and the Rosenkrantz Tower. Leaving the city behind, your scenic journey cuts through a variety of landscapes following the Hardangerfjord and passes through quaint market towns along the way to Hardanger. After passing the Kvamskogen mountain plateau and Fossen Bratte waterfall you will pause at a second waterfall, Steinsdalsfossen, where you can actually walk behind the curtain of water without getting wet. Your drive continues to the village of Øystese. Hardanger is renowned as a prime fruit-growing region, and is especially prized for its apples, which have been growing here since the 14th century. You can admire the fruit farms on the hillside of the fjord before making a stop for a light lunch. Your return drive to Bergen will take you past an abundance of stunning scenery.

Additional Information

Much of the walking at Steinsdalsfossen will be over uneven ground and there are a few steps and thresholds to negotiate. In addition, if you choose to walk behind the waterfall there will be a 200-yard walk, up a steeply sloped path that can be slippery. There will be a short walk and some steps at your lunch venue. Views will depend on the weather.

Think of Bergen and the chances are that Bryggen will spring to mind: with its colourful and historic houses flanking the quayside.

This enchanting area is the old wharf district of Bergen which grew up during the city’s rise as one the Hanseatic League’s major trading ports in the 14th century. Today some 62 buildings survive, offering a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past. The area has been ravaged by fire on several occasions and many of the buildings today date from the early 18th century. Despite this, the narrow passages and design of the wooden houses reflect the area’s medieval roots when the port rose to prominence.

On this walking tour you will start by passing the fortress of Bergenhus at the entrance to the harbour, parts of which date to the 13th century. You will also pass the 13th-century Coronation – or Hakon’s - Hall, before exploring Bryggen. Afterwards, take the Floibanen Funicular and rise 1,000 feet to the summit of Mount Fløyen from where you can enjoy stunning views of the city on a clear day.

Enjoy some time at leisure at the summit before descending back down into Bergen centre and strolling back to your ship.

Additional Information

This tour involves walking at least one-and-a-half miles across uneven cobbles. A good level of physical fitness and mobility is required to participate. Views are subject to weather conditions on the day.

Your guided walking tour begins with a stroll past the fortress of Bergenhus with the Coronation Hall, and along Bryggen, with all the old wooden merchants' buildings that once belonged to the German merchants of the Hanseatic League. Passing by the famous fish and flower market you will arrive at the Fløibanen Funicular. In only five minutes the funicular will take you to a height of 1,000 feet, from where you may enjoy magnificent views of Bergen on a clear day. From here set off on your hike towards Skomakerdiket Lake, the views getting more spectacular along the way. After approximately 45 minutes, you will reach Rundemanen from where you continue up to the highest point of Mount Fløyen, 1,400 feet above sea level. Return to the city centre by funicular before walking back through the city to the pier.

Additional Information

This tour is undertaken entirely on foot and involves walking a total distance of approximately six miles, including three hours of hiking over a variety of surfaces and inclining uneven paths, dirt tracks and woodland trails. Views will depend on the weather. Bottled water and Nordic walking poles, if desired, will be available for you to collect upon departure from the ship. A high level of physical fitness and mobility is required to participate.

Your excursion begins with a scenic drive through the city centre whilst your guide talks you through Bergen’s rich history. You will then take a thrilling five-minute cable car ride to the summit of Mount Ulriken, which at just over 2,000 feet is the highest of the seven mountains that surround Bergen. At the top you can admire far-reaching views, not just of the city, but also the fjords, sea and mountains beyond. A hot drink and sweet treat will be served in the cafe, followed by free time to appreciate the surroundings. After your cable car descent, return to your tour vehicle for a short drive outside of the city centre. 

Your second destination is the reconstructed Fantoft Stave Church, which was restored using traditional methods after a fire destroyed the original 12th-century building in 1992. Unique to Norway, the original timber stave churches were all built before the year 1300 and only 28 remain. Admire the church’s exterior and enjoy photo opportunities before stepping inside. Take some time to appreciate the intimate interior, with its small altar and Norse-inspired carvings. 

Finally, stroll back to your tour vehicle and return to Bergen.

Additional Information

At Mount Ulriken there may be a walk of up to 200 yards to reach the cable car station. Walking at the summit is at your discretion but will involve uneven terrain. You will remain standing during the cable car ascent and descent. Each carriage carries up to 50 passengers. Views are subject to weather conditions on the day. At Fantoft Stave Church there is an uphill walk on a gravel path for approximately 250 yards from the coach parking area to the church and back again. The church interior is dimly lit with some steps and thresholds. A good level of fitness and mobility is required to participate in this excursion. This excursion includes many of the sights seen on ‘An Introduction to Bergen’, so it is not recommended that you book both excursions.

On this once-in-a-lifetime tour, it’s chocks away as you take to the skies in a four-person seaplane, gaining an entirely unique perspective on the city. No runways are necessary for takeoff, and as Bergen’s vibrant colour comes to life in front of your eyes, you’ll notice the extensive mountain range which flanks the city. Pass above Ulriken – the highest of the seven mountains - and trace the rocky landscape before passing above the nine-mile waterway of Veafjord. You will also see part of the famous Hardanger fjord, cutting through the mountainous landscape. Throughout your high-flying sightseeing tour, your knowledgeable pilot will direct your attention to many sights not seen from the ground. This truly memorable tour finishes with a water landing. Return to the cruise ship, equipped with plenty of photos from your skyward adventure.

Additional Information

This excursion requires very little walking, although boarding the seaplane requires a good level of agility. You will need to step onto the plane’s floats and then negotiate two steps to board. This excursion is dependent on safe weather conditions and is therefore subject to cancellation and route changes. The actual flight time is approximately 30 minutes. You will be required to sign a Norwegian ‘terms of transportation’ form prior to departure. Some turbulence may be experienced during the flight.