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Sunset over the Aurlandsfjord- Haugesund
- Colourful Bergen
- Skjolden has a scenic fjordside setting
Scenic Norway
Spirit of Discovery departing Dover
28th July 2024
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No fly
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Chauffeur service
Discover Norway’s Heritage and Fjords
Follow in the wake of the Vikings on this voyage to Norway. Discover Haugesund amid the moors and mountains to uncover the saga of the first Viking kings. Cruise along the mighty Sognefjord, the ‘King of Fjords’, to visit the tiny fjordside village of Flåm and picturesque Skjolden, gateway to Jostedalsbreen National Park and the Jostedal Glacier. While Bergen greets cruisegoers with its colourful waterfront and UNESCO-listed wharf, which harks back to the days of the Hanseatic League
Your two included panoramic excursions will be in
- Flåm, Norway
- Bergen, Norway
Itinerary
Dover.
Embark Spirit of Discovery.
Depart 1700.
Spend the day at sea.
See what we have to offer at sea.
Haugesund, Norway.
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
Set between Bergen and Stavanger, the bustling maritime town of Haugesund was once a centre for herring fishing and now prospers from the wealth of North Sea oil. It is set in a region of outstanding natural beauty comprising moors, waterfalls and mountains.
This is the homeland of the Viking Kings, who ruled for 500 years. Norway’s founder, Harold Fairhair, is supposedly buried in Haugesund on a site marked by a national monument commemorating the unification of Norway. From here, you can head to Langfoss Waterfall to see the roaring cataracts.
Flåm ⚓, Norway.
Arrive 1000. Depart 2100.
The idyllic village of Flåm is hidden away at the end of the Aurlandsfjord, an arm of the Sognefjord. Fishing, kayaking, cycling and hiking amid the surrounding mountain and fjords are popular pastimes. The biggest draw though is the historic Flåm railway, which winds up from the fjord through the Flåm Valley for over 10 miles to Myrdal station. It is dubbed ‘the world’s most beautiful train journey’ as it passes high above deep ravines, snakes through mountain tunnels and passes the tumultuous Kjosfossen falls.
Included excursion
A scenic drive will reveal some of the finest views of the fjordland.Optional excursions
Travel aboard Flåm Railway, one of Europe’s most beautiful rail journeys.⚓ Land by launch or tender.
Skjolden ⚓, Norway
Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.
The picturesque village of Skjolden has a secluded setting at the end of Lustrafjord, a branch of Norway’s longest and deepest fjord, Sognefjord. Verdant mountains rear up behind this sleepy hamlet which acts as a gateway to three of the country’s most impressive national parks: Jotunheimen, Breheimen, and Jostedalsbreen. It is a region of immense natural beauty blessed with lush valleys, roaring falls and mainland Europe’s largest icecap, the Jostedal Glacier. Norway’s oldest stave church can also be visited in nearby Urnes – built in the 12th century, its portal is decorated with carvings from an even older stave church that once stood on this site.
Optional excursions
Join a trip to visit Jostedalsbreen National Park to view the Jostedal Glacier’s icy expanse.
⚓ Land by launch or tender.
Bergen, Norway.
Arrive 0800. Depart 1600.
Bergen’s historic waterfront, UNESCO-listed Bryggen, is graced by colourful gabled buildings that hark back to its days as a member of the Hanseatic League. The Hanseatic Museum, housed in one of the old warehouses, features antique furnishings for an insight into merchant life. The wharf neighbours Bergen’s old town of characterful 17th to 18th-century wooden houses that adorn cobbled lanes and attractive squares. An included panoramic excursion reveals one of the oldest buildings still standing, 12th-century St Mary’s Church.
Included excursion
Look forward to an included panoramic excursion of Bergen.
Spend the day at sea.
See what we have to offer at sea.
Dover.
Arrive 0730.
Disembark Spirit of Discovery after breakfast.
28th July 2024
Spirit of Discovery
2019
Year built
987
Guest capacity (maximum)
540
Ship crew
Britannia Lounge
Relax in comfort with a drink, and admire the spectacular panoramic views.
Enjoy fine dining
Enjoy world-class cuisine at no extra cost in a choice of four restaurants.
Spa
Indulge yourself with a spa treatment in one of our six treatment rooms.
The Library
A booklover’s paradise combined with an artisanal coffee-shop, it's the perfect spot to research your next port of call.
Time for you
Take advantage of tailored exercise regimes and bespoke one-to-one fitness sessions with our health and wellbeing expert.
Daily afternoon tea
Indulge with a sumptuous selection of sweet treats at the daily afternoon tea.
The Terrace
This elegant ‘secret’ garden area is the perfect setting to enjoy the fresh air any time of the day.
The Stegastein Viewpoint and Aurland - Included Excursion
Walking difficulty: Easy Activity
On this excursion, your tour vehicle will travel over the mountainous terrain that looms high above the scenic village of Aurland, allowing you to admire the dramatic scenery from the top. Begin by weaving and winding beside the Aurlandfjord, along one of Norway’s National Tourist Roads, flanked by picturesque scenery. You will soon arrive at the Stegastein Viewpoint, built in 2006 by the Norwegian National Tourist Road Project. Consisting of a laminated wooden ramp just 13 feet wide, you will have completely unobstructed views down towards Aurland, 2,100 feet below. The aim of the installation is to enhance the panorama and lift visitors ‘into open space’. Then continue back down to the fjord and village below. A short stop will be made in Aurland where your guide will point out the 13th-century stone church before continuing back to Flåm and your awaiting ship.
Additional Information
There will be a walk of approximately 200 yards at the viewpoint and walking during your stop in Aurland is at your discretion. This excursion involves driving on winding, mountain roads.
An Introduction to Bergen - Included Excursion
Walking difficulty: Panoramic tour
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.
Scenic Skudeneshavn
Walking difficulty: Strenuous Activity
Skudeneshavn is a hub of community, boasting olde-world charm based on the success of 19th-century herring harvests. White wooden houses are crowned by bright orange roofs, creating the picture-perfect subject for enthusiastic painters who seek to capture the architecture’s waterside reflection. Your panoramic drive to Skudenshavn first passes Haugesund’s pink City Hall, considered to be the most attractive such building in Norway. Continue through the older and more affluent districts, where rich ship owners lived in the 19th century, before crossing the Haugesund Bridge to the island of Karmøy. It is here that the Fishermen's Memorial can be found, dedicated to fishermen from Karmoy who have been lost at sea in American waters. You then continue to the charming old town of Skudeneshavn, consisting of 130 white timber houses originating from the 1800s, when herring-fishing was at its peak. Your guide will take you on a stroll through the streets of Gamle Skudeneshavn and share stories about the locals that lived here. Step inside the Mælandsgården Museum, providing a captivating insight into how the town grew throughout the 1800s. Returning to your coach, enjoy a scenic drive back to Haugesund and your ship.
Additional Information
The guided tour covers a distance of approximately one mile. You will be on your feet for a little over an hour and the walk involves cobbled and uneven ground, with steps and low thresholds inside the museum.
Langfoss Waterfall and the Akrafjord
Walking difficulty: Moderate Activity
This full-day adventure visits one of Norway’s most popular natural wonders, Langfoss Waterfall. Travel from Haugesund by coach, heading north-east into countryside before reaching the Åkrafjord. This 20-mile-long fjord is home to the Langfoss Waterfall and you will have your first glimpse of this impressive sight as your coach passes along the banks of the fjord. Arrive in Fjæra, at the tip of the fjord and board the sightseeing boat, MS Langfoss, which will take you across the fjord for a closer view of the falls. The water from Langfoss is said to have magical powers, giving people an energy boost and perhaps even making them more fertile! After approximately one hour on the water, the boat will drop you off at a nearby farm where you will alight your coach. From the farm you can enjoy a panoramic view across the fjord to the waterfall. Then, after a short drive you'll arrive at the nearby restaurant where you can look forward to a light buffet lunch, utilising many locally sourced ingredients. After your relaxing lunch head back towards Haugesund, pausing briefly in Haraldshaugen along the way. A national monument stands here to commemorates the Battle of Hafrsfjord in 872, traditionally regarded as the point when Norway was unified under the rule of King Harald Fairhair.
Additional Information
This excursion involves a coach journey of approximately one-and-three-qurter hours in each direction. There will be approximately 600 yards of essential walking during this excursion. This includes approximately 200 yards at the farm, which involves a slight incline and some uneven terrain. The boat’s outside viewing areas are accessed by up to 10 steep steps, but there are no steps to access the inside seating area. Water and tea or coffee is served with your lunch, but additional drinks can be purchased.
In the Footsteps of the Vikings
Walking difficulty: Strenuous Activity
Throughout history, the Vikings were regarded as fierce warriors, targeting churches as sites of plunder and violence. This image isn’t entirely inaccurate, however on their travels across the globe, they encountered contrasting cultures and brought back a new religion – Christianity. On this tour, discover the worldwide influence that Vikings had, and learn how farming provided the backbone of their domestic society. Begin with a short drive to the Nordvegen Historical Centre, where you will meet sorcerers, female warriors and even Norse Gods! Also visit St Olav’s Church, built in 1250 when Norway’s power was perhaps at its greatest. During the Second World War, the Germans wanted to tear down the church as it was a useful reference point for British pilots – a decision that was thankfully prevented. Leaving the church, walk to the Avaldsnes Farm, located on a small forested island. Here, see the longhouse, a boathouse built to contain a Viking warship, and discover the many methods of ancient farming. After your journey back in time, travel back to the port, perhaps with a new perspective on the Viking culture.
Additional Information
There will be over one mile of essential walking on this excursion, involving uneven surfaces and steps.
Reflections of the Occupation
Walking difficulty: Moderate Activity
On the half-hour journey to Forresfjord you first pass the pink City Hall, regarded as the prettiest in all Norway. You then drive through the older and most affluent area of the town where the wealthy ship owners lived in the 1800s, on your way to the Arquebus Museum. This interesting museum retells the dramatic history of the five dark years of occupation during World War II. Through a series of scenes, re-created using more than 100 mannequins dressed in wartime clothing, you can experience the reality of everyday life, including life on the home front, weapon drops, secret radio transmissions as well as the contribution of the Merchant Navy. See the reconstruction of a fully-equipped German coastal defence battery, as well as a showcase depicting the final hours of the war in Europe as two Russian tanks approach the Reichstag building in Berlin. Your guide will point out the main exhibits, and afterwards you will have the opportunity to explore the museum further at your leisure. On your return journey, stop at the Steinsfjellet viewpoint which overlooks Haugesund and the North Sea some 745 feet below.
Additional Information
This excursion will involve approximately half a mile of walking, with a few steps at the museum entrance which can be avoided by using the ramp. It should be noted however that there are a couple of smaller displays on the first floor which are only reachable by climbing flights of stairs.
Coastal Walk to Ryvarden Lighthouse
Walking difficulty: Strenuous Activity
The western coast of Norway is a veritable treasure trove of natural wonders. Seals climb out of the water to sun themselves on the rocks and seabirds swoop and soar, looking to catch their next meal. But this area is often unpredictable and proves dangerous for those passing through this narrow strait of water, punctuated by an archipelago: therefore, since 1849 a lighthouse has been a necessity for safe passage. On this tour, take in the cool, crisp air as you enjoy a leisurely stroll along the North Sea Trail. Disembarking from your tour vehicle in Molstrevag, follow your knowledgeable guide along the coastal path: keep your camera handy, a nosey seal might poke its head above the water. You’ll soon be met with the Ryvarden Lighthouse, one of 212 that guided sailors home. Automated in 1984, the lighthouse continues to be a welcome sight on the horizon for those seeking maritime guidance. At the lighthouse, relax with a refreshing beverage and visit the gallery or gaze out across the sea. After your stroll and visit to the lighthouse return along the same route to your coach and enjoy a scenic ride back to Haugesund.
Additional Information
You should expect to walk at least two miles on this tour, across flat, sometimes uneven ground. The drive to the coast takes approximately 35 minutes each way.
An Introduction to Haugesund
Walking difficulty: Easy Activity
This excursion introduces you to Haugesund, a small but vibrant Norwegian city, without the need to walk long distances. Among the sights you will pass is the City Hall, which is pastel-pink in colour and was built in 1931. It is located close to the most affluent area of the city where all the wealthy shipowners lived in the 1800s. You continue your tour to the north of Haugesund, towards Haraldshaugen. This is the place identified in Snorre Sturlason's (1178-1241) sagas as the site where Harald Fairhair is buried: it is also where Norway’s National Monument of Unification was erected in 1872, as part of the millennial celebrations to mark Norway’s unification as a kingdom. The last destination on this excursion will be the Steinsfjellet viewpoint, where you can admire a panoramic view of the surrounding Haugesund region.
Additional Information
Most of the sightseeing is from your tour vehicle and walking during your short stops is at your discretion. You will encounter some uneven ground at the Steinsfjellet viewpoint. Those wishing to go right up to the Haraldshaugen Monument will need to walk approximately 100 yards and negotiate more than 30 steps.
The Famous Flåm Railway
Walking difficulty: Easy Activity
On this easy-paced excursion, you can enjoy one of Europe’s most impressive and scenic train rides, savouring the journey without the worry of walking excessive distances. The Flåm Railway provides wonderful vistas of the mountains and waterfalls that characterise this beautiful part of Norway. In order to ensure the best possible view, the train will proceed slowly and even stop at the finest sections so you have time to take in the dramatic scenery and take photographs. See the stunning Kjosfossen Waterfall where, according to local legend, a ghostly female figure has occasionally been seen. Your train ride takes you 2,850 feet up a mountain gorge and reaches its destination at Myrdal, where you can alight for a few minutes to take photos of the snow-capped mountains and explore the station, or remain seated before returning directly to Flåm.
Additional Information
This excursion involves up to 300 yards' walking and a few steep steps to board the train. In places there can also be a wide gap between the platform and the train. A limited number of places are available for wheelchair users on a request basis. It is essential that you notify the Shore Excursion team on board the ship in advance if you intend using a wheelchair on this excursion. Please also be aware that the toilets on the train are not wheelchair-accessible and that it is not possible for wheelchair users to alight at the waterfall stop. Views will depend on the weather. Most of the intermediate halts have short platforms: when the train stops at these, some of the rear carriages may be in a tunnel. Anyone wishing to take photos at these stops may need to walk towards the front of the train.
The Flåm Railway Hike
Walking difficulty: Strenuous Activity
If you are looking for an active adventure, hiking through glorious scenery and taking a ride on one of the most beautiful railways in the world will certainly be for you! The Flåm Railway line is 12 and a half miles long, stretching from the Flam station at sea level, climbing more than 2,800 feet to Myrdal station at the other end. There are four levels and during your time on board the train you will be able to look down on the other three from the top one. After taking your seat in one of the pretty green carriages you will pass through the line’s longest tunnel at Naali, emerging to be greeted by the dramatic form of the Myrdalsberg Mountain before continuing to Kjosfossen Waterfall for a photo opportunity: at this natural wonder water drops over 300 feet to the river below, so make sure your camera is to hand! Disembark at Vatnahalsen Station, and enjoy refreshments at the nearby Vatnahalsen Hotel. Then from here, your hiking adventure begins downhill towards the valley floor. Following the river past the highest elevated farm of Kaardal which is only used during the summer months. Continue through further unspoilt nature, enjoying the fresh air and local birdsong before your return journey on the Flåm Railway from the Blomheller Station.
Additional Information
There will be at least three miles of essential walking across terrain which may at times be steep and uneven. We recommend that you bring water and a snack with you. There are restroom facilities on the train and at the hotel, but limited opportunities during the hike.
Viking Village and Tvinde Waterfall
Walking difficulty: Moderate Activity
Board your tour vehicle in the idyllic village of Flåm at the head of the Aurlandsfjord, a branch of the mighty Sognefjord. A short drive will take you through two long mountain tunnels to reach the small town of Gudvangen at the head of the UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord. Your drive continues along the Nærøy valley following a popular salmon fishing river. Soon you will reach the shores of the Oppheim Lake before passing through woodland and fertile areas to reach Tvinde waterfall. Take some time to appreciate the falls, which tumble over 500 foot down a stepped rock face. Return to Gudvangen, which is known as the place of Gods, set beside the Nærøyfjord, the fjord dedicated to Njord – the god for trading and sailing. Here you will visit a Viking village experience, taking you more than a thousand years back in time. The actor-hosts will give you an insight into how the Vikings lived and will entertain you with their skills and know-how in traditional handcrafts. After a guided introduction, take some time to explore the village at leisure. You may wish to have a chat with the Vikings or try your hand at axe-throwing or archery. Finally, return to your tour vehicle for the drive back to Flåm.
Additional Information
Expect to walk at least 500 yards at the Viking village with additional walking at your discretion. There is further walking of approximately 150 yards at the waterfall. Both locations have some uneven ground to negotiate.
Explore Narøyfjord by RIB
Walking difficulty: Moderate Activity
A short distance from Flåm is Narøyfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage fjord that is famous for its steep mountains, waterfalls and mountain-side farms. Most cruise ships can’t access the 11-mile fjord, so you will be stepping aboard a RIB (rigid inflatable boat), which seats up to 12 passengers. Your captain will also be your guide as you glide along the waters of this special natural wonder. The boat travels at high speed, with several stops along the way, providing you the opportunity to admire the spectacular scenery and enjoy the peace and quiet of the region.
Additional Information
The boat ride will be bumpy, therefore this excursion is not recommended for those with existing backpain or limited mobility. There will be a short walk along the pier to meet your boat and guide, and you must be able to climb in and out of the RIB boat unaided. A life jacket will be provided, and waterproof clothing is recommended because you may get wet during this activity.
Norway in a Nutshell
Walking difficulty: Moderate Activity
This comprehensive full-day sightseeing tour begins with a short walk along the pier to the railway station platform to board the train for a scenic journey on the Flåm Railway, passing through a narrow valley hemmed in by towering, snow-capped mountains. As you ascend, the train pauses at Kjosfossen, where you can disembark to take photographs of the tumbling waterfall. Change trains at Myrdal and join the Oslo to Bergen main line to the village of Voss, which is pleasantly situated beside Lake Vangsvatnet. A short walk will bring you to a local hotel where you can look forward to a two-course Norwegian lunch. Continue by coach through Norway’s dramatic scenery, stopping at another beautiful waterfall, Tvindefossen, before heading down through Stalheim Canyon. After pausing in Stalheim, begin the final part of your excursion, driving along a thrilling road that negotiates 13 hairpin bends in just one mile. Your return journey to Flåm passes alongside the UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord.
Additional Information
This excursion will involve up to 400 yards of walking from the pier to the designated train carriages and a few steep steps to board the train. In places there can also be a wide gap between the platform and the train. Views will depend on the weather. Most of the intermediate halts have short platforms: when the train stops at these, some of the rear carriages may be in a tunnel. Anyone wishing to take photos at these stops may need to walk towards the front of the train. In Voss, there is additional walking of approximately 500 yards. This excursion may operate in reverse and the duration may vary by as much as an hour, depending on train timetables. There may be a short wait at Myrdal Station between the two train journeys. This excursion involves driving on winding, mountain roads.
Sognefjell Mountain Scenery
Walking difficulty: Easy Activity
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.
Scenic Lustrafjord
Walking difficulty: Easy Activity
Norway’s Stave churches look like they’ve been plucked from the pages of a picture-book and are instantly recognisable with their timber walls and steeply sloping roofs. This excursion brings you to the oldest of them all: Urnes Stave Church, which was built in the 12th century and has been listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Journey from Skjolden by coach along the southern bank of the Lustrafjord. Enjoy the passing scenery before a short stop is made at Feigum to see the impressive 715-foot Feigum Waterfall.
Arrive at Urnes Stave Church, which has a scenic setting on the shores of Lustrafjord, with a backdrop of towering mountains. Take some time to appreciate this peaceful location before heading inside the church. Your guide will point out the intricate decorations and carvings of lions, serpents and dragons that adorn the walls. Afterwards, you’ll have the opportunity to browse and perhaps purchase some local produce at the Urnes Farm Shop. Thanks to its long summers and mild climate, this area produces flavour-packed fruits and berries. You’ll also have plenty of time to take photos of the fjord landscapes. Finally, your coach will board a ferry for a short fjord crossing to the sleepy Victorian village of Solvorn. From here you’ll head north through the picturesque villages of Gaupne and Luster and back to Skjolden.
Additional Information
Expect to walk approximately 500 yards in total during this excursion. At Feigum Waterfall, there is an optional short uphill walk to see the Feigum Waterfall and an uphill walk of approximately 100 yards to reach the church over grassy and uneven ground. There are steep steps to the entrance with no handrail.
Nigardsbreen Glacier
Walking difficulty: Moderate Activity
Jostedal National Park is home to Nigardsbreen Glacier, which spreads out across 300 square miles and 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.
RIB Adventure
Walking difficulty: Moderate Activity
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.
Skjolden Nature Walk
Walking difficulty: Strenuous Activity
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.
A Taste of Hardanger
Walking difficulty: Easy Activity
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.
Walking Tour and Summit Sights
Walking difficulty: Strenuous Activity
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.
Hiking Mount Fløyen
Walking difficulty: Strenuous Activity
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.
A Visit to Ovre Eide Farm
Walking difficulty: Moderate Activity
A short distance from central Bergen is Øvre Eide Farm, a family-run farm with roots back to the 16th century. This excursion offers an up-close experience with small-scale traditional farming, surrounded by picturesque scenery. After a short journey past Bergen’s attractive architecture and several of the city’s most notable landmarks, you continue through the countryside to Øvre Eide Farm. Enjoy a warm welcome from your traditionally dressed hosts while sipping on juice from fruit grown in the Hardanger region before a tour of the site. Hear all about life here at Øvre Eide, which has a peaceful setting beside Jordalsvatnet Lake. You then sit down to cakes created using local produce and served with custard, followed by two types of traditional almond pralines dipped in chocolate. Capture any final photos of the picturesque scenery before returning to the port and your awaiting ship.
Additional Information
Expect to climb at least three steps at the farm and walk approximately 500 yards. Depending on the conditions on the day, you may need to negotiate wet and slippery terrain. Refreshments served on the day may differ to those detailed in the description.
Fjord Sightseeing by Seaplane
Walking difficulty: Moderate Activity
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.28th July 2024