Norway's Highlights: September

A choice between two included excursions is offered during your visit to Flåm - please select your place on just one of these excursions. It is not permitted to book both option 1 and option 2 and doing so will result in the automatic cancellation of one excursion.

At the head of the Aurlandsfjord, a branch of the majestic Sognefjord, sits the idyllic village of Flåm. The village is famous for being home to the Flåm Railway – a masterpiece of engineering. This railroad connects the fjord region with the Bergen Line, the main railroad leading from Oslo to Bergen. The road you will walk along was built through Flåm Valley to transport materials when the railway was being built. There is very little traffic except for the occasional car travelling to one of the nearby farms or houses. You are more likely to see bicycles, as it has become increasingly popular to cycle through the valley.

The first part of the road leads you along the Flåm River, well-known for its salmon, and past several small fruit farms. Impressive waterfalls tumble down the mountain sides, including the Rjoandefossen waterfall, which has a total height of around 820 feet! After walking for a little over a mile you will reach Flåm Church, a timber construction built in 1667 with seating for 150 people. Enjoy views of the church’s exterior before returning along the same route, taking in more of Flåm’s special scenery as you stroll back to the cruise pier.

Additional Information

This excursion will involve walking approximately four miles in total with regular gradients and uneven terrain. A high level of physical fitness is required to participate in this excursion.

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

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

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

Please note: This excursion involves a coach journey of approximately one-and-three-quarter 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.

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 a little over one mile of essential walking on this excursion, involving uneven surfaces and steps. A good level of physical fitness is required to participate in this excursion.

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.

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 approximately three miles during this excursion, across flat, sometimes uneven ground. This excursion involves a coach drive of approximately 35 minutes in each direction.

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.

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.

Flåm is tucked away on the Aurlandsfjord, one of the inner arms of the Sognefjord – the longest fjord in Norway. This excursion takes you by boat through the inner part of Aurlandsfjord and into the beautiful Nærøyfjord – which was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2005.

A short stroll from your ship brings you to Vision of the Fjords, a state-of-the-art hybrid electric sightseeing boat with a comfortable lounge and spacious outside viewing areas. After boarding, Vision of the Fjords will quietly pull away from Flåm, passing by your ship and out into the Aurlandsfjord. On arrival at the Nærøyfjord, take in views of steep mountainsides, waterfalls and narrow passages. Your vessel’s panoramic windows, outside viewing areas and quiet engines are perfect for appreciating the natural beauty that surrounds you.

At the head of the fjord is Gudvangen, a small settlement where you will disembark Vision of the Fjords. Here, enjoy the view from across the fjord and perhaps purchase a souvenir before stepping onto your awaiting coach. Your return drive to Flåm will take you through two long tunnels – the first being the Gudvanga tunnel, one of Norway’s longest at over seven miles in length.

Additional Information

The walking distance between the cruise pier and your sightseeing boat will be up to 400 yards. Vision of the Fjords is not exclusive to Saga. The vessel is fully accessible for wheelchair users. Your coach journey will involve driving through underground tunnels for approximately twenty minutes. This excursion may operate in reverse.

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.

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.

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 half a mile 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.

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.

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.

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.

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 walk behind the curtain of water without getting wet. Your drive continues to the village of Norheimsund. 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. This excursion will involve periods of scenic coach travel, with the longest being approximately two hours.

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

Please note: 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.