The second happiest nation on the earth (in keeping with the United Nations World Happiness Report) can be certainly one of my favorite nations! Itโs a troublesome alternative in such a pristine and exquisite nation, however I might like to share a few of its particular locations with you primarily based on my many visitsโฆ
1. The Fjords
The UNESCO-listed fjords are actually featured on many travellersโ bucket lists! I found that the gathering of steep, glacially-carved valleys have been critically breathtaking with very dramatic landscapes of towering cliffs, inexperienced hillsides, spectacular waterfalls and glowing blue waters, dotted with quaint villages with conventional picket homes. I liked how on unearthly serene they have been โ they have been a really peaceable escape from the hustle and bustle of on a regular basis life!ย
They have been positioned alongside the western coast of the nation, stretching from the southern area close to Stavanger to the northern reaches close to Tromsรธ and Bergen is named being the gateway to the Norway Fjords and is Norwayโs second-largest metropolis. They have been fashioned by glacial exercise over thousands and thousands of years, are are actually listed as UNESCO World Heritage websites.
I flew into Bergen and spent an idyllic two weeks right here, I went on a cruise to the majestic Geirangerfjord (which I assumed was essentially the most scenically spectacular of all of the fjords), hiked the famed Pulpit Rock and Trolltunga (the Instagram-famous trollโs tongue cliff!), kayaked within the serene waters of Nรฆrรธyfjord, marvelled on the cascading waterfalls in Flรฅm, witnessed the spectacular Northern Lights close to Tromsรธ, took a visit to Jostedalsbreen glacier (the biggest ice sheet in Europe) and explored the beautiful historic metropolis of Bergen which had an UNESCO-listed Bryggen Hanseatic wharf and fairly vibrant picket homes lining its outdated harbor.
Location: Western a part of the nation.
Finest time to go to: Spring and Summer season (for inexperienced landscapes, fjord cruises, and nice temperatures).
Actions on provide: Climbing, fjord cruises, kayaking, sightseeing, and visiting scenic viewpoints.
Lodging: Ullensvang Lodge, Molde Fjordhotell, and Lodge Aak.
Map Location and Instructions
My private highlightsโฆย
Visiting my favorite fjords which have been Sognefjord which was the longest, deepest, and most celebrated of the fjords and the locals advised me they referred to as it the โKing of the Fjords,โ Hardangerfjord the second-longest fjord which had a wide ranging magnificence and Nordfjord which was additionally extremely photogenic.
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2. ร lesund
This coastal city fully charmed me! I found it was an actual gem with hanging and really Insta-worthy Artwork Nouveau structure and ornate buildings which lined the streets and waterfront, set in opposition to a backdrop of breathtaking fjords. It had a vibrant and cultural vibe, with a bustling maritime ambiance and vigorous artwork scene!ย
It was nestled on the west coast of Norway, particularly on a slender peninsula surrounded by a number of islands and the Norwegian Sea. It’s a part of the Mรธre og Romsdal county and is near the much-loved fjords like Geirangerfjord and Hjรธrundfjord. Itโs residence to round 47,000, is known for its Artwork Nouveau structure, which was extensively rebuilt on this model following a fireplace in 1904 which sadly destroyed a lot of the city.
I drove seven hours from Bergen but it surely was price it! I stayed for 3 days and visited the Artwork Nouveau Centre and learnt in regards to the cityโs architectural historical past, climbed the 418 steps to the Aksla Viewpoint and noticed beautiful panoramic views of the archipelago, wandered via the picturesque streets of the outdated city, took a day journeys to the close by Geirangerfjord, and loved native delicacies in eating places positioned alongside the bustling harbour.
Location: Northwestern a part of the nation.
Finest time to go to: Late Spring to Summer season (for Artwork Nouveau structure and out of doors actions with good climate)โ.
Actions on provide: Climbing up Aksla viewpoint, exploring native trails, boat excursions, and having fun with native delicaciesโ.
Lodging: Lodge Brosundet, Storfjord Lodge, and High quality Lodge ร
lesund.
Map Location and Instructions
3. Lofoten Islands
These group of islands are quick turning into a much-sought after journey vacation spot! I found they have been really breathtaking with steep mountain peaks, shimmering waters, a rugged shoreline and post-card fairly fishing villages with conventional crimson rorbu (fishermenโs cabins).
It felt tranquil and awe-inspiring, with an untouched wilderness, wealthy Nordic heritage, a easy lifestyle and pure magnificence that created a serene, nearly mystical ambiance!
Theyโre tucked away within the Nordland county of Norway, inside the Arctic Circle, and stretched alongside the Norwegian Sea. They have been residence to round 24,000 folks, had a wealthy Viking and fishing heritage, with settlements courting again over 1,000 years. Their cod fishing trade, which has sustained the area for hundreds of years however they now obtain a million vacationers yearly who’re drawn by its extradorinaiy magnificence and Northern Lights watching alternatives.
I flew into Leknes Airport (positioned on Vestvรฅgรธy, one of many essential islands) from Oslo in the course of the winter and stayed for an awe-inspiring six days. I noticed the Northern Lights from the distant seashores in Uttakleiv, went on a whale-watching tour from Andenes (orcas, sperm whales, and humpback whales migrate to the Norwegian coast to feed), stayed in conventional crimson rorbu cabin in Reine, hiked to the scenic viewpoints like Tjeldbergtind, tried Arctic browsing at Unstad Seaside, explored the Viking historical past on the Lofotr Viking Museum, and skilled the beautiful great thing about the snow-covered fishing village, Henningsvรฆr.
Location: Northern a part of the nation, inside the Arctic Circle.
Finest time to go to: Summer season (for the Midnight Solar, lengthy days, and water actions like kayaking)โ.
Actions on provide: Climbing, kayaking, visiting conventional fishing villages, wildlife viewing, and mountaineering at Svolvaergeitaโ.
Lodging: Scandic Svolvaer, Nusfjord Arctic Resort, and Reine Rorbuerโ.
Map Location and Instructions
My favorite highlightsโฆ
Staying in one of many cosy fishermanโs cabins, surrounded by nonetheless blue waters and unspoilt mountain landscapes it was a really romantic and wonderful expertise!
4. Bergen
This beautiful metropolis is named being a gateway to the Norwegian fjords! A part of the inspiration for the fictional Frozen within the hit Disney animation, I discovered town to be a beautiful gem of a spot with a vibrant Bryggen Wharf lined with historic picket buildings, medieval landmarks, charming timber hillside homes, and a shocking fjordside setting, all framed by misty mountains and luxurious inexperienced landscapes! It had a laid-back vibe of a historic allure blended in with trendy vibrancy.
Itโs positioned on the west coast of the nation, in Vestland County, nestled between the North Sea and the encompassing Seven Mountains, serving as a gateway to the Norwegian fjords. It was based in 1070 and has a wealthy maritime historical past as a key Hanseatic buying and selling hub. It was as soon as Norwayโs capital however right this moment itโs the nationโs second-largest metropolis with a inhabitants of round 290,000, itโs additionally one of many rainiest cities in Europe!ย
I flew in to Bergen Airport from Oslo (which took an hour) and stayed for a really charming three days. I strolled via the historic Bryggen Wharf, rode the Flรธibanen funicular to the highest of Mount Flรธyen and noticed very good panoramic views, visited the Edvard Grieg Museum at Troldhaugen, took a scenic fjord cruise to Nรฆrรธyfjord, hiked the paths of the Seven Mountains which surrounded town and browsed itsย quirky unbiased shops, and al fresco cafes.ย
Location: Southwestern coast of the nation.
Finest time to go to: Spring and Summer season (for gentle climate, festivals, and exploring the historic waterfront).
Actions on provide: Using the Flรธibanen funicular, exploring Bryggen Wharf, climbing Mount Flรธyen, and visiting museums.
Lodging: Lodge Zander Ok, Det Hanseatiske Lodge, and Clarion Lodge Admiral.
Map Location and Instructions
5. Trolltunga
That is dramatic cliff jutting over a fjord was an Instagrammerโs dream! In any other case generally known as the โtrollโs tongueโ, itโs probably the most spectacular scenic cliffs within the nation and I used to be in awe of its dramatic, gravity-defying rock ledge which jaw-droppingly jutted over a shocking fjord and had really breathtaking panoramic views of Norwayโs rugged wilderness! It felt each epic and exhilarating!ย
Trolltunga is positioned in Vestland County within the western a part of Norway, close to the city of Odda (round 20km). It was fashioned over the past Ice Age, round 10,000 years in the past, via glacial erosion because the ice retreated, sculpting the panorama and abandoning this hanging cliff which prolonged horizontally out from the mountain and hovered an unimaginable 700 meters above Lake Ringedalsvatnet!ย
I’ve to confess it wasnโt simple to get to although. I drove from Bergen to the close by essential base of Odda city, from there it was a 7 kilometre drive to Skjeggedal after which it was an extended 27 km round-trip. On the hike there was important elevation acquire (round 800 meters) so I used to be glad I used to be bodily match sufficient to do it and correctly ready which took a full day but it surely was truthfully very price it โ it was a positively a type of as soon as in a lifetime journey experiences!
Many hikers additionally selected to remain in a single day and watch a very spectacular dawn on the cliff. I noticed there have been a number of lodging choices alongside the route together with a delegated tenting space near the cliff the place you can arrange a tent and some lodges and several other mountain lodges however these have been positioned near the city of Odda. There have been additionally guided hikes obtainable which was the safer possibility!
Location: Western a part of the nation, close to Odda.
Finest time to go to: Summer season (to benefit from the difficult hike with the perfect circumstances and longer daylight).
Actions on provide: Climbing the Trolltunga path, mountaineering, tenting, and having fun with scenic viewpoints.
Lodging: Trolltunga Lodge, Hardanger Home Lodge, and Rosendal Fjordhotelโ.
Map Location and Instructions
6. Oslo
I assumed Norwayโs trendy capital was additionally very enticing! I actually loved its harmonious mix of outdated and new structure, from the historic Akershus Fortress to the trendy, glossy Opera Home, vibrant cultural scene, and plentiful inexperienced areasย all set in opposition to a backdrop of dense forests and the shimmering Oslofjord!ย
Sure, itโs costly, and sure, it doesnโt have an extended checklist of world-famous points of interest, however Oslo is clear, laid-back, and surrounded by a fantastic fjord and acres of lush woodland.
The structure is an eclectic mixture of outdated and new. The underrated metropolis boasts some world-class museums, together with the Nationwide Gallery, which homes Edvard Munchโs well-known portray, โThe Scream.โ
Location: Southeastern a part of the nation.
Finest time to go to: Spring and Summer season (for cultural festivals, gentle temperatures, and metropolis sightseeing)โ.
Actions on provide: Visiting museums, exploring Vigeland Sculpture Park, fjord cruises, climbing in Nordmarka, and having fun with native delicacies.
Lodging: Thon Lodge Rosenkrantz, Lodge Continental, and Lodge Bristolโ.
Map Location and Instructions
7. Flam
The impossibly fairly village of Flam is positioned within the fjords of southwestern Norway. Dwelling to museums that actually showcase and spotlight the historical past of this metropolis, as a customer, youโll have the ability to go on an explorative journey with the Flam Railway, which can present you town in a method that strolling via it simply canโt.
Flam Railway runs via one of many wildest landscapes within the nation and has been referred to as the perfect prepare journey on the earth.
When youโre completed, you could wish to take a fast journey to the Flam Railway Museum and even head to Stegastein, the viewing platform over Aurlandsfjord, which stretches 30 metres throughout the land.
Location: Western a part of the nation, within the Aurland municipality.
Finest time to go to: Late Spring to Early Fall (for scenic prepare rides and out of doors actions)โ.
Actions on provide: Using the Flรฅm Railway, fjord cruises, kayaking, RIB boat excursions, and climbing trails in Aurlandsfjord.
Lodging: Fretheim Lodge, Flรฅmsbrygga Lodge, and Heimly Guesthouse.
Map Location and Instructions
8. Henningsvรฆr
I assumed this one of many prettiest villages within the Lofoten Islands! After discovering it and being in awe I assumed it deserved a particular point out of its personal! Right here picturesque vibrant conventional Norwegian fishermenโs cabins scenic harbors, cozy eateries, and bustling waterfront stability on rugged islands and in opposition to a backdrop of mirror-like waters and towering granite mountains. To me it felt laid-back, with a novel creative vibe alongside a robust sense of native custom and group.ย
It was positioned within the Lofoten Islands within the Nordland county, located inside the Arctic Circle within the northern a part of nation. Itโs historical past is rooted in fishing courting again to the 18th century and right this moment has a inhabitants of round 500 residents however the islands.ย
I flew into Leknes Airport after which drove two hours to succeed in Henningsvรฆr, as soon as right here I explored the colourful fishing harbor, visited the KaviarFactory and noticed up to date artwork exhibitions, climbed on the well-known Lofoten climbing spots, loved native delicacies at Fiskekrogen Restaurant, strolled via the charming streets lined with quaint retailers and galleries, and managed to catch the Northern Lights!ย
Location: Northern a part of the nation, within the Lofoten archipelago.
Finest time to go to: Summer season (for having fun with the fishing villageโs distinctive allure and scenic views below the Midnight Solar)โ.
Actions on provide: Strolling via the village, kayaking, mountaineering, and exploring artwork galleries.
Lodging: Henningsvรฆr Bryggehotell, Lofoten Arctic Lodge, and Finnholmen Brygge.
Map Location and Instructions
9. Skudeneshavn
Norwayโs best-preserved crusing ship city is positioned on the southernmost tip of the normal island of Karmรธy in Norway. A thriving port for the reason that nineteenth century, right this moment itโs a postcard-pretty place with baggage of scenic allure.
I might recommend heading for the beautiful outdated city full of picket homes, twisting slender roads (with nearly no site visitors) and boat moorings, cafes, retailers, and galleries.
Count on to see greater than 200 white picket buildings that their homeowners have lovingly restored and maintained.
Location: Southwestern coast, on the island of Karmรธy.
Finest time to go to: Summer season (for heat temperatures and coastal walks via the charming village).
Actions on provide: Strolling excursions via historic streets, visiting the outdated city, exploring close by seashores, and having fun with native seafood.
Lodging: Parken Terrace Lodge, Karmรธy Kystferie, and Skudenes Tenting.
Map Location and Instructions
10. Fredrikstad
There are three fortress cities in Norway, however this one claims to be one of many best-preserved outdated cities in Scandinavia, and in my view, itโs one of many prettiest to go to.
The Outdated City has a mixture of conventional shops and vintage retailers, all framed inside the extraordinary fortress partitions.
Simply exterior the fortress, youโll discover a picture-postcard village with cobbled streets, a cathedral with stained-glass work by Emanuel Vigeland, and a steeple that additionally doubles as a lighthouse.
Location: Southeastern a part of the nation.
Finest time to go to: Spring and Summer season (for exploring the outdated city and having fun with out of doors actions by the river).
Actions on provide: Exploring the outdated city, biking alongside the river, strolling excursions, and having fun with native markets.
Lodging: Lodge Fredrikstad, High quality Lodge Fredrikstad, and Gamlebyen Hotell.
Map Location and Instructions
11. Jotunheimen Nationwide Park
Boasting the biggest focus of mountains greater than 2,000 metres in Northern Europe, the centrally positioned Jotunheimen Nationwide Park is among the hottest nationwide parks to journey to in Norway.
Encompassing a number of mountain rangesโtogether with Norwayโs 29 highest peaksโthe realm attracts hikers, cross-country and alpine skiers, cyclists, and climbers from throughout Europe.
Along with distinctive natural world, count on to catch a glimpse of the wildlife that calls the park residence, together with reindeer, fox, marten, mink, wolverines, lynx, and even the uncommon golden eagle.
Location: Central a part of the nation.
Finest time to go to: Summer season (for climbing trails and having fun with Norwayโs highest peaks.
Actions on provide: Climbing, mountaineering, wildlife viewing, glacier walks, and tenting.
Lodging: Elveseter Lodge, Spiterstulen Lodge, and Gjendesheim Vacationer Lodge.
Map Location and Instructions
12. Svalbard
Followers of untouched landscapes will love Svalbard, an archipelago between the Norwegian Sea, the Arctic Ocean, the Barents Sea, and the Greenland Sea.
Itโs a particularly mysterious place full of wild, craggy mountains and pristine glaciers. It is among the northernmost completely inhabited spots on the planet (however lower than 3,000 folks stay there).
Svalbard is a superb vacation spot in Norway for wild recognizing. An abundance of animals, together with polar bears, reindeer, walruses, and polar foxes, wander the wild, lonely lands.
Location: Arctic Ocean, north of mainland Norway.
Finest time to go to: Late Spring to Summer season (for experiencing the Midnight Solar and wildlife sightings).
Actions on provide: Glacier kayaking, climbing, snowmobiling, canine sledding, and wildlife viewing, together with polar bears.
Lodging: Radisson Blu Polar Lodge, Svalbard Lodge, and Basecamp Lodge.
Map Location and Instructions
13. Reine
The fishing village of Reine is nestled securely on the mouth of Reinefjord within the west of Lofoten, however this naturally stunning Norwegian place deserves a point out.
Inside this mountainous village, you’ll find your pleasures on the open sea with native fishermen trying to discover the catch of their lives out on the oceans.
Thereโs additionally extraordinarily accessible kayaking for any individuals. Reine is the last word place to discover a piece of your self out on the outskirts, climbing via the mountains to search out absolutely the good place to take a seat and take within the aurora in one of many clearest skies youโll come throughout anyplace on the earth.
Location: Northern a part of the nation, within the Lofoten archipelago.
Finest time to go to: Summer season (for scenic hikes and views of the fjords in the course of the Midnight Solar).
Actions on provide: Climbing Reinebringen, boat excursions via fjords, fishing, and images.
Lodging: Reine Rorbuer, Eliassen Rorbuer, and Sakrisรธy Rorbuer.
Map Location and Instructions
14. Rondane Nationwide Park
In case youโre extra of an adventurer in search of the subsequent mountain to take you to unimaginable heights and views, look no additional than Rondane Nationwide Park.
This tranquil mountain vary is the right place all yr spherical โ from summer time climbing to winter snowboarding and every little thing in between.
Rondane is the oldest Nationwide Park in Norway. Its a number of areas are wealthy in vegetation, including to its magnificence.
Location: Jap a part of the nation.
Finest time to go to: Summer season (for climbing and having fun with Norwayโs oldest nationwide park).
Actions on provide: Climbing, wildlife recognizing, images, and tenting.
Lodging: Rondane Hรธyfjellshotell, Spidsbergseter Resort, and Rondvassbu Lodge.
Map Location and Instructions
15. Trondheim
It might not look like Trondheim is a big metropolis in comparison with these you will have seen elsewhere on the earth, however in Norway, itโs truly the third largest obtainable and was as soon as the nationโs capital.
There are a number of historic and nice landmarks that any vacationer ought to attempt to see once they go to, together with the medieval Nidaros Cathedral and the strong Kristiansten Fortress, each of which have excursions obtainable via varied organisations.
One other notable landmark inside Trondheim is the Outdated City Bridge, with its crimson portal constructions, in-built 1681 and overlooking the river.
Location: Central a part of the nation.
Finest time to go to: Summer season (for festivals, cultural occasions, and exploring the Nidaros Cathedral)โ.
Actions on provide: Visiting Nidaros Cathedral, exploring Bakklandet, biking alongside the river, and having fun with native delicacies.
Lodging: Britannia Lodge, Clarion Lodge Trondheim, and Scandic Nidelven Lodgeโ.
Map Location and Instructions
16. Stavanger
This metropolis, positioned in southwest Norway, is a gem! It’s residence to the hanging Tenth-century Stavanger Cathedral and vibrant homes.
The Stavanger area can be awash with breathtaking environment and lengthy, white seashores that add much more mystifying touches to the realm.
For the hikers amongst you, the favored Preikestolen presents a mountainous hike up a cliff that’s 604 metres in top and has a solidly flat prime โ supplying you with a number of the greatest panoramic views round.
Location: Southwestern coast of the nation.
Finest time to go to: Summer season (for climbing to Pulpit Rock and having fun with out of doors actions alongside the coast)โ
Actions on provide: Climbing to Pulpit Rock, fjord cruises, exploring the outdated city, and visiting museums.
Lodging: Ydalir Lodge, Radisson Blu Atlantic Lodge, and Clarion Lodge Stavangerโ.
Map Location and Instructions
17. Nigardsbreen Glacier
Glaciers are pure wonders which might be typically seen from afar. Nonetheless, glacier guiding is sort of common at Nigardsbreen, the place skilled guides are comfortable to take you and your youngsters on protected walks among the many blue ice.
Itโs a shocking pure attraction and an expertise like no different for anybody over 5. You possibly can gaze into the ice at shut vary and get misplaced within the spectacular actuality of probably the most accessible branches of the Josteldalsbreen Glacier.
Think about strolling alongside an ice construction encompassing a complete space and is so superbly fashioned that it seems to be like blue crystal glass even on a dim dayโthat’s what this expertise presents!
Location: Western a part of the nation.
Finest time to go to: Summer season (for glacier climbing with guided excursions and favorable climate circumstances).
Actions on provide: Glacier climbing, guided excursions, images, and visiting close by lakes.
Lodging: Nigardsbreen Lodge, Jostedal Lodge, and Sognefjord Lodge.
Map Location and Instructions
18. Femundsmarka Nationwide Park
Femundsmarka Nationwide Park is among the largest areas of steady and unspoiled wilderness. When in search of a calming day of strolling, youโre trying on the good spot.
Miles of land await enthusiastic exploration, and the park even presents a number of nice canoeing and fishing areas.
The Norwegian Trekking Affiliation has referred to as it among the finest three climbing areas in Norway, and judging by the views among the many bushes, weโd need to agree.
It may very well be potential to stroll for hours and by no means come throughout one other particular person throughout your travels, good for anybody trying to return to nature in stunning Norway and uncover one thing about themselves.
Location: Jap a part of the nation.
Finest time to go to: Late Spring to Summer season (for climbing, fishing, and exploring Norwayโs wilderness).
Actions on provide: Climbing, fishing, canoeing, wildlife viewing, and tenting.
Lodging: Rรธros Lodge, Femund Fjellstue, and Roste Hyttetun & Tenting.
Map Location and Instructions
19. Solund, Sogn og Fjordane
This place is totally charming! Due to the 1700 islands, islets, and skerries (give or take) to the west of Norway, boats have taken to islands, hopping between them. Solund has grow to be a well-liked boating, fishing, and kayaking vacation spot.
The infinite islands provide nice wind and wave safety when the climate isnโt nice, however on sunnier days, you could journey a brief distance to the open sea.
After all, many actions on land embrace marked climbing trails and biking routes surrounded by pure magnificence. Summer season in Solund additionally boasts guided excursions that may take you to Utvรฆr.
Location: Western a part of the nation, within the Sognefjord area.
Finest time to go to: Summer season (for boating, climbing, and exploring the scenic archipelago)โ.
Actions on provide: Boating, kayaking, climbing coastal trails, and exploring the archipelago.
Lodging: Solund Leilighetshotell, Hardbakke Gjestehus, and Solund Rorbuferie.
Map Location and Instructions
Location of Norwayย
Norway is positioned within the Nordic space of Northern Europe and the North Atlantic, together with Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, the Faroe Islands and Greenland.