Norway in Your Pocket Guide PDF

SINCE 1946
OSLO FJORD
NORWAY IN YOUR POCKET

Mini Cruise HOP ON - HOP OFF!
City Hall:
Opera:
09.45 11.15 12.45 14.15
10.15 11.45 13.15 14.45
Museums: 10.45 12.15 13.45 15.15
NOK 203
Ticket on board. Valid 24 hours. Ending 15.40 at the City Hall.

09.45 - 15.15
May 21 - Sept 25 NORWAY
IN YOUR POCKET
Fjord Sightseeing NOK 285 10.30 13.00 15.30
2 hours. This is the classic Oslo fjord sightseeing, passing March 18 - Sept 25
the fortress, the Opera House and idyllic islands with small High season:
summer houses. Winter: 10.30 and 13.00, September 26 - 10.30 11.30 13.00
March 17. Saturday, Sunday and Monday. 14.00 15.30 16.30
New year: All days December 26 - January 4. June 25 - Aug 21
Oslo Selected Highlights NOK 390 10.30

3 3/4 hour sightseeing by bus visiting the city centre, the ALL YEAR
Sculpture Park, Holmenkollen Ski Jump and the Viking Ships. Except Dec 24/25, April 23,
Attention: This tour leaves from the City Hall, west. May 17 and Sept 17
Oslo Grand Tour NOK 620 10.30

7 hour tour by coach and boat. By coach to the most interesting March 18 - Sept 25
sights and museums in Oslo. Fjord sightseeing passing the Except April 23, May 17 and
Opera House. Attention: This tour leaves from the City Hall, west. Sept 17
Norwegian Evening on the Fjord NOK 399 19.00

3 hour evening cruise on board a sailing ship. Traditional June 18 - Sept 4
Norwegian prawn buffet is included in the price. Additional
departures in May: 15, 16, 17, 21, 22, 23, 28, 29, 30 and
June: 5, 6, 12, 13.
Jazz and Blues Cruise NOK 448 19.00

3 hour evening cruise with live music on board a sailing ship June 4 - Aug 27
Traditional Norwegian prawn buffet is included in the price. Tue. and Sat.
Tuesdays: Jazz! Saturdays: Blues! Except June 7, 14 and 21
Pirate Cruise for children NOK 203 12.00 14.00

1,5 hour cruise for children with parents. Dress up like a June 5 - Aug 28
pirate and join our cruise! Childrens activities onboard. Sunday
Rådhusbrygge 3 · Tel 23 35 68 90 · www.boatsightseeing.com

WELCOME
TO NORWAY
Expectations are half the fun! The pleasure
of looking forward to days when you are
your own boss and can do what you want,
when you want! Of looking forward to
recharging your batteries! The anticipation
that you will soon be experiencing
something different, something beautiful
and unknown!
ERT - FOTOLIA.CO
© 1XP M
We welcome you – to a meeting with the people and the light,

and to a meeting with exciting architecture and culture in what
National Geographic has rated “the most beautiful landscape
in the world.”
Get the full story at: www.visitnorway.com

Photo: Espen Gees / 123rf.com
Bergen
Stavanger Langesund
Oslo
Sandefjord CONTENT
Kristiansand Strömstad
Hirtshals
FLAKSTAD, LOFOTEN © VISITNORWAY.COM
04-05 I Get To Know Norway 82-97 I The Oslofjord Region

06-07 I The 4 Seasons 098-107 I Trøndelag
08-17 I How To Get Here 108-121 I Northern Norway
19-38 I How To Travel Around 122-145 I What To Do
41-43 I Recommended 147-159 I What To See
Destinations 160 I Norway On Social Media
44-69 I Fjord Norway 161-170 I Travel Facts - Norway A-Z
70-81 I Eastern Norway
Beautiful scenery included

171-215 I SHORTS STORIES
Affordable, fast and direct. Fjord Lines’ ferries connect Europe
with Norway, the Land of the Fjords. Our identical cruise ferries 171 I Green Travel
202-203 I Winter Light In
MS Stavangerfjord and MS Bergensfjord provide comfortable, 172-173 I Best Train Journeys Northern Norway
stylish, year round transport at low cost between Hirtshals, 174-175 I The Explore Norway
Denmark and Langesund (Oslo) in eastern Norway and Ticket By Widerøe
Stavanger and Bergen in the west coast’s fjord country. During 176-185 I National Tourist Routes
the extended summer season, our high-speed catamaran 186-187 I Short breaks and
Fjord Line Express offers the fastest ferry connection to Norway shopping
(Kristiansand); just 2 hours and 15 minutes from Hirtshals. 188-189 I What To Eat –
Norwegian Traditional
Food
With the ferry MS Oslofjord we now also offer daily departures
190-195 I Norwegians Who
between Strömstad in Sweden and Sandefjord in Norway. Have Left Their Mark
On History 204-207 I Norway On Unesco’s
World Heritage List
196-199 I Norway On A Budget
208-213 I The Vikings
+49 3821 709 72 10 fjordline.com
214-215 I Important Milestones
200-201 I Design And Architecture In Norway's History
4 ABOUT NORWAY ABOUT NORWAY 5
GET TO KNOW Life in Norway

Norway is a modern country
that takes pride in its history,
Lofoten, tender reindeer meet
from Finnmark or juicy, sweet
cherries from Hardanger – all
NORWAY and in rural areas traditions

are still very much alive. Life
in the capital of Oslo, in the
Hanseatic city of Bergen or in
with the fresh and slightly
different taste of Norway.
Norwegian cuisine has also
become well known interna-
a small, northern coastal town tionally. The success is based
can seem like completely sep- on products that thrive in pure
arate worlds. You can visit waters and fresh, clean air:
them all in a matter of days fish, shellfish and game, fruit,
– a good way to gain a deeper fungi and numerous tasty
understanding of Norway and dairy products. Even tradition-
the Norwegians. History, cul- al specialities such as cured
ture and lifestyle, design and meats, sour cream porridge
culinary traditions make life and waffles with goat cheese
more interesting and comple- tantalise the palate. Treat
ment the spectacular scenery yourself to a taste of Norway!
around the country.
A world of colour
Charge your batteries at a and music
relaxed pace with friendly Easily accessible fjords and
people. If you have the oppor- mountains are a natural
tunity, don’t miss Norway’s source of inspiration for
National Day, May 17. It is an music, art and the theatre.
impressive and colorful dis- Ibsen, Hamsun and Munch
play of joy and solidarity, with are amongst those who have
flags furling and Norwegians enthralled the world with their
of all ages parading in their depictions of people and
national costumes. A great nature in this long country,
many Norwegians still prefer and who hasn’t envisaged the
to live in and in tune with na- mountains in Grieg’s music?
ture. Better watch out; it could Cultural life is still thriving,
happen to you. and a number of new talents
have succeeded internation-
Food – a fresh taste ally. Visit one of the numerous
of Norway music festivals, outdoor per-
Awe-inspiring, unspoilt nature formances with the beautiful
forms the perfect basis for scenery as a backdrop. Or
natural animal husbandry, experience Norwegian and
and Norwegians know how to inter-national art in famous
exploit these resources. Enjoy museums and small galleries.
freshly caught cod from
BRYGGEN, BERGEN © BERGEN TOURIST BOARD - ROBIN STRAND

THE 4 SPRING
Something happens to
Norwegians when winter
SUMMER
Crashing waves in the south
signal the arrival of summer
SEASONS turns into spring. Something

is let loose, like a mountain
stream or a flock of birds. We
polish our summer shoes and
in Norway and the southerly
wind blows across the world-
famous fjords of Western
Norway. The Midnight Sun
prepare our national cos- that never sets in the north
tumes for Constitution Day on allows herds of rein-deer to
17 May, in one of the world’s graze in broad daylight in the
most patriotic countries. middle of the night. Of course
Watch the greylag geese this affects the people who
approaching in a v-formation live here - and the people who
over the spring horizon. Smell visit. It makes Norway ideal
the scent of apple blossom in for outdoor activities – the
Hardanger. That is spring in country is made for expedi-
Norway! tions on foot, by bicycle and
for fishing. Not to mention, for
the most amazing summer
holiday in the world.
AUTUMN WINTER
The sharp, clear air cools the Norway was born with skis on
golden-red landscape. Au- its feet. However, the country is
tumn has arrived in Norway. equally well suited to walks on
The country is tailor-made for hard, beautiful winter roads
finding chanterelles in the between old timber houses in
forest or plump cloudberries the knowledge of a blazing fire
near a secluded mountain in the grate on your return. At
lake - all under a sun of the Easter, the country offers fair-
purest gold shimmering over ytale conditions time and time
the rooftops. This is when you again, with powdery snow and
can catch the largest fish. This the promise of a welldeserved
Despite its northerly location, the climate in Norway is
is when a venison roast tastes treat on the highest peaks.
temperate, thanks to the warming effects of the Gulf
the best, in a Norwegian man- Make angels in the snow, try
Stream flowing along its coast. Coastal regions have a
or house with a glass of red dog-sledding or ice-fishing, or
climate with relatively mild winters and cooler summer wine. listen to old legends around
months. Inland areas have a continental climate with the fireplace in a traditional
colder winters, but warmer summers. Sami tent or „lavvu“ on the
plains of Finnmark. Norway
and winter go together.
AUTUMN IN RONDANE © ASGEIR HELGESTAD/ARTIC LIGHT AS/VISITNORWAY.COM

8 ABOUT NORWAY
TRAVEL TO
NORWAY FLY THE SCANDINAVIAN WAY
Find the best ways
© CH - VISITNORWAY.COM
There is a wide selection of international

flight, train and ferry connections to
Norway, and there are several ways of
getting around when you arrive. Please see
Visitnorway’s local pages for more details.
Fly to Norway Main airport

All the large cities and towns Norway's main airport is Oslo
have airports catering for both Airport (OSL) where most of
international and domestic the international traffic
flights. In fact, there are more arrives. Oslo Airport (OSL) has
than 50 airports in Norway excellent ground transport
serviced through regular connections to and from the
routes, making even remote airport. You may choose
places such as the Lofoten between trains, buses or taxi.
Islands, the North Cape and Or you may rent a car at one
Spitsbergen (Svalbard) easily of the many car rental
accessible by plane. However, companies in the arrival hall.
you must be prepared to www.OSL.no
maybe change planes once in
order to reach your final desti-
nation.
10 ABOUT NORWAY
Airport trains from you to Oslo. Color Line also

OSL/Gardermoen sails from Sweden (Strömstad)
The train takes about 20 min- to Sandefjord.
utes from the city centre to www.colorline.no
the airport. www.stenaline.no
www.fjordline.com
The Airport Express
Train (Flytoget) Travel by train
runs between Drammen, An extensive rail network links
Asker, Sandvika, Lysaker, Norway to the other Scandina-
Skøyen, Nationaltheatret, vian countries and the rest of
Oslo S and Lillestrøm. Europe, whereas the national
www.flytoget.no trains are served by the Europe’s most spectacular Train Journeys
Norwegian State Railways
Discover Norway by train for an unforgettable holiday experience.
NSB – Norwegian (NSB). There are express trains
State Railways from Copenhagen to Oslo
Norway has many scenic railways, of which the four most spectacu-
All NSB Regional Trains that several times a week. Most rail lar are the Rauma, Bergen, Nordland and Dovre Railways. From your
run between Skien, Oslo, journeys from the continent are window you will see mighty mountain ranges, river valleys, water-
Lillehammer and Trondheim overnight, and you will find ords. You will travel through authentic
stop at Oslo Airport. NSB Lo- sleeping compartments on all and charming rural communities. From the variation in
cal Trains on the Kongsberg– of them. A variety of discount altitude, in a single trip you might experience both
Eidsvoll line also stop at the passes are available for train snow and glaciers and the green fields of summer.
Airport. travel in Europe and Norway.
www.nsb.no Not all trains offer first-class The trains in Norway are comfortable as well as environ-
service, but second-class is of mentally friendly. Just take your seat, relax and enjoy
the scenery.
Other international a high standard.
airports in Norway: www.nsb.no
The www.nsb.no/travel_inspiration site contains
•Bergen Airport Flesland infomercials presenting the routes and the
•Kristiansand Airport Kjevik Travel by car unique travel experiences that await you.
•Moss Airport Rygge You are most likely to arrive by
•Torp Sandefjord Airport car from Sweden, but Norway Welcome on board!
•Stavanger Airport Sola also borders to Russia and
•Tromsø Airport Langnes Finland. Read our article
•Trondheim Airport Værnes about driving in Norway on
www.avinor.no/en www.visitnorway.com and see For more information
also the suggested round- and bookings:
Travel by ferry trips on pages 28-37. www.nsb.no
There are many ferries sailing
from Denmark such as Color
Line, Stena Line, DFDS and
Fjord Line. From Germany
(Kiel) Color Line's ships Color The Nordland Railway - The train to the midnight sun
Fantasy and Color Magic take The Dovre Railway - The trail of the trolls
The Rauma Railway - The most beautiful train journey
VIEW FROM KLEIVODDEN AT The Bergen railway -
ANDØYA © STEINAR SKAAR
12 ABOUT NORWAY
EXPLORE NORWAY
WHERE WITH SCANDIC.
TO STAY
RORBU AT REINE, LOFOTEN © CH – INNOVATION NORWAY
HOTELS HOTEL PASSES

Hotels in Norway come in all In Norway you will find several
shapes and sizes – with some- passes, discount schemes and
thing for most budgets. cheque systems in operation
Choose a cosy wooden hotel in which are valid at hotels and
the mountains, a spa hotel by offer reduced prices.
the coast, or a modern design
hotel in Oslo, Bergen or For further information on dis-
Stavanger. You can find a list of count schemes and cheque
the largest hotel chains on systems, check with the hotels
www.visitnorway.com directly or contact your local
travel agency.
The North Cape plateau
De Historiske -
historic hotels & RORBU HOLIDAYS
restaurants In the Lofoten islands in
A unique membership organi- Northern Norway, you can With around 230 hotels in 7 countries, Scandic is the biggest
sation containing many of rent a traditional fisherman’s hotel chain in the Nordic region. You can choose between
Norway’s most charming ho- cabin, called a «rorbu».
tels and restaurants. The ho- Fishermen used to come to
nearly 90 hotels in Norway, from Kristiansand in the south
tels are not ”ordinary” hotels. Lofoten from other parts of to the North Cape in the north. Our hotels are either in central
They are landed estates, coun- the coast for the winter cod locations in towns and cities – or situated near popular tourist
try houses, manors, large and fishing season, and would attractions in beautiful and spectacular natural settings.
small timber-built hotels in make these cabins their tem-
pseudo-Swiss andJugend style porary homes. Most have now
and many more historic build- been modernized. Although
At Scandic, you always have free WiFi, a gym, a 24/7 shop
ings that have been trans- most Rorbus are in the and an online checkout service. And you can always enjoy a
formed into beautiful, romantic Lofoten islands, you can rent good, tasty breakfast. Welcome to Scandic!
hotels. these cabins all along the
www.dehistoriske.com coast from north to south.
Book your stay at scandichotels.no

LIGHTHOUSE AIRBNB
HOLIDAYS Whether you need an apart-
Several lighthouses along the ment for a night, a castle for a
Norwegian coast offer accom- week, or a villa for a month,
modation at various standards. Airbnb connects people to
Search for “lighthouse” on unique travel experiences, at © STOREFJELL RESORT HOTEL
www.visitnorway.com or con- any price point.
tact the local tourist offices. So also in Norway.
YOUTH AND FAMILY

www.airbnb.com
Storefjell Resort Hotel
HOSTELS COUNTRY OR FARM
Hostelling International Norway HOLIDAYS Golsfjellet in Hallingdal, area for children, walking
has around 80 youth hostels in Farm holidays in Norway are standing 1001 m above sea paths and cycling trails.
Norway. Each hostel is unique many and varied and farms all level, is situated between NO-3550 GOL
but all offer the usual informal, over the country offer accom- Oslo and Bergen in the GPS Position:
welcoming homey atmosphere. modation. Guests usually stay mountain between Rd7 and N60 48 227 E 8 57 267
The majority of rooms contain in their own comfortable cabin E16, on Rd51. The hotel Tel.: +47 32 07 80 00
2-4 beds, but many hostels now or guesthouse, complete with features a mini water park, booking@storefjell.com
offer single rooms and family kitchen facilities, in or near the wellness center, restaurant, www.storefjell.com
rooms (2 adults and 2 kids). farmyard. Some farms also horse riding center, play
Breakfast is often included but provide bed & breakfast. Many
not all hostels serve food. All offer the opportunity to partici-
hostels have a kitchen that pate in various activities and
guests can share. aspects of daily life on a farm.
Bedding linen may be hired. Farm holidays provide an ex-
Hostelling Norway cellent base for activities, expe-
www.hihostels.no riences, tasteful food and great
stories.
PRIVATE More information on
ACCOMMODATION www.visitnorway.com
Bed & breakfast is developing (Where to stay / Farm Holiday)
in Norway – all of a high stan- or from HANEN - Rural
dard. Rooms are generally tourism and traditional food in
booked through the local tour- Norway. They will guide you to
ist office on the day. You may
find accommodation signs dis-
the rural pearls of Norway.
www.hanen.no
Marken
played along roads or directly
outside houses (Rom or Hus-
Gjestehus
rom). In larger towns, private
rooms are priced from approxi- Look for this sign Enjoy budget accommodation
mately NOK 350-500 for a along the road. in the heart of Bergen.
single to NOK 450- 800 for a From NOK 250 per person
double, breakfast incl. www.marken-gjestehus.com
16 ABOUT NORWAY
CABINS/CHALETS stars, depending on the quality,

Called «hytte» in Norwegian. facilities and activities avail-
Chalets come in various able. There is no standard
sizes and with various level price and rates vary. Many
of comfort. They normally campsites have simple style
house four to six people and cabins that can be booked in
are priced between NOK advance. Most cabins have
2000 and NOK 10 000 per electricity and heating, but
week. If you want to spend note that you may need to
just one night in a cabin and bring bedding. Please check
then move on, the solution is when making your booking.
to rent a cabin on a camp-
site. For information about camp-
www.norgesbooking.com sites, classification, the
www.novasol.com Norwegian Camping Guide and
www.dancenter.no Camping Key Europe,
www.dansommer.com take a look at the site:
www.camping.no
CAMPING
Norway has more than a More details about other
thousand campsites, so you campsites and useful infor-
are bound to find somewhere mation about camping are
to stay in the area you want. available on:
The sites are classified 1–5 www.nafcamp.com
Camping
in Norway
2016
Nationwide guide
of campsites
Order it online
www.nafcamp.no
FEEDING THE GOATS AT LANGEDRAG / MEMBER OF HANEN

© CH – VISITNORWAY.COM
ABOUT NORWAY 19
Photo: Ronald Griffin

HOW TO
TRAVEL AROUND
DOMESTIC FLIGHTS offer a very extensive net-
Considering its size, Norway work of routes, for example
is exceptionally well served by in Fjord Norway and to rural
its domestic airlines. There areas. Many of the coaches
are about fifty airports and connect with each other and
airfields, making even the far with local services. Express
north seem a quick jaunt coaches link all the major
One zone away. The domestic airlines towns, airports and ferry
are SAS, Norwegian and terminals. All of them with
345
Two zones
€
Widerøe.
SAS
wireless Internet and air
conditioning.
www.flysas.com Most companies offer stu-
Norwegian dent, child, senior, and fam-
420 € www.norwegian.com
Widerøe
ily discounts. Most compa-
nies encourage online
All of Norway
www.wideroe.no booking in advance, and
offer both discounts and
493 €
BUSES AND COACHES
Every city and town in
guaranteed seating for those
who do.
Norway has a local bus ser- Various bus companies
vice and there is an exten- operates express routes all
sive network of express over the country. See their
coaches throughout the coach route map on their
country. Express coaches in websites.
general are an underrated www.nettbuss.no
THE EXPLORE NORWAY TICKET way of travelling in Norway, www.nor-way.no
which is a pity because they
Using Widerøe’s Explore Norway Ticket, you can visit as many
exciting places as you like. You have unlimited flights for two
weeks within the zones you select, and you can set up whatever
itinerary you prefer. The Explore Norway Ticket is valid for travel
from 20 th. June - 29 th. August 2016.
Read more about it and book tickets at: wideroe.no/explorenorway
GEIRANGER © CH – VISITNORWAY.COM
ABOUT NORWAY ABOUT NORWAY 21
ORGANISED
ROUND TRIPS
RAFTSUNDET, LOFOTEN © FRITHJOF FURE – VISITNORWAY.COM
Book spectacular fjord Traveler's Magazine has

tours to Norway! ranked them the most popular
Buy a round trip from one of of all World Heritage sites.
several operators, and experi- The fjords can be explored on
ence Norway by bus, train or independent short breaks or
cruises. rail tours, by car on a self
Overnight in charming fjord drive tour or during an
villages and cruise along the escorted coach tour.
breathtaking Norwegian www.authentic-
fjords. The fjords of Norway scandinavia.com
have been included on www.fjordtravel.no
UNESCO's World Heritage www.fjordtours.com
List, and National Geographic
Planning a journey
in Norway?
You're dreaming of discov-
ering the dramatic Fjords,
Your personal
the incredible Midnight Sun, travel planner
the paradise of Lofoten
MOSKENES © TERJE RAKKE
Islands, the magic of the
Northen Lights and even
more.
Choose your dates and con-
tact us, we'll help you plan
everything to make your
travel a dream come true. www.elannorway.com
GREENLAND
Explore the home of the gla-
cier Ilulissat, a UNESCO World
GET READY
©Chelsea Claus
Heritage Site and the world’s
largest fjord system with the
experts in polar waters.
TO EXPLORE SPITSBERGEN
Hurtigruten and its expedition
© Ester Kokmeijer
team welcomes you to Spits-
bergen, the Arctic wildlife’s
playground and the home for
thousands of polar bears.
©Theme Media/M.Johansen
ICELAND
Swim in natural hot spas and
hike through lava fields on
the perfect explorer holiday
and enjoy some of the most
dramatic scenery on earth.
ANTARCTICA
This is the most prominent
©Esther Kokmeijer
remote region. We promise
you a tremendous amount of
excitement. The experience is
second to none.
© Trym Ivar Bergsmo
©Ørjan Bertelsen
DISCOVER YOUR INNER EXPLORER COASTAL EXPEDITIONS IN NORWAY
Join Hurtigruten and discover the seldom- Discover the picturesque nature and the amazing wild-
© Backpack Foto
visited shores of Spitsbergen, Greenland, life along Norway’s rugged coas on a 12 days voyage
©Linda Drake
Iceland and Antarctica. Each adventure is a packed with exciting shore excursions and activities.
voyage through pristine environments only
accessible by ship, encountering incredible Hurtigruten has more than 120 years experience in
wildlife, beautiful icebergs and experiencing polar waters and have access to the world’s most
fascinating cultures. remote ports and regions due to the perfect size of
its ships. Welcome on board!
Hurtigrutens expedition team offers
© Meg Skjelmerud
everything from exciting lectures to

©Ørjan Bertelsen
photo classes – and is your key to an

© Pauli Araneva
in-depth experience on board, on land-

ings, at excursions and activities.
YOUR EXPEDITION VOYAGE STARTS AT HURTIGRUTEN.COM

MOTORCYCLE 1. Setesdalen and

Suleskarvegen
Norway at its best, with a gor-
6. Dalen in Telemark
Some argue that Telemark is
Norway's best county for two
TRIPS geous valley of 150 km. Follow

the amazing road over the
mountains and down
Suleskarvegen to Lysebotn.
wheels. Best experienced by
all in Telemark might valley in
the west of the county. If you
come from Oslo, you can take
2. The Sognefjord off southwards from E134 by
The Sognefjord is 204 kilome- Brunkeberg, run via Kviteseid
tres long and lies in the heart and Vrådal to Dalen.
of Fjord Norway, where it 7. Haukeli-
carves its way from the coast, Hardanger-Voss
just north of Bergen, to the The route goes around the
mighty mountains of the Jo- Hardangervidda National
tunheimen National. Run Park, Norway's largest na-
gladly north side of the fjord, tional park and one of Eu-
from Lavik to Sogndal. This is rope's highest mountain
a distance of 140 km. plateau.
3. Sogndal- 8. Gol-Voss-Bergen
Jølster Stryn Along the way you pass Hal-
Mostly all about curves and lingskarvet (1933 m) which is
beautiful nature. Along passed a mighty sight on a beautiful
the Jostedalsbreen, which is a summer day. The descent
magnificent sight. It is the from the mountains to the
VIEW OVER GEIRANGER © MARTE KOPPERUD - VISITNORWAY.COM
largest glacier on the Euro- fjord (Aurland) is a great ex-
pean mainland. perience.
4. Trollstigen and 9. Lofoten
Many believe that Norway and sights are also playing a the Atlantic Road Lofoten must be experienced!
has the best motorcycle role. Norway has a wonderful Trollstigen is one of the most Some of the roads are narrow
roads in the Region. Evi- nature. Lofoten and Fjord visited tourist spots in Norway, and do not allow particularly
dence that Norway can offer Norway (western) stands out with a spectacular and narrow active driving. But most places
many good driving experi- as the most beautiful places road that winds its way up the it's really fun to be a motorcy-
ences, are all the Europeans with high mountains and nar- mountain. From here it is only clist in Lofoten.
coming here to ride a motor- row fjords. The road is narrow 60 km to Molde where Atlantic 10. Nordkapp/
cycle. Here is a list showing and perfect for motorcycling. Road goes to Kristiansund. The North Cape
10 of the best motorcycle Many believe that it is impor- 5. Oslo-Hemsedal- The road is a nice experience
tours put together by experi- tant not to plan the itinerary Lærdal through Finnmark. The North
enced motorcyclists. too carefully and to follow the The fun begins at Hønefoss, Cape is a great nature experi-
weather reports. with winding roads and beau- ence. If you want an extra fine
The curves are tiful nature. If you drive off- driving experience, take the
most important. road, then take a hop from road out to Havøysund.
They have emphasized roads Hemsedal and over the moun-
with many curves. Scenery tains south towards Ål.
ABOUT NORWAY ABOUT NORWAY 27
EXPLORE
NORWAY
© NSB
BY TRAIN
NA
BA
MS
FLÅ
The Rauma Railway TRAIN TRAVEL quiet environment for work,

-The most beautiful train journey One of the most relaxing ways the Comfort class may be the
of seeing the wild Norwegian best solution.
Dombås - Åndalsnes countryside is by train.
Norwegian State Railways For more information please
(NSB) covers the entire coun- see www.nsb.no/en/on-board
A trip on the Rauma Railway is a unique opportunity to
try as far north as Bodø. If you have a lot of luggage
experience one of the most spectacular scenic areas in The Bergen Railway is an ex- and would like to have this
Norway. perience in a class of its own, transported directly to your
crossing “the roof of Norway” hotel, our partner Porterser-
Once on board the train, just sit back and gaze out of the between Oslo and Bergen in a vice will take care of it for a
train’s large windows and enjoy the journey through rail link between east and reasonable price.
contrasting, wild and magnificent scenery. west through beautiful and On Porterservice.no you will
varied landscape. find more information here.
From June to late August the train has an electronic Most of the long distance train
guiding system that provides information on the scenic lines are scenic, including the For lowcost travel, book
Rauma Line between Dombås Minipris (miniprice) at
sights along the route.
and Åndalsnes, which pre- www.nsb.no
sents the tallest rock face in
The www.nsb.no site contains infomercial presenting Europe, Trollveggen. The Minipris costs from NOK 249
the routes and the unique travel experience. Nordland Railway between to 499 for one way – unlimited
Trondheim and Bodø is one of distance.
the few railways in the world
For more information and to book tickets, see that crosses the Arctic Circle. For more information visit:
nsb.no/raumarailway, call +47 815 00 888 or contact a You can also pre book your www.nsb.no
meal if you have specific re- www.interrail.eu
specialist on Scandinavia.
quirements. This can be done www.eurail.com
for both individuals and
groups. You can book a sleep- NSB customer hotline:
ing cabin, or maybe take your Tel.: +47 815 00 888
Europe’s most family and children in the pla- (dial 4 for an English speaking
spectacular yarea. If you prefer a more operator).
train journeys
Nordkapp
Hammerfest
Tromsø
EXPLORE NORWAY Bodø

Polcirkeln
Narvik
Mo i Rana
BY CAR
Mosjøen
Steinkjer
Trondheim
Otta
OSLO
Larvik
Arendal
Kristiansand
VISITING A SAMI REINDEER CAMP
M
WAY.CO
TNOR E 6 Oslo - Otta 228km
> > Otta - Trondheim 246km
> > Trondheim - Mosjøen 395km
ISI
> > Mosjøen - Fauske 276km

–V
C > > Fauske - Narvik 243km

H
S© > > Narvik - Nordkjosbotn 186km

TROM
> > Nordkjosbotn - Alta 336km
> > Alta - Olderfjord 110km
> 69 Olderfjord - Nordkapp 107km
MOTORING HOLIDAYS including information about

Norway is a great place to distances and ferries. Open 24
spend a motoring holiday and hours all year. Tel.: 175
is easily accessible from most (from abroad +47 815 48 991) NORTH CAPE
European countries. Regular www.vegvesen.no
car ferry services run from At least 10 days required for this tour. Returning through Fin-
Denmark, Sweden and On the following pages we land and Sweden will save you some time. En route you will
Germany. The bridge over have compiled various travel visit Oslo, Norway’s capital; the mighty and picturesque Gud-
Öresund between Sweden and routes to help you plan your brandsdalen; Dovrefjell, 1022 meters above sea-level and the
Denmark enables you to drive holiday in Norway. You choose highest point on the tour; Trondheim and its lovely cathedral;
from the Continent to Norway how long you wish to stay at a Namdalens vast forests and well-stocked rivers; Vefsndalen
without taking any ferries. destination and which activi- with the superb Laksfoss falls; Saltfjellet, where we cross the
www.oresundsbron.com ties you wish to include. The Arctic Circle at an altitude of 680 m; the rugged fjord scenery
www.colorline.com routes include magnificent between Fauske and Narvik, the iron-ore town of Narvik with
www.dfdsseaways.com scenery and attractions for its wartime memories; Bardu and Målselv with their cascading
www.fjordline.com adults and children alike. falls and snow-fields; the fjords of Troms encircled by majestic
www.stenaline.com peaks; Finnmark, land of the nomadic Lapps with their rein-
Tips deer grazing on the mountain moors; and finally North Cape,
ROADS The routes are including Europe’s outpost fronting the Arctic Ocean. Detours: Bodø with
The Road Information Centre many of the National the Saltstraumen tide-race; Vesterålen and the Lofoten
provides information about Tourist Routes, see page Islands; Tromsø, “Capital of the Arctic”; Hammerfest,
road-, driving- and traffic con- 178 – 185 for more details. the world’s northernmost town.
ditions throughout Norway,
30 ABOUT NORWAY
KYSTRIKSVEIEN
Polcirkeln
Mo i Rana
Leirosen Umbukta
Sandnessjøen
Mosjøen Tärnaby
Hattfjelldal
Brønnøysund Trofors Bodø
Nordlandskorsen
Vikna
Namsos Gäddede Steinkjer
Osen Trondheim
Formofoss
Fossli
Åfjord
Oslo
TORGHATTEN AT
Trondheim Storlien BRØNNØYSUND
© RONNY LIEN
a sceni c to ur i st ro ad f ro m Steinkjer to B o dø
Nr 715 Trondheim - Fossli 195km

> 17 Fossli - Nordlandskorsen 137km
> 17 Nordlandskorsen - Leirosen 169km
> 78 Leirosen - Mosjøen 51km
E 6 Mosjøen - Trondheim 395km
TRØNDELAG AND HELGELAND slow t ravel alo ng t he co ast o f no r t her n Nor way.
by c ar, b ike o r p ub lic t ransp o r t ation.
KYSTRIKSVEIEN RV 17
An adventure tour off the beaten track. If you complete the actual
drive in four days, you’ll be missing a lot. Make it fourteen days,
and you’ll have time to explore this fascinating area. There are
detours galore available, to make your holiday truly memorable.
Between Trondheim and Namsos you should turn off and make
for Stokksund and its caves, and explore the Norwegian Sea at
Utvorda. From Nordlandskorsen a road leads direct to Vikna’s
myriad islands, with their teeming fish and bird life. If you cut out
Leka, you’ll miss not only Norway’s strangest camp site, but also
the Solsem Cave, with it’s Stone Age paintings. Torghatten, the fo r o ur f ree t ravel guide - t ai lo r- m ade s elf dr ive
“mountain with the hole”, a unique natural phenomenon, is only p ac k ages - b agage t ransp o r t at i o n fo r c yclis ts -
a stone’s throw from Brønnøysund. The most superb detour of k ayak i ng, hik ing and m o re - go to:
the lot, however, is the boat trip from Sandnessjøen to the bird-
rock island of Lovunden and bewitching Træna, and finally W W W.KYS T R IKS V EIEN . N O
Vefsndalen with the Laksfoss Falls, detour to Hattfjelldal and the
Svenningdal Grottoes, Namdalen and the Trondheim Fjord, all of Kyst r i ksvei en R eiseli v as
them superb attractions in their own right. Po st b o ks 91 - N- 7701 Steinkjer
p o st @ k yst r iksvei en.no
Røros
Hjerkinn
Alvdal
Otta
Trondheim
Storlien
Fagernes
Elverum Kristiansund
Hamar
Geilo Molde
Sunndalsøra
Røros
Åndalsnes Oppdal Fjällnäs
OSLO
Kongsberg Hjerkinn
Geiranger Alvdal
Larvik
Otta
Arendal VIEWPOINT SNØHETTA,
HJERKINN, DOVRE DALSNIBBA
Kristiansand © CH – VISITNORWAY.COM © ESPEN MILLS
Nr 40 Larvik - Geilo 253km E 6 Trondheim - Oppdal 119km

> 7 Geilo - Gol 50km Nr 70 Oppdal - Kristiansund 161km
> 51 Gol - Fargernes - Randen 174km > 64 Kristiansund - Molde 73km
> 15 Randen - Otta 37km > > Molde - Åndalsnes 57km
E 6 Otta - Hjerkinn 78km > 63 Åndalsnes - Linge 60km
Nr 29 Hjerkinn - Alvdal 68km > > Linge - Langevatn 49km
> 30 Alvdal - Røros 75km > 15 Langevatn - Otta 135km
> 26 Røros - Nybergsund 196km E 6 Otta - Hjerkinn 78km
> 25 Nybergsund - Hamar 92km Nr 29 Hjerkinn - Alvdal 67km
E 6 Hamar - Oslo 118km > 3 Alvdal - Tynset 23km
E 18 Oslo - Larvik 129km > 30 Tynset - Støren 158km
E 6 Støren - Trondheim 48km
THE MOUNTAIN TOUR TRØNDELAG AND MØRE

Take into account a week for this tour. Attractions en route in- Driving time 4 – 5 days, but time should be set aside for sea-fish-
clude: Kongsberg with its old silver mines; Numedal with its ing and mountain rambles. An alternative route between Trond-
stave churches and romantic farmsteads; the Hardanger plateau heim and Kristiansund is to take Highway 65 through Surnadalen
and Hallingdal; picturesque scenery in Øystre Slidre; the pano- or E39 through Søvassdalen. We have chosen the route from the
ramic view from Valdresflya, where you reach the highest point of mountain resort at Oppdal, down the impressive Sunndalen and
the journey (1420 m), of the peaks and glaciers of the Jotunhei- along the fjord to the fishing town of Kristiansund on the coast.
men; Gjende mountain lake; charming little shielings round Sjoa; Other attractions include: The Atlantic Road, chosen as
Vågå with its carefully preserved clusters of farm buildings; "Norway's construction of the century" in 2005; Ålseund, known
Dovrefjell, “Norway’s roof”, with sweeping views; the enchanted for its architecture in Art Nouveau style; Molde, renowned for its
mountain realm of the Rondane range; Glomma, Norway’s long- panorama; Åndalsnes and the Romsdal Alps; the zigzag portions
est river; the ancient copper-mining town of Røros; Lake of the breathtaking Troll Path (Trollstigen) road; Geiranger with
Femunden set between mountains and pine-clad heath; the vast day-time excursions on the fjord; the Geiranger road to the
forests of Trysil; Lake Mjøsa with the world’s oldest paddle- mountains and the road to the top of Dalsnibba, 1495 m; the
wheeler “Skibladner” still in operation; Oslo and the Oslo Fjord. Ottadalen with its stave churches and medieval farmsteads;
Get to know the mountains; go walking on the Hardanger pla- Gudbrandsdal, Dovrefjell and the Rondane range; the copper-
teau, in the Jotunheimen, Rondane or Femundsmarka. Tourist mining town of Røros with its 18th century setting; Gauldalen
chalets and well-marked paths make it easy to find your way. with its narrow gorges and cascading rivers.
Nordkapp
Honningsvåg
Hammerfest
Olderfjord
Skaidi
Geilo Lakselv
Kinsarvik Alta
Hønefoss
Karasjok
Odda
OSLO Lyngseidet Karigasniemi
Haukeligrend Olderdalen
Kongsberg Tromsø Skibotn
Larvik Kautokeino
Nordkjosbotn
HARDANGER Karesuando
TROMSØ CHURCH
© CH – VISITNORWAY.COM Tornio © CH - VISITNORWAY.COM
E 18 Oslo - Drammen 40km E8/91 Tromsø - Olderdalen 71km

E 134 Drammen - Seljestad 298km E6 Olderdalen - Olderfjord 331km
Nr 13 Seljestad - Kinsarvik 64km E69 Olderfjord - Nordkapp 107km
> 7 Avstikker Bergen 258km E69 Nordkapp - Olderfjord 107km
> > Kinsavik - Hønefoss 305km E6 Olderfjord - Karasjok 137km
E 16 Hønefoss - Oslo 58km Nr 92 Karasjok - Kautokeino 128km
Nr 93 Kautokeino - Alta 129km
E6 Alta - Nordkjosbotn 342km
Polcirkeln
E8 Nordkjosbotn - Tromsø 73km
THE SPRING TOUR TROMSØ AND THE NORTH CAPE

This tour should be undertaken in May when the fruit trees in Tromsø has a rich and exciting history and is where your Arctic
Hardanger are in blossom, and while you’re about it, you should adventure begins. Cross through the Lyngen Alps, ferry across
extend your visit to include the Bergen Festival at the end of the Lyngen Fjord and pass the Reisa Valley, where a detour can
May and the beginning of June. If you include Bergen in your be made by river boat into the National Park. Later enjoy the
itinerary you should plan to return via Ulvik, one of the loveliest marvelous view from Mount Kvænangen og the Øksfjord Gla-
resorts in all Hardanger. Reckon to spend one week on this cier and continue to Alta with its great rock carvings and fa-
tour, which will feature the road through Telemark , with its mous salmon river. Along the mighty Porsanger Fjord follow
countless scenic surprises, as well as Haukelifjell, where we the road to North Cape and the Arctic Ocean panorama. Across
drive along the old road through Dyrskar (1100 m), followed by the Finnmarksvidda plateau to the Sami (lapp) village of
the winding road down to Røldal and yet another zigzag road Karasjok where the Sami collections present Sami culture, and
across the moors to Seljestad. We shall pass the Låtefoss Falls Kautokeino with Juhls Silver Gallery which also contains a
tumbling down in a cascade of white foam and the forbidding small museum, and along glittering rivers back to Alta. On the
ravine at Måbødalen, where the Vøring Falls hurls itself down return journey follow the east side of the Lyngenfjord and the
182 m. We shall have panoramic views of glaciers and moun- west side of the Balsfjord beneath towering peaks back to
tains from the Hardanger plateau, before driving down the nar- Tromsø.
row and enthralling Hallingdal to emerge at last among the
trim farms and fertile fields of smiling Ringerike.
37
Distance Table
ABOUT NORWAY
Lillehammer
Kristiansund
Hammerfest
Kristiansand
Trondheim
Svinesund
Stavanger
Fagernes
Kirkenes
Nordkap
Ålesund
Tromsø
Bergen
Hamar
Narvik
Røros
Skien
Bodø
Oslo
Bergen 0 1380 350 471 2214 2588 492 517 439 1561 2283 478 637 426 170 545 1844 657 378
Bodø 1380 0 1177 1108 956 1331 1534 918 1065 304 1025 1217 936 1347 1560 1398 562 723 1010
Fagernes 350 1177 0 140 2051 2426 491 397 119 1342 2090 202 352 290 444 324 1626 407 383
Hamar 471 1108 140 0 1942 2316 443 455 59 1289 2011 123 289 257 575 238 1606 385 441
Hammerfest 2214 956 2051 1942 0 494 2368 1752 1899 652 181 2051 1810 2181 2394 2273 549 1557 1844
Kirkenes 2588 1331 2426 2316 494 0 2742 2126 2273 1027 517 2425 2185 2555 2768 2668 944 1931 2218
Kristiansand 492 1534 491 443 2368 2742 0 865 471 1715 2437 320 753 187 245 327 2054 811 811
Kristiansund 517 918 397 455 1752 2126 865 0 396 1099 1821 562 291 679 862 704 1377 195 142
Lillehammer 439 1065 119 59 1899 2273 471 396 0 1246 1968 167 282 284 587 297 1562 342 382
Narvik 1561 304 1342 1289 652 1027 1715 1099 1246 0 721 1398 1123 1528 1741 1584 251 904 1191
Nordkap 2283 1025 2090 2011 181 517 2437 1821 1968 721 0 2120 1869 2550 2463 2332 609 1626 1913
Oslo 478 1217 202 123 2051 2425 320 562 167 1398 2120 0 423 133 452 122 1733 494 533
Røros 637 936 352 289 1810 2185 753 291 282 1123 1869 423 0 551 740 533 1352 166 430
Skien 426 1347 290 257 2181 2555 187 679 284 1528 2250 133 551 0 363 148 1852 624 625
Stavanger 170 1560 444 575 2394 2768 245 862 587 1741 2263 452 740 363 0 535 1961 837 621
Svinesund 545 1398 324 238 2273 2668 327 704 297 1584 2332 122 533 148 535 0 1835 635 695
Tromsø 1844 562 1626 1606 549 944 2054 1377 1562 251 609 1733 1352 1352 1852 1835 0 1205 1519
Trondheim 657 723 407 385 1557 1931 811 195 342 904 1626 494 166 624 837 635 1205 0 287
Ålesund 378 1010 383 441 1844 2218 811 142 382 1191 1913 533 430 625 621 695 1519 287 0
Ferry are not included in the table. Source: Statens Vegvesen
point at Lindesnes and the charming town of Farsund, however,
are the Kristiansand Zoo, the oil town of Stavanger, picturesque

This tour can be embarked on in Oslo, Larvik or Kristiansand. It
41km
follows the curving coastline, past little towns redolent with the
little towns are strung out along the E18 – Grimstad, Lillesand,
327km
124km
121km
38km
38km
234km
176km
44km
© ANDERS MARTINSEN –
Tønsberg and Sandefjord, and further on picturesque Kragerø,
Skudeneshavn and the North Sea port of Haugesund. Last but

are reached by a side-road. Other attractions along your route
number of days this tour lasts, which should be anything from
not least; the Åkra Fjord with the Langfoss Fall, the mountain
pass across Haukeli as well as colorful Rauland and the rug-
four days to four weeks. Even before you leave the Oslo Fjord
BEACH LIFE/FARSUND
Risør, Tvedestrand and Arendal. A whole series of delightful
Mandal, Flekkefjord and Egersund. Norway’s southernmost

camp sites. The length of your stopovers will determine the
many interesting detours suggest themselves – to Horten,

atmosphere of the windjammer age, bathing beaches and
VISIT SORLANDET
Skudeneshavn - Haugesund
Stavanger - Skudeneshavn
Kristiansand - Flekkefjord
Flekkefjord - Stavanger
Kongsberg - Drammen
Haugeswund - Åmot
Oslo - Kristiansand
Åmot - Kongsberg
Drammen - Oslo
ged Vestfjorddalen in Telemark.

SOUTH NORWAY
Drammen
OSLO
Larvik
Kongsberg
Arendal
Kristiansand
Rjukan
ABOUT NORWAY
Åmot
Seljestad
18
39
44
E39 521
47
134
37
134
18
Flekkefjord
Nr
Nr
nr
Stavanger
E
E
>
Haugesund
36
38 ABOUT NORWAY
FERRIES
AND
N
EXPRESS
BSO
DO
N
LI
CO
SKIBLADNER ©
BOATS
Express boats and car ferries journey Bergen - Kirkenes -
EXPLORE
sail up and down the coast, in Bergen takes 11 days. This voy-
sheltered waters and across age is an exquisite way to expe-
open seas, to towns and vil- rience the natural beauty of the
NORWAY
lages, and islands large and coast. It is indeed "the world's
small. They provide perfect most beautiful sea voyage".
logistics for a holiday of island What fascinates tourists most
hopping, or an itinerary entirely are all the tiny and not-so-tiny
of your own choosing. communities they stop by at
© Fabrice Milochau
Especially in Western Norway, along the way.
where all the world-famous Departures are daily and there
fjords are, the road suddenly are frequent stops along the
ends and the journey continues coast. The ships can accommo-
by ferry. date cars, making it easy to
Be warned, there may be combine the cruise with a holi-
queues in the summer day in different places ashore.
© Trym Ivar Bergsmo SENSE THE FJORDS
A voyage with Hurtigruten is the perfect
©Erlend Haaberg
months. way to make your dreams come through by
Boat trips on getting unique experiences on board and
For more information about inland lakes ashore Norway’s beautiful coastline. Experi-
ence the arctic wilderness, the midnight sun,
ferry and boat timetables, It is not only coastal Norway that the northern lights, the unique nature and
please contact the operating offers boat trips. For example enjoy Norway’s coastal kitchen.
companies, you will find a you can take a trip on Norway's Wherever or whenever you travel with
© Kazimieras Šešelgis
complete list on largest lake, Lake Mjøsa, with Hurtigruten, you will not only feel like a
www.visitnorway.com the world's oldest paddle steam- true explorer– you will be one.
©Stein Lillebo
er Skibladner. You may also take Start planning today – visit our website
or contact your local travel agency.
Hurtigruten the Fæmund II into the wildernes
The long-established of Femundsmarka, or travel in
Hurtigruten sails from Bergen the Jotunheimen Mountains with
to Kirkenes in Finnmark. The the Gjende Boats. hurtigruten.com
40 RECOMMENDED DESTINATIONS RECOMMENDED DESTINATIONS 41
The North Cape

Hurtigruten RECOMMENDED
SVALBARD
The
Lyngen
UN ES CO
Hammerfest
Alta
Kirkenes
DESTINATIONS
Alps
Tromsø
Andenes
NORTHERN NORWAY
Longyearbyen n
le
rå
ste
Ve
en
fot
Lo
Bodø
Arctic Circle
Mo I Rana
UN ES CO the Vistenfjord
Vega
Helgeland
CENTRAL NORWAY
Trøndelag
Hurtigruten
Visit Norway online

Kristiansund
Trondheim
The award-winning website
Ålesund
Molde
Møre & Romsdal UN ES CO
Røros Visitnorway is our most
the Geirangerfjord
UN ES CO
important channel for mar-
the Nordfjord
EASTERN NORWAY keting Norway as a holiday
FJORD NORWAY
UN ES CO
Urnes Stave Church
Fjell Norway destination.
nefjord
the Sog
UN ES CO
Nærøyfjord Hemsedal
Lillehammer
Visitnorway gives you reliable
and extensive information
Flåm
Gol Gjøvik
UN ES CO Bergen
d
about the whole of Norway

or
Gardermoen
rfj
ge
THE OSLOFJORD REGION

an
rd
and what the tourism industry

Ha
Oslo
the
Oslofjord
Østfold
Haugesund
Telemark
Torp
Rygge
has to offer – all in one place.
Setesdal Larvik
Stavanger Langesund
Strømstad
Find your destination in Norway along the coast, by the
Arendal
Kristiansand fjords, in a city or in the mountains.Experience the biggest
attractions as Geirangerfjord, Nordkapp, Nidaros
Cathedral and Flåmsbana, go on wildlife safaris or plan a
Hirtshals
Frederikshavn
DENMARK
hiking or fishing trip. Norwegian culture is inextricably
linked to the beautiful scenery and large parts of the
country as a living national museum.
Free App for your holiday

Find accommodation,events, activities and
restaurants where you are or where you are going. NIDAROS CATHEDRAL, TRONDHEIM © CH – VISITNORWAY.COM
FIND YOUR NORTHERN NORWAY
OM
DESTINATION
Y.C
Northern Norway offers Sami
NORWA
culture, wildlife safaris, mid-
night sun and northern lights.
LOFO
VISIT
Experience mountains, plains
TE
and coast from Helgeland via
–
CH
N
RA © Lofoten to Nordkapp.
-
CK
S FO ISH
R STOCKF
OM
TRØNDELAG
.C
AY
Trøndelag or Middle Norway,
/VISITNORW
is an area rich in heritage,
salmon rivers and friendly
GEIRANGER © CH – VIS
ITN “trøndere”. Norway‘s historical
.DE
ORW
AY.C capital, Trondheim is located
MY
OM
AR
© DIA
- in this central region.
W.K
RAUSE/ME
Start planning your holiday here and find EASTERN NORWAY

your dream trip whether you will climb the Eastern Norway is recreation.
WAY.COM
Here is everything from high
mountain, relax with good food or show mountains in Jotunheimen
Norway to family and friends. Here you will
NOR
and beautiful cultural inland
find inspiration and overview. Good trip! to urban café life in the many
SIT
VI
– pleasant towns.
D
© TERJE BORU
FJORD NORWAY
Fjord Norway with its world
OM
OSLOFJORD REGION
Y.C
- VISITNORWA
famous fjords and mountains Mild, gentle, sunny and friendly.

offers more than beautiful That is what this region is like
M
spectacular scenery. Here is – both its nature and culture.

AY.CO
easy access to activities as The area is a very popular

D
RW
glacier walking, fishing and summer holiday destination for

RU
NO
PE
T cultural experiences. P Norwegians.

ISI KO
–V © MARTE
© CH
FJORD
NORWAY SVALBARD
You have to be NORDNORW

here to believe it ! VESTERÅLEN
HARSTAD
LOFOTEN
N
MO I RAN
VEGA
BRØNNØYSUND
KYSTRIKSVEIEN RV. 17
HJEL
LE I
N STR
YN TRØNDELAG
©
MA
CIE
J DU KRISTIANSUND
CXY
NSK
I – FJ MOLDE
ORD RØROS
NORW ÅNDALSNES
AY MØRE &
ROMSDAL
GEIRANGER-
FJORD GEIRANGER
NORDFJORD STRYN
SOGN &
FJORDANE
BALESTRAND
SOGNEFJORD
FLÅM
BERGEN HARDANGERVIDDA
HORDALAND
The Fjords are the soul of Norway and
certainly its most magnificent attraction. HARDANGERFJORD
For the adventurous traveler you can HAUGESUND ROGALAND
challenge yourself in this spectacular nature www.fjordnorway.com RYFYLKE
of the west. STAVANGER
LINDESNES HIRTSHALS
FREDERIKSHAV
DENMARK
FJORD
46 CITY
RECOMMENDED DESTINATIONS RECOMMENDED DESTINATIONS 47
BERGEN
The Gateway to the
TH
Fjords of Norway
ODDLEIV APNESE
BER
©
GE
EN
N
PH
LH
IK
LR
I
AR
MO TU
NIC O STRAA
RCHE
Year after year, we hear visitors from all over

the world comment as they’re leaving “the
City of the Seven Mountains”: I wish I could
have stayed longer.
Our city may be modest in cultural scene. Our Hanseatic

size, but it is packed with heritage is one of many
attractions that fascinate reasons for Bergen’s status as
visitors. Lively traditions live a European City of Culture.
side by side with a vibrant
THE HAAKONS HALL IN EVENING LIGHT

BRYGGEN © SCOTT SPORLEDER – MATADOR NETWORK – FJORD NORGE AS © GIRISH CHOUHAN - VISITBERGEN.COM
BERGEN
Bergen will enchant you regardless of the
season. Spring and autumn each have their
beautiful palette, summer is teeming with
joyous activities, and in winter you can
combine your stay with snow-filled
adventure at a nearby ski resort. Year round
EDVARD GRIEG MUSEUM
you can experience the Norway © VISITBERGEN.COM
in a nutshell® excursion.
Day II Head out to Edvard Grieg’s home, Troldhaugen, for a
lunch concert in idyllic surroundings. Visit the recreated Old
Bergen, before taking the Fløibanen funicular or the Ulriken
Set aside three days to explore Day I Start your day with cable car up to the top for a magnificent panorama of the
the World Heritage City Ber- a stroll through the Fish city and surrounding fjords. The trails may well lure you to a
gen, and we guarantee you Market and along the me- mountain hike.
unforgettable memories and diaeval Hanseatic wharf,
experiences. Bryggen. Visit some of the
city’s many museums and
art galleries, before explor-
ing Bergen’s charming
shops.
BERGEN AQUARIUM © SVERRE HJØRNEVIK – FJORD NORWAY
Day III Spend the morning at the Aquarium or

the science exploratorium VilVite. Go on a fjord
sightseeing trip in the afternoon. Have dinner at
one the city’s seafood restaurants – and round off
your evening with a concert at one of Bergen’s
many cultural venues.
BRYGGEN © ROBIN STRAND

BERGEN The Bergen Card gives you free or discounted

admission to museums, attractions, sightseeing
and cultural events, free bus and Bergen Light
Rail travel and discounts on meals and park-
ing. The card can be purchased at the Tourist
Information, or order online at
www.visitBergen.com/BergenCard
TRAVEL FACTS
Getting there: Bergen Airport Flesland

Bergen – easy to get to, no has excellent domestic and
matter what means of international connections.
transport you choose. You can fly to Bergen direct
The Bergen Railway from more than 30 destina-
between Oslo and Bergen tions in Europe.
has been ranked as one of
the world's greatest train Some important distances:
journeys. Getting to Bergen Oslo – 515 km (about 7h)
by train, book at Stavanger – 210 km
www.fjordtours.com Ålesund – 385 km
www.nsb.no
Several departures daily to/ Contact us:
from the fjord region, and Bergen Tourist Board
Oslo. Turistinformation
Direct ferry routes from Strandkaien 3
Denmark by Fjord Line. +47 55 55 20 00
Bergen is also a turnaround info@visitBergen.com
port for the world-famous
Hurtigruten coastal express. www.visitBergen.com
The Gateway
to the Fjords
of Norway
Follow visitBergen at
VIEW OVER BERGEN FROM MOUNT FLØYEN © SVERRE HJØRNEVIK – FJORD

NORWAY
RYFYLKE AND
THE STAVANGER REGION
WHERE YOUR FJORD
ADVENTURE STARTS
PREIKESTOLEN © OUTDOORLIFE NORWAY CITY BREAK / STAVANGER © VISIT STAVANGER
The Stavanger region life with gourmet restaurants,

Beautiful scenery including Preikestolen, All about contrasts – from shopping, charming cafés, fun
Mount Kjerag and the beaches of Jæren. long sandy beaches to fjord museums and activities.
and mountain landscapes and
A lively cultural scene and great culinary lively islands. Adventures such Region Stavanger
experiences. Combine the National Tourist as kayaking, cycling, surfing NO-4306, Sandnes
Routes through the lovely Ryfylke area and and kiting, hiking, fishing and info@RegionStavanger.com
Jæren with buzzing city life. climbing. We offer urban city www.RegionStavanger.com
TRAVEL FACTS Hirtshals, Denmark with

Ryfylke Several daily Fjord Line.
Impressive fjord experience Reisemål Ryfylke AS, departures from/to Oslo, RV13, E39 and RV45.
await you in Ryfylke. NO-4130 Hjelmeland Bergen and Kristiansand. Stavanger Airport,
Go for a walk in the mountain info@ryfylke.com Several daily Sola. Direct flights to e.g.
or sightseeing on the fjord. www.ryfylke.com departures from/to Oslo, Aberdeen, Amsterda
Make frequent stops! You will Kristiansand and Oslo. m, Berlin, Copenhagen,
find peace of mind in Ryfylke. Car ferry from London, Newcastle.
KJERAG
© OUTDOORLIFE
NORWAY SOGNDALSTRAND SOLA BEACH
JOHANNES C. APON NESVÅG © EDUARDO GRUND © KNUT BRY – TINAGENT © CH – VISITNORWAY.COM
RECOMMENDED DESTINATIONS 55
HARDANGERFJORD
HAUGESUND & HAUGALANDET
TROLLTUNGA © SCOTT SPORLEDER – FJORD NORWAY
Visit Haugesund and you will experience the best of The Hardangerfjord region, not far from Bergen, is
what Norway has to offer.
one of the most scenic areas in Norway. Here, two
Fjord, waterfall, coast- and city culture, the unique
national parks, two National Tourist Routes, the
viking history, glacier, mountains and sea, idyllic
islands and lighthouses is among what you will find fjord, waterfalls and glaciers all await you.
in this region. Accommodation to suit all budgets. A perfect base
for exploring Fjord Norway.
www.hardangerfjord.com
visithaugesund.no
* photos: Espen Mills, Scott Sporleder, Ørjan B. Iversen, Arne Kr. S. Ytreland, Atle Grimsby, Terje Aamodt
GUIDED GLACIER HIKES

© DÉSIRÉ WESTSTRATE FOLGEFONNI BREFØRARLAG
Haugesund Tourist information

post@visithaugesund.no, +47 52 01 08 30
© SVERRE
HJØRNEVIK /
visithaugesund visithaugesund FJORD NORWAY KAYAKING, JONDAL © CH – IN
Sognefjorden
The longest fjord, the biggest glacier and
the highest mountains – the world’s most
beautiful fjord experiences!
Nærøyfjorden (UNESCO) Nigardsbreen, Jostedalen Urnes stave church, Luster Norsk Bremuseum, Fjærland Old Lærdalsøyri, Lærdal Stegastein, Aurland The Flåm railway, Aurland
Photo: Katrin Moe Photo: Finn Loftesnes Photo: Espen Mills Photo: Norsk Bremuseum Photo: Magnhild Aspevik Photo: Rolf M. Sørensen Photo: Morten Rakke
1 Fjord: UNESCO Nærøyfjord (1A), den Frøkne Statue (6N), Stegastein view shore dweller site (6AA). Breheimsenteret – glacier museum (8D), Flåm
Fjærlandsfjord (1B). point (6O), Lærdalstunnelen – world’s longest 7 National Tourist Routes: Stryn
Railway Museum (8E), Kristianhus Boat- and
2 Glacier: Jostedalsbreen (2), Nigardsbreen tunnel (6P), Kayak (6Q), RIB (6R), Rafting Sognefjellet (7A), Aurlandsfjellet Loen (7B), Motormuseum (8F), Høyanger Industrial
(2A), Bøyabreen (2B), Supphellebreen (2C), (6S), MotorikparkTM Lærdal (6T), Vesterland Gaularfjellet (7C). Innvik Skåla
Museum (8G), Sognefjord Aquarium (8H),
Bergsetbreen (2D), Austerdalsbreen (2E). Indoor Playpark (6U), Juving (6V), ZIP-line 8 Museums and centers: De Heiberske Norwegian Tourism museum (8I), Post- and
3 Waterfalls: Vettisfossen (3A), Feigumfossen (6W), Lustrabadet indoor waterworld (6X), Samlinger Utvik
– Norwegian folk Museum tele museum (8J), Munthehuset (8K), Safthuset
(3B), Kjosfossen (3C), Kjelfossen (3D), Høyangerbadet indoor waterworld (6Y), Open- (8A), Norwegian Wild Salmon Centre (8B),
Lodalskåpa
– “The Juice House” (8L), Refsdal Powerstation
L
Kvinnafossen (3E), Drivandefossen (3F). air swimming pool (6Z), Vikøyri - historical Sandane Norsk Bremuseum – glacier museum (8C), 1913 (8M), Sogn Art Centre
Breheimen (8N)./
Nasjonalpark
Byrkjelo Snønipa National Park
4 Churches: UNESCO Urnes Stave Church (4A),
Borgund Stave Church (4B), Hopperstad Stave 2 en Styggevatnet
Harbards-
he
im
/
bre breen nd
als en
Church (4C), Kaupanger Stave ChurchFlorø
(4D), Jos
ted
Nigards-
2A 6Q
Nørdstedal-
Tro slo
O llsv
eg
efje
Undredal Stave Church (4E), Hove Stone Church Jostedalsbreen Nasjonalpark /
breen
8D
seter
So
gn
(4F), St. Olafs Church (4G), Dale Stone Church National Park Austerdals- Bergset- breen 2D Spørtegg- Sognefjellet
Skei breen 2E breen
Gjerde
(4H), Gaupne old Church (4I). Tunsbergs-
6S 7A
Tunge- breen 55
5 Hiking: Aurlandsdalen (5A), The Utladalen Supphelle-
stølen Jostedalen
Mørkrids-
dalen
3F
Valley (5B), Jotunheimen/Hurrungane (5C), Bøya-
breen
2C Fuglesteg
Fanaråken
breen Myklemyr
The old King’s Road (5D), Stølsheimen (5E), Førde
Grove-
breen 2B Veitastrond 6G Skjolden
Fortun
Turtagrø
Jotunheimen Nasjonalpark /
Rallarvegen (5F), Saurdal (5G), Molden (5H). 6W 6V
4H
6R
Store National Park
Leirdalen 53 Skagastølstind
Luster
6 Attractions: Flåmsbana – The Flåm Railway Haukedalen 8C 4I Sørheim
Hurrungane
Fjærland 6X Høyheimsvik
(6A), The Aurland shoe (6B), The Norwegian Dale 6C Veitastronds-
Gaupne
8L 5C
Tindevegen
vatnet Nes
Book Town (6C), Cider Cellar (6D), Ægir Gaularfjellet Mundal
6Q
Berge
6Q
Feigumfossen Vettisfossen
3B 3A
Bryggeri & Pub (6E), Gamle Lærdalsøyri – old Flekke 5 Marifjøra
n
6H
fjorde
13 7C Kroken Hjelle
1B Anestølen Molden 6M 5B
village centre (6F), Jostedal Powerstation (6G), Sande
Moskog
Hafslo 5H
8K
er
st
en
Dalavatnet Lu
Anestølen Farm visit (6H), Galleri Walaker 6I Øvre Årdal
s f j ord
4A
Hodlekve Urnes 6Z
Solvorn Urnes Stavkyrkje
300 (6I), The Magic White Caves (Gudvangen Sværaskaret
nd
rla Nuken 55
6L 6Y Fj æ 53
6J), Otternes (6K), The “Stairs” in Høyanger Høyanger Farnes
8G Sogndal
(6L), Tindevegen – tourist route (6M), Fridtjov Låne
Dragsvik
3E
Hella 6Q Kjørnes Årdalstangen
Nordevik
Balestrand Indre Offerdal
Leikanger 6U
Berge 4G 8H 8I 6D 6R 55 8A Kaupanger Tyin
Måren 4D
55 5G Vangsnes Slinde Naddvik rnes
Haukåsen Mannheller Fage
Heggebøen 6N
Oslo
Travel facts Lavik Berge
n Sogne
fj
Kvamsøy
Feios
Fimreite Fodnes
6F 6T
or 8B 8J 8N Maristova
From Bergen/Oslo: www.vegvesen.no Bjordal
Ortnevik den 6R 6AA 8M Vindedal
n Frønningen Lærdalsøyri Steinklepp 5D
Oppedal e 8F Vik Lærdal
and www.maps.google.no
rd
t Borgund
lle
afjo
4C 4F Hove
r den
je 5D Stavkyrkje
Fresvik sf Borlaug
i nn
Hopperstad steinkyrkje d
F an 4B
www.nasjonaleturistveger.no/en rl
fj o
Stavkyrkje
Fresvik- Au 52
Arna
Finnabotn
13 breen Go
7B l/O
From Bergen: www.norled.no Arnafjord slo
Matre Bergen n
5E 6P le
ne
From Bergen/Oslo: www.nor-way.no rd e
n
yfjo un
Vikafjellet st
rø Undredal al
Næ rd
www.sognefjord.no
Haugsvær Bakka
From Bergen/Oslo: www.wideroe.no 1A
Styvi
Undredal 4E
Stavkyrkje 6Q
6O Læ
Matre Stølsheimen
6B
From Bergen/Oslo: www.nsb.no 6J
Tel +47-99231500 | info@sognefjord.no
Gudvangen 6R
Øvrehelland Aurland
and www.visitflam.com Myrkdalen
3D 6E 8E
6Q
6K 5A
Mo Flåm Aurlandsdalen
Roundtrips “Norway in a Nutshell”® and Østerbø

ana
Stalheim 5F
Voss/ 50
Flåmsb
“Sognefjord in a Nutshell”®: Bergen

Ho
6A
l/
Ge
www.fjordtours.no 3C
ilo
ÅLESUND & enthusiasts will find a favourite

spot here, maybe at Stranda
abound in fish. Get your adren-
aline going on a whitewater
SUNNMØRE Ski Resort, which has been
voted Norway's best ski centre
rafting trip or a sea safari, or
explore the Geiranger to
for powder snow skiing. Re- Trollstigen National Tourist
charge your batteries on a cy- Route, perhaps Norway's most
cling or kayaking trip, and try breathtaking road.
your luck fishing in waters that
TRAVEL FACTS
ÅLESUND © STAALE WATTØ
Transport from Oslo, Bergen and
By car from Oslo Trondheim.
Ålesund 547 km Ålesund Airport Vigra
The world famous fjord landscape and the The Hurtigruten has good domestic connec-
unique Art Nouveau town – an almost coastal express tions and direct services to
Calls twice daily year Amsterdam, London,
unbeatable combination of nature and culture. around at Torvik and Copenhagen, Riga, Gdansk,
Ålesund, and once a day Vilnius, Las Palmas,
Geiranger between June Alicante. Ørsta/Volda
Ålesund - The Art age List and has been a visitor and August and Hjørund- Hovden Airport to -
Nouveau town attraction ever since the mid- fjord (Øye) Sept.-Oct. from Oslo Gardermoen.
Ålesund has been voted dle of the 19th century. See To Åndalsnes, then by
Norway's most beautiful town, 'the Seven Sisters' waterfall as bus to Geiranger and Destination Ålesund &
and it has many experiences to it cascades down towards the Ålesund, and other places Sunnmøre
offer! Lift your gaze as you fjord, surrounded by the many in the region. Tel. +47 70 15 76 00
wander around the Art Nou- mountain farms that cling to Several daily arrivals www.visitalesund.com
veau town and you will discover the steep mountainsides.
myriad spires, towers and
beautiful ornamentation Close to nature
adorning the facades of build- Experience teeming bird life on
ings. Walk up the 418 steps to the bird island of Runde and be
the top of mount Aksla and you captivated by picturesque
will be rewarded with a pano- Alnes lighthouse. Sail up the
ramic view of the coast, fjords magnificent Hjørund-fjord, or
and mountains. experience the seasons at first
hand on a walk in the Tafjord-
The Geirangerfjord fjellene mountains, the Sun-
The Geirangerfjord is so nmøre Alps and the mountains
unique that it has been includ- in the Geiranger-fjord area. In
ed on UNESCO's World Herit- winter, even the biggest skiing
THE GEIRANGERFJORD © TERJE RAKKE – NORDIC LIFE

NORTHWEST- Kvernes stave church. Try kay-

aking or a cycling trip, learn
Innerdalen valley and the
Trollheimen National Parc and
TROLLSTIGEN- about the history of the Viking
longships at the fishing village
the Romsdalseggen ridge
near Åndalsnes. Or you can
ATLANTIC ROAD of Håholmen and about local
coastal and maritime history
drive the Aursjøvegen moun-
tain road, which is possibly
at the new Ergan visitor centre even more dramatic than the
in Bud. There are spectacular Trollstigen Road. Take your
walks in the area, such as the time and experience more!
Fjord Route near Kristiansund,
ATLANTIC ROAD © ØIVIND LEREN
Experience the world's most beautiful car TRAVEL FACTS

journey: The Atlantic Road and the Trollstigen
Transport Bergen and Trondheim.
Road. By car from Oslo The Timekspressen bus
Molde 500 km service between Kristian-
Our National Tourist The coastal towns of Kristiansund 570 km sund-Molde-Ålesund-
Routes, the Atlantic Molde and The Hurtigruten coast- Ørsta.
Road and the Kristiansund al express calls twice daily Kristiansund Airport
Trollstigen Road The opera and klipfish town of at Molde and Kristiansund. Kvernberget and Molde
The Atlantic Road, which runs Kristiansund is located in a Express boat to/from Airport Årø have daily
between Molde and Kristian- beautiful setting on four Trondheim and Kristian- domestic flights to/from
sund, winds its way over bridg- islands connected by bridges sund. Oslo, Bergen, and Trond-
es and causeways from islet to at the ocean's edge. Take a trip To/from Åndalsnes and heim.
islet right out at the ocean's on the Sundbåten boat, the Oppdal, with bus
edge. The Atlantic Road topped world's oldest mode of public connections to Molde and Visit Nordmøre &
The Guardian's list of the transport still in operation. Kristiansund. Romsdal
world's most beautiful road Molde is known for its jazz, Several express Tel. +47 70 23 88 00
trips. You can fish from fishing roses and panoramic view. buses daily to/from Oslo, www.visitnorthwest.no
bridges or a boat and are al- Take the trip up to the Varden
most guaranteed to catch viewpoint (407 metres) and
something. Norway's most admire the magical Molde
visited National Tourist Route, panorama with its 222
Trollstigen, winds its way from summits.
the floor of Isterdalen valley up
to Stigøra (858 metres). You An action-packed
cross Stigfossen waterfall on round trip
an impressive stone bridge. It Take a boat trip from Kris-
is also possible to walk up tiansund to the little island of
Trollstigen on the old Kløvstien Grip, continue in the direction
bridle path. of the Atlantic Road and visit
TROLLSTIGEN ROAD
© ROGER ELLINGSEN – STATENS VEGVESEN
WELCOME
TO FLÅM
THE FLÅM RAILWAY © VISIT FLÅM – MORTEN RAKKKE FJORD CRUISE NÆRØYFJORD © PAUL EDMUNDSON
Welcome to Flåm in the heart of Fjord UNESCO World The Fjords is launching a new
Norway. Enjoy a wealth of exciting and Heritage area eco-frindly hybrid vessel that
Explore the wildest and most runs on electric power in June
magnificient experiences year round. beautiful branch of the 2016. The design of the vessel
Sognefjord, the UNESCO World ‘SeaSight’ is spectacular and
Heritage area, Nærøyfjord. invites the passengers to enjoy
The fjords of Western Norway The Flåm Railway The Nærøyfjord is 17 km long a magnificient and silent fjord
have been voted the world's The Flåm Railway offers a and 250 metres wide at the experience in the UNESCO
best fjord destination by spectacular train journey narrowest point. The Fjords World Heritage area
National Geographic Traveler between Flåm by the offers daily roundtrips by bus Nærøyfjord.
magazine. Flåm is located Aurlands-fjord and the moun- and boat between Flåm and
innermost in the world's tain station Myrdal. The Flåm Gudvangen.
longest fjord, the Sognefjord. Railway is open all year and
connects with most of the
The contrasts between snow- trains on the BergenRailway
capped mountain peaks, between Bergen and Oslo.
cascading waterfalls and a The railway is 20 km long, and
beautiful flowering landscape has an hight difference of 865
offer magical moments that metres. The Flåm Railway has
make a trip to Flåm well been voted one of Europe's
worthwhile. most beautiful train journeys
by the National Geographic
Traveler magazine.
SEASIGHT © BRØDRENE AA
FLÅM Historical Fretheim

Hotel
Fretheim Hotel is located in
the heart of Flåm with the
Flåm Railway as its closets
nighbour. The hotel has 121
rooms and the food is inspired
by local flavours. Fretheim
Hotel is a proud member of De
Historiske hotel og spisesteder
(Historic Hotels &
Restaurants in Norway)
TFLÅM
NÆRØYFJORDEN © PAUL EDMUNDSON
VISI
©
EL
T
HO
FRETHEIM
Heimly Pensjonat
A charming guesthouse with
22 rooms overlooking the
Aurlandsfjord. Heimly
Pensjonat offers a peaceful
garden, simply furnished
rooms and a dinning room with
a fantastic fjord view. The
Flåm Railway station is only a
400 metres walk away.
OLDVÆR
SM
IU
AR
M
Y©
HEIML
HIKING IN AURLANDSDALEN
© SVERRE HJØRNEVIK – FJORD NORWAY
Tips
Join a fjord cruise and
experience one of the most
FLÅM
beautiful and popular fjord
areas in Norway, the
UNESCO World Heritage
area Nærøyfjord. Daily
departures year round.
A roundtrip includes bus
THE AURLAND SHOE
and boat. © M. THISNER
The Aurland Shoe Walking in

Visit the Aurland Shoe factory, Aurlandsdalen
where you can see the art of The Aurlandsdalen valley, also
shoemaking and buy a pair of known as 'Norway's Grand
locally-produced shoes. Canyon', is an exceptional
nature experience and a
Cycling the VIEW OF THE AURLANDSFJORD © SVERRE HJØRNEVIK – FJORD NORWAY
popular hiking path among hill
Navvies Road
walkers. In times past, this
Rallarvegen (The Navvies road)
40-km long valley was used as
has become one of Norway’s
a road by local farmers to
most popular bicycling routes. TRAVEL FACTS
transport goods and livestock.
Following the outskirts of the
The walk is famous for its
Hardangervidda mountain
varied and dramatic scenery. The Flåm Railway con- Oslo-Flåm 350 km, 5hrs
plateau, Rallarvegen leads you
along the Bergen Railway from Stegastein viewpoint nects with most of the trains 30 min. - Bergen-Flåm 165
Haugastøl, via Finse to Myrdal The National Tourist Route across between Bergen and Oslo. km, 2hrs 30min. - Voss-
and Flåm. This a spectacular the Aurlandsfjellet mountains Several daily departures Flåm 65 km, 50 min. -
cycling route through between Aurland and Lærdal is between Flåm and Gud- Hemsedal-Flåm 115 km, 1h
Norwegian culture, history and one of the most beautiful vangen during summer. One 45 min. - Geilo-Flåm 115
dramatic lush and challenging mountain roads in Norway. daily departure in winter. km, 1h 45 min. - Stavanger-
landscape. Starting at the Stegastein is a breathtaking Express boat between Flåm Flåm 350 km, 7 hrs.
mountain plateau at 1000 viewpoint beside the road where and Bergen from May to
m.a.s.l. ending at sea level in you can enjoy fantastic panoramic September. Contact us:
Flåm by the Aurlandsfjord. views of the Aurlandsfjord. Bergen Airport Flesland, www.visitflam.com
Oslo Airport and Sogndal info@visitflam.com
Airport. +47 57 63 14 00
Daily express bus de-
partures to Voss, Bergen,
Sogndal, Lillehammer and
Oslo.
FLÅMSBANA MUSEUM © JONNY AKSELSEN

NORDFJORD Riding fjord horses –

The distinctive fjord horse
originated in Nordfjord. In Eid
Surfing at Stad – perfect
waves, white sandy beaches
and high mountains.
and Gloppen, you can explore Via Ferrata Loen – a climbing
the landscape of Western route high above the fjord,
Norway on horseback. surrounded by spectaular
Kannesteinen rock – world- mountains.
famous landmark in Oppedal
LODALEN © SERGEY BOGOMYAKO
in Vågsøy municipality, not far Contact information:
from Måløy town centre. Destination Stryn & Nordfjord
Selja Monastery – Norway's Perhusvegen 24
Few places can offer such a variety of first pilgrimage site, with NO-6783 Stryn
scenery and wide range of experiences as unique cultural relics dating mail@nordfjord.no
from the Viking Age and the www.nordfjord.no
Nordfjord can. The glaciers, the fjord, the Middle Ages.
ocean and the mountains of Nordfjord mean
that the area can boast some of the most
beautiful scenery in all of Norway.
Briksdalsbreen glacier – the Jostedalsbreen National Park

most well-known glacier arm of Centre beside Oppstrynsvatnet
the Jostedalsbreen lake. Provides information about
Nasjonalpark. From an
altitude of 1,200 metres, the
glacier plunges steeply down-
the national park, the glacier
and the surrounding landscape.
Nasjonal Tourist Route Gamle
You deserve it! Kviknes Hotel in
Balestrand is one of the
most special hotels in all
wards between roaring water- Strynefjellsvegen – This Norway. An atmosphere
falls and high mountain peaks 100-year-old road was built by of cultural heritage, an
to the beautiful Oldedalen valley. manual labour, and it winds its international cuisine
way over the mountain and a well stocked wine
cellar will give your senses
Lodalen valley between Stryn and Skjåk.
memories for life.
A narrow and spectacular Stryn Summer Ski Centre –
valley with a dramatic history. At situated on the Tystigbreen gla- The hotel offers a variety
the head of the valley lies cier, the centre offers great of room categories in both
Kjennsdalsbreen glacier, which summer skiing experiences. the main building and the
is the lowest-lying offshoot of Skåla 1,848 metres – new wing.
the Jostedalsbreen glacier. Fur- Norway's longest uphill climb,
©Espen Grønli
ther down the Lodalen valley with possibly the world's most
lies a charming summer pas- unique tourist cabin Skåla-tår-
ture farm called Breng. It has net on the top.
been included on the Best of Hornindalsvatnet lake –
Fjord Norway list. Europe's deepest lake
gasta.no
(514 metres). For more information: Tel. +47 57 69 42 00 or www.kviknes.no
SVALBARD
EASTERN
NORWAY NORDNORWEG
VESTERÅLEN
HARSTAD N
LOFOTEN
NORDLA
Do you dare to answer BODØ

the call of the wind ?
POLAR
MO I RANIA
VEGA
BRØNNØYSUND
©C
H– TRØNDELAG
VIS
ITN
OR
WA
Y.C
OM
RØROS
FEMUND/ENGERDAL
So high up that you can almost touch the GEIRANGER-
FJORD
transparent blue sky with your fingertips, NORDFJORD
DOVRE
www.skeikampen.no
while thousands of meters below your feet www.geilo.no
LILLEHAMMER
dim grottos and the halls of the powerful www.femundengerdal.no

SOGNEFJORD
SKEIKAMPEN
HAMAR
STOREFJELL
mountain king are buried deep beneath the www.uvdal.no
BERGEN GEILO HALLINGDAL
roots of the majestic mountain. www.al.no ÅL
www.storefjell.no ÅMOT OSLO
HARDANGERFJORD
www.lillehammer.com UVDAL
OSLO FJORD
SARPSBORG
TØNSBERG
SANDEFJORD FREDERIKSTAD
LYSEFJORD HALDEN
INTO NORWAY SKEIKAMPEN

A family destination
LILLEHAMMER, SYGAARD GRYTTING GARDENIAN © IAN BRODIE
©JON GUNNAR HENRIKSEN
Are you looking to museum or a trip with Skib-

experience and learn ladner – the world's oldest
more about Norwegian paddle steamer. The town of Skeikampen Resort is a family destination
culture, history and Lillehammer and the beautiful situated in the mountains at 800 meters
food traditions on your Gudbrandsdalen valley are
above sea level, about a 40 minute drive
journey? located only 2 hours by car
Maybe in combination with (180 km) north of Oslo, the from the olympic town of Lillehammer.
activities in beautiful sur- capital. In this region, from
roundings? Then Into Lillehammer in the south to Skeikampen is an attractive Telephone: + 47 61 22 50 00
Norway has the trip for you! Rondane National Park in the ski resort during winter, and booking@skeikampen.no
Into Norway offers authentic north, you will find numerous in the summer months you www.skeikampen.no
and spectacular cultural gems steeped in cultural his- can go golfing, fishing, hiking,
experiences in areas of out- tory and offering unique ad- and cycling.
standing natural beauty! ventures, heritage accommo-
Stay at historic farms dating dation and traditional Dry alpine climate
back to the Middle Ages, Norwegian food Skeikampenhas a stable and
enjoy local food prepared with dry alpine climate, and is
fresh ingredients and learn known for its winters with a
about Norwegian cultural her- lot of snow from November
itage and everyday life. until May.
Experience the magical world
of Peer Gynt, the historic Varied landscape SKEIKAMPEN © E.HAAKENSTAD
travelling-theatre perfor- Skeikampen offers a great
mance at Maihaugen open-air www.lillehammer.com variety in landscape. You will
find rocky mountains and
Your Key to: deep forests. Both the alpine
-Cultural experiences in a slopes and the cross country
beautiful scenery tracks are in easy terrain that
-A meeting with authentic fits most people. The Alpine
Norway Centre has been developed
-Round-trips in the into a very modern ski desti-
Lillehammer and Gud nation, with especially good
brandsdalen valley. conditions for new beginners
LILLEHAMMER/ and children.
FLOKKSCULPTURES
© IAN BRODIE SKEIKAMPEN © E.HAAKENSTAD
74 RECOMMENDED DESTINATIONS
FEMUND ENGERDAL Welcome to

the Norwegian
Railway Museum
The Norwegian Railway Museum enjoys a beautiful location
FEMUND © TORE STENGRUNDET
by lake Mjøsa. In addition to modern, indoor exhibitions,
the museum has a spacious and beautiful museum park
Come to Femund Engerdal TRAVEL FACTS featuring old railway tracks, signals, engine sheds, railway
and get a real wilderness Femund Engerdal located stations and other buildings.
vacation. Fishing, hiking, midway between Oslo and A variety of locomotives and carriages are shown in the engine
biking or skiing and so much Trondheim. sheds. The park is open to the public all year round, where as the
more. Distances by car buildings and sheds are open during June to August.
Femund Engerdal offers true Oslo 280 Km.
wilderness and magnificent Trondheim 270 Km. A small narrow gauged steam train and a passenger-carrying
scenery. electric garden train will run during the summer season.
Here you can enjoy the peace
and tranquility, relax and Destinasjon
recharge. Femund Engerdal
But there are also opportuni- 2440 Engerdal
ties for speed and fun for info@femundengerdal.no
those who like it, we can offer www.femundengerdal.no
a variety of events and Follow us on Facebook
activities, with something to www.facebook.com/
suit all tastes! femundengerdal
We can offer you:

• 900 fishing waters with only
1 fishing license.
• 50 peaks over 1000 meters
• 2 National Parks -
FÆMUND II © JAN NORDVÅLEN
Femundsmarka and Gutulia
Norsk Jernbanemuseum
Strandvegen 163, 2316 Hamar. Tel: (+ 47) 40 44 88 80.
www.norsk-jernbanemuseum.no
Follow us on FACEBOOK:
JERNBANEMUSEET
REINDEER © JAN NORDVÅLEN
Only 75 km
outside Oslo!
7th May - 25th September 2016
It’s no coincidence that Uvdal has as its motto “closer to

nature”. Here you’ll find everything that nature has to offer
right outside your door all year long. Staying within reach of
Oslo and only a stone’s throw away from western Norway, get
ready to experience a vacation that is beyond the ordinary.
Here, you can hike the Hardangervidda, test your luck at fishing
along the way and then spend the night comfortably hidden Adventures and recreation in a green environment
away in the mountains. The local wildlife park ”Langedrag” also Guided tours in the Cobalt Mines • Great hiking areas
offers an exciting day out for children and adults alike. Who
knows you might even learn something new when you meet
3 art exhibitions • 3 cafeterias • 6 shops • Children’s Farm
their wolves and lynx for the first time.
Phone: +47 32 74 13 90
Blaafarveværket blaafarveverket
(The Cobalt Works & Mines)
@blaafarveverket
Koboltveien 11
NO-3340 Åmot in Modum @ info@blaa.no
Tel: +47 32 78 67 00
F
Welcome to Geilo
National Park Village
ishing
Flesland
Fagernes
Gardermoen
B R H
iking afting iking Kongsberg
Sandefjord
Torp
S W T leeping atching hinking
T F S
ravelling eeling good miling
Geilo is surrounded by national
W B E
parks; and with its location, it is
the perfect place to spend days
alking reathing ating
in fresh air, and be active at the
same time.
R E L
elaxing xploring iving
Hotels, campsites, restaurants,
and stores. Trails, ski tracks, and
viewpoints. Locally produced
food and exciting and interesting
round-trip tours, attractions, and
stopping places. Geilo is easy to
get to by car, train, and bus.
Geilo is located right in the middle

between Norway’s 2 largest cities:
Oslo and Bergen. Geilo has
everything you could imagine
of facilities.
Geilo is steeped in history, and

has welcomed guests for hundreds
of years. Make sure to set aside
enough time when you come
to Geilo.
Welcome to the mountains.
www.geilo.no
ÅL IN HALLINGDAL
© ÅL UTVIKLNG AS
© OLE JOHS BRYE

Welcome to the friendly village Ål in Hallingdal.
Located close to Highway 7 and the railway
between the cities Oslo and Bergen. Winter in Ål TRAVEL FACTS
Ål is a versatile ski destination Ål Tourist Information
with 400 km of GPS-groomed Opening hrs: 08.30-16.00.
In Ål you find wild and varied Summer in Ål – and signposted cross country Extended opening hours
nature – inviting you to perfect for hiking tracks and 2 ski centres. during summer holiday
outdoor leisure all the year There are a lot of great and well Liatoppen Ski centre is a Location: Ål Cultural
around. You also find the marked hiking trails all over Ål, internationally approved Centre in Ål centre
cultural attractions like Torpo close to the centre or on the biathlon- and cross country www.al.no
stave church from 1192 and mountains. Every summer there stadium. post@alturistinfo.no
the famous Rolf Nesch- are a guest book at 10 of them. Tel: +47 32 08 10 60
museum. Ål also hosts You find tour describtions and Ål Ski centre has 16 slopes P.O. Box 35, NO-3571 Ål
several exciting events and detailed map at and a great area for families.
festivals throughout the year. www.aal52.no/en/ Skarslia Ski- and toboggan
centre has both alpine slopes
For accommodation you can If you prefer to enjoy the nature and two of Norway’s longest
choose between family run on two wheels Ål can offer you toboggan runs.
mountain lodges and hotels many beautiful cycling areas, You can also try dog sledding
with enthusiastic and present- especially on the many mountain and sleigh rides.
able hosts. roads in the Bergsjø area.
Or stay at one of the many Experience something genuine
cabins, apartments or camp- by visiting one of the mountain
ing sites in Ål. Visit Hallingdal farms, where you can see the
Holiday Park, a first class five animals and get a taste of fresh
star experience camping and dairy products. Try fishing, the
holiday park, open all the year. trout is waiting for you!
BERGSJØ IN ÅL
© HELGE G. STÆRK
82 RECOMMENDED DESTINATIONS RECOMMENDED DESTINATIONS
VESTERÅLEN 83
HARSTAD NARV
THE
LOFOTEN
NORDLAND
BODØ
OSLOFJORD POLARKRE
MO I RANIA
REGION
VEGA
BRØNNØYSUND
Where the sun warms

the old wooden docks TRØNDELAG
RØROS
GEIRANGER-
FJORD
THE DOVRE
AKE
RSH NORDFJORD
US
CA
ST HAMAR
LE
IN
OS
LO SOGNEFJORD
© SAB
INE BERGEN GARDERMOEN
ZOLL
ER – V
ISITOSLO GEILO
OSLO
HARDANGERFJORD BYGDØY
UVDAL ØSTFOLD
HORTEN MOSS
SARPSBORG
Scandinavian summer resides here. Imagine TØNSBERG
FREDERIKSTAD
LYSEFJORD SANDEFJORD
the whitest, greenest and bluest colours, VESTFOLD HALDEN
LANGESUND
where the sun warms the old wooden docks STAVANGER
STRØMSTAD
and where you fetch your newspaper by

boat. The coast around Oslo is famous for its www.visitoslofjord.com HIRTSHALS
GÖTEBORG
beautiful archipelago with charming villages. www.visitvestfold.com

LINDESNES
FREDERIKSHAVN
DENEMARKEN
84 RECOMMENDED DESTINATIONS
BYGDØY
THE BOAT FOR THE BYGDØY MUSEUMS © VISITOSLO/NANCY BUNDT
Bygdøy is a peninsula on the A bicycle tour around

west side of the city centre. Bygdøy
Here you find several of Oslo’s This is one of most delightful,
most popular museums. The romantic two-wheel rides in
peninsula is mainly a residen- Oslo: Lush woods, park-like
tial area, but in addition to the countryside, view of the sea,
museums, Bygdøy is also a beaches, historic buildings
popular recreational area dur- and the royal cows are some
ing summer offering beaches, of the sights along the way.
a beach volleyball court and a Distance: 7 km
beach restaurant at Huk. Incline: insignificant
There are also several beauti- Road surface: primarily fine
ful trails both for cycling and gravel.
walking.
See more at:
How to get there
The best way to get to Bygdøy
www.visitoslo.com/en
Norwegian Culture
in the summer is to take the
boat leaving from Pier 3 be-
Bygdøy - Oslo
hind the City Hall. It takes 10-
15 minutes, and the service Medieval stave church. Homes & history.
runs from early April to early Indoor exhibits and open-air museum.
October. Bus number 30 takes
you to Bygdøy all year round. Hosts in regional costumes. Folk dance,
music and handicraft.
BEACHLIFE AT HUK, BYGDØY ©

www.norskfolkemuseum.no
VISITOSLO/NANCY BUNDT
DISCOVER VIKING Explore the famous

Kon-Tiki raft
HISTORY AND THE GREAT Visit the Kon-Tiki Museum and
learn more about one of the
EXPLORERS greatest sea voyages in recent
history, across 8000 kilo-
metres of open ocean. The
Museum houses 20th-century
Norwegian explorer Thor
Heyerdahl’s famous Kon-Tiki,
a balsa-wood raft that he
sailed 4,300 miles from Peru
© KON TIKI MUSEUM
to Polynesia in 1947. It also
includes the Ra II, a ship
made from papyrus that he
sailed from Africa to the
Caribbean in 1970. The Kon- Visit these
Tiki Museum also houses the 3 museums
Thor Heyerdahl Library and
Archives. www.Kon-Tiki.no/en on the Bygdøy
peninsula in Oslo
At The Fram Museum,
© THE OSEBERG SHIP
you follow in the footsteps of
polar explorers Fridtjof Nans-
en, whose ship sailed across
the Arctic from 1893 to 1896,
Oslo, Norway's ultramodern and hip capital and Roald Amundsen, who
city, is one of the best places to learn about raced to Antarctica and the
South Pole in 1911. Fram is
the Viking age. You may also learn about the strongest wooden ship
why Norway is the home to some of the ever built and still holds the
World’s Greatest Explorers. records for sailing farthest
north and farthest south.
At the museum you can come
The impressive Viking Ship torical Museum you will find on board the ship and see how
Museum houses three the Viking jewelry, their weap- the crew and their dogs man-
original ninth-century Viking ons and gods. Two Museums aged to survive in the coldest
ships—the Oseberg (circa A.D. in the price of one, visit the and most dangerous places
820), the Gokstad (circa A.D. Historical Museum within 48 on earth - the Arctic and the
890), and the Tune (circa A.D. hours. Read more about the Antarctic.
910)—alongside wood carv- vikings on page 204-209 www.frammuseum.no
ings, metal tools, textiles, and www.khm.uio.no
(Source: Visitnorway and
skeletal remains. In the His- National Geographic)
FRAM MUSEUM AT BYGDOY

© VISITOSLO – GUNNAR STRØM
www.visitoslofjord.no
Visit Østfold
ØSTFOLD
Foto: Morten M. Wiken

NORWAY
Lillehammer
Bergen STOCKHOLM
OSLO
ØSTFOLD
Strømstad
SWEDEN
Gøteborg
KØBENHAVN
SARPSBORG, ONE OF NORWAY'S OLDEST CITIES, CELEBRATES 1000 YEARS IN 2016.

Copyright © Free Vector Maps.com
ØSTFOLD
Thanks to short distances between the attractions, in Østfold it is easy YTRE HVALER NATIONAL PARK • ISLAND HOPPING AROUND HVALER •
to combine urban life with magnifcent nature. The whole family will find THE FORTRESS TOWN IN FREDRIKSTAD • HØYTORP FORT IN MYSEN •
their own sanctuaries and hidden gems; indoor and outdoor golf-
FREDRIKSTEN FORTRESS IN HALDEN - GHOST TOUR • CLIMBING PARK
courses, a variety of fantastic fishing spots on the soft rocks, out on
«KLATRING PÅ GRENSEN”IN HALDEN • ROMSÅSEN CAVES IN ASKIM •
the sea, in rivers or in lakes. There are beaches, indoor waterparks and
activity centers. Lively shopping malls and lovely small boutiques. HALDEN CANAL • AURSMARK NATUR IN MARKER • CANOEING •
Summers in Østfold are known for the breathtaking archipelago as well GALLERIES • THE PILGRIMAGE PATH • BEACHES • GOLF • MOTORSPORT •
as music, art and culture festivals. INSPIRIA SCIENCE CENTER AND SUPERLAND WATERPARK IN
SARPSBORG • WATERPARK IN ASKIM.
Østfold is easily accessible by plane, car or public transport.
1 hour south east of Oslo.
www.visitoslofjord.no
WELCOME dren, trained cyclists and rec-

reational athletes, and not
least for those who want to
Accommodation
Vestfold offers a wide range of
accommodation. Hotel, bed
TO VESTFOLD experience spring's music,

smell and sound of the bike.
Children's summer
and breakfast, private accom-
modation and Youth Hostel.
The many campsites along the
coast are mainly open during
paradise summer season.
Vestfolds friendly nature with
beaches to explore, rocks to Easily reached
climb on, museum to discover Vestfold is easily reached
and parks to experience, by air, ferry and train.
makes room for the children's Flights to Oslo (Torp) take
development. Let children ex- you to our regional Airport,
perience the world's largest just 10 km outside Sande-
VERDENS ENDE © E. LARSEN
blue whale skeleton at Hval- fjord. Color Line and Fjord
fangstmuseet in Sandefjord, or Line run ferry lines be-
explore a submarine at Royal tween Hirtshals (DK) and
Norwegian Navy Museum in Larvik as well as Strøm-
The County of Vestfold is situated in the Horten, climb on top of Castle stad (SE) and Sandefjord.
southeast of Norway. The largest towns Rock in Tønsberg, or jump in There is also a ferry be-
the hay on Foldvik Family Park. tween Horten and Moss.
Larvik, Tønsberg, Sandefjord and Horten are For families who like challeng-
all located along the coast. See their own es also recommended Loud &
presentations on the following pages. Low activity park - Scandina-
via's toughest climb park with
challenges at all levels.
Outdoor Activity the fragrance of sea salt and
Vestfold's coast line is ideal for eyes a horizon that lasts until
outdoor activities as hiking, eternity ... Vestfold has a total
swimming, cycling and fishing. coastline of 980 km and 1,407
Excellent maps of trails along islets and reefs. The good na-
the coast as well as inland can ture of the experience you get
be picked up at the local Tour- regardless of the tour's length.
ist Office.
On two wheels
Hiking along the coast Vestfold is perfect for a cycling
It gives a good feeling to walk holiday from April to Septem-
on reefs, between reeds and ber. Landscapes are easy to
along beaches in Vestfolds ride in, and there are many
lovely archipelago. The trails interesting stops in cities along
go to the open sea, where you the coast and inland. For
hear and see seabirds, know adults and families with chil-
THE OSEBERG SHIP © JOHAN EFTEVÅG

A FLAT AND BICYCLE-
FRIENDLY LANDSCAPE
OLD LIGHTHOUSE AT TJØME © A-FRITID.NO
To Vestfold the coast is the break in one of the towns that COME CLOSER.
heart and soul of the changing line the Vestfold coast for a Photo by RulleRolf
seasons. The music of nature piping hot espresso at a café GO FÆRDER.
is excellent relaxation. Let the on a lively street, or a memo-
bicycle take you through rable meal in beautiful
beautiful landscape, interest- surroundings, prepared by an Færder National Park is one of the richest wildlife
ing history an attractions in internationally renowned chef. habitats in Norway. The magnificent scenery has
the county of Vestfold. Take a www.visitvestfold.com been shaped over millions of years by volcanic
activity. It is unique on a global level.
Færder Nasjonalpark can offer you a wide spectre

of exciting activities and inspiring recreation.
Come visit Færder National Park. It is only

when you get up close that your experience
goes further.
For more information about the park, activities, food

or accommodation, please contact Visitors Centre
Færder National Park: post@fnps.no
Visitors Centre Færder National Park - Verdens Ende - Tjøme - Norway
© BAKGÅRDEN CAFE © PAAL ANDRE SCHWITAL

LARVIK
THOR HEYERDAHL
© ØSTLANDS-POSTEN
Hometown of the scientist and
explorer Thor Heyerdahl, most
famous for his expeditions
SANDEFJORD
with Kon-Tiki, Ra and Tigris.
During summer his childhood
home is open for visitors.
Mølen
is the end of an ice age mo-
MØLEN raine and part of the new
© GUNNAR BERVEN
UNESCO Global Geoparks.
Mølen is magnificent and has
SANDEFJORD © NILS KAVLIE
got 230 burial mounds from
Iron Age to Bronze Age.
Long coastal trail Welcome to the friendly seaside town of

Larvik is blessed with a 35 km Sandefjord, which is blessed with a long and
long coastal trail from Stavern
© GUNNAR BERVEN
to Helgeroa. There you will
beautiful coastline in addition to having rich
find a cultural landscape with historical heritage.
smooth skerries, quiet forest
glades, cultural memorials, The nature that surrounds the spa, the whaling museum
bathing and a smell of Capri town centre calls for active (Hvalfangstmuseet), Dakota
Foil and raspberries. This trail day trips. The environment is Norway and the Midtåsen
is one of the most precious perfect for hiking along the sculptural pavilion are
amenities we have. coast or through the woods, amongst the attractions.
© JARLE A. MELBY
paddling in a kayak or a ca-
Jump from island to noe, fishing in the lake, and, The town centre is small
island not least, riding a bike across enough to be able to walk
The Helgeroa ferry will take you the flat and cycle-friendly around easily, with lots of
on an idyllic tour to Stokkøya, the countryside. different types of products to
large and the small Arøya and see and buy, and a variety of
further to Langesund. In Lange- Take part in the history of parks to enjoy.
STAVERNFESTIVALEN © sund you can keep on going by Sandefjord with memories
STAVERNFESTIVALEN
other ferries to other islands or from the Viking Age, the glory
back again where you started. years of its rise in popularity Visit Sandefjord
Nice daytrip for the whole family. as a Spa Town in the 19th Kurbadet - Thor Dahlsgt. 7
Visit Larvik Century, the Whaling Period, N-3210 Sandefjord
facebook.com/visitlarvik.no “Stavernfestivalen” as well as modern times, of info@visitsandefjord.com
www.visitlarvik.no at Larvik Golf Arena is one of course. The historic grave www.visitsandefjord.com
the best music festivals in site, Gokstadhaugen, where
Europe and lasts for three the famous Gokstad Viking
days, from 7th to 9th July ship was excavated, the dis-
2016. tinct building of the health
HORTEN
TØNSBERG
KARLJOHANSVERN -
BORRE - ÅSGÅRDSTRAND
THE VIKING HALL © VISITHORTEN
© IRENE WILHELMSEN – VISIT TØNSBERG
Welcome to Horten – Near to Horten centre you will

Where you can enjoy find the Horten Car Museum
This charming town, idyllically situated some amazing which illustrates the colorful
between woodlands and the sea, grows experiences! history of the motor vehicle.
Our well-known and much In the outskirts of Horten, and
larger every summer!. loved marine historiy have encircled by the sea, lies the
roots going all the way back to scenic Karljohansvern. This
Tønsberg is the oldest town in Come visit Færder The Viking Ages. Even Edvard is THE place to enjoy life with
Norway, with spectacular ar- National Park. Munch had his summer magnificent hiking grounds
rangements, such as Slotts- Right outside Tønsberg, you residence in Åsgårdstrand, in scenic surroundings,
fjell Music Festival, The Medi- will find Nøtterøy and Tjøme, which has now been turned fortifications and artillery
eval Festival and great shows, two wonderful island commu- into a wonderful museum. batteries. The Naval Museum,
like Tonsberg Boat Show. nities, with charming nature Take a step back into Viking Preus museum (The National
and a National Park Centre. history in Borre, where The Photography Museum) and
New history is mixed with old Midgard Historcal Centre Local Historical Centre are
history. You will find a true tells you the story of the all located here, together
archeological full-scale copy Welcome to the Tønsberg area! archaeological findings with a diverse range of
of The Oseberg Vikingship in here. Close to the Centre, artists and workshops.
the harbour. you will find Borreparken
Visit Tønsberg with its majestic tumuli Visit Horten
Tønsberg has also a lovely Rådhuset - Tollbodgaten 22 (burial mounds). Tollbugata 1a, 3187 Horten
coastal line with beatiful 3104 Tønsberg The great Viking Hall is also a info@visithorten.com
sandy beaches, like info@visittonsberg.com great new sight! The remains www.visithorten.com
"Ringshaugstranda". www.visittonsberg.com of two mead halls have recently www.vestfoldmuseene.no
been discovered just next to
At the heart of the city lies the Borre park, indicating that
Slottsfjell, which means Borre was a center of power
"castle rock". already early in the Viking Age.
TRØNDELAG SVALBARD
Experience the unspoiled

environment and the freshness
NORDNORWEGE
VESTERÅLEN
HARSTAD NAR
LOFOTEN
NORDLAND
BODØ
POLARKRE
MO I RANIA
VEGA
IDY
LLI
CM BRØNNØYSUND
OU
NT
AIN
HIK
ING
©P KYSTRIKSVEIEN RV. 17
ETR
PAVL
ICEK NAMSOS
STEINKJER
TRØNDELAG
This is the real Scandinavia with rushing INNHERRED STIKLESTAD
rivers and leaping salmon. The rugged TRONDHEIM
archipelago off the coast and the broad
KRISTIANSUND RØROS
expanses of forest make Trøndelag a Norway
in miniature. The unspoiled environment MOLDE OPPDAL
and the freshness can be experienced in the GEIRANGER-

FJORD
DOVREFJELL
many national parks in the area. DOVRE

www.trondelag.com
NORDFJORD
SOGNEFJORD
INSIDER-TIP:
TRØNDELAG
KAYAK ALONG THE NIDELVA IN

VIEW OVER TRØNDELAG © PETR PAVLICEK TRONDHEIM © MARIUS RUA
Explore the historical thentic people and come close get to know Norway, is either each of whom lovingly pro-
heart of Norway to pristine nature and wildlife on foot or by bike. Maybe you duce specialist crafted beers.
From history and culture to – discover Trøndelag! like to try one of the famous
nature and outdoor activities walking trails through Trønde-
in stunning surroundings, Explore untouched lag? In 2010 the Pilgrim`s
Trøndelag represents real nature! Route to Trondheim was
Scandinavia in many ways. Observe exotic animals in granted status as a European
Some of the most important their natural environment, join Cultural Trail, just like the
events in Norway's history a fishing trip in one of the best routes to Santiago de Com-
took place in the Trøndelag region for anglers in the world postela. The trails go through
region, and you will find a wide or follow in the footsteps of urban areas and cultural
range of fun activities from the the Vikings. Trøndelag is landscapes, tranquil forests
coast to the mountains the hometown to seven National and deserted mountain areas.
whole year around. Meet au- Parks and the best way really
Join culinary THE INDOOR FOOD MARKET IN
TRONDHEIM © MARIUS RUA
adventures in the
region for local food
A good meal made from fresh
local produce tastes so much
better after a day spent in
fresh air. There has been an
explosion of small-scale food
producers in the region who
specialize in conjuring up
delicacies provided from both
the sea and land. There are
also several local breweries, MUSK OX SAFARI ON OPPDAL
SUNSET IN MERÅKER © PETR PAVLICEK © SIGBJØRN FRENGEN
FOOD CITY
TRONDHEIM
SOLSIDEN NIDAROSDROMEN
LOCAL FOOD FROM BERKEL AND BAR © MARIUS RUA © CH – VISITNORWAY.COM © CH – VISITNORWAY.COM
Norway’s food city chamber music, jazz and The Trondheim Tourist musicians. The Tourist In-
Annual food and beer festi- blues, while the traditional Information Office’s five formation Office is located
vals, a new food hall, several Pstereo Festival is one of favourites: here too.
breweries and countless Norway’s largest rock festi- 1. Nidaros Cathedral: 4. Ride a City Bike:
restaurants using local pro- vals. In 2015 several major The world’s northernmost Explore Trondheim on two
duce from Trøndelag mean concerts were held outdoors gothic cathedral was built wheels. Hire a card from
Trondheim can rightly lay at the Trøndelag Folk Museum over the tomb of St. Olav, the Tourist Information
claim to the title of Norway’s at Sverresborg and further Norway’s patron saint. In Office so you can release
leading food city. During 2015 concerts are planned in 2016. the summer you can climb the bikes. Don’t forget to
alone, more than 20 new the tower and enjoy spec- try the Trampe cyclocable,
restaurants and eateries The pilgrim paths tacular views of the city. the world’s first bicycle lift.
opened in Trondheim, many The wonderful Nidaros 2. Bakklandet: Cross the 5. Bymarka: If you want a
focusing on local food. In June Cathedral, often referred to as Old Town Bridge via the break from the city, head to
2015 the Trondheim Food Hall Norway’s national sanctuary, “Gate of Happiness” to his- nearby Bymarka. This huge
opened, increasing the avail- is a popular pilgrimage site. toric Bakklandet. You will nature reserve is the ideal
ability of local food significant- The Pilgrim Paths to Trond- discover many cafés, res- place to walk for an hour
ly. The Farmers’ Market is heim, St. Olav Ways, attract taurants and niche shops or ramble all day. Get there
held on the city’s main square pilgrims from all over the in this old part of town. by bus, tram, car or on
once or twice each month. world. They have the same Drink coffee at Baklandet foot.
European Cultural Route Skydsstation or continue
City of culture status as the pilgrim route up to Kristiansten Fortress. www.visitnorway.com/
The city’s 30,000 students leading to Santiago de 3. Nordre gate: Trond- trondheim
leave their mark on Trond- Compostela. heim’s main pedestrian
heim by arranging several shopping is the place to be,
festivals and cultural events. whether you want to shop,
Festivals are held year-round, visit a café or listen to one
including in the genres of of the city’s many street
HISTORICAL
INNHERRED
© GANGSTAD GÅRDSYSTERI
STIKLESTAD © CH
COASTAL NORWAY -
The Golden Road and tors, go fishing or just enjoy
coast culture and active
the historical Stiklestad the picturesque surroundings.
Both city and fjord areas and
holiday adventures
Innherred is located in mid the great wilderness areas in
Norway, just an hour from Blåfjella- Skjækerfjella Romantic fishing charming fisherman`s cabins
Trondheim. National Park provide excel- villages, fresh seafood located close to the sea
Stiklestad in Verdal plays a key lent opportunities for hiking and active holiday (“rorbu”). Tipp: Make a stop at
role in Norwegian history. The and cycling. There are many adventures “Stokkøya Sjøsenter” north of
Viking King Olav was killed in exciting routes to choose Historical fishing villages, old Trondheim – nominated to one
the Battle of Stiklestad in 1030, from, both for the experienced boatbuilding traditions, fresh of the best hotels in Europe by
as part of the Christianisation and less seasoned explorer. seafood and varies excursions the magazine Geo Saison.
of Norway. The history can be An electric bike makes the invite you for an active holiday
experienced at Stiklestad bike ride effortless and a adventure along the wild coast www.visitcoastalnorway.com
throughout the summer. memory for life. In the wilder- in Trøndelag. Enjoy fishing
ness village Ongdal you may trips in one of the best fishing
The scenery in Innherred is join a guided tour into the areas in the world, RIB-boat-
lush and welcoming with roll- mountain caves, or are you or animal safaris and stay in
ing countryside and gentle perhaps more tempted by a
hills surrounded by rugged canoe trip?
wilderness. "The Golden While you are here, be sure to
Route" winds along RV761 in eat well.
Inderøy, where you can visit We promise you, it is easy!
the local farmers and buy www.visitinnherred.com
fresh food and handicrafts,
walk along the shoreline, visit
the museum of one of
Norway's most famous sculp-
STOKKØYA © CH – VISITNORWAY.COM
ADVENTUROUS manufacturers and eating

places.
Did you know that:
Destinastion Røros has
received several international
RØROS The region is an Eldorado for

nature adventures all year
round; you might like to
explore the Femundsmarka
awards for their work with
sustainable tourism?
and Forollhogna national

parks, for instance. Hiking,
fishing and canoeing are just a
few of the possibilities.
www.roros.no
SLEGGEVEIEN © TERJE RAKKE – VISITNORWAY.COM TRAVEL FACTS
Location: and Rørvik also have small

Trøndelag is situated in the airports.
In the Røros region we find the recently centre of Norway. It bor- The Hurtigruten coast-
extended UNESCO World Heritage site ders on Fjord Norway and al express calls at Trond-
Northern Norway. The E6 heim twice a day – one ship
"Røros Mining Town and Circumference", and E39 are the main roads on the way north and the
with its unique cultural and historical legacy, to the region. other on the way south.
enveloped by countryside full of potential • Oslo - Røros 380 km The express ferry service
adventure, and unlike anything you will find • Oslo - Trondheim 550 km Kystekspressen connects
• Oslo - Rørvik 770 km Trondheim with Fosen,
anywhere else.
Hitra/Frøya and
Transport: Kristiansund.
The charming mining town of line when you visit the capital Good train and bus con-
Røros is one of Europa’s old- of local fare, Røros. The region nections to the north, Trøndelag Reiseliv AS
est preserved wooden towns is known for its fantastic in- south and east. Nordre Gate 11
and includes over 100 listed gredients, and here you can Trondheim Airport NO-7011 Trondheim
buildings. Even though Røros try anything from local game Værnes has daily connec- Tel.: +47 73 84 24 40
is an important part of meat to award-winning tions to other Norwegian touristinfo@trondelag.com
Norway’s history and cultural cheeses from local dairies. airports. There are direct www.trondelag.com
heritage, it is also a vibrant The rich culinary tradition, flights from/to Amsterdam,
town where people live and both old and new, is a signifi- Copenhagen, Stockholm,
work – in the heart of a World cant part of the experience for Berlin, London, Riga,
Heritage site. those visiting the mountain Tallinn, Gdańsk, Krakow
settlement. Take part in one of and Reykjavik, among oth-
Unique mouth-watering our Local Food Safaris which er places. Røros, Namsos
experiences are waiting in will take you to several food
NORTHERN
NORWAY
REIN
E, L
OFO
TEN
©M SVALBARD
NORTH CAPE
VARDØ
ATT
IAS
FR
VADSØ
FINNMARK
ED
RIK KIRKENES
SSO LAKSELV
N– ALTA
VIST
INORW
AY.COM TROMS
KARASJOK
TROMSØ
KAUTOKEINO
ANDENES
VESTERÅLEN
This far north everything is different. In the HARSTAD
summer, the Midnight Sun makes the nights

NARVIK
LOFOTEN
NORDLAND
BORG
as dazzlingly bright as the golden days. And Art

ic c
BODØ
in the winter, the flickering Northern Lights

irk
el
dance across the night sky. This country is VEGA

MO I RANA
like no other. BRØNNØYSUND
www.nordnorge.com
TRØNDELAG
KRISTIANSUND TRONDHEIM MITTEL-

MOLDE NORWEGEN
NORTHERN
NORWAY
NORTHERN LIGHTS OVER THE ERSFJORD IN TROMSØ

© BJØRN JØRGENSEN – VISITNORWAY.COM
Winter darkness is enlightened by the villages and small settle- the Midnight Sun is a different
illusive rays of the Northern Lights as well ments and the numerous experience every night.
attractions are all easily Invigourated, you feel like
dramatically coloured skies. In summer, the explored. There are dozens of going fishing, climbing the
sun shines 24 hours a day in Northern flights a day from Oslo to the next mountain or playing golf.
Norway, colouring landscapes in gold and major airports in the North, Arctic summers invite to all
envigorating locals and guests alike. and from there buses, modern kinds of outdoor activites,
catamaran boats, propeller from kayaking in sheltered
planes and the legendary waters, island-hopping by bike
shipping line Hurtigruten fan or going whale watching on
Most of Northern Norway is language, artistic handicraft, out to the outer coast, the the open sea.
within the Arctic Circle. the particular harmonies of fjords and the inland valleys.
Mountains rising right out of joik, the traditional chant and Look for boats and buses to The dance of
the sea, thousands of islands, a lifestyle close to nature. Cit- the remotest settlements, it is the Aurora
towering mountains and ies, such as Bodø, Tromsø and usually rewarding! The Arctic winters come in
mountain plateaus meeting Alta, are buzzing with trendy two versions, the dark one
the horizon, the breath-taking restaurants, lively festivals, an You might forget around December-January,
scenery is endlessly varied. art and culture scene and in- to go to bed and the bright one from
teresting attractions. Crossing the Arctic Circle, you February to April. The winter
The colourful fishing villages, enter the realm of the Mid- nights are a lot brighter and
fish racks, wooden trading Exploring night Sun. colourful than you’d think with
posts and along the coast tes- Northern Norway Brightly golden-yellow over lovely sunset colours at mid
tify to the rich heritage of fish- The beautiful and endlessly the ocean the North Cape, day. When the sun returns,
ing culture. The inland Sami varied landscapes, the towns, red-golden between the one enjoys long days and
culture boasts an enigmatic mountain tops further south, loads of snow, perfect for
MOSKENES © BÅRD LØKEN – NORDNORGE.COM
husky sledding and snow- preparing fish with innovative myths and fairytales are this unique landscape. The
mobiling. The night, however and international influences made, notably the Seven 1900 metres high Okstindan
is reserved for the soundless, competes with traditional Sisters and Torghatten, the peaks inland form a unique
lightfooted dance of the rustic fish fare. Reindeer mountain with the hole. The hiking terrain among peaks
Northern Lights. Northern served in a Sami lavvu (tent) is islets off Vega island are on and glaciers.
Norway is among the very an experience of taste. the UNESCO list because of
best observation points on the the harmonious coexistence Salten and Bodø
planet. Helgeland of people and eider ducks. A Nestled between the needle-
The southernmost region of rich heritage of old churches, like Børvasstindan peaks and
A taste of the Arctic Helgeland boasts some 20 manors and traditional the coastal archipelago, Bodø
The sea off Northern Norway 000 islands, small and flat or villages adorns the landscape is a vibrant, modern coastal
is among the richest in the sculptural rocks on which like gems. Kayak or bikes are city with a strong culture
world. A new restaurant scene both easy ways of exploring scene, good restaurants and
the National Aviation abandoned fishing village of

Museum. Nearby, the Salt- Nyksund for a glimpse into
straumen, the world’s strong- coastal history. The Space
est maelstrom, flows at more Ship Aurora gives insight into
than 20 knots a second. the Northern Lights.
The 19th c. trading post of
Kjerringøy is a well-preserved Narvik
historic gem. Numerous Narvik, where the highly
historic sites, ranging from scenic Ofoten Railway meets
iron age mounds and medi- the fjord, is surrounded by
eval churches to WWII coastal water and impressive moun-
forts as well as the uncom- tains. Take the railway up and
promisingly modern Hamsun walk down the Navvy Trail
centre dot a landscape of lush (Rallarveien) through the
greenery, towering mountains wilderness. One of the WWII’s
and the glacier Svartisen. first great battles was fought
in Narvik in 1940, excellently
Lofoten and explained in the new Red
Vesterålen Cross War Memorial
Like an Alpine range at sea, museum. The ski slope in
© KRISTIN FOLSLAND OLSEN – WWW.NORDNORGE.COM
the Lofoten islands rise Narvik, going 1000 metres
dramatically out of the Gulf down to the fjord, is the most
Stream, forming a landscape challenging in the north. The
of jagged peaks and rocky golf course is equally beauti-
coastlines. In winter, the ful. The prehistoric rock
world’s biggest cod fishery carvings in Narvik town
takes place here, to which centre are 6,000 years old.
colourful fishing villages with
extensive fish racks testify. Troms and Tromsø
The Viking longhouse at Borg, Harstad, an atmospheric city
the art galleries in the pictur- with a surprising number of
esque fishing village of Hen- quality restaurants and an
ningsvær, the giant bird cliffs ambitious cultural calendar,
at Røst island and the stock- boasts the lovely 13th c.
fish museum at Å are among church of Trondenes and the
the many treasures in Lofoten. giant WWII Adolf Gun. The
The green, mountainous ar- background is explained in the
chipelago of Vesterålen to the Trondenes historic centre. The
north is where male sperm hinterland, notably the Bjarkøy
whales feed on squid. They islands, are best explored by
can be observed on whale bike or local boat. The Ocean-
safaris close to the coast. Fol- side of the island of Senja is
low the Queen’s Trail to the steep and dramatic with some
© ERNST FURUHATT - WWW.BODO.NO

SAMI WITH REINDEER © BAARD LØKEN – WWW.NORDNORGE.COM
lovely fishing villages in the via, excellent for hiking in tion centre and admire the point of Europe at 71 º North,
coves. The sheltered inside is summer and Northern lights views from the Cable Car. rises 307 metres above the
green and lush. The remote viewing in winter. Tromsø, the Arctic Ocean, and is on the
mountains bordering Sweden gateway to the Arctic, is a live- Finnmark and the bucket list of every true world
and Finland are crisscrossed ly university city with a history North Cape traveller. The inland is the
by almost invisible trails, of exploring the Arctic, a lively Finnmark is a land of rolling heartland of the Sami culture,
accessible for the experience café and bar scene and an plains, untouched wilderness and reindeer sledding, eating
hiker only. The impressive atmospheric city centre of and wide-open horizons, reindeer in a lavvu, snow-
Lyngen Alps rise 1800 metres traditional wooden and meeting the coast of the Artic mobiling, trying your hand at
from the fjord, and are the modern architecture. Sea in a rough, steep coast- duodji (handicraft) and visiting
preferred alpine ski touring Make sure you hear the organ line. Here three languages are fascinating museum collec-
area of the north. The area in the Arctic Cathedral, see spoken, Norwegian, Sami and tions are all ways of exploring
east of the Lyngen Fjord is the seals in Polaria Explana- Kven (close to Finnish). The this unique culture. In the
among the driest in Scandina- North Cape, the northernmost Northern Lights City of Alta,
LUNCH IN A LAVVU © CH – VISITNORWAY.COM
the UNESCO world heritage Vardø, Norway’s easternmost Svalbard and short trips by snow-
listed rock carvings and the point, is as far east as Alexan- Just 1100 km from the North mobile. In the sunny bright
Northern Lights cathedral dria. The national tourist route Pole, Svalbard is the north- winter from March to April you
fascinate visitors. Hammer- along the Varanger fjord dis- ernmost accessible tourist may go snowmobiling and
fest is the world’s northern- plays ancient archaeology and destination in the world. dogsledding. In the 24 hour
most city, with a wonderful WWII memorabilia. Kirkenes A settlement of some 2000 daylight summer from from
coastal location and a though- on the Russian border has an people is surrounded by a vast May to September hiking, boat
provoking museum of WWII exciting cross-border feel. high Arctic wilderness of rides and kayaking are the
reconstruction. The east of The Snow Hotel, dog sledding pyramidal mountains. Come most popular activities.
Finnmark is one of the world’s in the forests king crab fishing here in the depth of the Polar
major bird watching areas. are among the winter activi- Night to experience 24 hours
The historic fortress city of ties. darkness, Northern Lights
TRAVEL FACTS
• Area: 112,946 square kilometres, 34% of Norway’s land mass

– almost as big as the Netherlands, Belgium and Switzerland
put together.
• Counties: Finnmark (48,637 square kilometres, Troms (25,848
square kilometres), the Svalbard islands (62.700 square kilo-
metres) and Nordland (38,327 square kilometres)
• Northernmost point: North Cape, latitude 71° 10’ 21” (the
same as the northern coast of Alaska)
• Most of Northern Norway is above the Arctic Circle
• Bodø enjoys the Midnight Sun from 3 June to 7 July
• The Midnight Sun shines at the North Cape from 11 May to
31 July
• Northern Norway is situated in the middle of the planet’s
Northern lights belt, which means you have the best chance of
seeing it here.
Population:
• Population: Around 470,000 (74,000 in Finnmark county,
159,000 in Troms county and 240,000 in Nordland county)
• Cities and towns: Tromsø (66,000), Bodø (46,000), Mo i Rana
(25,000), Harstad (23,000), Alta (18,500)
• Languages: Norwegian. Sami is an official language in six
municipalities, while the Kven language is an official language
in one municipality.
Travel information:
Airports from south to north (flight time from Oslo in brackets):
• Bodø (1 hour 25 min.)
• Harstad / Narvik (1 hour 35 min.)
• Bardufoss (1 hour 35 min.)
• Tromsø (1 hour 40 min.)
• Alta (1 hour 55 min.)
• Kirkenes (2 hours 5 min.)
Train, Trondheim - Mo i Rana - Bodø.
Train connections from Narvik to Sweden
The Hurtigruten coastal express from
Bergen to Kirkenes calls at 25 ports
in Northern Norway.
www.nordnorge.com
POLAR BEAR IN SVALBARD © ROY MANGERSNES – NORDNORGE.COM

122 WHAT TO DO WHAT TO DO 123
WHAT
TO DO
BE INSPIRED TO
HAVE AN ACTIVE HOLIDAY
HIKING AT FLØYA, SVOLVÆRSGEITA IN THE BACKGROUND,
LOFOTEN ISLANDS, NORDLAND
Walking from cabin to cabin in king crabs. Or how about a

the mountains or going on a challenge like rafting down
glacier walk is perhaps the rapids, climbing or snow-
best way to explore Norway. kiting?
If you like cycling, there are There are many customised
lots of great routes to choose trips to choose from in
from, whether you prefer flat Norway – on foot, by bike,
terrain or more challenging boat or car. They enable you
routes. There are lots of pack- to get the most out of your
age trips including food and holiday.
accommodation to choose
from. In winter, Norway has a wide
Norway is blessed with an abundance of natural wonders
range of alpine ski centres,
like fjords, mountains and waterfalls, including a number
There are also plenty of op- both for beginners and more
of formidable rock formations like Preikestolen (the Pulpit
tions for people who enjoy experienced skiers. Naturally,
Rock), Trolltunga (the Troll’s Tongue) and Torghatten. fishing. Try your hand at there are also opportunities
Thanks to the long, light evenings in the summer, with the deepsea fishing, salmon for cross-country skiing trips
midnight sun visible for months in the northern parts of fishing or freshwater fishing on prepared, marked tracks.
the country, you will get more hiking for your money. The and you will have a good Winter is also the season for
remarkably pristine environment with clean, refreshing chance of landing a big fish. killer whale safaris, ice-climb-
air allows you to relax completely and return home fully On a safari, you can see wild ing, dog sledding and reindeer
recharged. animals and birds at close sledding.
range, including musk oxen,
moose, eagles, whales and
PREIKESTOLEN / PULPIT ROCK ©
TERJE RAKKE – NORDIC LIFE/REGIONSTAVANGER.COM
WHALE ARCTIC
SAFARI CREATURES
© MARTEN BRILL
Whale safaris by boat are or- safari from the end of October
ganized in Northern-Norway. until January. For more infor-
In Vesterålen you can see mation about these exciting
sperm whales, killer whales adventures, see:
and other species from the www.whalesafari.com
end of May until mid-Septem- www.arcticwhaletours.com
ber. In Tysfjorden, you can join www.orca-tysfjord.no
a nature safari/killer whale
BIRDLIFE AND MUSK OX AT DOVRE © ASGEIR HELGESTAD – ARCTIC LIGHT
BIRDWATCHING Dovrefjell National Park is the MUSK OX SAFARIS

only place in Norway, and one Guests are virtually guaran-
of the few places on earth, teed an encounter with the
where you can see the mighty shaggy arctic creatures. It is
musk oxen. Guided summer also a fair chance that you
walking safaris are organized will see reindeer and
from June to September to grouse. The experienced
PUFFINS AT NORTH CAPE © ASGEIR HELGESTAD – ARCTIC LIGHT
see these unkempt, half-ton guides will also tell you
beasts. The safaris last ap- about the plants and wildlife
proximately six hours. in the Dovrefjell National
Norway's birdlife is rich and varied. Here you can go birdwatch- Park. The musk oxen, who
ing in virtually untouched nature. The company Din Tur offers Tips The musk ox may are survivors from the last
accommodation and guiding on the best birdwatching destina- seem big and clumsy, glacier epoch, are not
tions and birding sites in Norway. As their guest you gain weighing between 225 and aggressive, as long as you
access to their self-guided birding system which consists of 400 kilos, but they move do not get too close.
detailed maps and a pre-programmed GPS to guide you to the fast with a top speed of 60
best birdwatching sites in the country. kilometres per hour. www.moskus-safari.no
www.bird.dintur.no
ADVENTURES
IN NORWAY
BIRDWATCHING
HIKING
SEA FISHING
NORTHERN LIGHTS FRESHWATER FISHING HOLIDAY HOUSES OTHER ACTIVITIES
ONLINE BOOKING: WWW.DINTUR.NO - OFFICE@DINTUR.NO - TEL. (+47) 74 07 30 00
KING CRAB SAFARIS

IN FINNMARK
© JOHAN WILDHAGEN – VISITNORWAY.COM
OTHER NATURE
Come face to face with the red brought to the surface and put
SAFARIS
king crab in the Barents Sea into the boiling pot.
outside the coast of Finnmark. Not surprising really, as the
Afterwards you are offered a red king crab can measure up
taste of the succulent meat. to two metres from claw to
Needless to say, the meal that claw and weigh up to 15 kilo-
GOLDEN EAGLE © ASGEIR HELGESTAD – ARCTIC LIGHT
follows the safari is an grams. A snap of its claw can
absolute feast. Ordinary crab be enough to remove a man's
will never be the same after finger.
you have tried red king crab, From November until March, www.lofoten-opplevelser.no
or Kamchatka crab as it is you can join a nature safari in www.lofoten.info/en
also known. Tips Bring warm clothes Lofoten and learn about ma-
You too can join the profes- and footwear and book in rine life in the areas surround- Tips The Lofoten Islands in
sional divers under water if advance. Cancellations ing Svolvær. There is a good Northern Norway have the
you have a diver’s licence. But may occur depending on chance you will see sea-eagles largest population of sea
most guests are content with the weather. and perhaps even seals and eagles in the world.
seeing the big monster from www.northernnorway.com killer whales as well.
ashore or from a boat as it is
RAFTING CANOEING
AND KAYAKING
KAJAK, LOFOTEN © CH – VISITNORWAY.COM
You will find many opportuni- island groups close to Bergen

HEIDAL RAFTING © WWW.HEIDALRAFTING.NO
ties for paddling along the are more accessible for the
Norwegian coastline, in the first timer.” (The Guardian).
rivers or on one of the many
Rafting is exciting and fun mentsuch as helmets, wet lakes. Sea paddling, river pad- The rest of Norway also offers
both for the most adventurous suits and life jackets. Partici- dling and paddling on a lake great opportunities for canoe-
among us and for the more pants have to bring warm are three different experiencing and kayaking. Paddling
cautious. From family rafting woollen underwear, a woollen es, but each one offers a spe- along the Telemark Canal and
on the river Otta to Norway's jumper and woollen socks. cial closeness to nature and on Lake Femunden in the wil-
most challenging trip on the the chance to observe birds derness of Hedmark is espe-
river Sjoa. Popular rafting rivers and wildlife that the noise of cially popular. Lake Gjende is a
You can choose between fam- • Driva in Sør- an engine would render im- great starting point for hiking
ily rafting down calm rivers Trøndelag county possible. and kayaking in the Jotunhei-
and trips that will really make • Sjoa in Oppland county men Mountain Area. If you are
your blood rush. Several raft- • Trysilelva in Hedmark county “The ultimate experience is thinking of camping, why not try
ing companies offer trips. The • Jølstra in Sogn og Fjordane the Lofoten Islands. This is a a trip to encompass some of
trips are of varying degrees of county mountainous archipelago with the most idyllic of Southern
difficulty and make different • The rivers in Setesdalen deep blue shimmering seas Norway's coastline? Load up
requirements of the partici- • Voss: Raundalselva, where kayaking trips can be the kayak with tent and sup-
pants' age and fitness level. Strandaelva and Vosso combined with climbing and plies, and take two to three
Safety is paramount for these • Jostedalselva in the mountaineering. Wilderness days paddling from Tønsberg to
organizers, and they therefore Sognefjord area is just around the corner yet Arendal.
offer the necessary equip- civilisation is reassuringly
close at hand. The fjords and
NORWAY AS A
HIKING DESTINATION
HINKING IN BESSEGGEN © TERJE RAKKE –NORDIC LIFE
LOFOTEN © KRISTIN FOLSTAD OLSEN
A varied landscape with deep Many hiking trails start within

fjords, high mountain peaks walking distance of the towns Season coast, however, it is usually
and rugged wilderness makes and villages, which in turn The hiking season stretches possible to walk all year,
Norway an exciting hiking also means that you are rarely from the middle of June to whereas in higher altitudes,
destination well worth explor- far from local amenities like October, with the high season the best time is from July to
ing. Norway is only a couple of shops and local health care. in July and August. Along the September.
hours from most European
capitals, and once you arrive
you will find that the natural Tips You can choose to
highlights are within easy carry your own tent, stay in
reach, often practically on hotels or family hostels, or
your doorstep. ramble from cabin to
cabin.
Good standard
Additionally, Norwegian
hiking trails are well
Accessible nature marked in accordance with
The unique Nordic concept an international grading
“the right of access” system. Accommodation is
(allemansretten) means that usually of a good standard,
the general public have the with an extensive network
right to spend time in the of affordable hiking cabins
countryside, provided that they run by the Norwegian
show respect for the environ- Trekking Association
ment and other people. (DNT).
www.turistforeningen.no
HØVRINGEN ©
CH – VISITNORWAY.COM XXXXXXXX © XXXXXXXXXXX
TOP 10 ICONIC 1. Preikestolen (Pulpit

Rock), the Lysefjord
Preikestolen is a mountain
formed like a huge pulpit tow-
6. Slogen,
Fjord Norway
Perhaps the most scenic and
dramatic hike in the Sunnmøre
MOUNTAIN ering over the Lysefjord in Ro-

galand, Fjord Norway. There is
a well prepared track to the top
Alps in the northern part of
Fjord Norway. The hike to the
top is steep, and the last part
HIKES
10
of the 604-metre-high moun- requires some easy climbing.
tain plateau. 7. The Triangle Route,
9 2. Besseggen, Rondane
Jotunheimen The classic triangle hike in
Besseggen is located in East- the Rondane National Park
ern Norway. This is perhaps takes four to five days. The
the most popular of all moun- hike, will take you around the
tain hikes amongst Norwe- largest mountains in
gians. Steep paths and airy Rondane.
The Norwegian Trekking surroundings, with views of the 8. Romsdalseggen,
Association presents 10 Jotunheimen National Park, Fjord Norway
favourite iconic mountain give you a feeling of mastering Romsdalseggen is located
hikes in Norway. the mountains. near Molde, in the northern
Besseggen and 3. Gaustatoppen parts of Fjord Norway. The hike
Preikestolen are among On a clear day, you can see one takes you over mountains,
their recommendations. sixth of Norway from the top of overlooking fjords, summits
More info: Gaustatoppen. Located in the and waterfalls.
8 www.turistforeningen.no county of Telemark. 9. Dronningruta, the
6 4. Galdhøpiggen, Vesterålen Islands
4 7 Jotunheimen North of the Lofoten Islands lie
Norway’s highest mountain, the lesser known Vester-ålen
5 2 2,469 metres above sea level. Islands. One of the most popu-
The view of the Jotunheimen lar hikes here is the Dronnin-
National Park does not get gruta, named
3 better. Easily accessible from after the current Norwegian
the Spiterstulen and Juvasshy- Queen, Queen Sonja.
1
tta mountain lodges. 10. The Reisadalen
5. The Aurlandsdalen Valley, Finnmark
Valley, Fjord Norway The valley stretches from Kau-
The inland mountains meet tokeino in Finnmark to Saraelv
Fjord Norway in the in Troms, in Northern Norway.
Aurlandsdalen Valley. The The Finnmarksvidda Mountain
terrain is varied, from rocky Plateau is mostly flat, but this
peaks to lush valleys and part is a lush canyon-like land-
rumbling waterfalls. scape with steep mountain
sides in parts of the valley.
THE SKAALA TOWER IN NORDFJORD
© SVERRE HJØRNEVIK – VISITNORWAY.COM
Disinfecting fishing
FISHING equipment and other
equipment
SPIN FISHING IN HALLINGDAL © ANDERS GJENGEDAL – VISITNORWAY.COM
Big fish, magnificent scenery and superb

facilities. Outstanding freshwater and deep
sea fishing makes Norway a special
destination for anglers.
Here, you will find everything 394 for a family. In addition

needed for a great fishing you must buy a local fishing
holiday: a wide range of well permit. Local permits are sold
stocked waters, a pristine en- at sports shops, newsagents,
vironment offering plenty of tourist offices or campsites.
opportunities to escape from For most rivers, the fishing
the crowd, somewhere com- season starts in June and
fortable to relax at the end of runs until the end of August.
the day and a ready supply of Sports fishing in the sea is
good guides. But if one thing free of charge. A maximum of
makes Norway exceptional it 15 kg of saltwater fish per
is a reputation for producing person can be taken out of
big fish. Norway. For more infor-ma- If you have already used fishing equipment, boats or
tion about sports fishing and other equipment in watercourses abroad or in water-
Everyone over the age of 18 fishing regulations, please see courses where there are suspected or proven cases of
who wishes to fish for salmon, information on infectious diseases, you must clean and disinfect the
sea trout and sea char in www.visitnorway.com/fishing equipment before using it in Norwegian rivers. In many
watercourses must buy a fish- www.dirnat.no watercourses there are disinfection stations,
ing licence. The licence is see www.mattilsynet.no
valid for one year and is avail- (Outdoor recreation) or con- (search for Disinfecting your fishing equipment).
able online, at local banks or tact the local tourist office in
post offices in Norway. For the area you wish to fish.
2015, the licence fee was NOK FISHING OUTSIDE TROMSØ
247 for one person and NOK © W. KRAUSEMEDIA-ARMY.DE – VISITNORWAY.COM
CYCLING
M
.CO
VISITNORWAY
S-
EA
IF
TE L
©
RJ IC
E RA RD
KKE – NO
Cycle on a remote island in the midnight

sun, try a path beneath a mountain plunging
into a fjord, or get your adrenalin pumping
going downhill.
Cycling tourism is expanding Best season

rapidly in Norway. There are June, July and August are the
numerous well-marked cycle best months for cycling. May
routes along the coast, in the and September can also be
mountains and around the fairly warm, but generally
fjords. These routes can also these months have more
be combined. With few cars unstable weather. Having said
and hardly any noise, it is easy that, the spring in Norway is
to find scenic routes for safe, beautiful when nature comes
enjoyable cycling holidays back to life, whilst in the
along Norwegian roads. autumn the colours are
spectacular.
If you don’t want to spend too
much time planning, Norway Tips
has ten national cycling routes You will appreciate the
that connect all mainland long, light summer days. In
parts of the country. The June and July, there are
routes are designed to take 17-20 hours of daylight in
you between cities and towns the southern parts of
while avoiding most roads Norway, and 20-24 hours in
with heavy traffic. the northern parts. This
allows for more riding – or
Fully organized cykling- just more time outdoors.
holidays, maps and guide
books relating to the various
routes are available via
www.cyclingnorway.no/en
HAMNØYA, LOFOTEN © CH – VISITNORWAY.COM

TOP 10 1. Rallarvegen, from

Geilo to Voss
Norway’s most popular biking
6. Mjøstråkk, from
Lillehammer via
Hamar to Gjøvik
CYCLING
route. The 210 km long road is The old paddle steamer
a must for enthusiasts. It takes Skibladner ties together the
you from Geilo, through the towns around the Mjøsa lake.
Hardangervidda mountain pla- The same goes for Mjøstråkk,
ROUTES teau down to either Voss, or

Flåm by the Aurlandsfjord.
2. Coastal route in
Nordland
a signposted biking route that
starts off in the Olympic town
of Lillehammer.
7. Jæren, from
This route goes from Egersund to Stavanger
Brønnøysund to Sandnessjøen The area around Brusand is
and back again. The coast of known for its flat, coastal land-
Helgeland in Nordland offers scape and special light, and
beautiful mountains, beaches, you will find Norway’s longest
skerries and islands. beach at Orresanden.
3. Mjølkeveien 8. The Telemark Canal
in Oppland From this suggestion in
This is either a round-trip on Telemark, you can choose a
2 Stølsvidda mountain plateau, hard long route, or an easy
or a one-way route from Gols- short one. The canal boat will
fjellet to Fagernes in Valdres. take you from Skien in the
At the mountain plateau be- south all the way up to the
tween Valdres and Hallingdal, Bandaksjøen lake.
10 there is a large area with 9. Numedal, from
mountain pastures where you Geilo to Kongsberg
can bike for several miles. This route starts in the moun-
4 4. Dovrefjell and tain village of Geilo. Bring
6 Rondane warm clothes, as the route
3 On this route you have a good goes through three mountain
1 view of the mountains in Dovre passes. If you want an easier
and Rondane national parks. version, try to arrange a lift to
9
5 Take a short detour on the Ånevatn. From there you will
8 Snøheimveien road towards have only downhill in front of
Snøhetta, where you can see you.
7 the rare musk ox. 10. The Atlantic Road
5. The Oslofjord The Atlantic Road in Fjord
A good starting point is Sons- Norway, famed for its many
veien station in Østfold, where bridges, follows a particularly
you can bike through Son and scenic stretch of the
Moss and Jeløya. From here Norwegian west coast.
A Norwegian travel magazine and the Norwegian Biking you can take a ferry across the
Association have ranked Norway’s top 10 biking routes. fjord to Horten in Vestfold.
GEIRANGER © CH – VISITNORWAY.COM
PILGRIMAGE FARM HOLIDAY

Welcome to rural pearls
all over the country.
FROM THE NIDAROSCATHEDRAL © CH - VISITNORWAY.COM
LS
MIL
The path to Trondheim to Nidaros. The old Pilgrims'
EN
Route was reopened the
SP
The sainted King Olav ©
E
Haraldsson was buried in summer of 1997. Since ER
FARM
Trondheim in 1030. Nidaros then many pilgrims have
Cathedral was erected wandered to this ancient
over his grave, and for four pilgrimage site.
Enjoy genuine experiences, to modern ones. All with fur-
centuries this city was a
For further information, visit tasteful food and great stories. niture, kitchen facilities, tel-
pilgrimage site for pilgrims
Pilgrims' ways to Nidaros on In Norway you can stay at a evisions and bathrooms with
seeking consolation, help and
healing. It is now possible pilegrimsleden.no/en/ or The medieval farm in the valleys showers. Most farms have
to make a pilgrimage along confraternity of St. James in or you can bring your children many kinds of animals and
signposted trails from Oslo Norway on to a farm with animals along there are plenty of hiking, bik-
www.pilegrim.no the coast. ing and swimming possibili-
ties outside your room. Usu-
Farms for children ally the farms have sheep,
Spiritual center There are many activities on a cows, pigs, chickens and
From 1153 to 1537, Trondheim farm, besides taking care of horses in the summer season.
was the seat of the country's the animals. Horse riding, Menus are based on local
archbishop and the spiritual fishing, biking, hiking and boat traditions.
center of an area including trips are often offered. Find a The produce is either from the
Greenland, the Faroe Islands, list of farms offering accom- farm or sourced by local sup-
the Orkney Islands and the Isle modation and farm activities pliers. The fish which is
of Man. Today, Trondheim is a on www.visitnorway.com or served is often from the
modern city that is a major center www.hanen.no/en mountain lakes, game is
of learning and one of the best
Many of the farms are offering hunted locally or supplied by
research environments in Europe.
different kinds of farms hous- local breeders and herbs are
www.visittrondheim.no
es and rooms for rent, ranging grown in the farm's own
from 16th century buildings, gardens.
ORNAMENTS ON THE
CATHEDRAL ©
CH VISITNORWAY.COM
NORWEGIAN Surfing
From Jæren in the south to
the Lofoten Islands in the
Ice climbing
Climbing up a frozen waterfall
is an exceptional experience.
ADRENALINE north, Norway is an exciting,

relatively undiscovered surf
destination. Not for long. Nor-
There is climbable ice in the
Rjukan area in Telemark from
the end of October through to
KICKS
way is an increasingly popular early April. However, the best
“cold water” surf destination. and most reliable time to visit
Consistent swell, fantastic is mid-January to mid-March.
scenery and pristine waters At this time, there are more
mean Norway is attracting daylight hours and ice will be
more and more surfers, many in abundance. Other good
of whom coming here in the places for ice climbing are the
hope of finding undiscovered Hydnefossen Waterfall in
waves and breaks along Nor- Hemsedal and the waterfalls
way’s notoriously long coast- around Lærdal at the head of
line. Advances in wetsuit tech- the Sognefjord.
nology mean that it is now The Norwegian Climbing
possible to surf in Norway Federation can give you more
year round, although the lack information about ice climbing
of light in winter, especially in in Norway. You can contact
the northern regions, cuts The Norwegian Climbing
ICE CLIMBING IN TELEMARK © ANDERS GJENGEDAL – VISITNORWAY.COM surfing down to a few hours a Federation by
day – attracting only the most E-mail: klatring@klatring.no
hardened surfers. For the
rest, the season lasts from
Norway has much to tempt adrenaline February to November: sum- Tips
junkies. Surfing, ice climbing and snow- mer is most welcoming for There is an annual ice
beginners, while the late au- climbing festival in Rjukan
kiting are just a few of the activities on offer. tumn and winter have more in February!
exciting conditions.
Snowkiting metres per hour. Instead of rid-

Reach speeds of up to 100 kilo- ing a chairlift to the top, snowkit-
metres per hour on Hardan- ers can use the wind to power
gervidda. Snowkiting, or skikiting them up a mountain and deep in
as it is also known, is the latest to the untouched powder. And
craze in adrenaline soaked there is no better place for fun
sports in Norway. A pair of skis or activity than Norway’s breathtak-
a snowboard, a helmet, harness, ing mountain plateaus. You can
kite, some windproof clothes and try snowkiting in many different
some practice are what you need places in Norway.
to reach speeds of up to 100 kilo-
KITING AT SPANSTINDEN IN TROMS
© TOISNIEMI.COM – VISITNORWAY.COM
WINTER HOLIDAYS children’s ski areas, ski

schools and crèches. Both
Alpine skiers and snowboard-
are just some of the things to
whet your appetite this winter.
ers are well catered for, in Did you know that…

fact, some of the best terrain Every time you say ski or
M parks in Europe can be found slalom, you are speaking
CO here. The Norwegian ski re- Norwegian?
Y.
WA
sorts also boast uncrowded Northern Norway is on the
- VISITNOR
slopes, lack of lift queues and same latitude as Siberia,
affordable lift passes and ski Greenland and Alaska?
schools. Children that are too The northern coast of
LIFE
young to ski will love simply Norway is surprisingly mild
spending time outside playing thanks to the Gulf Stream,
IC
RO
RD
DA O
N
NE E/N in the snow. with temperatures around

© TERJE RAKK
0 degrees not unusual in
Easily accessible winter?
The majority of ski resorts are
located in the south of the
Norway offers ideal passionate skiers and would country, so the average mid- Some useful web-sites:
skiing conditions, love visitors to enjoy our su- winter temperature is around www.skeikampen.no
www.geilo.no
sun and adventure in perb facilities as much as we
do. Stay in one of the many
-6°C and there is daylight
from 9am to 4pm. By March, www.femundengerdal.no
the winter. And now alpine-style resorts with their the number of daylight hours www.uvdal.no
is the time to go, as state-of-the-art lift systems increase to 10. In addition, the www.al.no
never before have and high quality restaurant season is long, with snow vir- www.skiinfo.no
and accommodation facilities, tually guaranteed from No- www.visitnorway.com
there been so many
or base yourself in a smaller vember to May and conditions
options for you to get village and take advantage of that are second to none.
the most out of your the plethora of cross-country
holiday – in a trails which scatter the entire A break from skiing
country that offers country - the choice is yours! There are a range of other
activities to enjoy whilst on a
everything from ice Great facilities winter break in Norway. Try
climbing to snow- In Norway, it is said that Nor- your hand at husky dog sled-
boarding, if you dare. wegians are born with skis on ding, horse drawn sleigh
their feet and it is easy to see rides, ice fishing, snowshoe-
Get the family all fired up, find why. Norwegian children start ing, ice skating and toboggan-
a cottage or a beautiful hotel skiing from the age of three ing which are only some of the
with a view and book an ad- and it really is a family activity. activities available. Up north
venture holiday. Try kite surf- This is reflected in the coun- King Crab fishing, a stay in the
ing on a mountain lake or race try’s ski resorts which all magical Igloo Hotel, reindeer
down the uncrowded alpine boast fantastic family ski fa- sledging and snowmobiling
slopes. We are a nation of cilities including dedicated
DOGSLEDDING IN FEMUND
© CH - VISITNORWAY.COM
146 WHAT TO SEE WHAT TO SEE 147
SAFETY
FIRST WHAT
RØDØY © TERJE RAKKE - NORDIC LIFE
The Norwegian mountains equipment determine the

TO SEE
can be spectacular and mem- sensible distance of a tour.
orable, but the weather can
change quickly, so prepare Leave word of your
your trip well and stay safe. route
The Norwegian Mountain Many cabins, hotels and other
Code exists for your safety. lodgings have tour notification
Familiarise yourself with it boxes in which you may put a
and follow its advice before written notice of your planned
setting out: route. In an emergency, the
details you give will aid the
Be prepared rescue service.
Be sufficiently experienced, fit
and equipped for your intend- Be weather-wise
ed trip. Practice hiking or ski- An old adage advises that you
ing with a rucksack away should always be alert to
from trails and tracks, even if forecasts of bad weather, yet
conditions are poor. Your not rely completely on fore-
physical and mental fitness, casts of good weather.
your experience and your
SAFETY BY A WATERFALL
• By their very nature, waterfalls are potentially dangerous.
Not only is the current strong if you fall in, but the ground
nearby is often slippery and wet from the mist, and the cliffs
are steep and tall.
• Take care to follow instructions and stay on the path, if any.
If there are fenced viewing areas, do not step outside the Relax one day, go crazy in the fjords the next. Climb or
fences, as the ground may be slippery or structurally weak. hike, bike or drive. Explore history or live in the now.
• Be especially careful in winter, when the mist freezes to Come see Norway from top to bottom. Experience
ice, or when the falls have unusually high flow. northern lights or midnight sun above the Arctic Circle,
• Always err on the side of caution, and you will stay safe to or visit the world famous Norwegian fjords with tall
enjoy more of Norway's waterfalls in the
mountains and glaciers.
future.
SAMI WITH REINDEER ©

TERJE RAKKE – NORDIC LIFE – VISITNORWAY COM
NATURE
ATTRACTIONS
OM
AY.C
RW
NO
IT
S
– VI
© BJA STO
RNE RIE
THE MIDNIGHT SUN

During summer, the sun never 24 hours of daylight gives the
sets. Capture this magnificent flora and fauna along the coast
experience on a midnight sun an energy boost. This is likely
cruise or safari before the to rub off on visitors as well, so
darkness of winter arrives. why not use the extra energy to
What is the midnight sun experience some of the many
During the Norwegian sum- midnight sun activities
mer season, the sun never sets available throughout
north of the Arctic Circle and Northern Norway?
for a couple of months the sun
is visible 24 hours a day.
“ Yesterday I played
The phenomenon is caused by golf at 11:30 pm,
the tilt in the Earth´s axis – an and the day before I
imaginary line through the
planet between the north and went for a long walk
south poles around which it at 2 am. It doesn't
rotates. As the Earth orbits the matter what time it
Sun, the tilt makes the North
Pole face towards the Sun in is, and I need less
summer (keeping it in sunlight sleep.”
There are mountains plunging into the sea from hundreds even as the Earth spins) and
of metres, fjords, tall mountain peaks, northern lights and away from it in winter (keeping Simon Wilson, England
midnight sun. it dark). Hence the continuous
sunlight during the summer.
REINDEER IN THE MOUNTAIN
© ASGEIR HELGESTAD – ARTIC LIGHT AS – VISITNORWAY.COM
GLACIERS
NATIONAL PARKS
JOSTEDALSBREEN © ANDERS GJENGEDAL – VISITNORWAY.COM
JOTUNHEIMEN © CH – VISITNORWAY.COM
Norway still shows traces of the Ice Age,

when the entire country was covered by ice.
Jostedalsbreen is the largest glacier in Norway. The national parks safeguard the rich
diversity of Norway's natural heritage, for
More than 2,600 square kilo- large blocks of ice breaking off
nature's sake, for our own and for future
metres of Norway’s land area (calving). There is always generations.
is covered by glaciers. 60 per danger of ice collapsing even
cent of Svalbard is covered by in front of the glacier.
glaciers. Norway has 44 national parks, of marked paths and trails
Guarantee your safety by 37 on the mainland and seven and overnight accommodation
Guided glacier walking using authorised guides, and on Svalbard. From underwater in either staffed lodges or
Glacier walking is an incred- never venture out onto or near wonders to high mountainous self-service cabins.
ible experience, but it also a glacier on your own. During areas, these parks offer a va- National parks are particularly
demands alertness, know- the summer period there are riety of landscapes and a wide important for species that
ledge and equipment. guided tours on most glaciers. range of exciting outdoors need relatively large and
The ice mass is in constant Remember to bring warm experiences. undisturbed areas to survive,
movement and can present clothing, headwear, suitable Several national parks have such as wild reindeer,
unexpected dangers from footwear, gloves and sun- arrangements for outdoor predators and birds of prey.
deep crevasses (often covered glasses. activities with a network www.miljodirektoratet.no/en
in snow), avalanches or from
152 WHAT TO SEE
THE NORTHERN LIGHTS
FROM HAMSUNS RIKE, HAMARØY © KETIL KAASLI
Watch nature's own theatre unfold above

you as the most spectacular light show takes
centre stage: The northern lights with you in
the front row.
Each appearance of the But what exactly are the

northern lights is unique. northern lights? It is the sun
Often you see three green that lies behind the formation
bands across the night sky. Or of the auroras. During large
the lights come as flickering solar explosions and flares,
curtains or rollingsmoke. The huge quantities of particles
colour is a luminous green, are thrown out of the sun and
often with a hint of pink along into deep space. When the
the edge, and occasionally particles meet the Earth's
with a deep violet centre. The
colour palette seems to come
magnetic shield, they are led
towards a circle around the
VISIT NORTHERN NORWAY
from the 1980s. If there is a lot magnetic North Pole, where
of activity up there, the they interact with the upper Thon Hotels has 12 hotels in Northern
northern lights explode for a
minute or two in a corona. The
layers of the atmosphere. The
energy which is then released
Norway, from Brønnøysund to Kirkenes.
next minute it is all over, and is the northern lights. All this All our destinations are easy to reach
you ask yourself whether this happens approximatelty 100 when travelling by plane.
was real or just an Arctic fata kilometres above our heads.
morgana.
For more information, please visit:
thonhotels.com
THE SAMI WHAT IS

A FJORD?
SAMI © CAMILLE SEAMAN TOPAZ SKAGEFLÅ, GEIRANGERFJORDEN © PER EIDE – VISITNORWAY.COM
The Sami are Norway’s indigenous people.

Travel to Northern Norway to experience The fjords of Norway were dug out by ice,
their culture. Learn to throw a lasso, or try stone and rock during successive ice ages.
reindeer sledding
Norway has the highest virtually ice-free. Seals, por-

The Sami people are some- and lived in tents (lavvo) and concentration of fjords in the poises and an abundance of
times referred to as Lapps, turf huts whilst they followed world, and nowhere on earth different fish swim in the
but prefer to be called Samis. the reindeer. are there more fjords than fjords, while eagles and other
Their culture has been devel- Fjord Norway. For this rea- birds soar in the skies above.
oping in Northern Scandinavia Reindeer herding is still cen- son, the region is commonly The fjords, which consist of
since the arrival of the first tral to Sami culture, even to referred to saltwater,
people 11,000 years ago. The this day, and crucial to the as Fjord
Sami were at one with nature, subsistence of the Sami, pro- Norway. The
“The best unspoiled are often
very deep in
viding meat, fur and transpor- fjords are travel destinations their upper
tation. Reindeer sledding is nature’s own in the world.” and middle
popular in Finnmark in winter. work of art, reaches.
formed when National Geographic Magazine Take the
The first encounter with Sami the glaciers Sognefjord
culture for most travellers, retreated, and sea water as an example – it drops
however, often takes place by flooded the U-shaped valleys. 1,308 metres below sea level,
the roadside. Sami selling making it Norway’s deepest
souvenirs, including colourful Mild climate fjord. Because fjords are so
local costumes, shoes and Thanks to the warming Gulf deep, they permit navigation
hats, reindeer skins, wooden Stream and air currents by large ships, allowing you
and leather handicrafts and caused by the coriolis effect, to experience their beauty at
the likes, are not an unusual the Norwegian fjords enjoy a close range.
sight in Northern Norway. mild climate and remain
© BAARD LOEKEN
WATERFALLS Storseterfossen
Four kilometres outside
series of falls down the side of
the fjord. Any of the Nærøy-
Geiranger lies Westerås Gård, fjord fjord cruises will pass
where the trail starts. An the scenic falls.
hour's easy hike takes you to
the waterfall. One of the few Fossen Bratte
that you can actually walk 20 minutes by car west of the
behind and under in safety. small town of Norheimsund,
or about an hour's drive east
Vøringsfossen of Bergen. One of several
One of Norway's most spec- waterfalls also known as The
BEHIND A WATERFALL tacular waterfalls. Bridal Veil.
© TERJE RAKKE – NORDIC LIFE – VISITNORWAY.COM
Near Eidfjord, an hour's drive
west of Geilo, or 2,5 hours by Låtefossen
car from Bergen, due east. Two separate streams that fall
from 165 metres makes
Walk behind a thundering waterfall near Vøyenfossen Låtefossen waterfall unique.
Bergen, or visit some of the tallest in Europe Easily found and reached, as it A 15-minute drive south of the
lies in Oslo, near the restau- small town of Odda, on Rv13.
as you experience Norway's unique and rant and nightlife area Parking available nearby.
spectacular waterfalls. With water Grünerløkka. Akerselva river
thundering down the cliff face with a runs through Oslo and has Langfossen
deafening roar, the air white with mist, one several small waterfalls. Named one of the ten most
beautiful waterfalls in the
of Norway's many waterfalls can be a
Vettisfossen world as its water cascades
humbling experience. Vettisfossen, Norway's fourth 600 metres down the moun-
highest waterfall, is situated tainside. Situated on the
in the south-east of Jotunhei- southern side of the Åkrafjord,
Mardalsfossen De syv søstrene / men, and is best reached around 45 minutes' drive
An impressive two-step The Seven Sisters through a 90-minute hike south-west of Odda, or in the
free-falling waterfall In the In the middle of the Geiranger- from the Hjelle farm, near the other direction 1,5 hours by
Molde and Romsdal area, fjord. Named because its falls small town of Øvre Årdal. car from Haugesund.
near Eikesdalsvatnet lake. may look like the hair of seven
women. Best scenery on a Kjosfossen Månafossen
Steinsdalsfossen sightseeing cruise. Situated on the Flåm Railway, Quite hard to get to, but still a
Has a path that leads under- where it has its own stop. popular tourist attraction.
neath and behind the fall Friaren / The Suitor Easily reached by train from Access to the viewpoint is
itself. One hour drive east of In the middle of the Geiranger- Oslo or Bergen, or points through steep and sometimes
Bergen, near the town of fjord, opposite The Seven Sisters. between. difficult terrain. Situated near
Nordheimsund. According to legend, Friaren Frafjord, a little over an hour's
("The Suitor") is unsuccessfully Lægdafossen drive east of Stavanger.
wooing the seven sisters at the A high waterfall that plunges
other side of the Geirangerfjord. into the Nærøyfjord through a
NORTH CAPE
EUROPE'S
NORTHERN END
THE NORTH CAPE © JOHAN WILDHAGEN - VISITNORWAY.COM
O Far inside the Arctic Circle, the North Cape

.N
offers arctic adventures like dog-sledding in

TO
– WILDPHO
winter and months of never-ending sunlight

in the summer.
NES
RS
ØR Imagine a place in the far centre's cinema at regular

GE
S
-VA AN north, where the Atlantic intervals.

RAN YM
GER © RO Ocean meets the Arctic Ocean Also, it contains a café,
and their frigid waters mix. restaurant, post office and a
THE ATLANTIC PUFFIN That place is the North Cape souvenir shop, in addition to
in Western Finnmark in the cinema. There is also a
Northern Norway. Here, there chapel here, the St Johannes
is no dry land between you Kapell, and as the world's
and the North Pole except for northernmost ecumenical
the Svalbard Archipelago, and chapel, it is a popular venue
The Journey to the months of summer. Today, the summer sun never sets for weddings.
end of a continent modern transportation has for two and a half months,
In the past Nordkapp was dif- made this legendary area a between the middle of May Opening hours:
ficult to reach - a destination popular destination. You can and the end of July. • First two weeks of August:
for adventurers, royalty and travel here by car, bus, boat or 11 am until 10 pm.
expeditions. The first tourist, bike. Common for all travelers North Cape Hall • Rest of the summer season:
the Italian priest Francesco are the strong experiences The North Cape visitor centre 11 am until 1 am.
Negri, came to Nordkapp in that awaits them. is called North Cape Hall and • September until the middle
1664, and today some 200,000 holds various exhibitions of May: 11 am until 3 pm.
tourists visit Nordkapp annu- throughout the year. A pano-
ally during the two to three Welcome to Nordkapp! ramic film is shown in the www.nordkapp.no/en
160 TRAVEL FACTS TRAVEL FACTS 161
The best Norway

has to offer - all
in one place!
On the award-winning
NORWAY A - Z
website Visitnorway.com,
Norway's largest travel and SWORD IN ROCK HAFRSFJORD ©
tourism portal, you will RICHARD LARSSEN – VISITNORWAY.COM
find inspiration and

information about Norway
and special offers
from the travel and tourism A yourself in a smaller village
and take advantage of the
industry. It is easy to Active winter holidays plethora of cross-country trails
explore Norway, Norway offers ideal skiing con- which scatter the entire coun-
search for products and destinations ditions, sun and adventure in try - the choice is yours!
the winter. And now is the time
and book trips and accommodation. to go, as never before have Alcohol
there been so many options for You cannot obtain wine or spir-
you to get the most out of your its from any local supermar-
Follow Norway on social media holiday – in a country that of-
fers everything from ice climb-
ket. This is possible only in
shops specially set up by the
With Visitnorway on • Articles and press ing to snowboarding in powder state for this purpose (Vinmon-
Facebook you can... releases about Norwegian down from Reidarskaret in opolet). Such shops are usually
• Ask questions and travel and tourism Hemsedal, if you dare. to be found in the larger towns.
find inspiration • Competitions Get the family all fired up, find However, beer can generally be
• Share photos, • Tips and ideas for new travel a cottage or a beautiful hotel bought in the supermarket.
travel experiences destinations in Norway with a view and book an adven- The age limit for buying wine
and tips with other fans ture holiday. Try kite surfing on and beer is 18 years, and 20
of Norway Follow Visit Norway on a mountain lake or race down years to buy spirits. You will
• Participate in competitions Instagram and... the uncrowded alpine slopes. find that nearly all restaurants
• Find videos, photos and the • Get inspired by We are a nation of passionate are licensed.
best travel links images and skiers and would love visitors
Follow Visitnorway on
videos from all
over Norway
to enjoy our superb facilities as
much as we do. B
Twitter and receive • Use #visitnorway when up Stay in one of the many alpine-
tweets about... loading your personal holi style resorts with their state- Banks
• Attractions and day images from Norway of-the-art lift systems and high 24-hour cash dispensers are
events quality restaurant and accom- found in strategic locations
modation facilities, or base throughout Norway.
Bank opening hours are thanks to the Gulf Stream! Be Customs and Provided you do not bring any
approximately: prepared for all eventualities regulations tobacco, you may bring an ad-
Monday - Friday: 09.00 – 15.30 and bring raingear, a warm Here are the most important ditional:
sweater and good walking regulations you need to know 1,5 litres (equal to two stand-
C shoes in addition to your sum-

mer wardrobe. You are not
before entering Norway with
goods or currencies.
ard bottles) of wine or other
alcoholic drink containing be-
usually required to dress for- tween 4,7% and 22% alcohol by
Cell Phones mally for dinner at Norwegian Within the limit of NOK 6,000 volume or 1,5 litres of beer or
and Internet resort hotels. you are allowed to bring with other alcoholic drink contain-
The mobile phone systems and For weather reports: you the following articles free ing between 2,5% and 22%
the Internet network is very www.yr.no of customs and excise duty: alcohol by volume.
well developed in Norway and Hence, you may for instance
most hotels offer a free Inter- Credit Cards Alcoholic beverages bring up to 6,5 litres of beer, if
net connection. MasterCard, American 1 litre of distilled spirit contain- you bring no other alcohol and
Express, Diners Club, Eurocard ing between 22% and 60% al- no tobacco.
and Visa are all accepted at cohol by volume, if you are 20
hotels, major restaurants and years of age or older. Instead Tobacco
City Cards large shops, even for small of this, you may choose to Minimum age: 18
The Oslo Pass and the amounts. Be aware that some bring either: 200 cigarettes or 250 grams of
Bergen Card petrol stations do not accept 1,5 litres (equal to two stand- other tobacco products and
These cards all these cards. You can also ard bottles) of wine or other 200 leaves of cigarette paper.
entitle the user withdraw money with your alcoholic drink containing be- Meat, meat products, milk
to free or VISA card and Mastercard tween 4,7% and 22% alcohol by and milk products
discounted (limited) from cash points volume or 1,5 litres of beer or Meat, meat products, cheese
admission to throughout the country. other alcoholic drink contain- and foodstuffs except dog and
museums, ing between 2,5% and 22% cat food, totalling 10 kilos alto-
attractions, Currency alcohol by volume. gether from EEA countries.
cultural events Norwegian currency consists Plus: 1,5 litres (equal to two From countries outside the
and sight-seeing. Also, free of kroner (NOK or Kr) and øre. standard bottles) of wine or EEA, it is prohibited to bring
bus travel and discounts on 100 øre = NOK 1 other alcoholic drink contain- meat, meat products, milk and
meals and parking. The passes Exchange rate November ing between 4,7% and 22% milk products in one’s luggage.
are sold at tourist offices in 2015: alcohol by volume, if you are 18 Such products must be import-
Oslo and Bergen. 1 Euro = 9,20 NOK / years of age or older. ed through a veterinary border
www.visitoslo.com 1 Dollar = 8,10 NOK Instead of this, you may choose control station, and the goods
www.visitBergen.com 1 GBP = 12,50 to bring 1,5 litres of beer or must be accompanied by a
Visitors can bring in currency other alcoholic drink contain- health certificate.
Climate and Clothing (Norwegian and foreign) worth ing between 2,5% and 22%
Norwegian summer weather is NOK 25 000. Currency over this alcohol by volume. Animals
unpredictable. Some days it is amount must be declared at Plus: 2 litres of beer or other Special provisions govern the
cloudy and raining, on others customs. alcoholic drink containing be- importation of animals.
the sun blazes down at near tween 2,5% and 4,7% alcohol Dogs, cats and ferrets from all
Mediterranean temperatures by volume, if you are 18 years EU countries must have pet
even in Northern-Norway of age or older. passports, ID marking, valid ra-
bies vaccination, and valid blood-

test documentation (does not
Disabilities
Over the last couple of years, the
Emergency Numbers
In the event of an emergency in
G
apply to ferrets). Dogs must also travel industry has put more em- Norway dial: Great facilities
be given approved tapeworm phasis on adapting their facilities 110 Fire Service In Norway, it is said that
treatment minimum 24 and for people with disabilities. How- 112 Police Service Norwegians are born with skis
maximum 120 hours before ar- ever, there are still many loca- 113 Ambulance Service on their feet and it is easy to see
rival. Small rodents, cage birds tions with limited accessibility 120 Emergency at sea why. Norwegian children start
and rabbits must have valid im- and we recommend that you skiing from the age of three and
port permits issued by the Nor-
wegian Food Safety Authority.
check this before traveling. For
information on rental cabins, F it really is a family activity. This
is reflected in the country’s ski
Please note that some types of contact Norges Handikap-for- resorts which all boast fantastic
dogs are prohibited in Norway. bund (NHF): Foodimport Limitations family ski facilities including
There may be exemptions to the Tel.: +47 24 10 24 00 Import of agricultural products is dedicated children’s ski areas,
information above, and additional www.nhf.no subject to special import restric- ski schools and crèches. Both
rules apply for non-EU countries. tions to avoid, among other dan- Alpine skiers and snowboarders
Make sure that you consult the
full instructions available at the E gers, the spread of plant and
animal diseases. However you
are well catered for, in fact,
some of the best terrain parks
Norwegian Food Safety Author- Easily accessible may import, for private use, up to in Europe can be found here.
ity's website in good time before All resorts are easily accessible 10 kg fruits, berries and vegeta- The Norwegian ski resorts also
you travel. You can also contact by public transport. The majority bles but not potatoes. From EU/ boast uncrowded slopes, lack of
the Norwegian Embassy or Con- of ski resorts are located in the EEA countries you can also bring lift queues and affordable lift
sulate in your country for advice. south of the country, so the aver- a maximum of 10 kg of meat, passes and ski schools. Norwe-
age midwinter temperature is meat products, fish, eggs, gians speak excellent English
D around -6°C and there is daylight

from 9am to 4pm. By March, the
cheese and foodstuffs except dog
and cat food, as long as the prod-
and the vast majority of ski re-
sorts have English speaking
number of daylight hours in- uct is stamped with the country crèches with qualified nannies
Dining crease to 10. In addition, the sea- of origin (that country being an and ski schools which are all
Norwegian cities offer a good son is long, with snow virtually EU member). Permission to im- extremely reasonably priced.
selection of restaurants in all guaranteed from November to port listed products can be re- Children that are too young to
categories and price ranges. The May and conditions that are sec- voked at any time if the necessity ski will love simply spending
main course at an average res- ond to none. arises (in case of an outbreak of time outside playing in the
taurant costs between NOK 170 plant and animal diseases for snow. Those old enough to don
- 300. Lunch is often less costly. Electricity example). From countries out- their own skis can take advan-
A glass of wine costs from NOK The Norwegian grid is set to 220 side the EU/ EEA, it is prohibited tage of the dedicated children’s
80 and a pint of beer from NOK volts AC and you might need an to bring meat, meat products, ski areas. These typically in-
75. Cafés and cafeterias also adapter with two round-ended milk and milk products in your clude dedicated runs, lifts and
serve dinner, often at very rea- prongs. luggage. Dried and tinned food- even terrain parks with jumps
sonable prices. A coffee in a cof- stuffs are permissible. More in- and rails! Many resorts also
fee shop costs from NOK 30 and formation about import limita- offer free ski helmet hire and
a soft drink from NOK 35. tions on www.toll.no free ski passes for children.
H March, are set against a dark

sky free from artificial light.
M nation. For more informa-
tion about possibilities of
Holidays www.hurtigruten.com Medical Attention organizing meetings, events
It can be both pleasant and Pharmacies are called or conventions in Norway,
economical to travel in Norway
outside the school and indus- K “Apotek” and are open during
normal business hours. In
please contact the local In-
novation Norway Office in
trial holiday season. Prices some larger cities, one or two your country or contact
tend to be lower, and there is King Crab Fishing of them will be open 24 hours Norway Convention
less hustle and bustle. The Unique to Finnmark in North- and on weekends. Bureau, see
school holidays vary somewhat ern Norway is the gigantic King Should you fall ill while on va- www.visitnorway.com/
but are approximately from Crab offering a truly amazing cation in Norway, the hotel Meetings
June 20th to August 20th. The experience. Travel by snowmo- reception should be able to put
industrial holidays are the
three last weeks in July. In ad-
bile or inflatable dinghy to fish
for the crab through the ice.
you in touch with a local doc-
tor. Outside normal consulta- P
dition to autumn and winter The King Crab can be as large tion hours you should go to the
breaks, schools are closed for as two meters and weigh up to local emergency clinic (Lege- Passport and Visa
two weeks over Christmas and 15 kilos. Afterwards you can vakten). If you take medication Regimes
one week during Easter. enjoy your morning’s work with on a regular basis, make sure Norway is not a member state
a lunch of delicious fresh crab you take sufficient supplies for of the European Union (EU), but
Hurtigruten meat. A true gastronomic ex- your stay in is part of the Schengen area. To
For those who want something perience in unforgettable sur- Norway. Norwegian pharma- visit Norway, all foreign nation-
a bit different, why not join the roundings. cies are not permitted to issue als (except citizens from the
popular voyage “In Search of medicine on foreign prescrip- other Nordic countries) must
the Northern Lights” from Ber-
gen to Tromsø. The Northern L tions. If you run out, you will
have to visit a Norwegian doc-
have a valid passport and/or
other identification papers ap-
Lights are a natural phenom- tor to get a new prescription. proved as travel documents.
enon, caused by electrically Language You are recommended to take Certain foreign citizens must
charged solar particles enter- The official language of Nor- out holiday insurance before also carry a visa. Contact the
ing the earth’s atmosphere way is Norwegian. The Sámi leaving your home country. Norwegian Embassy or consu-
which light up the sky at an population has their own offi- late closest to you for more
incredible speed. It is impos- cial language called Sámi, and Meetings, events and information, see
sible to predict when they in Finnmark you will find signs conventions www.norway.info
might appear and now guests marked in both languages. Norway is an exotic destina-
can take advantage of a unique Most Norwegians have a good tion with a lot to offer the Pets
“wake up call” which means working knowledge of English well travelled client. With its Norway is one of the few coun-
customers can request to be and some also speak German, high tech industry and tries in Europe where rabies
called whatever time, should Spanish and French. breathtaking scenery, it is does not exist, and the Norwe-
the Northern Lights appear. the perfect destination for gian authorities aim to keep it
The Hurtigruten ships are per- companies that want to take that way through strict animal
fectly placed viewing platforms advantage of the pristine control measures. If you wish
as the Northern Lights, which natural environment while to take a pet to Norway, the
can be seen from November to still profiting from all the animal must have a valid cer-
comforts of a modern desti- tificate from an authorized vet-
erinarian proving that the ani-

mal has all necessary
towards other people who are
in the area. Note that stricter
buildings and other places
open to the public, offices and
T
injections. Please note the new access regulations can be en- other places of work. This in- Tax Free Shopping and
rule about mandatory treat- forced in protected areas. Use cludes hotels, bars and restau- Souvenirs
ment for echinococcosis for paths and roads when you go rants. You must be 18 years or Norway can offer more than
cats and dogs that have been for walks in agricultural and over to purchase tobacco in beautiful scenery. Popular
in Sweden before entering populated areas. It is prefer- Norway. souvenirs from Norway include
Norway. For updated informa- able to make use of campsites knitted jumpers, cardigans,
tion and application forms, if you are staying overnight Summer Time gloves and mittens, pewter
please consult outdoors. If you pitch a tent in Norway has Central European ware, silver jewelry and cutlery,
www.mattilsynet.no the wilderness, it should be Time, i.e. GMT+1 hour. In 2016 hand painted wooden objects,
(see section Traveling situated at least 150 meters Norwegian summertime begins bowls with rose designs, trolls
with pets) from the nearest house or cot- March 27st at 02.00 (clock set and fjord horses carved out of
tage. The lighting of fires is forward one hour) and ends wood, reindeer skin, enamel
R prohibited during the period

from 15 April to 15 September.
October 30th at 03.00 (clock set
back one hour).
jewelry, watches, woven wall-
coverings, furs, handicrafts,
glass and pottery. And best of
Religion Stay in the Igloo Hotel
The Church of Norway, which S Alta boasts the world’s
all, you can get VAT refund for
everything you buy.
is Lutheran, oversees about 1 northernmost ice hotel. Chill Throughout the country, shops
600 churches and chapels Shopping out with a drink in the ice bar displaying the Tax Free for
around the nation. For more Normal opening hours are: before heading off to your icy tourists’ logo offer visitors
information: www.kirken.no Mon.–Fri. 10am – 5pm chamber for a night you will quality goods at highly com-
In addition, there are houses of Thursday 10am – 6pm/8pm never forget sleeping on ice- petitive prices tax free. If your
worship for most denomina- Saturday 10am – 1pm/3pm beds covered with reindeer purchase at any of the 4 500
tions and religions in major Supermarkets and shopping skins! stores connected to the Tax
cities. For info on Stave centres are generally open Free system, lives outside
Churches, see 9am – 10pm on weekdays and Sami Experience Sweden, Finland and Denmark
www.stavkirke.info 10am – 6pm on Saturdays. For a really authentic North- AND spend more than NOK
Sundays closed. ern Norway experience, pay a 315 in one store, the store is-
Right of Access Kiosks tend not to close until visit to the Sámpi Park in sue you a Tax Free form.
The law of access to the natu- 10pm or even 11pm, and are Karasjok where you can try On departure from Norway, a
ral environment, known as usually open on weekends too. driving a reindeer sleigh, refund of 12-19 %, depending
«Everyman’s Right» allows you Petrol stations often sell gro- learn more about the way of on sales price, will be given to
to walk wherever you want in ceries and are often open until life and enjoy an authentic you on presentation of goods,
the wilderness areas such as 11pm. Most shops accept ma- meal seated on reindeer Tax Free form and passport.
the seashore, forests, moun- jor credit cards. skins around an open fire in There are approximately 50
tains and in other areas which the laavu (Sami tent). Refund offices at various exits
are not cultivated. This should Smoking Restrictions from Norway at airports, road
be done with consideration, so Smoking is not permitted on borders, on ferries and cruise
that neither the countryside board air crafts or on other ships. Custom officials cannot
nor the property is damaged. means of public transport. Nor refund VAT. As a part of Global
Be considerate to wildlife and is smoking permitted in public Blue’s network of Refund
offices, Norwegian Tax Free

Forms may also be refunded at
Telephones
Norwegian pay phones take 1, GREENING YOUR TRAVEL-
most of the large airports in
Europe as well as in Asia.
5, 10 or 20 kroner pieces (and
also 0.5 and 1 and 2 Euro YOUR CHOICE
Global Blue coins). The minimum charge is
www.globalblue.com NOK 10 / 2 Euro. For directory
enquiries, dial 1881 for Nor-
Please note that it is possible way, Sweden and Denmark,
to buy Tax Free goods upon 1882 for all other countries.
arrival in Norway at the fol- To call Norway from abroad
lowing airports: dial +47 in front of the eight
Oslo/Gardermoen, Bergen/ digit number. When calling IN 2013 RØROS RECEIVED THE PRESTIGIOUS CERTIFICATE
Flesland, Trondheim/ other countries from Norway "SUSTAINABLE DESTINATIONS"
© THOMAS RASMUS SKAUG – VISITNORWAY.COM
Værnes, Stavanger/Sola and you must first press 00.
Kristiansand/Kjevik.
Sustainable Destinations within the certifi-

Destinations and cation “Sustainable Destina-
Environmental labels tion” ensures that your visit
in Norway. hold as little negative impact
Destinations and businesses on the environments as pos-
in Norway put an effort in sible.
ensuring that you have the In addition to “Sustainable
best opportunities to Destination” an increasing
experience clean nature, local number of hotels and tourism
culture, traditions and facilities are certified in one of
prospering local communities. the environmental schemes
used in tourism: Ecotourism
Shop Tax Free in Norway Norway developed in 2013, as Norway, the Nordic Swan,
the first nation in the world, a Environmental Lighthouse,
Global Blue’s Tax Free Shopping service saves
you up to 19% when shopping in Norway. As a certification for Norwegian Green Key, ISO 14001 and
foreign visitor (living outside SE, DK & FI) you destinations working towards Blue Flag. Debio is the official
are entitled to claim back the tax you pay on
the purchases when you take them home. sustainability. Several destina- brand for certified ecological
Shop tions are now a part of the food.
When you pay for your goods ask for a Global Blue Tax Free
Form, and remember to keep all your receipts.e.
program working hard to It is many ways of travel.
Claim ensure that you are offered Choose destinations and
When you’re heading home, at your point of departure, visit the
Global Blue Refund Office to get your export stamp and refunds!
sustainable experiences operators that help you to
whilst working on energy reduce your environmental
savings, ecofriendly transport impact.
and not at least a broad offer
For more information please visit:
www.globalblue.com/destinations
of sustainable, local food and SUSTAINABLE
exciting activities year round. DESTINATION
LOCAL ENGAGEMENT
N_Ad_194x138mm_140415.indd 1 15/04/14 14:19
IN A LONG PERSPECTIVE
172 SHORT STORIES SHORT STORIES 173
NORWAY'S MOST Bergen Railway

– an unforgettable nature
experience!
spectacular things about this
train journey is the constantly
shifting scenery – steep moun-
BEAUTIFUL TRAIN A train ride on Bergen Railway

is a journey that will give you
what is perhaps the most spec-
tainsides, snow-capped peaks,
rivers, waterfalls and the lush
and fertile fjord landscape.
JOURNEYS!
tacular nature experience in The Raumabanen Railway – the
Europe. A mountain paradise most beautiful line in Europe!
with polar foxes, snow owls and The Raumabanen Railway tops
many other species of Arctic Lonely Planet's ranking of the
animals and plants in a fantas- most beautiful train journeys in
tic mountain landscape. Europe. From Dombås, the line
descends 650 metres from the
Dovre Railway mountains down to the Roms-
– an adventure of a journey! dalsfjord. The train takes you
The Dovre Railway takes you onto the famous Kylling Bridge,
through a fairy-tale kingdom. probably one of the most photo-
It is not just beautiful scenery graphed structures in Norway.
dominated by mountains and The train also passes Europe's
valleys. The landscape along tallest vertical rock face – the
the line is very varied in terms Trollveggen wall, with a perpen-
FLÅMSBANA © MORTEN RAKKE
of both its topography and veg- dicular drop of 1,000 metres.
etation. The altitude difference
is all of 960 metres, and the A night on the
highest point on the line is Nordland Railway!
A train journey in Norway is a fantastic 1,025 metres above sea level. Lonely Planet has voted this line
experience. Not surprisingly, some of the one of the world's most beauti-
Flåm Railway ful journeys by night train. At
railway lines have been ranked as the most – simply magical! Saltfjellet, you cross the Arctic
spectacular in Europe and the world. A ride on the Flåm Railway is Circle, which marks the bound-
Breathtaking scenery and beautiful cultural like experiencing the whole of ary of the Arctic region. In win-
landscapes form the backdrop to the railway Norway in a little less than an ter, you can marvel at the fan-
hour. During the journey, you tastic Northern Lights, while in
lines in all directions.
will see some of the most mag- summer, you can admire the
nificent scenery and cultural brilliant Midnight Sun. At 729
landscapes Norway has to offer. km, the line is Norway's long-
From the window of your train, Norwegian countryside close up. The line runs from the highest. The journey offers great
you can see some of Norway's The altitude difference on some mountain station at Myrdal, 865 variation in terms of scenery,
most beautiful mountain forma- of the lines is so great that you metres above sea level, where culture and climate.
tions, rivers, lakes, glaciers, can experience snow, glaciers the Flåm Railway and the Ber-
valleys and fjords. You also pass and green summer meadows on gen Railway meet, down to Welcome aboard!
through charming small towns one and the same journey. Flåm beside the beautiful Aur- nsb.no
and villages and will see the landsfjord. One of the most
© WIDERØE
Fly as much as you like in Norway for two You are free to plan and Note: Only applies to your
weeks this summer! change your route as you connecting flights to and from
yourself wish. You can fly as Norway.
Forty-four destinations to choose from. much as you want and can
Choose your favourites, or visit them all. book a seat up until two
hours before departure, but
please note that the number
With an Explore Norway also if you want to visit all the of seats can be limited on
ticket, you have Norway at big towns and cities. The Ex- some of the most popular
your feet. This is an offer for plore Norway ticket is a flex- routes. It pays to book early!
people who are looking for a ible holiday ticket that gives Prices:
holiday with a difference. Per- you endless possibilities. And One zone: EUR 345
fect for those who want to see you can plan your itinerary Two zones: EUR 420
unspoilt Norwegian nature. exactly how you want. Whole of Norway: EUR 493
Perfect for those who want to Extra week: EUR 235, 25%
visit the most famous tourist Terms discount for children aged
attractions. Or for people The Explore Norway ticket is 2–11 travelling with a parent/
who want to climb the valid for travel for two weeks guardian.
Briksdalsbreen glacier, go during the period 20 June to
island hopping on the 29 August 2015. You can If you start your journey on
Helgeland coast, rafting in the choose between one or two one of our international
Lofoten archipelago and see zones or the whole of routes, we include the flights
the North Cape as well. But Norway; see the map. to and from Norway.
© WIDERØE
Architecture and art
NORWAY'S The architecture along the routes has a clear profile –

whether in the form of large, monumental platforms and
viewpoints or in simpler, more modest forms such as a con-
NATIONAL crete bench or a path up to the nearest mountain. Everything

is in harmony with or in contrast to the landscape. More than
50 artists and architects are engaged in designing these
TOURIST
exciting and functional picnic areas and viewpoints. They are
innovative but robust solutions that will age with dignity.
Havøysund Varanger
ROUTES www.nasjonaleturistveger.no
ER
HL
Æ
W
E Tromsø
RL
SENJA © JA Senja
Andøya
18 selected drives through the Lofoten
most scenic areas in Norway. Bodø
The National Tourist Routes been carefully selected by the Helgelandskysten
offer motoring experiences Norwegian Public Roads Ad-

through varied and beautiful ministration on the basis of
Norwegian scenery. strict quality criteria. Special
Each of the 18 routes on the picnic areas and viewpoints
following pages is distinctive have been built that further
and has its own stories to tell. enhance the experience. The
If you choose one of the routes therefore have wide- Trondheim
Atlanterhavsvegen
routes, you will see Norwe- ranging and unique qualities
gian scenery and architecture and offer a variety of high- Geiranger - Trollstigen
at its breathtaking best. The standard services. On most of Gamle Strynefjellsvegen Rondane
views from your car window the routes, activities, experi- Sognefjellet
Valdresflye
and specially designed picnic ences, and food and accom- Gaularfjellet
Aurlandsfjellet
areas, which feature exciting modation are available to
architecture and art, make for tourists on a scale that is sure Bergen
N HAGEN
Hardanger Hardangervidda
fantastic nature experiences to meet peo- Oslo

and will tempt motorists to ple's expecta- Ryfylke
JØR
stay longer and visit again. tions of Norway
cmyk 24-79-100-73 Coated paper
Stavanger
Larvik
©
The routes are detours that as a destina- Jæren
E
DA
N
offer a stress-free alternative tion. RON
to the main roads. They have The routes are signposted by the
Kristiansand
National Tourist Route Symbol.

JÆREN RYFYLKE HARDANGER
ORRESTRANDEN, ONE OF NORWAY'S FINEST YOU CAN WALK BEHIND THE WATERFALLS AT
SANDY BEACHES. EASY ACCESS FROM THE THE HÖSE BRIDGE, SAND IN RYFYLKE STEINSDALSFOSSEN NEAR NORHEIMSUND
ROAD © HELGE STIKBAKKE © JARLE LUNDE – SULDALFOTO.NO © ROGER ELLINGSEN
Jæren Ryfylke road passes through several 2020. The objective is to create
This route runs through a Ryfylke is an area with a highly areas that have long been more consistency between the
wide and open cultural land- varied landscape. The drive popular tourist destinations. viewing points and to provide a
scape along the edge of the takes in fjords, valleys, moun- Tourists have visited the safe experience for visitors
North Sea. The Jæren area is tains and moorland between mountains, waterfalls and
dominated by agriculture. the Lysefjord and Sauda, and glaciers around the Hardan- Aurlandsfjellet
Short detours to the area's across the mountain to Røldal. gerfjord for more than a cen- This drive goes from fjord to
pebble beaches and long The Ryfylke area lies north- tury. fjord across a high mountain
sandy beaches are exciting east of Stavanger and east of road. There are breathtaking
ways of experiencing the coast Haugesund. The road, 183 Hardangervidda views of the dramatic land-
and the sea close up, espe- kilometres long, runs from The route passes through the scape of the Aurlandsfjord as
Hardangervidda National you drive over the mountain
Park, crossing Northern Eu- from the Lærdalsfjord. The
'I look out the window at the changing cul- rope's largest mountain pla- prize-winning Stegastein
tural landscape, plains dotted with small teau. The weather up on the viewing platform provides visi-
plateau is shifting and varied, tors with new impressions
farms, before the road starts climbing up the kind of weather the Nor- and experiences. Made from
into the mountains, towards a vast, slower- wegian mountains are famous laminated wood and steel, and
moving world. I, who am always stressed, for. The National Park is also jutting 30 metres into the air
an important habitat for Eu- 650 metres above the fjord, it
always thinking about the next thing I have rope's biggest herd of wild adds a new dimension to ex-
to do, all that disappears here. The road, the reindeer. The Måbødalen val- periencing Norway's fjords
landscape, the scenery do something to me.' ley and Vøringsfossen water- and mountains.
fall have been a tourist mag- The old village of Lærdalsøyri,
net since tourism's infancy, the Flåm Railway, the Aur-
and their lure remains strong. landsdalen valley and the
cially in stormy weather. The Oanes by the Lysefjord to Håra The whole area around Nærøyfjord, which is
Jæren coast has no skerries in Røldal in the county of Ro- Vøringsfossen is going UNESCO's World Heritage
and many ships have been galand. through an extensive renova- List, are attractions that are
shipwrecked there. Jæren tion programme from 2015- well worth visiting.
Friluftsråd, the local outdoor Hardanger
recreation board, has made Hardanger invites motorists to
sure there are many signpost- take a journey through a na- HARDANGERVIDDA
ed access routes down to the tional-romantic landscape
beaches of Jæren, as well as famous for its fjords, moun-
car parks, information boards tains and, not least, beautiful
and toilets. fruit trees in blossom. The
VØRINGSFOSSEN WATERFALL,
ONE OF NORWAY'S BEST KNOWN NATURAL
ATTRACTIONS © JØRN HAGEN
AURLANDSFJELLET GAULARFJELLET VALDRESFLYE
FOOTBRIDGE ACROSS
LIKHOLEFOSSEN WATERFALL.
THE STEGASTEIN VIEWING PLATFORM AT AURLANDSFJELLET NORDPLAN AN ART INSTALLATION MADE FROM LOCAL STONE.
© KJETIL ROLSETH © BJØRN ANDRESEN 'ROCK ON TOP OF ANOTHER ROCK © ROGER ELLINGSEN
Gaularfjellet Valdresflye Jotunheimen mountains has a tion plan for roads and bridg-
On the drive over Gaularfjellet, The drive across Valdresflye long history as a thoroughfare. es, and it is a historic alterna-
tourists will see lots of mag- offers panoramic views of the From the east, the drive tive to the other road across
nificent scenery and be able to peaks and mountain expanses across the mountains starts the Strynefjellet mountains.
see the Gaularvassdraget riv- of Jotunheimen National in the fertile cultural land- With its hand-built walls made
er system close up. The road Park. The drive takes you scape of the Bøverdalen val- from meticulously dressed
is a peaceful alternative to the through an old cultural land- ley, passing through more stone, long rows of guard
main roads from Sunnfjord to scape of mountain pasture marginal farmland until stones and the old Jøl Bridge,
Sogn. The route passes un- farms and across a high reaching the summer pasture the road is truly impressive.
touched rivers and lakes, mountain pass where many farms around Bøvertun. From The road stands as a monu-
many waterfalls and a peace- traditional enterprises cater there, the road winds up the ment to the hard toil of the
ful arm of the fjord. for tourists. narrow, magical Breidseter- local villagers and Swedish
Here, adults and children can The highest point on the route dalen valley up to Krossbu, the navvies who built it and to the
try trout fishing at its best and is 1,389 metres. Several of the final 'station' before the road pride they took in their work.
walk on good paths beside most popular walks in the climbs up to the high moun-
waterfalls and rapids. Boat Norwegian mountains start at tain plateau. Here, motorists
hire is also available and there Valdresflye. have panoramic views of gla- OLD STONE MASONRY AND LONG ROWS
OF GUARD STONES PROVIDE A SENSE OF
are great opportunities for ciers and majestic mountains. JOURNEYING BACKWARDS IN TIME ALONG
mountain walks. Sognefjellet On the western side, motor- THIS WAY. © ROGER ELLINGSEN
Utsikten, a spectacular view- At 1,434 metres, the Sog- ists have a more dramatic
ing platform will open in 2016. nefjellsvegen road is the high- encounter with the fjord and
est mountain pass in Norway. valley landscape, as the road
This important gateway to the virtually plunges down via Os-
carshaug and Turtagrø to the
small quiet villages in the in-
SOGNEFJELLET nermost reaches of the
Sognefjord.
Gamle
Strynefjellsvegen
This more than 120-year-old
museum road between east
and west is an experience in
itself. The road is preserved as
part of the national preserva-
IN THE BEGINNING OF MAY UP TO 10 M HIGH
WALLS OF SNOW ARE NOT UNCOMMON
© JARLE WÆHLER GAMLE STRYNEFJELLSVEGEN
RONDANE GEIRANGER-TROLLSTIGEN HELGELANDSKYSTEN
THE VIEWS OF THE WORLD-FAMOUS

ROAD FROM THE TROLLSTIGEN
SOHLBERGPLASSEN, VIEW TOWARDS THE RONDANE VIEWING PLATFORM ARE SIMPLY
MOUNTAINS AND ATNSJØEN LAKE © JØRN HAGEN FANTASTIC © JIRI HAVRAN
Rondane small fjord-side farms and on Helgelandskysten STEPS AT HELLÅGA PICNIC AREA LEADING DOWN
TO THE FJORD SJONA © JARLE WÆHLER
Together with Valdresflye, farms perched on narrow The Helgelands-
Rondane is the most accessi- mountain ledges provide the kysten coast is fa-
ble of the National Tourist material for many exciting mous for its unique archipela- ferry crossings, the longest of
Routes from Eastern Norway. tales from past and present in go of thousands of large and which is like a mini cruise.
Situated between the Gud- one of the world's most beau- small islands. The coastline is Many ferry services run be-
brandsdalen and Østerdalen tiful fjord regions. The interrupted by long fjord arms, tween the Coastal Highway and
valleys, National Tourist Route Geirangerfjord is included on the innermost reaches of some of the bigger islands,
Rondane is an alternative to UNESCO's list of the world's which are home to small in- from the World Heritage Area of
the main E6 and RV 3 roads natural and cultural heritage. dustrial towns with industry Vega in the south to Sørarnøy in
between the north and south The Norwegian Public Roads based on hydroelectric power. Gildeskål in the north. A net-
of Eastern Norway. Administration wished to de- Fishing and farming have long work of express boats also con-
Rondane is the second most velop this route in a way that been practised along the nects the many islands with the
famous and popular mountain emphasises its qualities as a coast and out on the islands. mainland. This means that
area in Norway. Rondane is nature experience, while pre- The Coastal Highway there are great opportunities
associated with a mountain serving the historical value of (Kystriksvegen) offers varied for island hopping – on foot, by
massif with untouched and the roads in the area. motoring experiences featur- bicycle or by car.
beautiful scenery. Writers and ing lush farmland, coastal There are many unique natural
artists have helped to foster Atlanterhavsvegen scenery, jagged peaks, gla- phenomena along this route,
this image and have enhanced The National Tourist Route ciers and ocean currents. The from Torghatten, the mountain
people's experience of these runs from the village of Bud in road is joined together by six with the hole through it, and the
mountains. the municipality of Fræna,
passing the treacherous wa-
Geiranger-Trollstigen ters of Hustadvika and ATLANTERHAVSVEGEN
The tourist route between through the small villages of
Geiranger and Trollstigen is Hustad and Farstad, via Ve-
steeped in tradition. It offers vang in Eide municipality be-
unique motoring experiences fore reaching the Atlantic
through a landscape of high Road itself. The road zigzags
mountains and deep fjords. over landfills and seven bridg-
The tourist industry has for es between small islands and
generations made the most of skerries out at the ocean's
this dramatic Western Norwe- edge, before ending at Kårvåg
gian scenery and spectacular in the municipality of Averøy.
road. Living conditions on
THE ELEVATED HIKING PATH AT ELDHUSØYA ISLAND
IS A ROUND TRIP THAT EVERYBODY CAN MANAGE
© ROGER ELLINGSEN
LOFOTEN ANDØYA SENJA
KLEIVODDEN OFFERS AN IMPRESSIVE VIEW TUNGENESET VIEWPOINT. VIEW OF THE

REST AREA SHAPED AS AN AMPHITHEATRE AT EGGUM OF THE OPEN SEA, BLEIK AND THE BIRD ERSFJORD AND THE OKSHORNAN PEAKS
© JARLE WÆHLER CLIFFS OF BLEIKSØYA © STEINAR SKAAR © HUGO FAGERMO
Seven Sisters mountains in the Andøya which rise straight up from Hjelmsøystauren, one of
south to the Svartisen glacier On the island of Andøya, you the sea, dominate the land- Northern Europe's biggest
and the Saltstraumen mael- have the mighty ocean on one scape. Sandy beaches and bird cliffs, is also worth a visit.
strom in the north. side of the road and steep small rocky islands help to
mountains, moorland and enhance the overall experi- Varanger
Lofoten lakes on the other. After driv- ence. Far north and furthest east in
Lofoten is a famous tourist ing through an exposed land- Norway, a tourist route runs
destination with magnificent scape that offers no shelter Havøysund along the coast of the icy wa-
scenery and a thriving coastal from the Norwegian Sea, you The drive from Kokelv to ters of the Barents Sea. In the
culture. The landscape ranges arrive at the fishing village of Havøysund passes through an Arctic landscape, there is no
from dramatic open sea and Bleik, a very evocative image impressive landscape of rug- distance between the sea and
jagged alpine peaks to shel- of the meeting between man ged cliffs that dominate the the mountains. In the short
tered harbours, fishing vil- and nature. view. Here, the mountainous Arctic summer, warm Siberian
lages and thriving agricultural Together with Senja, Andøya is terrain extends all the way air can suddenly replace icy-
communities. an alternative to the main E6 down to the rocky shore. The cold sea mist, here where the
It is easy to get around Lo- road and the Hurtigruten road is a good alternative to hours of daylight are never-
foten both by car and by bike. coastal express. North Cape, and Havøysund, ending.
A boat runs from Bodø and where it ends, is a vibrant Fishing, immigration and trad-
Moskenes to the island com- Senja community that comes as a ing have made Varanger an
munities of Værøy and Røst The drive along the seaward surprise out here on the coast Arctic melting pot of different
right out at the ocean's edge. side of the island of Senja is a of Finnmark. peoples and cultures. Its prox-
Huge numbers of seabirds journey through a changing From Havøysund, travellers imity to Russia and the Pomor
nest on the bird islands south landscape of fjords, moun- can take a boat to the islands trade, Finnish immigration and
of Røst. Whales, seals and tains and vibrant fishing vil- of Rolvsøy and Ingøya, and to Sami traditions have resulted
orcas can also be spotted in lages. The rugged peaks of Fruholmen lighthouse further in great cultural diversity and
this area. the Okshornan mountains, out in the Arctic Ocean. an exciting cultural history.
HAVØYSUND VARANGER
THE STEILNESET MEMORIAL IN VARDØ WAS ERECTED IN MEMORY OF THE 91 VICTIMS

WHO LOST THEIR LIVES IN FINNMARK DURING THE 17TH CENTURY WITCH TRIALS. THE
THE SELVIKA REST AREA RESEMBLES AN STORY IS TOLD THROUGH ART AND ARCHITECTURE THAT IS THE RESULT OF A UNIQUE
INTRICATE CONCRETE SCULPTURE COLLABORATION BETWEEN VISUAL ARTIST LOUISE BOURGEOIS AND PETER ZUMTHOR
© REIULF RAMSTAD ARKITEKTER © BJARNE RIESTO
Bergen centre, art and crafts, church-

Bergen is an international city es and a lot of nature attrac-
packed with history and traditions.
SHORT BREAKS
tion, a big city with small-town
charm and atmosphere. Ber- Oslo
gen is known for Bryggen Between the Oslofjord and the
Hanseatic Wharf, the Fish forests lies the Norwegian
AND SHOPPING Market, and surrounding

mountains and fjords, such as
the Hardangerfjord and Sog-
capital. Oslo has a special
combination of city life and
easy access to the great out-
nefjord. doors. Oslo's unique location
means almost unlimited op-
Trondheim portunities for fun. Hike in the
JUHLS' SILVER GALLERY AT BRYGGEN IN BERGEN Norway's capital of technology forest, swim in the fjord and
© TERJE RAKKE – NORDIC LIFE – FJORD NORWAY
is a lively and historical uni- go to a concert - all on the
versity town, and home to the same day.
famous Nidarosdomen Cathe-
There are several airlines offering flights to dral. Experience the vibrant
the main cities of Bergen, Trondheim, cultural life featuring local
food, magical light, guided
Stavanger, Tromsø and Oslo. tours, family activities, shop-
OM
Y.C
Knitted sweaters, watches, jewellery and
WA
ping and festivals.
VISITNOR
local food are things you should consider
buying when you travel in Norway. The Stavanger Region
The Stavanger region houses
CH –
some of the best museums of
Norwegian sweaters Jewellery
©
all the port cities in western
N
IA
Knitting has a long tradition in Goldsmith traditions go back Norway, as well as many cul- EG
RW
PURE NO
Norway. The oldest piece of more than 2,000 years. Today, tural sights. Explore the Ly-
preserved knitted material as in the past, jewellers set sefjord and the mountains
dates back to sometime be- high standards and undertake Preikestolen and Kjerag, or
tween 1476 and 1525. stringent quality controls with relax on Jæren's beaches.
regards to the products being Visit Stavanger and experi-
Watches made. ence its rich cultural life. CO
M
Certain brands of expensive
.
AY
CH – VISITNORW
Swiss watches are favourably Other popular things to buy Tromsø
priced in Norway, and are whilst on holiday include "The capital of the Arctic" is a
guaranteed to be genuine. trolls, pewter, silverware, por- lively and beautiful city. Trom-
Many tourists discover that it celain, hand-painted wooden sø is packed with culture and
is very profitable to purchase articles, goat and reindeer history and surrounded by
R©
watches in Norway. skins, furs, glassware and mountains, fjords and islands.
GE
SI
HT
AN
G
SE AV
ceramics. Here are also museums por- EIN
G IN OLD ST
traying polar history, a science
FOOD YOU
SHOULD TRY
RWAY.COM
NO
SIT
VI
–
UD
© TERJE BOR
A TASTE OF NORWEGIAN SALMON

STOCKFISH FROM LOFOTEN © CH – WWW.VISITNORWAY.COM
Cod is the most common fish Pølse i lompe

used in the production of stock- Hot dog in a thin ”tortilla”
Enjoy homemade food, Norwegian fish, whilst other white fish, such made from flour and potatoes.
ingredients and food with a local identity. as pollack, haddock and ling, are Buy it from a kiosk, or buy
used to a lesser degree. them in a supermarket and
Norway has a rich culinary heritage where have a barbeque.
top quality local ingredients and unique Lutefisk
regional specialties are often the recipe for Stockfish softened in water Kjøttkaker
success. and lye, then cooked and Minced beef rolled into balls
sometimes grilled. Typical ac- and then fried. Served with
companiments are potatoes, gravy, mushy peas and boiled
bacon, mushy peas and mus- potatoes. A typical every-day
Here are some Fårikål tard. A typical Christmas dish. dinner.
traditional dishes Lamb simmered with cabbage
and whole peppercorns. Norwegian salmon Brunost
Fenalår A typical autumn dish. The Norwegian salmon’s dis- Brown cheese with a sweet,
Cured and seasoned leg of a tinct and delicate flavour yet somewhat sharp flavour
lamb. Smalahove makes it an excellent basis for with notes of caramel. It is tra-
Lamb’s head. The meat is salted, attractive and tasty dishes, ditionally cut into wafer thin
Pinnekjøtt sometimes smoked, and dried. It whilst at the same time satis- slices with a cheeseslicer and
Salted and dried, and some- is then boiled and served with fying the rigorous demands of eaten on bread, toast or crisp
times smoked, lamb’s ribs mashed swedes and potatoes. A the best chefs in the world. bread.
which are usually steamed traditional feast from Western
over birch branches. Norway served during autumn Rømmegrøt Gravlaks
and Christmas. Porridge made from natural Dry-cured salmon, marinated
Multekrem sour cream. Served with but- in salt, sugar and spices.
Dessert made of cloudberries Tørrfisk (stockfish) ter, sugar and cinnamon. The salmon is left to ferment.
and whipped cream. Stockfish is unsalted, dried fish.
SHORT STORIES 191
NORWEGIANS
WHO HAVE LEFT
THEIR MARKS ON
HISTORY
Some Norwegians have at various times in
our history conducted actions or achieved
things that have characterized our country.
People who in different ways have shaped our
governance, our self image and our behavior.
It is impossible to rank the most important
people, but here a small selection who have
put Norway on the map internationally.
Edvard Grieg
Today, Edvard Grieg, Norway’s
greatest composer of the Ro-
mantic Era, still plays an un-
paralleled role in Norway’s
cultural life. Grieg is Norway,
Norway is Grieg. He found
inspiration in the fertile land-
scape of Hardanger. His
house in Bergen, Troldhau-
gen, now serves as both a
museum and a concert hall.
www.troldhaugen.com
© AXEL THEODOR LINDAHL
THE KON-TIKI EXHIBITION LED BY THOR HEYERDAHL© THE KON-TIKI MUSEUM

Henrik Ibsen and greatly influenced Ger- ised skiing equipment and
Henrik Johan Ibsen (1828 man Expressionism in the laid the foundations of skiing
–1906) was a major 19th-cen- early 20th century. One of his as a sport around the world.
tury Norwegian playwright, most well-known works is Sondre’s rigid ‘birch’ bindings
theatre director, and poet. He The Scream of 1893. and his side cut skis took
is often referred to as "the www.munchmuseet.no skis from being a means of
father of realism" and is one transport to a piece of equip-
of the founders of Modernism Sigrid Undset ment designed for recreation
in theatre. He is the most fre- Sigrid Undset (1882 –1949) and fun. Today, you can expe-
quently performed dramatist was a Norwegian novelist rience this cultural heritage
in the world after Shake- who was awarded the Nobel in Morgedal, the cradle of
speare. Prize for Literature in 1928. modern skiing. Norway has
Her best-known work is Kris- many skilled instructors who
Edvard Munch tin Lavransdatter, a trilogy are ready to teach you the
HAMSUN © ANDERS BEER WILSE
Edvard Munch (1863 –1944) published between 1920 and sport.
was a Norwegian painter and 1922 about life in Scandinavia www.morgedal.com
printmaker whose intensely in the Middle Ages. farms were falling into disre-
evocative treatment of psy- Anders Sandvig pair, so he purchased the
chological themes built upon Sondre Norheim Norway can thank a creative buildings and objects in order
some of the main tenets of In the 1860s in Morgedal, dentist, Anders Sandvig to preserve this important
late 19th-century Symbolism Sondre Norheim revolution- (1862-1950), for one of the cultural heritage.
most beautiful open-air mu- www.maihaugen.no
seums in Europe – Maihau-
gen: The Sandvig Collections Knut Hamsun
at Lillehammer. While visiting Almost all of his works are
patients in Gudbrandsdalen, famous classics. Knut Ham-
Sandvig saw that houses and sun was awarded the Nobel
Prize in Literature for the
novel Growth of the Soil. Im-
portant places in the life of
this great Norwegian story-
teller – such as Skien, Grim-
stad, Hamarøy and Oslo – are
depicted in his novels and
short stories. Visit the new
Hamsun Centre on Hamarøy
in Nordland.
EIM
www.hamsunsenteret.no
RH
NO
RE
ND Liv Ullmann
SO
Liv Ullmann is a Norwegian
actress and film director.
ANDERS SANDVIG
Ullmann won a Golden Globe
Award for Best Actress – on the reed boats Ra and Ti- ambassador to the United
Motion Picture Drama in gris. At the Kon-Tiki Museum, Kingdom. Later he made ma-
1972 for the film The Emi- guests can experience original jor contributions to the foun-
grants (1971), and has been vessels and up-to-date exhib- dation of the science of physi-
nominated for another four. its on Heyerdahl’s expeditions. cal oceanography, and after
In 2000, she was nominated www.kon-tiki.no/en World War I he worked exten-
for the Palme d'Or for her sively with the repatriation of
second directorial feature prisoners of war and refu-
film, Faithless. She had a Fridtjof Nansen gees, and with famine relief.
long affair with her col- Fridtjof Nansen (1861-1930) This work was carried out
league Ingmar Bergman was a Norwegian polar ex- both under the auspices of the
from 1965-70. She is a plorer, scientist, diplomat, League of Nations and on
UNICEF Goodwill Ambassa- humanist and Nobel Peace Nansen's own initiative. For
dor and has traveled widely Prize laureate. his humanitarian efforts he
FRIDTJOF NANSEN
for the organization Nansen became famous in was awarded the Nobel Peace
Source: Wikipedia the 1880s and '90s for his ex- Prize for 1922.
ploration of the Arctic, which Fridtjof Nansen lived at Pol- he'd been beaten by Robert
Thor Heyerdahl he described extensively in høgda from its completion in Peary (1909), Amundsen se-
Thor Heyerdahl (1914-2002) many books, often illustrated 1901 until his death in May cretly switched plans and
gained worldwide fame when by himself. He played a key 1930. His grave is located in headed for Antarctica, hoping
he crossed the Pacific Ocean part in the successful dissolu- the garden in front of the to be the first to reach the
on the balsawood raft Kon-Tiki tion of the union between manor. www.fni.no South Pole (Ernest Shackleton
in 1947. He followed this up Sweden and Norway in 1905, (Source: Fridtjof Nansen Insti- had nearly reached it in 1909).
with spectacular expeditions and served as Norway's first tute) He arrived there December
14, 1911, one month before
the ill-fated expedition of Brit-
Roald Amundsen ish explorer Robert Falcon
Roald Amundsen (1872-1928) Scott. In the 1920s Amundsen
made a name for himself with explored the Arctic by air, and
his 1903-06 expedition on the in 1926 was part of the first
Gjoa. He was the first to suc- team to successfully fly from
cessfully navigate the North- Europe to America over the
west Passage and he man- North Pole. In June of 1928
aged to locate the site of the Amundsen disappeared when
magnetic North Pole. With the his plane crashed in the Arctic
help and endorsement of while on a rescue mission.
HL
DA
Fridtjof Nansen, Amundsen (Source: www.infoplease.com)

ER
succeeded in sailing the

EY
H
OR Northwest Passage from east
TH
to west in the small ship Gjøa
(1902-06). He planned to be
the first to reach the North
Pole, but upon hearing that
NORWAY ON
A BUDGET
10 Budget Holiday Tips
HODDEVIK, SOGN OG FJORDANE © CH – WWW.VISITNORWAY.COM
You can travel in Norway on a fairly tight

budget. Here are ten tips for cheap
over the world who are in Nor-
way for the same reason as
you. You can book single
4 WALKING HOLIDAYS
Bringing your own tent
and walking in the moun-
accommodation, activities and means of rooms, double rooms or family tains is free. If you book a
transport rooms at www.hihostels.no room at one of the Norwe-
gian Trekking Association‘s
1 CAMPING
The cheapest way to
they are only in Norwegian,
i.e. ‘Rom til leie’. With a lit-
3 BUDGET-PRICED
CABINS
Norway is one of the most
no-service or self-service
cabins (see above), you pay a
reasonable amount that var-
stay in Norway is to bring a tle planning, you can eas- sparsely populated countries ies with the standard of the
tent. Public right of access in ily find budget accommoda- in the world. Vast areas with cabin. The self-service cabins
Norway means you can put tion. There is a wide range extensive networks of way- are slightly more luxurious
up your tent practically any- of reasonable accommoda- marked walking trails await and a bit more expensive.
where free of charge. There tion available in Norway. you. Walking is free, and there
are also campsites for tents
and caravans throughout
the country, where you pay a
VIP Backpackers have cheap
rooms in Norway. B&B Norway
is a wide choice of cabins
available for people who want
to explore the mountains and
5 SEA FISHING FROM
SHORE
Bring your fishing rod on a
small charge and can use the is an organisation that provides wilderness. The Norwegian cycling or motoring holiday in
showers and kitchen. These bed & breakfast throughout the Trekking Association has 460 Norway. Sea fishing from the
campsites often have sim- country. Norwegian hostels are cabins of varying standard. shore is free.
ple cabins for rent as well. part of Hostelling International, The cheapest are the no-ser-
2 CHEAP ROOMS
If you are travelling by
and there are 75 hostels from
the north to the south of Nor-
way. They offer reasonably-
vice cabins where you bring
your own food. 6 CYCLING HOLIDAYS
A cycling holiday where
you bring your own tent is a
car in Norway, look for ‘Room priced accommodation and the Read more at: cheap way of exploring Nor-
for rent’ signs. Sometimes, chance to meet people from all www.turistforeningen.no way. If you don’t like tents, you
Discounts
Many places offer good
discounts for youth, stu-
10 BUY AN 'EXPLORE
NORWAY TICKET‘
The airline Widerøe has many
dents, seniors and fami- good deals on round trips
lies. If you qualify for any of in Norway. Go for their ‘Ex-
the above, you must always plore Norway Ticket’, which
© TERJE RAKKE – NORDIC LIFE – VISITNORWAY.COM
mention it. Students must offers unlimited air travel
show their international for two weeks during the
student ID card (ISIC). period from 20 June to 29
August. www.wideroe.com
can book reasonably-priced You can drink tap water, so it Driving a car in Norway
cabins at Norway’s many is unnecessary to order a bot- If you come in your own
campsites before you set tle of water with your meal. car or hire one when you
off. If you don’t want to cycle Most restaurants will bring get here, there are lots of
on your own, you can book a jug of water and glasses to reasonable accommoda-
an organised cycling trip. your table free of charge. tion options available to you,
and there is a wide range of
7 BUY YOUR OWN FOOD

AT A SUPERMARKET
Buying food at a supermarket
9 GETTING AROUND
BY TRAIN
The Norwegian State Railways
impressive National Tourist
Routes throughout Norway.
is the cheapest way of filling (NSB) sell Minipris tickets

your stomach. The follow- from NOK 249, irrespective of
ing are the cheapest of the the length of the journey.
many supermarket chains These tickets must be booked
in Norway: Bunnpris, Prix, in advance at www.nsb.no
Rema 1000, Kiwi and Rimi. Also check out the reasona-
You can’t buy wine or spir- bly-priced, well-organised
its in ordinary shops and round trips on:
supermarkets in Norway. authentic-scandinavia.com
You have to find a Vinmo- www.fjordtravel.no
nopol wine and spirits store. www.fjordtours.com
Since it is a state-owned
© NILS-ERIK BJØRHOLT – VISITNORWAY.COM

chain, it is not required to By bus
make a profit, and expensive Travelling by bus can be a
wines are actually compet- cheap option, and the express
itively-priced in Norway. bus companies covers most
of the country and some-
8 EAT AT SMALL ASIAN

RESTAURANTS
In cities and towns. you will
times has good discounts.
Book tickets online in
advance to get the best deal.
often see small Asian restau-
rants. Many of them are cheap
and serve good quality food.
NORWEGIAN
ARCHITECTURE
N
–V
T DOVRE © CH
OPERA HOUSE OSLO © CH – VISITNORWAY.COM
EEN
NA
DH
IN
IN
IE
RK
YV
Ø WP E
V
© OIN HJ
TROLLSTIGEN T SNOHETTA
Oslo is rapidly growing into an exciting,

international metropolis, while in the
countryside, prestigious projects seem to
grow out of nature itself. There has never
been a more exciting time for Norwegian and the nearby installations Let’s go to church!
architecture. along the Geiranger - Trollsti- What may come to mind if
gen National Tourist Route asked to visualize Norwegian
blend magnificently in with the architecture are the old stave
Think about Norway, and start going into the 21st cen- surrounding landscapes. churches, named after the
you’ll probably imagine moun- tury. Building in wood is on the re- wooden posts (Norwegian:
tains, forests and fjords, long turn in a big way, like the stav) that bear them.
summer days and longer, cold Many of the projects reflect striking Community Church in
winters. And yes, medieval the powerful, often violent, Knarvik or “The Tree” in Ber- About 30 of these remain –
stave churches, mountain contrasts of nature - with gen – at 51 meters, the tallest like the magnificently pre-
hamlets and 1,000 year-old wood and other plain, sustain- wooden house in the world. served 12th century Borgund
cities are testament to Nor- able materials being used in Stave Church, or the slightly
way’s agricultural, industrial new and innovative ways. As the architecture magazine older Urnes Stave Church
and historical past. Dwell puts it, when summa-
The classy Snøhetta Viewpoint rizing our position between
Yet right now a number of at Tverrfjellet or even their the ancient traditions and the
modern architectural gems glacier-like Oslo Opera House new architectural surge:
and urban developments are bring to mind the landscapes Norway is pointing the way
giving the country a flying by which they were inspired, fjordwards.
while Juvet Landscape Hotel
BORGUND STAVE CHURCH © FINN
LOFTESNES – VISITNORWAY.COM
WINTER LIGHT Northern Lights are forecast

in the years ahead, so there
should be many opportunities
and Tromsø all offer a broad
range of scheduled activities.
In the very far north, the
IN NORTHERN to see them all over Northern

Norway. The winters are mild
in the southern part of
Svalbard islands lure visitors
with their wild mountains and
glaciers – so far away, yet so
NORWAY Northern Norway, and the

coastal waters are ice-free.
Here, you can ski down the
accessible by air, with direct
flights to Longyearbyen, a tiny
‘city’ on the top of world.
mountainsides while enjoying
great views of the ocean. The best thing about winter in
Northern Norway is perhaps
Deep-sea fishing, scuba the feeling of coming indoors
diving and surfing are activi- after spending hours out in
ties that are on offer all year the clear, fresh winter air, sit-
round. You can head for the ting down to a piping hot meal
wide open expanses and made from local
MOSKENES © CHRISTIAN BOTHNER – NORDNORGE.COM
fjords in the north if you want ingredients, chatting about the
to experience lots of snow, weather or the activities you
walking on snowshoes, dog have lined up for tomorrow
The far north of Norway is located above the sledding and Sami culture. Or with the people at the next
Arctic Circle. Unlike other places in the perhaps you would like to table, and just soaking up how
sleep on a reindeer hide in a good it is to experience North-
world at the same latitude, however, the hotel built of ice and snow. ern Norway.
whole of this area is populated, thanks to The towns of Alta, Kirkenes
the Gulf Stream. Most visitors are surprised
to discover that it is not as cold as they
perhaps imagined.
In winter, the sun goes down This is also when you can
and does not reappear above discover another spectacular
the horizon for many weeks. phenomenon – the Northern
This polar night is also re- Lights, or Aurora Borealis in
ferred to as the 'season of Latin, which means 'the red of
colour'. The few hours of day- morning in the north'. During
light in the middle of the day their most spectacular perfor-
gradually give way to a fantas- mances, the Northern Lights
tic array of beautiful blue dance across the sky in differ-
tones as the light fades. ent colours, flitting to and fro
Towards the end of this period at great speed. Good condi-
the hours of dusk often have a tions for observing the
pink hue. MOSKENES IN LOFOTEN © CHRISTIAN BOTHNER – NORDNORGE.COM
SHORT STORIES 205
NORWAY ON
UNESCO’S WORLD
HERITAGE LIST
Between 1979 and 1981 four Norwegian
cultural sites were included on UNESCO’s
World Heritage List. In 2004 a cultural
landscape was added to the list; the Vega
Islands in Northern Norway, and in 2005 two
of Norway’s western fjords were the first
natural sites to be included; the
Geirangerfjord and the Nærøyfjord.
Urnes Stave Church Bryggen,

The stave churches are some the wharf in Bergen
of the most important Norwe- In the city centre of Bergen,
gian contributions to the world along the wharf, these beautiful
of architecture and design. buildings are facing the ocean.
They are the oldest wooden The buildings are standing very
construc-tions remaining in close together and are deco-
the country. Urnes Stave rated with intricate wooden or-
Church dates back to the sec- naments giving witness to an
ond half of the 12th century architectural style that goes
and is one of the few wooden back to the time of the Hanseatic
churches on the heritage list. League, almost 900 years ago.
URNES STAVE CHURCH

© ESPEN MILLS – VISITNORWAY.COM
The mining Stone carvings in Alta survey triangulations stretching a significant impact during
town of Røros This is the largest collection of from Hammerfest in Norway to WWII.
The town of Røros is unique in the stone carvings in northern Eu- the Black Sea, through 10 coun- The World Heritage Site con-
sense that it is constructed totally rope, dating back to the Stone tries and over 2,820 km. sists of four areas:
in wood. The houses Age and made by hunters and The site includes original station Electricity production: Ponds,
of the miners and farmers date fishermen. There are more than points, with different markings, tunnels, power lines and a va-
back to the 18th and 19th centu- 3,000 carvings spread over four i.e. a drilled hole in rock, iron riety of power stations from
ries and have been well pre- open air sites, depicting people cross, cairns, or built obelisks. Møsvatn to Notodden, where
served and have kept their old and animals in very artistic ways, hydro power was converted
charm. For over 250 years Røros and uniquely preserved. Rjukan and Notodden into electricity.
was the most important mining Industrial Heritage Factory areas: Hydro Park at
town in Norway. Geiranger- In 2015 Rjukan and Notodden Rjukan and Notodden with
and Nærøyfjord industrial heritage became buildings and machinery.
The islands of Vega The fjords of Norway are the officially part of UNESCO's Transport route: The railway
Along the coast of Helgeland, main attraction for visitors. world heritage list. tracks for Tinnosbanen and
the archipelago of Vega consists These two fjords are the first The area is covering nearly Rjukanbanen, including docks
of unique islands, islets and natural sites in Norway includ- 400 square kilometers from and two railway ferries towards
reefs that form a cultural landed on the heritage list. The lake Møsvatn on the Hardan- the shipment point for fertiliz-
scape of 103,710 ha, of which fjords were formed during sev- gervidda down to lake Hed- ers in Notodden.
6,930 ha is land. Vega bear wit- eral ice ages, and the largest dalsvatnet. In this area the Industrial Society: Several
ness to the will-power of gen- glacier on mainland Europe, the Norwegian Hydro ran a pio- neighborhoods in Notodden. In
erations of fishermen and Jostedals-breen, is situated neering experience in the de- addition Rjukan, the Hydro-city,
farmers that have lived on the between these two fjords. velopment of the electro- an entire city built by Norwe-
islands for more than 1,500 chemical industry from the gian Hydro with housing, insti-
years, carefully protecting their Struve Geodetic Arc early 1900s. The area also had tutions, commercial buildings,
culture and traditions. The Struve Arc is a chain of roads and parks.
THE ROCK CARVINGS IN ALTA RØROS CHURCH IN WINTER

© CH – VISITNORWAY.COM © TERJE RAKKE – NORDIC LIFE MUSEUM VEMORK AT RJUKAN © NANCY BUNDT
VIKING CULTURE,
PEOPLE AND
HISTORY
Think of the Vikings and it's not poetry,
woodcarving and storytelling that spring to
mind, but colourful images of horned
helmets, berserkers, longships, Valhalla, the
one-eyed god Odin and men dying sword in
hand or drinking out of skulls.
The Vikings were Live the Viking life

fierce warriors and We know a lot about what
skilled poets Viking life was like a thousand
And it’s true, the Vikings were years ago, and you can experi-
pirates who came to plunder ence a little of Viking life
and kill, and they spread ter- today. At Lofotr Viking
NÆRØYFJORDEN © TERJE RAKKE – NORDIC LIFE – VISITNORWAY.COM
ror along Europe's coasts. But Museum a traditional Viking
their reputation is not entirely longhouse has been built, and
fair: They were not just ruth- the museum also hosts Viking
less warriors, but also skilled festivals and events where you
traders, administrators and can get a taste of Viking life
craftsmen in metal and wood, and living. And in Oslo you can
producing beautiful jewellery see the genuine article.
and artefacts that survive to
this day. They were also some It was important to
of Europe's best storytellers show courage in battle
and the Norse sagas continue How did such a small and
to fascinate modern audienc- scattered people conquer so
es. And, by the way, they did much territory? Norwegian
not have horned helmets: No Vikings were courageous,
self-respecting Viking would cunning and had a fatalistic
want to look like a cow. outlook which made them
NÆRØYFJORDEN © TERJE RAKKE – NORDIC LIFE – VISITNORWAY.COM

TORVIK
VE S
LO
EL
KJ
©
M
LOF EU
OTR VIKINGMUS
natural risk takers. explains their resilience in

Viking raiding parties seem to battle and in pioneering sea
have had an amazing ability to voyages to far off lands. One of
shrug off losses, whether in the distinguishing features of
battle or in dangerous sea Old Norse poetry, legend and
voyages. saga is a grim gallows hu-
mour. It is usually a bad sign
Many men were lost in battles when someone cracks a joke
in continental Europe, and in in a Viking saga, and the sto-
876 the Vikings lost as many ries contain more jokes than
as 4,000 men and 120 ships in you might think.
a great storm off the south
English coast. There was also Expert sailors and
much infighting between Dan- navigators
ish and Norwegian Viking Vikings were experts in water
bands, especially in Ireland, transportation as their native
where losses were extremely fjords stretched for great dis-
high in relation to the Viking tances into Norway's heart-
population. Despite all of this land. Their longships were
this, their appetite for narrow, light, wooden boats
conquest and exploration with a shallow-draft hull de-
remained high. signed for speed and easy
Viking courage is probably navigation in shallow waters.
also linked to their dark sense Light enough to be carried,
of humour, as expressed in the longship was also double-
the writing of their sagas. Be- ended, allowing it to reverse
ing able to laugh in the face of direction without needing to
death and danger somehow turn around. This was a major
VIKING LIFE IN STIKLESTAD, TRØNDELAG © TERJE RAKKE – NORDIC LIFE – VN

212 SHORT STORIES
advantage in a sea filled with turies. Between the years 879

concealed icebergs and sea and 920 the Vikings
ice. colonised Iceland, which in
LOFOTR
Longships had oars along al- turn became the springboard
most the entire length of the for the colonisation of Green-
boat, and later versions com- land. The Vikings even
bined rowing power with sail- reached North America, and
ing power. In good conditions,
a longboat under sailing pow-
er could reach a speed of 15
remains of a Viking settlement
at L'Anse aux Meadows in
Newfoundland have been car-
VIKINGMUSEUM
knots. bon dated to around the year
This resulted in voyages of 1000. By the 1100s the Vikings
discovery, trade and opportun- were weakened by domestic
istic raiding of coastal unrest. At the same time,
cities, towns and settlements many other European coun- LOFOTR VIKINGMUSEUM © KJELL OVE STORVIK
across Europe. The voyages tries were becoming stronger
began in the latter part of the and more difficult targets.
eighth century and stretched The Viking Age ended with the
from Greenland in the west to fall of Harald Hardråde, who Meet the Vikings How to get here:
the Caspian Sea in the east. unsuccessfully tried to More than 1000 years ago, one Centrally located in the middle of
To begin with only a few made conquer England in 1066, and of the mightiest Viking Chief- Lofoten. Mainroad E10 runs a
the voyages, but the fleets was defeated and killed at the tains of Northern Norway few meters from the museum.
grew until there were Battle of Stamford Bridge. ruled Lofotr. His longhouse is
hundreds of longships sailing reconstructed on site, in full Lofotr Vikingmuseum
to England, Scotland, France size – impressive 83 meters Borg in Lofoten, 8360 Bøstad
and Ireland. long! Feel the smell of tar and
Tips bonfires. Study crafts and
The Viking cities and The Viking Ship Museum in beautiful ornamentation.
colonies Oslo presents Viking ship
The Vikings founded many discoveries from Gokstad, Every evening you may take
cities and colonies, including Oseberg and Tune as well part in a Viking feast:
Dublin and Normandy. Dublin as other finds from Viking delicious food, good drink
IK
was held as a major settle- tombs around the Oslo and story-telling.
RV
JELL OVE STO
ment for more than three cen- Fjord. See presentation on
page 86-87. Also: permanent exhibition
halls, film, audioguides
(6 languages).
©K
M
Row or sail the Viking ship,
EU
US
participate in Viking games LOFO VIKINGM
TR
(15.06 – 15.08). Viking festival:
annual in August. www.lofotr.no
LOFOTR VIKINGMUSEUM LOFOTR VIKINGMUSEUM

© KJELL OVE STORVIK © KJELL OVE STORVIK
IMPORTANT MILESTONES 1349:

IN NORWAY'S HISTORY The Black Death kills a third of Norway's population.
1450:
The union with Denmark is established by treaty.
1536:
The Reformation comes to Norway. Norway becomes a
dependency under Denmark.
1814:
XXXXX
Denmark cedes Norway to Sweden. Norway adopts its own
XXX
constitution.
©
XX
X
XX 1825:
Around 900,000 Norwegians emigrated to the USA in the
Prime Minister Christian Michelsen receives preceding 150 years.
King Haakon and Crown Prince Olav 7 aboard
the Norwegian naval vessel Heimdal, 1905:
25 November 1905. Dissolution of the union with Sweden, the Danish Prince
Carl becomes King Haakon VII of Norway.
8000 BC: 1914 – 1918:

The oldest traces of human settlement in Norway date from World War I. Norway remains neutral, but the Norwegian
this period. From Finnmark, the coast of Møre, merchant fleet suffers heavy losses.
Trøndelag and Southern and Western Norway.
1940 – 1945:
800 – 1000 AD: World War II. Norway is occupied by German troops.
Viking raids and trading expeditions, colonization of The war against Germany is fought from England.
Northern England, Scotland and Ireland, the Isle of Man,
Shetland, Orkney, the Hebrides, the Faroe Islands, Iceland 1970:
and Greenland. The Viking chieftain Harald Fairhair unifies The first commercially viable oil find is made in the North
Norway into one kingdom in 872. Sea. Oil production, which will provide Norway with vast
revenues in the years to come, starts three years later.
1030 AD:
King Olav Haraldsson is killed at the battle of Stiklestad, and 1972:
Norway converts to Christianity. Referendum on membership of the EEC results in a majority
for 'No'
1200 - 1300 AD:
Period of prosperity, many large buildings built. European 1994:
influence in literature and architecture. The Hanseatic Referendum on membership of the EU results in a marginal
merchants acquire trading privileges and soon come to 'No' majority.
dominate trade.
NOTES
OK
ST
UG
E
KØ
YA © HO
CHRISTIAN
THE ORIGINAL AND LEADING SINCE 1989
WHALESAFARI
Experience the world’s largest toothed whale and
other whale species in the waters off Andenes
D E S I G N : G O D S T R E K . P H O T O : B J Ø N DA L / T. LU N D Q V I S T.
THE RAUMA RAILWAY © ROLF SØRENSEN
• No. 1 in whalewatching in Norway – since 1989

PRODUCTION
• With unique 100% Whale guarantee – see our website Design and layout:
• Now with both summer and winter season - contact us Legind as, Copenhagen
NORWAY
Responsible: IN YOUR POCKET
• Secure boats – customized for whale watching with Innovation Norway, Oslo
Editor:
‘quiet propellers’ so we do not disturb the whales Terje Karlung
Cover photo:
• Large informative Whale Centre
Northern lights Tromsø © Ole C. Salomonsen
Visit our website for more info: This book was printed in Jan. 2016 and the information compiled
during the winter months of 2015. Information is based upon data collected from
www.whalesafari.no participating companies and organisations, official authorities and the Norwegian
travel trade. Innovation Norway – Tourism can not accept responsibility for any
omissions or inaccuracies, or for any consequences arising there from. Prices may be
NO. 1 IN WHALEWATCHING subject to change. Innovation Norway - Tourism brings to your attention that travelling
in certain areas in Norway should be in the company of a qualified guide. Also please
Booking/info.: Hvalsafari AS, P.B. 58, N-8483 Andenes pay attention to official signs and applicable regulations. The contents of this guide are
Tel.: + 47 76 11 56 00 E-mail: booking@whalesafari.no partly sponsored by the Norwegian tourism industry.

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