From jagged landscapes to insane views of the iconic fjords, Norway is seriously incredible. I will never forget wondering atop the snow-covered Norwegian mountains. I would go back in a heartbeat. My wallet would beg to differ, however, because Norway is not cheap (in fact, it is ranked #2 most expensive in Europe, just behind Iceland). Still, it’s highly worth it. So let’s run through the trip!
I started my adventure by flying into Bergen, which is located on the western side of the country and where all the fjords can be found. There is something like 1,190 fjords in Norway, so I didn’t exactly have time to explore them all. After 3 trains, 2 trams, 7 busses, and 1 ferry, I ended my trip in the capital city of Oslo. The public transportation system in Norway is excellent. Every ride was comfortable and offered different views of the countryside.
What’s a Fjord?
A fjord is a long, deep, narrow body of water that reaches far inland. Fjords are often set in a U-shaped valley with steep walls of rock on either side. Fjords were created by glaciers and can be thousands of meters deep.
Beginning in Bergen
Flying into Bergen was like something from a movie. The window seat is a must because the views from the plane are incredible! The town of Bergen is situated on the Sognefjord, the country’s longest and deepest fjord, and is home to just under half a million people. Despite being warned that Norway is an “unfriendly” country to outsiders, I somehow made friends with a group of locals who showed me around town! Thanks for the warm welcome Trym, Eline, Stine, and crew! I stayed in a hostel overlooking the city in a room with EIGHTEEN people (personal record). It ended up being no problem, and everyone was super nice and respectful.
Hike to Trolltunga
The most adventurous and memorable part of my trip was a 16-mile round trip hike through the snow-capped mountains overlooking the beautiful fjords. Talk about an experience. Navigating such daunting and awe-inspiring landscapes was equally gratifying as it was humbling. One can learn a thing or two about themselves up there! The hike leads to the Trolltunga lookout, a rock formation 700 meters above Lake Ringedalsvatnet (see kickass photo below). About 10% of the trail was covered in snow, which made for an adventurous hike. Thankfully, I did not encounter any rain, just a little snow flurry on the top. Good thing I am a fast hiker, because I heard the trail was hit by a rainstorm shortly after I finished!
The Norway Express
The next day I embarked on a full-day caravan to Oslo. I left Tyssedal (the town I was staying in) at 7:00am and touched down in Oslo at 11:00pm. I hopped aboard numerous busses, trains, and even a ferry ride through the UNESCO Nærøyfjord. One of the legs included a ride on the famous Flam Railway and a stop at the Kjosfossen waterfall. There are so many waterfalls in Norway….I probably saw 30 just this day! The water from the melted snow basically just falls off the cliffs down into the ocean. It’s super cool. Along the way, I made friends with Phil and Maria, a couple visiting from the UK. I even had the pleasure of kicking their asses at cards on the train!
Last Stop, Oslo
I ended the trip by staying a couple nights in Oslo. This was much more of a city vibe, so it didn’t quite stack up to the rest of Norway. Nonetheless, it was a great city and a perfect place to relax and recuperate. I opted for a hotel so I could take advantage of the private room, breakfast buffet, and gym/sauna. Like Bergen, there are tons of cool coffee joints and bars with expensive beers (we’re talking 10-20 euros for a beer). I toured the Akershus Fortress (Festning), ate dinner at the Oslo Street Food Hall, and walked atop the roof of the Opera House. I failed to do one of the “hottest” attractions and go to a floating sauna. Instead, I used the free gym sauna…but the floating saunas are definitely on the list for next time!
Besides Spain, Norway might have just secured the top spot on my list. The landscape is absolutely insane. Now I realize I need to go venture in my own backyard (AKA North America) and plan a trip to Canada and Alaska!
Chase, that was wonderful reading about Norway, makes me want to go. Your writings are so good, not too long, just right.
Love that picture of you standing on the mountain over looking the fjord. I want that picture for the house, good Christmas gift for everyone. Anxious to see what you think of Amsterdam.