Norwegian Fjords Pre-Voyage Extension

Explore a legendary coastline

Kick off your journey through southern Norway’s stunning landscapes in the medieval town of Bergen, where you will learn about the rich history of this former trading center for the Hanseatic League. Spend time exploring the thundering waterfalls and snowy peaks of the two longest fjords in Norway—Sognefjord and Hardangerfjord—and kayak, canoe, and hike along breathtaking lakes. Enjoy a ride on the Flåm Railway, one of world’s most scenic train journeys, then wrap up your Norwegian experience with a day in cosmopolitan Oslo.

NOTE: On some voyages, this extension runs in a reverse direction (Oslo to Bergen). Please contact an Expedition Specialist for more information.

Day 1 - U.S./Bergen, Norway

Fly from Newark to Bergen (via Copenhagen) on an overnight flight.

Day 2 - Bergen

Arrive in the Hanseatic city of Bergen. The powerful Hanseatic League once ruled the seas of Northern Europe. Check in to the Hotel Norge by Scandic, or similar. Dinner is served at the hotel. (D)

Day 3 - Bergen

Today we visit the town center with its colorful fish and flower market and the Hanseatic Museum, which details the history of the Germanic merchants. Venture into St. Mary's Church and the rebuilt Fantoft Stave Church as well as composer Edvard Grieg's home. After lunch, we ride the funicular to the city's apex for an extraordinary view. Dinner is on your own. (B,L)

Day 4 - Flam Railway/Sognefjord/Ullensvang

A must-do on any exploration of the fjordlands, a thrilling ride on the Flam railway. We will start our day with a drive to arrive in Voss. From Voss we will embark on a train journey to Myrdal, from where we will change over to the Flam Railway which ascends 2,900 feet in less than an hour with spectacular scenery. After lunch in Flam, we will continue to Gudvangen sailing from Gudvangen through the fjords of Naeroy and both arms of the Sognefjord. From Gudvangen, we will continue the drive via Stalheim Canyon through the Naeroydal Valley with breathtaking views, and ferry across from Bruravik to Brimness. We will arrive in Loftus late evening and check into the Hotel Ullensvang for two nights. (B,L,D)

Day 5 - Ullensvang

Set on the shores of Sorfjord, our hotel offers a day of relaxing activities. Enjoy kayaking or canoeing in the fjord, go on hikes (there are various hikes marked with maps available), and or spend the day enjoying the idyllic setting of the hotel with a view of the fjords. We also have the chance to visit the Hardanger Folk Museum and also the Ullensvang church while in Ullensvang (B,L,D)

Day 6 - Ullensvang/Oslo

Nature has carved quite a portrait in Norway. The Tvindefoss Waterfall and Lake Oppheim are today's opening act. Stop at Voeringsfossen Waterfall. Continue the drive to Torpo Stave Church between Al and Gol, with lunch in Gol. After lunch, we continue our drive to Oslo and arrive in the late afternoon and check into Hotel Bristol or similar. Rest of the afternoon is at leisure. Dinner is on your own. (B,L)