When choosing a hotel in the artsy and outdoorsy town of Balestrand, you'll likely prioritize views of the Sognefjord—Norway's longest and deepest fjord. These three hotels not only take advantage of their proximity to the surrounding mountains and sea but have easy access to galleries, challenging hiking trails, and fjord adventures.
Many of Oslo's top hotels have added new polished restaurants in recent years that aim to draw locals and travelers alike, with unique draws like rooftop settings or large windows facing the Christmas market. These nine hotels—some are restored historic properties from the 19th century—are well located in the city center and pair easily with top attractions like Palace Park and the Munch Museum.
Norway has no less than 40 national parks spread across the mainland and the islands of Svalbard. Don't know where to begin? Get started with this list—you'll get to choose between Ice Age glaciers, verdant marshland, extinct volcanoes, and Norway's tallest peaks._x000D_
For most travelers, about a week is the perfect amount of time for a Norway trip with stops in Oslo, Bergen, and Aurland. Travelers with less time can hit the route's highlights in four to six days, which makes for a fast-paced journey. With more time, you can enjoy extra activities at each stop or a few days in another region like Geilo, Balestrand, or Ullensvang. Get inspired with the below Oslo, Bergen, and Aurland trip ideas.
Most travelers head to Norway in the summer, but this Nordic country is a year-round destination, and winter holds its own adventurous charm. If you'd like to experience the famous fjords when crowds are thinner and the peaks are coated white, here are some tips for making the most of Flam Railway and Sognefjord in the off-season.
Oslo is Norway's buzzy, multicultural capital, known for its eco-friendly initiatives and innovation. It houses some of the country's best museums and parks, making it well worth a stop. You'll find the renowned Viking Ship Museum, the Nobel Peace Center, art galleries featuring Edvard Munch, and the famous Vigeland Sculpture Park. A vibrant city, Oslo draws crowds of all interests and ages.
Considering its well-earned reputation for dramatic fjords and steep mountains, it probably comes as no shock that hiking is pretty much a national pastime in Norway. With hundreds if not thousands of options to choose from, we’ve put together a list of the most spectacular day hikes, from north to south and everywhere in between.
All family-owned, these three luxury hotel options offer beautiful views, elegant decor, and standout food and wine programs. Read on to find out more about our hand-picked luxury properties in Sognefjord, Norway's longest and deepest fjord.
There are affordable hotel options in Bergen despite being an expensive city. The accommodations on this list have welcoming lounge spaces, complimentary breakfasts, and surprising perks like a communal kitchen for hotel guests. Plus, you'll be within walking distance of all the city offers, including Bryggen's medieval wharf, hiking trails, and fjord excursions.
Zipping over bubbling rapids, deftly navigating narrow inlets, skirting the edge of awe-inspiring gorges, and doing it all at warp speed: these are the thrills that draw kayakers and rafters to some of Norway’s most picturesque, challenging rivers and coasts. Here’s where to go for an unforgettable experience on the water.