With its lush landscape and truly endless days of summer, Norway is a prime destination for mid-year travels. Hike among fjords, visit quaint towns, and stay up late to experience the magic of a never-setting sun.
## Discovering the Magic of Summer in Norway: A Journey Beyond the Tourist Trail
In the heart of summer, the enchanting land of Norway awakens, beckoning travelers with its unique charm and breathtaking beauty. This is the revered “Land of the Midnight Sun,” where the days stretch into seemingly endless hours, offering unparalleled opportunities for exploration and adventure. Imagine embarking on invigorating hikes through majestic fjords, savoring the rich aroma of freshly brewed Norwegian coffee, and setting foot on lands steeped in ancient Viking history, all without the day ever truly ending. Away from the well-trodden tourist paths, you’ll discover small, bustling cities brimming with local culture and charm, while the vast wilderness unfolds before you, inviting you to immerse yourself in its untouched splendor. This is just a glimpse, a mere starting point, to the countless possibilities that await you in the captivating country of Norway.
## Unveiling Norway’s Summer Highlights
* **Embark on a Hiking Expedition Among Norway’s Majestic Fjords:** Traverse the stunning landscapes of Western Norway, where intricate waterways carve their way through the mountains, offering unparalleled views and unforgettable experiences.
* **Delve into the Rich Tapestry of Viking Lore:** Immerse yourself in the fascinating history of Norway, exploring ancient Viking settlements, museums, and historical sites that bring the legendary era to life.
* **Venture North to Witness the Enchanting Midnight Sun:** Experience the surreal phenomenon of the midnight sun, where the sun never fully sets, casting a magical glow upon the landscape and creating an ethereal ambiance.
* **Marvel at the Country’s Picturesque and Powerful Waterfalls:** Discover the awe-inspiring waterfalls that cascade down the mountainsides, showcasing the raw power and natural beauty of Norway’s landscape.
* **Escape the City Scene and Uncover Norway’s Hidden Gems:** Venture beyond the major cities and explore the charming towns, remote villages, and untouched wilderness areas that reveal the true essence of Norway.
## Hiking Through the Fjords: A Journey into Natural Grandeur
Western Norway is a veritable treasure trove of intricate waterways, collectively known as fjords. These natural wonders, carved by glaciers over millennia, offer a stunning tapestry of deep blue waters, towering cliffs, and lush green landscapes. Among these magnificent fjords, the **Sognefjord** stands as the undisputed king, the largest of its kind in Norway. It gracefully snakes inland for an impressive 120 miles (200 km), its waters framed by majestic mountains that rise nearly 7,000 feet (2,000 m) into the air on either side, creating a breathtaking spectacle that will leave you in awe. When it comes to out-of-this-world scenery, rivalling the beauty of Fjord Norway is indeed a very tall order, a testament to the region’s unparalleled natural splendor.
Embarking on a trek through the Sognefjord region is an unforgettable experience, an opportunity to immerse yourself in the heart of Norway’s natural beauty. As you traverse the landscape, you’ll encounter cascading waterfalls that plunge from towering heights, jagged peaks that pierce the sky, and ancient villages that whisper tales of centuries past. Among these historical gems, you’ll find the oldest stave church at Urnes, a remarkable example of traditional Norwegian architecture. Your journey may also lead you to **Jostedalsbreen**, the largest glacier in all of Europe, a colossal river of ice that stands as a testament to the power of nature. It is also within this majestic area that you’ll discover the **Aurlandsdalen Valley**, a breathtaking canyon often referred to as Norway’s Grand Canyon, with its dramatic cliffs and stunning vistas. A popular hiking route in the area is the famed 12-mile trek from Østerbø to Vassbygdi, a path known for its captivating scenery and rewarding experience, and its popularity is certainly well-deserved.
While the Sognefjord often steals the spotlight, it’s important not to overlook the other magnificent fjords that grace the Norwegian landscape. The **Hardangerfjord**, with its stunning beauty and rich cultural heritage, offers its own unique charm. It is here that you’ll discover the iconic **Trolltunga**, a dramatic rock formation that juts out over the fjord, offering breathtaking panoramic views. The Hardangerfjord is also home to the majestic Vøringsfossen Waterfall, a powerful cascade that plunges into the valley below, and quaint waterside towns like Jondal and Rosendal, where you can experience the charm of traditional Norwegian life. Then there’s the **Geirangerfjord**, a UNESCO World Heritage site in and of itself, a testament to its exceptional natural and cultural significance. This downright majestic stretch of water is home to many well-known abandoned farms, clinging to the steep cliffsides, with Skageflå being a notable example that can be reached on foot via a challenging but rewarding hike. The Geirangerfjord is also adorned with impressive waterfalls, such as de Syv Søstre, or the **Seven Sisters**, a series of cascading streams that create a breathtaking spectacle as they plunge into the fjord below.
## Stepping Back in Time: Experiencing Viking History
The city of Haugesund holds a significant place in Norwegian history, often referred to as the “birthplace of Norway,” a land steeped in ancient lore and legends. The **Nordvegen History Centre at Avaldsnes** stands as a testament to this rich heritage, situated on what is believed to be the most ancient of Viking grounds, a place where history comes alive. As you step into the museum, you’ll be transported back in time, immersing yourself in the world of the Vikings, their culture, their beliefs, and their way of life. Wander through the surrounding hillsides, taking in the breathtaking views and imagining the lives of those who once inhabited this land. And as you observe the excavators at work, carefully unearthing artifacts from a thousand years ago, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the enduring legacy of the Vikings.
In Oslo, the nation’s vibrant capital, a visit to the **Viking Ship Museum** is an absolute must for any history enthusiast. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to get an up-close and personal look at the world’s best-preserved Viking ships, marveling at their intricate craftsmanship and the stories they hold within their ancient timbers. In Bergen, another city with deep historical roots, the **Maritime Museum** offers a fascinating walk through Viking life, providing insights into their seafaring skills, their trade routes, and their daily lives. And for a truly immersive experience, head to the **Lofotr Vikingmuseum** in Bøstad, located on the stunning Lofoten Islands. Here, you can not only explore the museum’s exhibits but also take to the water and experience what it was like to row a Viking ship, feeling the power of the oars and the spray of the sea as you navigate the waters just as the Vikings did centuries ago.
## Chasing the Elusive Midnight Sun: A Summer Spectacle
Even in cities like Bergen and Oslo, which are located further south, you can experience some degree of the “midnight sun” during the summer months. As you stroll down the street at 11 pm, you’ll notice a peculiar bluish tint to the air, a subtle glow that never quite fades, creating an ethereal ambiance. However, to truly be captivated by the surreal experience of the midnight sun, to find yourself utterly bewildered by the sun’s persistent presence in the sky, you must venture north toward the Arctic Circle. In this realm of perpetual daylight, sunset seems to stretch on for hours, painting the sky with a breathtaking palette of oranges, reds, and pinks before the sun miraculously rises again, ushering in another day of endless light.
In Tromsø, a city nestled in the heart of the Arctic, the summer months offer an unparalleled experience of the midnight sun. The cable car, which transports visitors to the top of the city, operates well past midnight, allowing you to witness the stunning spectacle from a breathtaking vantage point. At **Nupen**, a scenic spot near Harstad, you can simply park your car by the roadside and watch as the sun dances on the horizon, never quite dipping below the water’s edge. In **Bodø**, a coastal city known for its natural beauty, you can indulge in midnight golfing, kayak through golden waters illuminated by the never-setting sun, or even embark on a hiking adventure under the surreal glow of the arctic sky. For those seeking the longest possible exposure to the midnight sun, **Longyearbyen** offers an unparalleled opportunity, boasting an astonishing four months of constant daylight, a truly unforgettable experience. Can you decipher the name of this town to give you a hint about where it sits?
## Splashing Under Waterfalls: A Symphony of Nature’s Power
Summer in Norway is the season when the country’s powerful waterfalls reign supreme, their cascading waters thundering down the mountainsides, creating a symphony of natural power and beauty. Norway is home to an astonishing number of waterfalls, with an incredible one-third of the world’s tallest 30 waterfalls located within its borders. With so many magnificent waterfalls to choose from, the challenge often lies in narrowing down the list, perhaps simply finding the one that is closest to your current location.
Depending on where you find yourself in Norway, here are three solid options for experiencing the country’s stunning waterfalls. Near Norheimsund, along the scenic Hardangerfjord, you can walk behind the turbulent waters of **Steinsdalsfossen**, a unique and exhilarating experience. In the Utla Valley, you can witness the tallest unregulated free-fall drop in the country at **Vettisfossen**, a powerful cascade that plunges into the valley below. Or, for a more accessible option, simply pull over the car to see **Langfossen**, a majestic waterfall that catapults into the Åkrafjord, not before gracefully dipping under highway E134. Rest assured, there is a large viewing area provided, so you can safely capture the breathtaking sight with your camera.
## Venturing Off the Beaten Path: Uncovering Hidden Treasures
While making stops in Oslo and Bergen is certainly a worthwhile experience, offering a glimpse into Norway’s culture and history, it’s important to remember that the country is far more complex and diverse than its two most populous cities. To truly discover the essence of Norway, any discerning traveler should consider venturing off the beaten path, exploring the less-traveled locales like Trondheim, Ålesund, and Røros, incorporating them into their itinerary for a more authentic and enriching experience.
In **Trondheim**, you’ll encounter a captivating mixture of an ancient Norwegian capital and a vibrant student center, where a diverse population of 30,000 calls home. If your time is limited, make sure to prioritize a visit to the **Nidaros Cathedral**, a magnificent Gothic structure that was built in the 11th century over the remains of Saint Olav, a revered figure in Norwegian history. Be sure to wander through the colorful wooden houses of **Bakklandet**, the city’s Old Town, which now buzzes with cafés, shops, concerts, and festivals, all while maintaining a charming 17th-century feel.
**Ålesund**, on the other hand, is a town that stretches across several islands, gracefully extending into the Geirangerfjord. It is renowned for its distinctive Art Nouveau architecture, a style that emerged after the town was rebuilt in the early 1900s following a devastating fire. Despite its urban charm, Ålesund also serves as a gateway to Norway’s pristine wilderness. From here, you can embark on scenic walks or challenging hikes along the coast, ascend the majestic **Sunnmøre Alps**, or explore the stunning fjords. For a different perspective, consider hopping on a wildlife sea safari, where you can observe marine life in its natural habitat. And despite its northerly location, Ålesund benefits from the warming influence of the Gulf Stream, which keeps temperatures relatively mild, rarely dipping below 32°F (0°C).
**Røros** presents a completely different kind of town, an experience unlike any other. The entire village is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a testament to its historical and cultural significance. Røros stands as one of the oldest “wooden towns” in all of Europe, its charming streets and well-preserved buildings offering a glimpse into a simpler time. Walking through these narrow streets is akin to stepping into a real-life museum, where the past comes alive. Here, you’ll also find Norway’s third largest lake, Femunden, a sprawling body of water surrounded by stunning scenery. Nearby, lies **Femundsmarka National Park**, a protected wilderness area that showcases the region’s natural beauty. In other words, it doesn’t get much more off-the-beaten-path than this, making Røros a truly unique and unforgettable destination.
B-1984