Things to do in Norway
By Amy Rosoman
Touch down in a land of invigorating wonders. Famous for its glistening fjords and majestic mountain terrain, Norway’s natural scenery will set you aloft on cloud nine. Thrill-seekers can climb clifftops for out-of-this-world views, city breakers can get cultural in Oslo, and snow fanatics can hit powder in the ski resorts – find your flow in Scandinavia.
1. Visit the Vikings
Start your adventure in the waterfront capital of Oslo and discover its warrior history. Explore the homeland of the Vikings and see three of the world’s best-preserved Viking ships at The Viking Ship Museum. Join your own quest at the Vikings Alive experience and step back in time with a visual immersion, as you sail across the Norwegian fjords.
In the winter, snowscapes spread out as far as the eye can see, and you can snow kite or cross-country ski.
2. National Parks in Norway
Find your way to the vibrant mountain village of Geilo to explore the breath-taking scenery of Hallingskarvet and Hardangervidda national parks. Mother nature shows off all-year-round in the parks that always sport a seasonal appearance. Go hiking on the look-out for babbling brooks and gushing waterfalls come summer. You can also bike or join a glacier tour during this time of year. In the winter, snowscapes spread out as far as the eye can see, and you can snow kite or cross-country ski.
3. Trick of the train – the Flåm Railway
A few hours north west of Oslo, discover the magic of Norway by train. Jump aboard the mesmerising Flåm Railway, one of the steepest trainlines in the world, for the ride of your life. Open year-round, you can choose to experience your favourite season here. Come summertime, journey through a landscape of wild forests, gushing waterfalls and snow-capped mountains – or experience the frozen marvels of winter and the snow-dusted scenery.
4. A hard find – Pulpit Rock
Make tracks south west to explore the almighty Preikestolen – Pulpit Rock. Savour a true taste of Norwegian adventure here and brave the four to five-hour hike to the top. Spectacularly situated 600m above the dazzling Lysefjord, this epic walk is worth every step when you reach the picturesque plateau. Be in the know – take this trek with an experienced guide.
A natural wonder
Challenge yourself with the hike of a lifetime – don't worry, the views will be worth it.
Nordic cuisine
Tuck into delicious delicacies – savour the flavours of a traditional method, used by fisherman and families.
5. Sky high – Mount Fløyen
Explore the west side of Norway and hop on Bergen’s Fløibanen funicular to see the charm of Mount Fløyen and beyond when you reach the peak – the views are awe-inspiring. Choose to hike through pine-scented forests, try out mountain biking or effortlessly whoosh amidst the forest canopy on a zip-line. Arrive back to the base and glide over Lake Skomakerdiket by canoe.
6. An iconic sight – Kjeragbolten
Looking for your next challenge? It’s time to conquer the striking Kjerag mountain, which towers 1,110m above the shores of Lysefjorden. Grab your walking boots and hire a local guide to make your way to the top for jaw-dropping views and captivating camera moments. Catch a shot of the famous Kjeragbolten, the Kjerag boulder – an enormous egg-shaped rock delicately suspended 1,000m above the fjord.
All aboard
Discover an enchanting world, as you ride through the valleys and across the mountains of Norway's hynotising landscape.
7. On the piste – ski Norway
If you’re looking to ski powder slopes come winter, head to Trysil – Norway’s biggest ski resort. Ski across spacious slopes, which remain relatively uncrowded even in peak season. It’s a great destination for families, bursting with green, blue and tree-lined red runs to satisfy all abilities. Those seeking a challenge can find black runs higher up on Trysilfjellet Mountain and try a trick or two in one of four snow parks. While you’re there, don’t miss the chance to go night skiing.
8. Hit the road – Stalheimskleiva
Take on one of the steepest roads in Northern Europe – a white-knuckle ride set in a beautiful valley. With a 20 per cent gradient, 13 hairpin bends and, in parts, sufficient width for one car only, this drive isn’t for the faint-hearted. If you’re in the passenger seat, soak up the sensational views of Sivlefossen and Stalheimsfossen waterfalls. You’ve just got to decide who gets stuck behind the wheel…
9. Space mountain – Magma Geopark
If you’re on the lookout for something a little less extreme, discover the mesmerising Magma Geopark, about an hour’s drive from Stavanger. The undulating rock formations, with their lunar appearance, provide gentle-gradient walking routes – and will have you wishing you’d paid more attention in geography class. Don’t miss the cycle tours through the depths of the 19th Century Blafjell mines.
Where to stay
Amerikalinjen
Amerikalinjen is nestled in a hip and arty district of Oslo near the Opera House and Central Station. The hotel is located in the former HQ of the Norwegian America Line with a New York-style jazz club and a ‘floating bartender’ who brings expertly-mixed cocktails to your room.