Fjords to fall for: discover Norway’s greatest natural wonders

A 10-day itinerary in Fjordland

While Norway is home to diverse and soul-stirring landscapes, its fjords alone make it instantly captivating. Western Norway is laced with these dramatic natural wonders, just beckoning to be explored. In this inspiring itinerary, our experienced Travel Advisors pair in-the-know recommendations with some of the best luxury hotels in Norway for a getaway with epic appeal.

AT A GLANCE

• 10-day independent itinerary for Fjordland, Norway based on flying into Bergen and out of Alesund.
• Experience Scandinavian history, culture and style in towns and cities before discovering waterfalls and fjords from specially-selected SLH boutique hotels.
• Highlights include hiking across glaciers in the south and discovering northern fjords by kayak.

START IN STYLE: BERGEN

Historic Bergen has long been a jumping-off point for those in search of adventure. Surrounded by seven hills and seven fjords, this buzzing city is bountiful in both nature and culture. Wooden houses in autumnal colours line the waterfront in UNESCO-listed Bryggen. Culture is captured in the KODE group museums, which hold one of Scandinavia’s largest art-and-design collections. When nature begins to draw you in, head up to Mount Floyen for pretty hikes and panoramic views of the city and its rugged setting.

THE CALL OF THE WILD

If that’s whetted your appetite for adventure, mix culture and comfort in Bergen with a day in the great outdoors. Hardangerfjord is one of Norway’s most famous – and just 1.5 hours away from the city. Start with a short hike to the top of Voringfossen waterfall to watch it cascade down the cliffs. Or spend an entire day exploring the four falls of the Husedalen Valley. For a slightly more bracing stroll, opt for a guided hike through the glaciers of Folgefonna National Park.

While you’re here, it’s well worth spending a day in Voss, the district known as Norway’s adventure capital. Drive an hour or so from the comfort of your boutique hotel to dive headfirst into one of many adrenaline-fuelled activities – from paragliding to white water rafting. If you’d like to take it easier, hire a bike and cycle through the hills. Whatever your preferred pace, you won’t be short of things to do in this exciting town.

UNPACK YOUR SUITCASE

Dedicated to Bergen-born composer Edvard Greig, Opus XVI hotel is as historic as it is stylish. Drop your bags and relax in one of the suites named after Greig’s masterworks. Then step out to explore the city’s best sights. Suggested stay 4-5 nights.

THE ADVENTURE CONTINUES: ALESUND

You’ve explored the southern fjords. Now, it’s time to venture north for dramatic scenery on another scale. From the sleepy town of Alesund, hire a car to explore Geirangerfjord. This UNESCO-listed natural wonder is the stuff of Viking saga – and one that every traveller should tick off their hit-list. Tumbling waterfalls and virtually vertical cliffs are mirrored in the deep blue waters. But its spellbinding scenery means Geirangerfjord is no secret. As cruise ships dock at the main port of Geiranger, venture out onto the water, either by ferry or private boat. The best way to get to Geirangerfjord is via the Trollstigen – a rollercoaster of a road that snakes down deep-cut mountains.

For somewhere more off-the-beaten track, nearby Hjorundfjord seems to have kept itself a secret from the world. Blanketed by thick forest, the mountains that bookend it make some of the best hiking spots in Fjordland. Trek to Mount Saska for spellbinding views back to Alesund. Or rent a kayak and get out on the calm, secluded waters. After all that fresh air, you’ll be ready to unwind at your contemporary cabin in the wilderness…

SETTLE IN FOR THE NIGHT

While Storfjord Hotel may feel straight from a quaint Scandinavian fairy tale, adventure is never far away. Its cosy wood-cabin feel is offset by ultra-modern touches. Admire views of the fjords from selected rooms and suites. Or set out on a cruise or helicopter tour arranged by the hotel. Suggested stay 4-5 nights.

TRAVEL TIPS

If time allows, hire a car and make it a road trip to remember – the drive from Bergen to Alesund is just under eight hours, and there are countless fjords to see along the way. But to make the most of the 10 days, we’d recommend flying between the two – then hiring cars when you arrive to explore the surrounding area. Ask our Voice Reservation Team for details about transfers or transport provided by individual hotels.

BOOK YOUR BOUTIQUE HOTELS

To book the hotels on this independent itinerary, get in touch with our Voice Reservation Team on 0800 0482 314 (UK) & 1-877-234-7033 (US). You can find a full list of our dedicated toll-free numbers here. We’re ready and waiting to plan luxury adventures 24 hours a day, seven days a week. So whenever inspiration strikes, just get in touch.