Sognefjord, Bergen – The longest fjord in the world, the Sognefjord deserves every bit of its stellar reputation. An area of unmatched natural beauty, the region includes the glacial tones of the Jostedalsbreen National Park, centuries old stave churches, the mesmerising environs of the Jotunheimen National Park and the 'World’s Most Beautiful Train Journey' (the Flam rail). We pick a ride on the Flam any day. It’s the world’s steepest railway on normal gauge and gives you the best visual effects in the Northern Hemisphere. From the mountain station of Myrdal to the Flam station, every square inch is an awe-inspiring combination of history and nature. The trip climaxes at the splendid Flam Valley where the magnificent Aurlandsfjord, a tributary of Sognefjord awaits you.
Geraingerf Fjord, Sunnmøre – A World Heritage landscape, this S shaped classic fjord has steep sides, thundering waterfalls (the most famous being De syv søstrene (“the Seven Sisters”), Friaren (“the Suitor”) and Brudesløret (“the Bridal Veil”), old mountain farms and amazing scenery all around. You can experience these grand outdoors by cruise boat, walking, kayak or cycling. Don’t miss the ride along the Trollstigen mountain road, a near impossible engineering feat carried out in the '30s.
Lysefjord, Stavanger – This 40 km fjord gets its name from the light granite rocks that pave its sides. The highlight of South West Norway, you will sail past serrated cliffs, waterfalls, and little islands. Ascend the Eagles Nest (1,000 mts) to get a bird’s eye view. Lysefjord is also the gateway to Pulpit Rock.
Kirkenes – Right in the Polar circle, on the Russian border, the town of Kirkenes, with its lovely atmosphere is one of the best places to soak up the midnight sun. Sailing, hiking, fishing and road trips are all possible. It’s the go to spot for bird lovers, as nearby Hornøya Island is one of Norway’s largest nesting sites, with 150,000 birds, including puffins, guillemots, sea eagles and more.
Honningsvag – Norway’s northernmost city is also a star on the Midnight sun circuit! Apart from the typical Norwegian list of outdoor activities, it’s possible to hit the North Cape or Nordkapp, the northern most point of Europe. Go atop a 307 m cliff here for the sights of a lifetime. Get your Nordkapp stamp and click a pic with its symbolic steel globe.
Tromsø – Well above the Arctic circle, Tromsø is one of the most favoured seats in the house to catch the Northern lights. Interestingly enough, its isolating latitude has not prevented it from creating a lively culinary and night life scene. Once you’ve taken your eyes off the sky, ticked off the Arctic Cathedral and Polar Museum from your list, do what Tromsø does best – party!
Trondheim – Aurora chasers or not, do congregate here. Not only for the amazing show overhead but to pray to Norway’s patron saint, St. Olav at the Nidaros Cathedral, an awe-inspiring Gothic construction. Stop by at the Folkemuseum and the Archbishop’s palace dating back to the 12th century. Trondheim, Norway’s original capital, is one of its leading food regions and has lots on offer.
