Viking ships and icy voyages
Dear Elyce and William,
Quiet for a thousand years since the marauding days of the Vikings, Norway often seems remote to outsiders, even mysterious—remarkable given its geographical position close to the heart of Europe. Beyond Oslo and the famous fjords, the rest of the country might as well be blank on the map for all many visitors know. Yet it’s out of the cities and off the major roadways that you will experience Norway at its most magical: vast stretches of serene, postcard-perfect landscapes where it is at times possible to travel for hours without seeing a single soul. There is nothing tame—and precious little tamed—in this wilderness, where everything is on a grand scale, from the deep, blue-black fjords and rearing snowy peaks to jagged forested hills and seemingly limitless expanse of Arctic tundra.
Day 1: Arrive
Elyce, the adventure begins. When you arrive in Bergen, Lars, your private guide, will greet you at the Solstrand Hotel. You will spend the rest of the day at the hotel relaxing and enjoying the views.
Day 2: Bergen
Today, you will take a hike from the Solstrand Hotel. Bergen is a city on the west coast of Norway and is known as the city of seven mountains. Your hike will take you along the shore of the fjord through heather moors and on barren mountaintops offering a spectacular view of the sea and the surrounding mountains and glaciers.
Day 3: Lusterfjord
Per your request, we have arranged for more hiking today. Lars will pick you up and take on an idyllic trail along the shore of the Naeroyfjord, ending up at a small farm. From there, cruise on board a ferry to the Sognefjord, and ending up at Walaker Hotel in Solvorn on the shore of Lusterfjord.
Day 4: Nigardsbreen Glacier
Today you will have the choice of either a full day of private glacier hiking or a kayaking trip on a glacier lake. If you choose the hiking experience, a local expert guide will take you to the Nigardsbreen Glacier. Per our conversation, I recommend you go kayaking on a glacier lake with floating icebergs. You will both love this exhilarating experience.
Day 5: Geiranger
Today you will leave Walaker Hotel, and your private driver/guide will take you to the Geiranger fjord. Cruise up the fjord aboard a ferry to see the Seven Sisters and other magnificent waterfalls. The Seven Sisters is the 39th tallest waterfall, which is a combination of seven streams, in the country. You will spend your last night in Norway at the Union Hotel in Geiranger.
Elyce and William, it has been my pleasure to plan this itinerary for your Norwegian Adventure trip. Please feel free to contact me at any time, should the need arise.