DAY 1 Stalheim
Fly to Flesland airport near Bergen, pick-up your hire car and head out on the E16 towards Stalheim, gateway to Sognefjord. This easy 2-hour drive alternatively wows you and teases you with its numerous tunnels and glimpses of the dramatic fjordscape as you journey towards the Stalheim Hotel. The focus of this property is the quite incredible views of the Naerøy valley, which can be enjoyed from the grounds, restaurant, lounges and of course the rooms. The origins of a hotel on this site date back to 1647 and many fine antiques and artefacts are on display at what is now Norway’s largest privately owned folk museum, situated adjacent to the hotel. The hotel offers breakfast, lunch, bistro, buffet and ala carte dining options as well as tea, coffee and cakes throughout the day. The remainder of your day is at leisure.
DAY 2 Kaupanger
Begin the day with breakfast, before continuing the journey to Kaupanger incorporating the Gudvangen to Kaupanger ferry, a 3-hour journey across the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Naerøyfjord (booking essential) or drive around the fjord via Flåm and the Stegastein viewing platform, before continuing on Aurlandsfjellet National Tourist Route or the ‘Snow Road’. Do bear in mind that you are able to return to this area during your stay, so either way, you do not need to miss out on any attractions. Check-in to your chosen accommodation and base for the next 5 nights.
DAY 3-6 At leisure
We have left these days free for you to choose your activities, which depend on your agenda and travelling companions. The area suits families, adrenaline seekers, hikers and those just wanting to appreciate the striking scenery.
Suggestsed day trips include:
The Lusterfjord arm of Sognefjord delivers the Urnes Stave Church, the country’s oldest. Feigefossen waterfall, kayaking in Skjolden and guided glacier walks at Nigardsbreen, as well as the Jostedal Glacier Visitor Centre. Be sure to stop off at the Lustrabui Bakery for freshly baked cinnamon buns.
Head towards Fjaerlandsfjord, where the glacial tongues almost reach down to the roadside. Here is the National Glacier Centre, the book village of Fjaerland and Gaularfjellet National Tourist Route, just north of Balestrand, where another challenging drive through 9 hairpin bends, rewards you with spectacular views.
Head back to Flåm and take a trip on the Flåm Railway, if you are feeling energetic return by bike and ride down the 20km valley on the ‘Navvies Road’, take a rib boat ride on the fjord or visit the cheese farm and church at Undredal. At Laerdal find Norway’s best preserved medieval church and 150 wooden houses from the 18th and 19th century, creating a unique insight into Norwegian culture and history.
Whatever your choice, you can be assured of spectacular and lasting memories of ‘Spectacular Sognefjord’.
DAY 7 Return to the UK
If you are returning on an early evening flight, then the 4-5 hr drive (including ferries) back to the airport can be completed at a leisurely pace. Alternatively we can arrange a further night in Bergen (supplement applies), allowing you to also experience this vibrant and bustling Hanseatic town on this tour.
