Norway : Intimate Tour

Set on Norway’s breathtaking southern coast, and surrounded by the lush, rolling hills of the Marka region and the rippling waters of the Oslofjord, Oslo is the perfect playground for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of both winter and summer activities. However, mother nature is not the only artist at work in this vibrant, cosmopolitan city. Norway’s capital is also home to a rich and prolific arts community and is filled with world-class galleries such as the astounding National Gallery Norway and the intriguing Munch Museum. Other popular attractions include the Viking Ship Museum, home to the world’s best-preserved Viking ships, and The Norwegian Museum of Cultural History, Europe’s largest open-air museum. Throw in a thriving nightlife and a unique culinary tradition and you get a smorgasbord of Nordic delights.

Tucked away on the northern shore of the mighty Sognefjorden in Norway’s Sogn district, the peaceful village of Balestrand offers a quieter refuge than its more touristy neighbours, even during the busier summer season. Any disturbances are likely to be caused by a run in with a deer or two. The fjord and town are surrounded by incredible, postcard-perfect mountain peaks reflecting on the water, making it a photographer’s paradise. Take a five-minute stroll down from the Balestrand Hotel to the pretty harbour, to sample some delicious traditional currywurst at the cute and quirky Viking Ship Wiener Stand, or enjoy a huge buffet lunch at the grand 19th Century Kviknes Hotel, which is famous for its small but impressive landscape art collection, as well as its exhibit of extraordinary historic carved wooden furniture.

Known as the ‘gateway to the fjords’, Bergen is a delightful, picturesque city surrounded by the fjords of Norway's western coast and seven spectacular forested mountains. The landscapes offer an incredible wonderland for outdoor sports; however, for many visitors the highlight is simply wandering along the narrow, cobbled streets, strolling in and out of bustling cafes, nibbling on some of the excellent local dishes and mingling with the friendly locals. There is plenty to thrill history buffs with an abundance of museums and rows beautifully preserved tiny wooden Hanseatic houses painted in an array of cheerful colours. With its dynamic cultural life, excellent range of restaurants, impressive art galleries and booming nightlife, it is almost impossible not to fall in love with this enchanting ‘trebyen’ (wooden city).

Spreading over West Norway’s lake-filled area, Sogn og Fjordane is a county boasting natural riches, historic treasures, and a long list of exciting activities. Featuring mesmerising fjords, enthralling glaciers, jaw-dropping mountains and beautiful coastal landscapes, the unspoilt scenes offer a world of adventure. Active travellers can look forward to kayaking, hiking, cycling, glacier walking, swimming, bathing in hot springs, and many more pastimes in the outdoors. Soak in the views without the effort by riding the scenic railway from Flam to Myrdal. Delve into the local heritage by seeing the UNESCO-listed Urnes Stave Church (the oldest stave church in Norway); the home of painter Nikolai Astrup, Astruptunet; and the fascinating Art Museum. Numerous interesting historic towns offer more to discover.