If you already know Bergen, or simply prefer to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, Voss, Flåm, Balestrand and Solstrand are four well-known resorts in Norway's magnificent Fjord region are also available for your three night stay after your Coastal Voyage.
VOSS
Surrounded by a ring of mountains, and situated between the Sognefjord and the Hardangerfjord, the lakeside town of Voss is an excellent base from which to explore the surrounding countryside.
In summer a cable car takes you to the top of Mount Hangur, where you'll find a network of excellent nature trails, and spectacular views of the modern town clustered around its 13th century stone church.
Voss Folk Museum's collection of traditional handicrafts is housed in 16 original wooden buildings, dating from 1600.
There are many excursions from Voss to explore the magnificent fjord countryside that lies within easy reach of the town. Some are escorted, others are by public transport, giving you the freedom to plan your own route.
Cultural events also take place during the summer. For those looking for more energetic pursuits there is also a number of activities such as horse riding, cycling, rafting and hand gliding.
Fleischers Hotel ****Your hotel at Voss is the historic Fleischers Hotel, owned by the same family for generations. Dating from 1889, this is a hotel of character, with a reputation for excellent service. Centrally located near the railway station, with views over Lake Vangsvatnet, the hotel's many modern facilities include a terrace restaurant, an indoor swimming pool, sauna, solarium and an outdoor tennis court.
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FLÅM
The tiny picturesque fjord village of Flåm is located on the shores of the Aurlandsfjord, an arm of the famous Sognefjord, and is set amidst stunning scenery. When tourists first came here more than a century ago, they were bought down the steep valley from Myrdal by horse and carriage. Today, visitors travel on the Flåm Mountain Railway - one of Europe's most spectacular train journeys and a masterpiece of engineering.
During the 20 km journey the train descends over 860 metres, with a gradient of 1 : 18. No less than 21 tunnels are passed on the short journey, but in between you'll have fantastic views of the Flåm Valley.
Many excursions and activities are available from Flåm such as boat trips on the Aurland and Nærøy fjords, guided walks and hikes, a visit to Undredal - a charming village with a stave church, salmon fishing (permits sold at hotel), a visit to the Otternes Farm Museum and much more.
Fretheim Hotel ****Established more than a century ago, Fretheim Hotel has undergone extensive refurbishment and expansion in recent years and is now a modern hotel of international standard. Its location makes it the ideal base for a relaxing break.
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BALESTRAND
Enhance your voyage of a lifetime with a three night extension to the beautiful fjord resort of Balestrand. This picturesque village lies on the northern shore of the Sognefjord and is a convenient starting point for tours of the area.
The magnificent scenery has inspired many artists and you will find numerous galleries here. The village can be explored on the Balestrand Cultural Walk and the region's natural life can be experienced at the local aquarium featuring over 100 different species. Sognefjord hosts a yearly jazz festival in May.
Balestrand can be reached by disembarking the southbound coastal voyage in Florø, where your journey continues by scheduled bus service. There is also a frequent direct scheduled express boat service operating from Bergen.
Kviknes HotelThe stunning Kviknes Hotel has inn-keeping traditions dating back to 1752 and the historic wing of the hotel carries a distinctive architecture and charm. Since 1877, when the Kvikne family took over the premises, the establishment has been redeveloped to meet modern needs while maintaining the hotel's unique character. The list of prominent guests is long - royalty, emperors, presidents, prime ministers, film stars and artists from around the world grace the visitor list.
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SOLSTRAND
As an alternative to staying in Bergen, Solstrand - just forty minutes away by road - is ideally located for a wonderful break. Surrounded by its beautiful extensive gardens, at the edge of clear blue Bjønefjord, we offer a stay in a hotel that has been in the same family for four generations.
Enjoy the peace and quiet together with the many spa facilities on offer at the Solstrand Wellness Centre. The surrounding countryside offers many unique hiking opportunities, it is possible to hire sail boats with or without skipper, join a guided sea kayak tour or practice your golf swing at Bjørnefjorden Golf Club which is within walking distance of the hotel.
As each day gently draws to a close in this rural idyll, you may dine in elegant surroundings with magnificent views across the fjord to the mountains beyond.
Solstrand HotelThe Solstrand Hotel and Spa offers fine hospitality and a relaxing atmosphere in rich, unspoilt countryside. The many facilities include a swimming pool, sauna, outdoor jacuzzi, gym, treatment rooms, solarium and a restaurant where you can dine in elegant surroundings with magnificent views across the fjord to the mountains beyond. Treatment rooms should be booked in advance.
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