11 days / 10 nights
Bergen • Balestrand • Flåm • Utne • Bergen - by car
Bergen • Kirkenes - by ship
BEAUTIFUL NORWEGIAN FJORDS FARES 2010 (PDF document will open in new window)
Starting in Bergen this 11 day spectacular road and sea journey takes you through dramatic mountain scenery along a circular route between Bergen, Balestrand, Flåm and Utne before joining your Hurtigruten voyage sailing north across the Arctic Circle to the remote and fascinating port of Kirkenes.
Day 1 : Bergen
Arrive in Bergen with its delightful natural setting, surrounded on three sides by mountains forming a dramatic backdrop for the rainbow-painted houses that cling all the way down to the waterfront.
Stay overnight in this UNESCO cultural World Heritage Site.
Day 2 : Bergen - Balestrand (approx. 190km drive)
You will start your journey by driving through the Vikafjell to the amazing Sognefjord, the longest fjord in the world before arriving in Balestrand where you will stay overnight. Make sure you take some time to visit Vik and don't miss the stave church there.
Day 3 : Balestrand - Flåm (approx. 100km drive)
Head for Kaupanger where you board the Ferry which will take you across the Sognefjord to Lærdal. From here drive directly to Flåm, located at the end of the narrow Aurlandsfjord and surrounded by steep cliffs. In Flåm take the opportunity to enjoy the unique and impressive rail journey high up in the mountains from Flåm to Myrdal. Stay overnight in Flåm.
Day 4 : Flåm - Utne (approx. 110km drive)
On your way to Utne in Stalheim you will pass the impressive "Stalheimsfossen" waterfall with its 126m free fall, and a stop in Voss is also worthwhile. Utne, where you stay overnight is located at the northern tip of the Folgefonna peninsula, where the Hardangerfjord splits into the Gransvinsfjord, Eidfjord and Sørfjord.
Day 5 : Utne - Bergen (approx. 140km drive)
Cross the Hardangerfjord and dive via Norheimsund to Bergen. "Steindalsfossen" a waterfall west of Norheimsund is unique and you can actually pass behind it! After arriving in Bergen you have the rest of the day to explore the city before boarding your Hurtigruten ship to settle into your cabin. Relax as you weave through many small picturesque islands and fjords on the way to Kirkenes.
Day 6 : Hurtigruten Voyage North
An early arrival at the Art Nouveau town of Ålesund provides an opportunity to go ashore and explore this pretty town. Departures between 15 April and 14 September will sail into the UNESCO site of Geirangerfjord.
Day 7 : Hurtigruten Voyage North
Continuing north, the medieval city of Trondheim is today's highlight. Standing proud against the natural backdrop, its colourful history is reflected in handsome civic architecture. Excursions include the medieval Nidaros Cathedral or the enthralling Ringve Music Museum. While you sleep the ship plies its trade along the coast and enters the land of the Midnight Sun.
Day 8 : Hurtigruten Voyage North
In the early hours you experience the thrill of crossing the Arctic Circle as the voyage continues to the modern town of Bodø, from where you can join a Sea Eagle safari and witness the world's strongest maelstrom or 'whirling stream' at Saltstraumen. The glorious Lofoten Islands are where the day draws to a close with a stop at the capital, Svolvær. The intriguing Magic Ice gallery of 'art below zero' is on the quay side and the stylish little town is just a few minutes away.
Day 9 : Hurtigruten Voyage North
A relaxing morning at sea precedes your arrival in Tromsø - the capital of the Arctic- where the Midnight Sun is visible from the end of May until the last week in July. The simple interior of the Arctic Cathedral gives prominence to a triangular stained-glass window filling an entire wall. The Polar Museum and the Polaria centre explore Arctic life over the centuries and are complemented by modern shops and cafés just minutes from your cabins.
Day 10 : Hurtigruten Voyage North
After an early call at Hammerfest you arrive in Honningsvåg, the largest fishing village in Finnmark, and doorway to the wonders of the spectacular North Cape, mainland Europe's northernmost point at 71º north.
Day 11 : Kirkenes
Arrive in Kirkenes and transfer to the airport for your flight home.
DEPARTURES 2010 :
Daily departures between 15th May and 10th September, 2010.
BEAUTIFUL NORWEGIAN FJORDS FARES 2010 (PDF document will open in new window)
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Car Hire
Car hire prices are based on a VW Golf or similar. If you prefer a larger car, please call for a quote.
