Spectacular Sognefjord

Dramatic Scenery

Dramatic Scenery

View Down Sognefjorden

Views From The Walaker Hotel

Views From The Walaker Hotel

Idyllic Gardens

Visit The Famous Glacier

Visit The Famous Glacier

Glacier Briksdal In National Park Jostedalsbreen

A 12th-Century Stave Church At Ornes

A 12th-Century Stave Church At Ornes

Photo By: Terje Rakke/Visit Norway

 Summer In Norway

Summer In Norway

A Pleasant Fjord Town

Spectacular Sognefjord

Sognefjord, is the longest and deepest of all the fjords in Norway. Extending over 200km inland, the region boasts the UNESCO World Heritage sites of the Naerøyfjord with mountains that tower 1300m above sea level and Jostedal National Park, where arms of the Jostedalsbreen Glacier spill down the mountain sides. Stave churches sit amongst simply breath-taking scenery and lush green valley’s produce some exquisite fare for you to sample. This flexible fly-drive enables you to explore the ‘King of the Fjords’.

THINGS TO SEE AND DO
Each of the properties that we have chosen place you in the heart of Sognefjord, allowing you complete flexibility as to what style of accommodation suits you and where and when you wish to spend your days. Stay in one resort, pick and mix or even extend your stay and stop off in Bergen for a couple of days.
 
NAERØYFJORD: Travel by ferry along the UNESCO World Heritage site of Naerøyfjord, which narrows to 500m in places.
 
FLÅM: This tiny hamlet is home to the Flåm Railway, considered one of the most scenic rail journey’s in Norway.  
 
NATIONAL TOURIST DRIVING ROUTES: Three scenic drives deemed outstanding including Aurlandsfjellet, Gaularfjellet and Sognefjellet.
 
JOSTEDALSBREEN NATIONAL PARK: Arms of the Jostedalsbreen glacier extend down lush valleys and almost touch the fjord. Walk on the blue ice, visit the Norwegian Glacier Museum and Jostedal Glacier Visitors Centre.
 
WATERFALLS: Witness the thundering roar of some of Norway’s highest waterfalls including Vettisfossen and Feigumfossen – all easily accessible.
 
STAVE CHURCHES: Including Kaupanger Stave Church – the oldest in Sognefjord, Urnes Stave Church, the oldest in the country and St Olafs Church, used as inspiration for the church in the Walt Disney film, Frozen.
 
ACTIVITIES: Rib boat safaris, endless hiking and biking, guided glacier walks, kayaking, farm visits, boat rental and cultural events.
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.
Midtnes Hotel
Midtnes Hotel - Balestrand
Balestrand is considered to be the capital of Sognefjord. Explore the town’s long and illustrious history by taking the cultural walk through the centre, where you will find Viking funeral mounds, St Olav’s church and well-marked nature trails. The Midtnes Hotel is a small, cosy, traditional hotel situated in the heart of the town. Be sure to request a room with a balcony, overlooking the fjord for some spectacular views, which can also be enjoyed from the restaurant and lounge area. All rooms have private WC/shower, none have a TV, but with that vista, do you really need one? You are assured of a warm, friendly welcome at this family owned property. 
Small, homely hotel ▪ great location ▪ personal service
Tørvis Hotell - Marifjøra
Tørvis Hotell - Marifjøra
Marifjøra was once a busy market town, but is now a peaceful haven located on the shores of the Lusterfjord. Dating back to the 17th century, the hotel transports you back to a bygone era and cannot fail to charm. Spread along the waterfront, the 28 rooms all enjoy a fjord view and have a balcony, many are adorned with antique furnishings. There are no televisions, however the library, garden, and numerous nooks and crannies provide plentiful areas from where you can sit and enjoy the natural beauty of the surroundings. As well as breakfast, the restaurant serves a 3-course seasonal dinner menu that can be parred with an impressive wine list. This family owned hotel prides itself on their service and friendly staff, only serve to enhance the relaxed atmosphere. 
Secluded hideaway ▪ Exceptional service ▪ ideal location to explore
Walaker Hotel
Walaker Hotel - Solvorn
Norway’s oldest hotel was established in 1640 and has been owned by the same family since 1690. Little of the exterior has changed over the years, including the idyllic rose garden overlooking Sognefjord. 10 historical rooms are filled with beautiful antique furniture, traditional wallpaper and old-style (fully functional) bathrooms. Rooms in the annex have a more modern touch and benefit from a decking area overlooking the gardens and fjord. The view more than compensates for the lack of TV’s. Gourmet dining can be enjoyed in the hotel’s historic restaurant. Much of the product is sourced from the surrounding mountains, fjords and farms and the hotel is famed for its 4-course table d’hote menu – demand is such that booking is essential in peak season. The hotel is opposite the quay from where a tiny ferry transports you to the Urnes Stave Church.
Exquisite historical hotel with fine dining ▪ an ‘away from it all’ location ▪ family owned

 

Vesterland Feriepark -  Kaupanger
Vesterland Feriepark - Kaupanger
Situated in a wooded enclave near the village of Kaupanger is Vesterland Feriepark. This is a collection of accommodation comprising of 1-bedroomed chalets, larger traditional wooden cabins and hotel rooms, making this ideal for families. The 1-bedroomed chalets and larger cabins are rustic and simply decorated. All have private facilities and TV. A fully equipped kitchenette means that you can opt for a self-catering arrangement. Alternatively, breakfast, lunch and dinner can be taken in the hotel. On-site facilities include an indoor swimming pool and play area for children as well as a launderette (charges apply). 
Excellent choice for those on a budget ▪ Ideal for families ▪ Next to the Sogn Folk Museum