OLDEN, NORWAY

Driving along the fjord, passing small farms and orchards, we start climbing towards Utvik Mountain, where a photo stop is made at a viewpoint to take in the wonderful panorama. Down on the other side of the mountain, we pass through the very green Våtedalen (‘the wet valley’), a grazing site for sheep and goats.

Driving along the fjord, passing small farms and orchards, we start climbing towards Utvik Mountain, where a photo stop is made at a viewpoint to take in the wonderful panorama. Down on the other side of the mountain, we pass through the very green Våtedalen (‘the wet valley’), a grazing site for sheep and goats. Shortly after, we reach the northern end of Jølster Lake which is the richest fishing lake on the west coast. Here, trout weighing up to 15 kilograms (33 pounds) are caught. We continue along the so called Kjøsnesfjord – a long, narrow arm of the lake – before traversing the six kilometre (four mile) long tunnel which leads underneath the southern part of the mighty Jostedal Glacier, the largest on Europe’s mainland. Arriving in Fjærland – a flat, lush valley surrounded by impressive mountains on three sides, facing the narrow Fjærlandsfjord – we shall visit the Norwegian Glacier Centre. Here we shall watch a fascinating widescreen film. We can then examine the artificial glacier on display, walk right under it, and even hear avalanches pass over our heads. There are simulated ice caves and crevasses and we can undertake small experiments with real glacier ice. After this unusual experience, we will enjoy lunch in Skei, at the northern end of the spectacular Jølster Lake. On our way back to Olden we will have a photo stop close by the Bøya Glacier, an arm of the Jostedal Glacier, stretching steeply down the mountainside. Reaching Utvik Mountain again, we shall once more be able to take in the splendid scenery before returning to the quayside and our awaiting ship.

This tour involves some walking at the Glacier Centre. Please note this tour may not operate on all calls into Olden due to timing restrictions.

DESCRIPTION CORRECT FOR 2008 NORWAY CRUISES