Scenic Norwegian Fjords

Åndalsnes is often referred to as the 'Alp town by the fjord'. Located at the mouth of the Rauma River, and surrounded by snow-capped mountains, the town is in one of the most scenic areas of Norway, and a natural starting point for forest walks and hikes to magnificent viewpoints. The Rauma Railway is considered to be one of the best railway routes in Europe, since it was constructed 100 years ago.

Sail into the serene beauty of Romsdalsfjorden, one of Norway’s most picturesque, longest and cleanest fjords, framed by the majestic peaks and waterfalls of the Romsdalsalpene Mountains, which tower over lush green valleys and charming waterside villages. As your ship glides through this majestic fjord, you’ll be treated to views of quaint coastal villages and dramatic mountain landscapes that seem to rise straight from the sea. Along the way, you might glimpse the famous Rauma Railway snaking through the cliffs, or the iconic Trollveggen, Europe’s tallest vertical rock face, standing proudly as a testament to nature’s grandeur.

Located at the eastern end of the Nordfjord where it divides into three arms beneath the glaciers of the Jostedalsbreen, the charming village of Olden sits among green meadows, towering cliff faces, and sparkling glacial waters. In the centre of the village is the Old Church; and just a short journey away is the Briksdal Glacier, formed thousands of years ago, while still breath-taking, has retreated some 859m in the last century, a stark reminder of the effects of climate change.

Stretching over 66 nautical miles from the westernmost point in Norway, overlooking the Sunnmøre Alps, to Jostedalsbreen, the largest glacier in mainland Europe, picturesque Nordfjord has postcard-perfect icy-blue waters framed by towering peaks covered in lush greenery. As your ship navigates Nordfjord, the landscape becomes fairytale-like, with forested hillsides leading down to tranquil waters, cascading waterfalls, and remote villages and farms dotted along the fjord edge. 

Fjaerlandsfjorden is an arm of the mighty Sognefjord which branches off to the north, with glassy waters that glow with a tinge of aquamarine created by melted glacial water. It’s surrounded by steep mountains, some of which stay snow-capped, picturesque fjord-side villages, and flows for 16 miles from the village of Fjærland to Balestrand, where it links with the Sognefjord.

Nicknamed the King of the Fjords, Sognefjord is Norway’s largest and deepest fjord and the second longest fjord in the world, stretching over 200km from the coast of Bergen to the small village of Skjolden. The tranquil waters and combination of glacier topped mountains, green farmland, steep forested mountainsides and cascading waterfalls provide an ideal place to enjoy Norway’s natural beauty.

Lustrafjord – an arm of the spectacular Sognefjord – boasts the incredible natural beauty and landscapes of glaciers, mountains and charming villages which line the often bright green waters of the fjord. Lustrafjord has inspired the work of many great Norwegian artists over the years and is home to some of Norway’s most famous landmarks, such as UNESCO-listed Urnes Stave Church – the oldest stave church in Norway – and the magnificent 218 metre high Feigumfossen Waterfall, one of the country’s highest falls.

Situated at the end of the world’s longest fjord, Skjolden is overlooked by towering mountains and cliffs, and is gateway to the Jotunheimen Mountains and Jostedalsbreen Glacier. The Feigum Waterfalls are located here and are said to be the most impressive in Norway. The philosopher Ludwig Wittgenstein lived and worked in Skjolden during the early 20th century, and his ideas still continue to influence western thinking in logic, ethics and religion.

The Hanseatic city of Bergen is steeped in maritime history, with the 900-year old Bryggen Wharf being its highlight. Here, the famous fish market offers appealing fresh seafood, fruit and vegetables. Edvard Grieg, Norway’s renowned composer had a home here and the Troldhaugen Museum is devoted to his work. Close by is the funicular railway, offering unrivalled views from the top of Mount Fløyen.

The Norwegian Fjords are among some of the most picturesque locations on earth, and Maurangerfjord is no exception. Branching off from Hardangerfjord, Maurangerfjord stretches into Nordrepollen and Austrepollen and is home to the sprawling Furebergsfossen waterfall. The magnificent waterfall flows down the steep mountainside, over large rocks, surrounded by deep green spruces, under the road and directly into the Maurangerfjord.

Known as the 'Queen of the Fjords', Hardangerfjord is situated centrally in the heart of Western Norway. At 106 nautical miles long, and the world’s third longest fjord, this stretch of deep blue water is flanked by towering mountains – including the well-known Trolltunga rock formation, magnificent waterfalls and idyllic orchards. Charming villages are located along the banks of the Hardangerfjord, including Eidfjord, which offers superb views of the fjord.

Set within the outstandingly beautiful Hardangerfjord, Eidfjord is surrounded by snow-capped mountains, tumbling rivers and serene lakes. Explore Hæreid, the largest Viking burial site from the Iron Age or visit the famous Vøringfoss Waterfall, a tumbling natural beauty set deep within the mountains of Måbødalen Valley. Hiking is also popular here, with perfect photo opportunities in abundance.