Discovering Scandinavia's Viking Heritage

Although they don’t offer the incredible mountainous scenery of their Norwegian counterparts, the Danish Fjords still boast beautiful landscapes and an abundance of breathtaking sights to see on a scenic cruise. 

Gliding through the tranquil, shallow waters of Limfjord – one of Denmark’s most famous, sought-after fjords – you’ll see undulating lush valleys, pretty islands, picturesque harbours and coastal cliffs as you sail deep into the heart of Denmark. 

The name Hundested, the tiny town in the northern district of Zealand in eastern Denmark, originates from the adjoining Seal Reef. Its pretty harbour was first built at the end of the 19th century, and this town between sea and fjord, and is known for quiet beaches that are perfect to stroll.

Hundested’s attractions include Grønnessedyssen Karlstenen – one of the country’s largest megalithic tombs – and Knud Rasmussen’s House, the former home of the famous Polar explorer. Fishing is still an important local industry, which supplies the town’s restaurants with the freshest ingredients. Kikhavn, located 2 kilometres north, is another historic fishing village worthy of a visit, consisting of charming traditional farmhouses and a beautiful harbour.

As you sail the glassy waters of Oslofjord on board your smaller-sized ship, you can catch a glimpse of Lysedal Mansion – the historic home of the Olsen family – situated amongst the picturesque scenery of Hvitsten, a charming village synonymous with our company’s founders.

Be on the lookout for Hvitsten’s old wooden church, gifted to the village by Bolette Olsen in 1903, through your binoculars too.

Sailing the length of the 100 Kilometre-long Oslofjord, your smaller ship's route to Oslo, offers you a chance to admire the waterway's wonderful scenery on a cruise taking in Norway's fantastic capital city. 

While Oslofjord doesn't boast landscapes quite as dramatic as other Norwegian fjords which may feature on your itinerary, there's still plenty to see as you glide along the glassy waters, including a number of pretty islands, fishing villages and bays. The Oslofjord is also a haven for birdwatchers too and various species can be seen resting on the shores or flying high above the fjord.

Oslo, the capital and largest city of Norway, is one of Scandinavia’s most historic, interesting and welcoming destinations. Surrounded by mountains and its own fjord, this compact and cultured city is both easy and fun to explore on foot.

Oslo’s two most famous sons, Edvard Munch and Henrik Ibsen, are celebrated across the city – all part of the contemporary cultural experience. The National Gallery is home to Edvard Munch’s iconic ‘The Scream’, along with works by other European artists from Manet to Picasso, and the Munchmuseet contains over 5,000 works that Munch left to the city of Oslo.

Exploring one of Oslo’s many museums, uncovering its booming art scene at any number of its commercial galleries or simply marvelling at the extraordinary architecture that fills the skyline are all highlights of this fine city. The fabulous Viking Ship Museum has three ships recovered from royal burial mounds in the Oslofjord, while the medieval Akershus Castle that dominates the harbour front is well worth visiting. Vigelandsparken Sculpture Park – one of Oslo’s must-visit attractions, is a Norwegian institution and home to more than 200 bronze, granite and wrought iron sculptures from Gustav Vigeland.

Oslo is an overwhelmingly green city. It was awarded European Green Capital for 2019, and boasts one of the lowest carbon footprints in the world. The city has excellent public transport, and the city planning has put pedestrians first. Most noticeable in the city, is Oslo’s commitment to sustainable food production and green space. From hotdogs to Michelin-starred restaurants, the dining is always of a high-quality, as is the city nightlife.

Outside of the city centre, the stunning natural landscapes of the Oslomarka and Oslofjord await discovery. The Oslomarka – the vast forests around Oslo, has lush green valleys and diverse fauna such as lynx, beaver, Eurasian elk and deer, while the impressive, photogenic Oslofjord stretches over 120 kilometres.

Listafjorden is a wide stretch of open water that divides the stunning rocky landscapes of Hidra and Lista in Vest-Agder County, Norway.

Narrowing as it winds its way through jagged cliffs and snow-topped hills, the fjord eventually splits into two branches. Fedafjorden – the southern branch of the Listafjorden – is breathtakingly beautiful and the tall, marshy hills, dramatic cliff-faces and pretty beaches that run alongside the fjord offer wonderful views.

Passing between the islands of Hidra and Andabeløya, peaceful Strandsfjorden is flanked by scenes of rugged landscapes smothered with lush forests and smattered with small, tucked-away beaches and little villages situated on the coast. As you sail this waterway, taking in views of typically beautiful Norwegian scenery, it narrows as it flows into Hidrasund. 

Continuing along Hidrasund, the route between the mainland and Hidra Island, which pinches to less than 300 metres wide at its narrowest point, you get to take in the sight of deciduous forests that are home to some of Norway's rarest flora and fauna, as well as traditional red-roofed houses typical of the region. 

Behind the bustle of the prosperous and cosmopolitan Stavanger of today lie 1,000 years of ancient seafaring tradition and history. This vibrant, exciting Norwegian city oozes charm and was awarded the prestigious title of ‘European Capital of Culture’ in 2008.

The city’s wealth and thriving oil industry has prompted its tag as Norway’s ‘Oil Capital’, but Stavanger has remained as charming as ever. The old town, Gamle Stavanger, has narrow winding streets and ancient wooden houses gathered round an historic fresh fish and vegetable market. Stavanger is also a university city, which is reflected in the city’s lively, urban atmosphere, and in the varied assortment of shopping and dining experiences.

The Norwegian Petroleum Museum exhibits drilling equipment, a model oil platform, submersibles and audio-visual shows, while the city’s Herring Canning Museum celebrates one of Stavanger’s earlier sources of wealth. Beyond the town, the Three Swords monument commemorates the 9th century battle of Hafrsfjord – the moment Harald Hårfagre became the first King of Norway.

Stavanger is also perfectly placed for the breath-taking Lysefjord, one of the most famous Norwegian Fjords. This stunning waterway is home to the Kjerag Mountain and Preikestolen (The Pulpit Rock) – two of the country's most popular attractions.

Lerwick is the friendly capital of the 100 islands and islets of Shetland. The bustling, cosmopolitan seaport is the islands’ only town, and its wonderful natural harbour is a joy to explore.

Until the 1600s, Leir Vik – Norse for a muddy bay – was little more than a few huts. However, conflict between the British and Dutch, whose fishing fleet fished for herrings off the islands, led to the building of a permanent settlement. This included Fort Charlotte, which once overlooked the harbour but has now been enclosed by the town following land reclamation.

Despite the wealth created by North Sea oil, modern Lerwick retains many fascinating small shops and historic buildings. Wandering along atmospheric Commercial Street is a delight, and the Böd of Gremista – a “fishing booth” built in 1780, is now a fascinating museum. The ground floor has the salt store and the kitchen, where herrings were hung to dry. Outside the town are the well preserved remains of the Broch of Clickimin, a small Bronze-Age settlement excavated in the last century.

Sailing along beautiful coast of Northumberland is one of the very best, most memorable scenic cruising experiences enjoyed anywhere in the UK. From on board your Fred. Olsen ship, you’ll not only revel in views of areas of outstanding natural beauty and spot the North Sea’s native sea birds and marine life, but also see some of England’s most famous and important religious and historical sites in all their glory.

A glide by Lindisfarne is an undoubted highlight. In 635AD, Saint Aidan founded his monastery on the island, from where he spread the Christian message around the world, and through your binoculars you’ll spot historical sites such as the ancient priory, churches and castle, set amongst Lindisfarne’s beautifully rugged landscapes. As you look to the mainland coast, another of England’s most magnificent castles comes into view too – Grade I listed Bamburgh Castle is always a sight to behold, with its imposing 11^th century walls, towers and turrets.