A destination holidaymakers often overlook in favour of higher temperatures, Norway is a true European gem where life is relaxed and freedom treasured.
A land full of contrasts, from magnificent snow-capped mountains, dramatic fjords, vast plateaux with wild untamed tracts, to huge lakes and rich green countryside.
There is a misperception among we British that because it lies north of our little island it must be chilly all year round; summer temperatures, however, can easily reach 25 degrees or above, and the air is blessedly free from humidity. It would also be a mistake to assume that Norway is all fjords and forests – the southern coast has some excellent beaches.
Into the Arctic
Cross into the Arctic Circle
Nothing will make you feel more like an intrepid explorer than crossing into the Arctic Circle. You’ll have to venture into the northern reaches of Norway, but it’s worth the journey. Somewhat more forgiving than in the old days, it has a visitor centre where postcards can be bought and sent, but the mountainous landscape evokes a feeling of being at the far-flung edge of civilisation.
Northern city of Tromsø, situated within the Arctic Circle
Also known as Kirkeporten Camping, this is the most northerly mainland campsite in the world (71º 06) and considering the climate and the wild, unspoilt...
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Find the eye of the Moskstraumen
If you're an adventurer seeking the thrills of the Arctic, then a visit to the maelstrom at Saltstraumen is an absolute must. Located near Bodø in Norway, Saltstraumen is renowned for hosting the most powerful tidal current in the world, a natural phenomenon that attracts both nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike.
The sheer power of the currents is awe-inspiring, with water speeds reaching up to a staggering 25 miles per hour, creating a mesmerising and humbling spectacle. Amid this ferocious setting, it may come as a surprise that the serene and laid-back activity of angling is popular here.
Anglers from around the world flock to Saltstraumen to test their skills against the forces of nature, casting their lines into tumultuous waters in pursuit of an impressive catch. Despite the intense whirlpools that can reach up to 10 meters in diameter, the abundance of fish, including cod and halibut, are drawn to the area due to the rich nutrients brought in by the powerful currents.
Home of the largest glacier in continental Europe, this breathtaking Jostedal Glacier National Park gives an insight into the formation of the Norwegian landscape. Deep valleys, cascading waterfalls and of course the glaciers themselves provide a stunning backdrop for walking, kayaking and other outdoor activities. Guided family walks on the glacier are a rare opportunity to discover these natural wonders up close.
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Drive the Atlantic Road
Purportedly the most spectacular drive in the world, the Atlantic Road stretches for 8.3km over small islands and skerries between the cities of Molde and Kristiansund. The open sea views are nothing short of astonishing and make for an exhilarating experience whether you cross in calm weather or wild storms
Known as Atlanterhavsveien in Norwegian, the road was completed in 1989 and has become one of Norway's most iconic scenic drives. It features a series of breathtaking bridges and viaducts that leapfrog from island to island across the Atlantic Ocean, creating an unforgettable driving experience.
One of the most famous bridges along the Atlantic Road is the Storseisundet Bridge. Its distinctive curved design and dramatic appearance have made it a popular subject for photographers from around the world.
Oslo’s Viking Ship Museum is the best place to get acquainted with the hardy folk of Scandinavia’s past. Take a look at two well-preserved ships as well as sledges, tools, textiles and household items. If you want to take it a step further, Karmoy’s Viking festival in June is the ideal opportunity to discover the Viking spirit. Taste Viking food, try your hand at archery, and listen to traditional music in the reconstructed settlement.
The Viking Ship Museum is closed for rebuilding. It is scheduled to reopen as the Museum of the Viking Age in 2026.
The Fram Museum in Oslo offers a fascinating journey into the history of polar exploration. Named after the famous ship "Fram," which was used by Norwegian explorers Fridtjof Nansen and Roald Amundsen, the museum showcases their remarkable expeditions and the challenges they faced in the extreme Arctic and Antarctic regions. Upon entering the museum, visitors are greeted by the towering presence of the Fram, preserved in all its glory. The interactive exhibits and multimedia presentations provide a comprehensive understanding of the explorers' lives, scientific discoveries, and unwavering determination in the face of adversity.
The Kon-Tiki Museum pays tribute to the extraordinary expeditions of Norwegian explorer Thor Heyerdahl. The museum takes its name from the legendary raft "Kon-Tiki," which Heyerdahl and his crew sailed across the Pacific Ocean in 1947. The museum showcases the original Kon-Tiki raft, meticulously preserved and displayed, alongside a wealth of artefacts, photographs, and documents from the daring expedition. Visitors can immerse themselves in the fascinating story of Heyerdahl's journey, where he sought to prove that prehistoric peoples could have made long-distance voyages using primitive materials and techniques.
Although you can do this in many countries, there’s something about the beach experience in Norway that seems purer and more indulgent. One of the best stretches of coast is between Farsund and Lista – white sands, cool sea, dunes and rock pools all set against a vast blue sky. And as the days are long in Norway, you’ll really be able to make the most of every day.
Sandnes Camping is located in the extreme south of Norway and makes a convenient stop-off point when arriving or departing for Denmark via Kristiansand. Just...
The Art Nouveau Centre in Ålesund is a remarkable place to explore and learn about the town's unique history and architectural heritage. The centre is a national resource centre dedicated to the Art Nouveau style, offering visitors an immersive experience that takes them back to 1904.
At the Art Nouveau Centre, you can take a fascinating journey through a time machine, transporting you to the year when Ålesund was devastated by a devastating fire. This interactive experience allows you to witness the dramatic events of that stormy winter's night and gain a deeper understanding of its impact on the town and its people.
As you travel back in time, you'll also have the opportunity to explore and soak up the exciting period of Norwegian history when Ålesund was swiftly rebuilt in the distinctive Art Nouveau style. The young architects and artisans of that time played a pivotal role in reconstructing the town, resulting in the largest continuous concentration of Art Nouveau buildings in Norway.
Stordal Camping is situated on the shores of Storfjorden where high forested valley sides open to an inlet where the Stordalselva salmon river enters the...
Capital: Oslo Population: 5.4 million Language: Norwegian but English is widely spoken Telephone country code: +47 (00 47) Currency: Norwegian Krone
Climate: Weather can be unpredictable, although less extreme on the west coast. Some regions have 24 hours of daylight in the summer but none in the winter.
Public holidays: New Year's Day; Maundy Thursday; Good Friday; Easter Sunday; Easter Monday; Labour Day (1 May); Constitution Day (17 May); Ascension Day; Whit Sunday; Whit Monday; Christmas Day; Boxing Day.
Motoring: Roads are generally uncrowded around Oslo and Bergen but be prepared for tunnels and hairpin bends. Certain roads are forbidden to caravans or best avoided. Vehicles must have sufficient road grip and in winter it may be necessary ti use winter tyres with or without chains. Vehicles entering Bergen on weekdays must pay a toll and other tolls are also levied on certain roads.
Rob has been involved in the leisure industry since completing a BTEC in Travel & Tourism in 1993. Previous roles have included the promotion of tourism in Yorkshire and running a motorcycle touring company in the Australian Outback.
He is the General Manager at Alan Rogers Travel Group, responsible for the ongoing development of the Alan Rogers website and the publication of the Alan Rogers Guides and 'Destinations' magazine.
He regularly travels with his wife and young daughter in their Dethleffs 'Campy' caravan. A keen cycling fan, Rob can often be found in a field in Belgium during the 'Spring Classics' season or riding his Royal Enfield Himalayan motorcycle.
Every year, our friends at Lonely Planet publish the ultimate list of countries, regions and cities which they deem must-visits for the year ahead. We're excited that more of the destinations that we offer have been chosen to represent 2022's Best in Travel than ever before.
We will be covering 454 of Europe's UNESCO sites over four blogs; sorted into northern, southern, western and central/eastern Europe starting with the northern states. We hope to inspire more people to visit more UNESCO sites when travelling.
