Seven-Day Norwegian Fjord "Coolcation" Itinerary

This route is designed as a circular journey starting and ending in Bergen. It focuses on temperate climates, dramatic scenery, and historic stays, avoiding the intense heat of Southern Europe.

Day 1: Bergen to the Hardangerfjord

Drive east from Bergen towards the Hardangerfjord, often called the “Orchard of Norway.” The drive takes approximately two to three hours.

• Activity: Stop at Steinsdalsfossen, a waterfall you can actually walk behind without getting wet.

• Evening: Stay in the village of Lofthus. This area is famous for its fruit blossoms in spring and heavy harvests in late summer.

• Stay: Hotel Ullensvang. It has been family-run for generations and features a heated outdoor pool that lets you swim while looking directly at the fjord and distant glaciers.

Day 2: Cider Tasting and Waterfalls

Spend the day exploring the banks of the Hardangerfjord.

• Activity: Visit the village of Ulvik and follow the “Cider Route.” You can walk between three different farms to sample award-winning local apple ciders and juices.

• Highlight: Take a short drive to Vøringsfossen, one of Norway’s most famous waterfalls, where a new bridge allows you to stand directly over the thundering 182-metre drop.

Day 3: Through the Mountains to Sognefjord

Head north towards the Sognefjord, the longest and deepest fjord in Norway. You will pass through the Voss mountain region.

• Activity: Stop in the village of Flåm. Board the Flåm Railway for a return journey that climbs 860 metres into the mountains. It is widely considered one of the most beautiful train rides in the world.

• Stay: 29|2 Aurland. This is a boutique retreat in a converted farm. It focuses on high-end “slow travel,” with organic food and quiet surroundings.

Day 4: The Narrowest Fjord and Viking History

Explore the Nærøyfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage site so narrow that mountains tower almost vertically on both sides.

• Activity: Take a silent electric boat cruise from Flåm to Gudvangen. The boat is whisper-quiet, allowing you to hear the birds and waterfalls clearly.

• Afternoon: Visit the Viking Village in Gudvangen to learn about the history of the region before driving to the art-focused village of Balestrand for the night.

Day 5: Glaciers and the Loen Skylift

Drive north toward the Nordfjord region. The scenery here becomes more rugged as you approach the great glaciers.

• Activity: Visit the Briksdal Glacier. You can hike up to the base of the ice or take a “Troll Car” if you prefer to save your legs.

• Evening: Continue to Loen and take the Loen Skylift. In five minutes, it takes you to the top of Mount Hoven (1,011 metres) for a dinner with a panoramic view of the fjord system.

Day 6: The Iconic Geirangerfjord

Drive over the mountain pass toward Geiranger. This is the “postcard” view of Norway.

• Activity: Take the ferry from Hellesylt to Geiranger. This is the best way to see the “Seven Sisters” and “The Suitor” waterfalls.

• Evening: Stay at the Hotel Union Geiranger. It sits on a hill overlooking the water and has a fantastic spa to help you unwind after a week of exploring.

Day 7: The Sunnmøre Alps and Back to Bergen

On your final day, take the scenic route back toward Bergen via the Sunnmøre Alps.

• Activity: Stop at the Hotel Union Øye for lunch. This is one of the most remote and romantic hotels in Europe, styled with 19th-century antiques. It feels like stepping back in time.

• Closing: Continue the drive back to Bergen (including a few short, scenic ferry crossings) to catch your flight home, feeling refreshed by the mountain air.