Norway

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Icehotel Breaks | Northern Lights | Self Drives

Norway is characterised by its striking fjords - unimaginably deep water trenches where the highest mountains and cliffs literally rise right out of the sea. Think of the narrowest possible stretch of water in the most stunning, most dramatic and most peaceful of landscapes and you have a Norwegian fjord. They have a very serious ‘wow’ factor and to see them literally takes your breath away. Norway has a great seafaring tradition and today a ship is often chosen as a comfortable and practical way of exploring this striking and intricate coastline - the Hurtigruten Norwegian coastal voyages being known the world over as a holiday 'must'. For some years we have offered the chance to explore part of this seemingly never-ending coastline on our Great Nordic Odyssey holiday, which combines Norway and Sweden. This popular independent tour continues to operate during the months of January to April, maximising the chance to experience the northern lights, another of Mother Nature's greatest works. 

But Norway isn't just about the fjords. Impressive glaciers, dense forests, sprawling plains, glorious river valleys and a sprinkling of picture-perfect towns and villages all add to the mix. We have two new self-drive itineraries which operate through until September - choose the 7-night Norwegian Fjord Highlights or the 12-night Norwegian Fjord Odyssey. A self-drive trip here is both relaxing and refreshing. You'll have the chance to ride on one of the world's most scenic railways, the Flamsbana, or sample the Hurtigruten, the famous Norwegian coastal voyage as well as enjoy view after stunning view.

There is a wonderfully exhilarating feel of space wherever you go in Norway. This vast and beautiful country has a population of just 4.8 million, which is around 12 people per square kilometre compared with the UK's 246! Around ten percent of the population live in the capital Oslo, meaning that outside of this and other major towns and cities, when exploring the countryside you can often feel like you are the only people there. Mentioning cities, historic Bergen is a particular favourite and it is where we fly to (via Oslo), to commence our new Fjord Highlights self-drive tour which operates between May and September.

When travelling to Norway, June, July and August give the best prospects for fine weather with temperatures in the Bergen area averaging 14 degrees Centigrade (57 degrees Fahrenheit) - these are also the best months for wild flowers, with the latter two months being considered high season. The beautiful autumn colours begin to appear in September when the roads are quieter, and you may be lucky enough to experience some of the fist sightings of the northern lights. If you are interested in bird watching then May until the end of July is the time for good sightings. 

Being a northern European destination, the top portion of the country is above the Arctic Circle and therefore blessed with extended summer days due to the midnight sun - also extended and very dark nights during the winter months hence greater opportunities for witnessing the northern lights.