Normally, the thought of a seven-hour train journey would be enough to make me pop a sleeping pill, but the spectacular Oslo to Bergen railway had me glued to the window, camera in hand. Bridging the gap between two of Norway’s must-see cities, this unique train journey climbs an astonishing 1222m above sea level, taking in picturesque pine forests, plunging waterfalls, narrow gorges and small villages dotted with gingerbread-style houses. The most stunning stretch comes over the Hardangervidda, Europe's highest mountainous plateau and national park. Jaws dropped as the train rolled through beautiful, barren snowscapes, resembling what you may only expect to see on another planet (I later found out it was used to film parts of Star Wars). It is not surprising that it is recognised by many as the most exciting and beautiful train ride in the world.

www.nsb.no
Departs from Oslo S railway station

I agreeI disagree

1.  
2. Send to friends

A 14 hour round trip from Oslo to Bergen, taking in all Norway has to offer. During the initial five hour train journey from Oslo to Myrdal the scene from the window gets whiter and whiter as the journey takes you high through the Langfjellene and Hardangervidda mountains. By the time you reach Myrdal station, it’s so snowy icicles have formed the length of the ticket offices. The Flam railway then descends down the Norwegian landscape, stopping briefly by the (often frozen) Kjosfossen waterfall allowing passengers to get out and take photographs. From Flam you take a boat through the breathtaking Aurlandsfjord before a bus takes you the final length of your journey from Gudvangen to Bergen, just in time for dinner. Bergen has one of the world’s most famous fish markets, so trying the local produce is highly recommended. If you still haven’t quite got enough of a snowy mountain fix, Bergen’s funicular railway takes you to the top of Mount Floyan for some outstanding views and vast walking opportunities. Completing the round trip is a direct train journey from Bergen back to Oslo, including a stop at Finse with an altitude of 1,222 meters, it’s the highest station on the journey.

www.norwaynutshell.com/en/explore-the-fjords/norway-in-a-nutshell/

I agreeI disagree

1.  
2. Send to friends

I am a Brit living, working and studying in the city and love it to bits. If I had my way I'd fly all my family and friends here tomorrow. The scenery, the people and the food are fantastic. If you are coming to Norway write me an email and I can give you some suggestions of what to do and where to do it. No probs.

thomasmichaeljames@talk21.com

I agreeI disagree

1.  
2. Send to friends

Bergen’s funicular (the Fløibanen) is modern and well used and connects the heart of the harbour side shops and houses with the top of the hill that rises sharply behind them. When you reach the top you realise just how high the hill is; there’s an observation point next to the funicular entrance that gives a superb panorama of the scope of Bergen.

Øvregaten

I agreeI disagree

1.  
2. Send to friends