Norway in your pocket

NORWAY - In Your Pocket

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BE INSPIRED BY NORWAY TO HAVE AN ACTIVE HOLIDAY Walking from cabin to cabin in the mountains or going on a glacier walk is perhaps the best way to explore Norway.

If you like cycling, there are lots of great routes to choose from, whether you prefer flat terrain or more challenging routes. There are lots of package trips including food and accommodation to choose from.

There are also plenty of options for people who enjoy fishing. Try your hand at deepsea fishing, salmon fishing or freshwater fishing and you will have a good chance of landing a big fish.

On a safari, you can see wild animals and birds at close range, including musk oxen, moose, eagles, whales and king crabs. Or how about a challenge like rafting down rapids, climbing or snowkiting?

There are many customised trips to choose from in Norway – on foot, by bike, boat or car. They enable you to get the most out of your holiday.

In winter, Norway has a wide range of alpine ski centres, both for beginners and more experienced skiers. Naturally, there are also opportunities for cross-country skiing trips on prepared, marked tracks. Winter is also the season for killer whale safaris, iceclimbing, dog sledding and reindeer sledding.

See exciting and recommended destinations on page 32 - 72

GO NORTH

Š CH / WWW.VISITNORWAY.COM

CONTENT Get to know Norway Getting around Where to stay Activities in Norway Food and drink Southern Norway Fjord Norway Eastern Norway Central Norway Northern Norway Norway A-Z Norway on a Budget Around Norway Map

4 6 16 22 30 35 38 52 64 66 74 86 90 Inside back cover

GET TO KNOW NORWAY 4|5 © NANCY BUNDT / INNOVATION NORWAY

LIFE IN NORWAY Norway is a modern country that takes pride in its history, and in rural areas traditions are still very much alive. Life in the capital of Oslo, in the Hanseatic city of Bergen or in a small, northern coastal town can seem like completely separate worlds. You can visit them all in a matter of days – a good way to gain a deeper understanding of Norway and the Norwegians.

History, culture and lifestyle, design and culinary traditions make life more interesting and complement the spectacular scenery around the country.

Charge your batteries at a relaxed pace with friendly people. If you have the opportunity, don’t miss Norway’s National Day, May 17. It is an impressive and colorful display of joy and solidarity, with flags furling and Norwegians of all ages parading in their national costumes.

A great many Norwegians still prefer to live in and in tune with nature. Better watch out; it could happen to you.

FOOD – A FRESH TASTE OF NORWAY Awe-inspiring, unspoilt nature forms the perfect basis for natural animal husbandry, and Norwegians know how to exploit these resources. Enjoy freshly caught cod from Lofoten, tender reindeer meet from Finnmark or juicy, sweet cherries from Hardanger – all with the fresh and slightly different taste of Norway.

Norwegian cuisine has also become well known internationally. The success is based on products that thrive in pure waters and fresh, clean air: fish, shellfish and game, fruit, fungi and numerous tasty dairy products. Even traditional specialities such as cured meats, sour cream porridge and waffles with goat cheese tantalise the palate. Treat yourself to a taste of Norway!

© TERJE RAKKE / NORDIC LIFE AS / FJORD NORWAY

© MARTE KOPPERUD / IN MAY 17 IN OSLO © GUNNAR STRØM / VISITOSLO

A WORLD OF COLOUR AND MUSIC Easily accessible fjords and mountains are a natural source of inspiration for music, art and the theatre. Ibsen, Hamsun and Munch are amongst those who have enthralled the world with their depictions of people and nature in this long country, and who hasn’t envisaged the mountains in Grieg’s music?

Cultural life is still thriving, and a number of new talents have succeeded internationally. Visit one of the numerous music festivals, outdoor performances with the beautiful scenery as a backdrop. Or experience Norwegian and inter-national art in famous museums and small galleries.

HISTORY – IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF THE VIKINGS The earliest indications of human settlement in Norway go back to 9000 B.C., but the country was only united as a kingdom around 900 A.D. Despite the fact that Norway for

long periods was ruled by both Denmark and Sweden, the country had its own constitution, as early as 1814, and in 1905 it once again became an independent kingdom. The Vikings built the long boats and plundered Europe as traders and warriors. Travels started towards the end of the 9th century and reached as far as Greenland to the west and to the Caspian Sea to the east.

Traces of the Vikings’ first seat of power may be found at Avaldsnes in Haugesund where this period is inspiringly documented. History made many marks with e.g. the 6000 yearold rock carvings in Alta, now on UNESCO’s world heritage list. The country’s 28 remaining stave churches. These are completely unique to Norway.

Church and coronation history was written in Nidaros-domen Cathedral in Trondheim, the largest religious structure in northern Europe.

GETTING AROUND 6|7 THE GEIRANGERFJORD © FRED JONNY HAMMERØ / MØRE & ROMSDAL FYLKE

ORGANIZED ROUND TRIPS Contact your local travel agency or book round trips directly in Norway from Fjord Tours.

Tel.: +47 815 68 222 www.fjordtours.com

TRAIN TRAVEL One of the most relaxing ways of seeing the wild Norwegian countryside is by train.

Norwegian State Railways (NSB) covers the entire country as far north as Bodø. The Bergen Railway is an experience in a class of its own, crossing “the roof of Norway” between Oslo and Bergen in a rail link between east and west through beautiful and varied landscape. Most of the long distance train lines are scenic, including the Rauma Line between Dombås and Åndalsnes, which presents the tallest rock face in Europe, Trollveggen. The Nordland Railway between Trondheim and Bodø is one of the few railways in the world that crosses the Arctic Circle. For low-cost travel, book Minipris (miniprice) at www.nsb.no!

Minipris costs from NOK 249 to 499 for one way - unlimited distance. In order to access the free wireless internet access that is found on board most trains, you must register on www.nsb.no For more information visit www.nsb.no www.interrail.eu www.eurail.com NSB customer hotline: Tel.: +47 815 00 888 (dial 4 for an English speaking operator).

For information about combined train/bus/boat packages, see www.fjordtours.com

TRY THE FLÅM RAILWAY One of the most beautiful railway lines in the world - an incredible train journey from the mountain station at Myrdal on the Bergen Railway, down to Flåm station nestled in the innermost corner of the Aurlandfjord. www.visitflam.com

Europe’s most spectacular Train Journeys Discover Norway by train for an unforgettable holiday experience.

Norway has many scenic railways, of which the four most spectacular are the Rauma, Bergen, Nordland and Dovre Railways. From your window you will see mighty mountain ranges, river valleys, waterords. You will travel through authentic and charming rural communities. From the variation in altitude, in a single trip you might experience both snow and glaciers and the green ďŹ elds of summer.

The trains in Norway are comfortable as well as environmentally friendly. Just take your seat, relax and enjoy the scenery.

The www.nsb.no/travel_inspiration site contains infomercials presenting the routes and the unique travel experiences that await you.

Welcome on board!

For more information and bookings: www.nsb.no www.scandinavianrail.com www.interrail.eu

The Nordland Railway - The train to the midnight sun The Dovre Railway - The trail of the trolls The Rauma Railway - The most beautiful train journey The Bergen railway -

8|9 HURTIGRUTEN, DOCKING IN BODO © ANDREA GIUBELLI / WWW.VISITNORWAY.COM

BUS TRAVEL Where the rail network stops, the bus goes further. You can get to practically any little village you want to by bus. Usually it is not necessary to book in advance.

NOR-WAY Bussekspress operates south of Trondheim: NOR-WAY Bussekspress Tel.: +47 815 44 444 www.nor-way.no

AIR TRAVEL Considering its size, Norway is exceptionally well served by its domestic airlines. There are about fifty airports and airfields, making even the far north seem a quick jaunt away. The domestic airlines are SAS, Norwegian, Widerøe and Danish Air Transport.

Prices are generally low provided you book well in advance.

SAS- Scandinavian Airlines System www.flysas.com Norwegian www.norwegian.com Widerøe www.wideroe.no Danish Air Transport www.flydot.no

For information on transportation from and to the airport, see www.avinor.no www.flybussen.no www.flytoget.no (Oslo/Drammen area only)

FERRIES AND BOATS Ferries and express boats operate from early morning until late at night. Ask at the local tourist offices for schedules.

In the summer season, sightseeing boats offer several departures per day from Oslo and Bergen, and also from other cities along the coast.

HURTIGRUTEN Hurtigruten’s coastal steamers sail up the coast of Norway, all the way from Bergen right up beyond the Arctic Circle to Kirkenes. The ships are regular service vessels built to carry freight, mail and passengers along the 2,500 nautical miles of coastline. Calling at 34 ports en route, it takes 11 days if you do the entire round trip. Mini Voyages, half round trips and port-to-port sailings are

DENMARK - NORWAY Bergen

New! Langesund

Stavanger

Kristiansand

Hirtshals

Sail with Fjord Line to the fabled fjords of Norway!

Starting May 29 2013, you can travel with MS Stavangerfjord from Hirtshals to Stavanger & Bergen. With new daytime sailings travelers will enjoy beautiful natural scenery of the coastline and shoals between Stavanger & Bergen.

In 2013 we will also offer a new route between Hirtshals and Langesund in Telemark. A large variety of popular summer and winter destinations are within 30 to 60 minutes from the port. In addition, Fjord Line Express, which takes you to Norway in only 2 hours and 15 minutes, will have up to three daily departures in the summer season.

Book your trip on fjordline.com or call +47 51 46 40 99.

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available. You can take your car on the ships, which means that you can drive one way and go on the ship the other. For further details and bookings, contact your local travel agency or see www.hurtigruten.com

MOTORING HOLIDAYS Norway is a great place to spend a motoring holiday and is easily accessible from most European countries. Regular car ferry services run from Denmark, Sweden and Germany. The bridge over Ă–resund between Sweden and Denmark enables you to drive from the Continent to Norway without taking any ferries. www.oresundsbron.com www.colorline.com www.dfdsseaways.com www.fjordline.com www.stenaline.com

CAR AND CARAVAN RENTAL As most car rental companies in Norway are affiliated with one of the major international firms, you can simplify matters by contacting one of them in your own country and booking in advance (Avis, Budget, Europcar, Hertz). Many of them are present at the airports. For information regarding caravan and motor homes, www.camping.no www.nocc.no

MOTORCYCLING HOLIDAYS One of the best ways of seeing the stunning landscape in Norway is by motorcycle, especially when you want to visit some of the more remote places not serviced by public transport.

For information, consult the site of the Norwegian Motorcycle Union, www.nmcu.org

The Explore Norway Ticket

North Cape

Lofoten

Destinations in Norway per Des. 2012.

With reservation for changes.

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Using Widerøe’s Explore Norway Ticket, you can visit as many exciting places as you like. You have unlimited flights for two weeks within the zones you select, and you can set up whatever itinerary you prefer. The Explore Norway Ticket applies to travel during the period from June 19 to August 27 2013.

One zone:

The Fjords

375 455 535

€

Two zones:

€

All of Norway:

€

Read more about it and book tickets at: wideroe.no/explorenorway

12 | 13 LÆRDAL TUNNEL, THE WORLDS LONGEST ROAD TUNNEL © CH / WWW.VISINORWAY.COM

NATIONAL TOURIST ROUTES IN NORWAY The National Tourist Routes scenic roads for exploring Norway’s breathtaking landscapes - comprises 18 selected stretches from north to south. Mountains, fjords and coastline form the core of the travel experience. Bold architecture placed in magnificent natural scenery gives the attraction its special character. www.turistveg.no

PETROL PRICES (average price August 2012 Unleaded (95 octane) NOK 14,83 Diesel oil NOK 13,14

TAXI Taxis accept all major credit cards, but make sure to tell the driver how you want to pay before departure.

WILD ANIMALS The majority of road accidents involving wild animals, such as elk, occur at dusk or dawn, especially during the winter. When driving at these times you should show extra caution, particularly where you see warning signs. All accidents involving animals should be reported to the Road Information Centre, even if you are not involved yourself.

Tel.: 175 (from abroad +47 815 48 991) Break Down and Pick-up 24 hour Emergency Service (for members of AIT clubs)

SAFETY REGULATIONS ALCOHOL Drink-drive regulations are very strict in Norway with frequent controls. The permitted alcohol limit is 0.02 %, and if you exceed this, you face an extremely severe penalty.

MEDICINE Some medicines are to be avoided if you intend to drive.

These are marked with a red triangle.

DRIVING LIGHTS It is obligatory to drive with dipped headlights on during the daytime, even on the brightest summer day. This rule applies to all vehicles, including motorcycles and mopeds.

TYRES According to the Norwegian road traffic regulations, vehicles should not be used unless they have sufficient road grip for the road surface, if necessary using winter tyres with or without studs, chains or similar. Studded tyres or chains may not be used in the period between the first Monday after Easter and 31.10 inclusive, unless weather conditions make it necessary. In Northern Norway, in the counties

of Nordland, Troms and Finnmark, the dates are 1.5 to 15.10 inclusive. In Oslo, Bergen and Trondheim a fee is demanded for the use of studded tyres. More info on www.piggav.no

SEAT BELTS AND HELMETS Use of safety belts is obligatory in back seats, if fitted, as well as in front seats. It is also obligatory to use a child seat or booster seat for children under 1.35 m/36 kg. Motorcycle and moped drivers and their passengers must wear helmets.

SPEED LIMITS Generally the top speed outside urban areas is 80 km/hr. Within urban areas, the limit is 50 km/ hr and in residential areas 30 km/hr. Please note that both manual and automatic speed controls are frequent.

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DRIVING LICENSE

VIKING REDNINGSTJENESTE

A valid driving license from your home country can be used in Norway for three months if you are over 18 years old. If you are from an EEA country, your driving licence generally has the same validity in Norway as in the country of issue. If you are from an area outside the EEA, and plan to spend more than 3 months in Norway, please contact your local Norwegian Embassy to learn about the rules that apply for you.

Tel.: 06000 (from abroad +47 22 08 60 00) www.vikingredning.no

ROADS The Road Information Centre provides information about road, driving- and traffic conditions throughout Norway, including information about distances and ferries. Open 24 hours all year.

Tel.: 175 (from abroad +47 815 48 991), www.vegvesen.no

NAF www.naf.no, Tel.: 08505 (from abroad: +47 926 08505) For non-members of AIT clubs:

FALCK REDNING Tel.: +47 02222 www.falck.no

TOLL ROADS In Norway there are approximately 50 toll roads, most of them are automated. Visitors Payment is a service to tourists who prefer a simpler payment scheme. You can register your credit card at www. autopass.no, and all fees will be deducted automatically. This allows you to use the Auto-Pass lane at all toll roads.

If you do not use Visitors Payment or another scheme, you must pay in the manual tollbooths to avoid an extra charge. At the automatic toll roads you must pass without stopping and you will receive an invoice in the post a few months later.

For more information on Visitors Payment and a list of toll roads in Norway, www.autopass.no

Direct into Norway from Europe Have a look at our signature low fares from more than 100 destinations.

norwegian.com

WHERE TO STAY 16 | 17 RORBU LOFOTEN © TERJE RAKKE / NORDIC LIFE / WWW.VISITNORWAY.COM

The choice of accommodation varies from first-class hotels to basic mountain huts far from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Even the more basic accommodation such as lodges and camping chalets are of a high standard.

HOTEL PASSES

HOTEL CHAINS

In Norway you will find several passes, discount schemes and cheque systems in operation which are valid at hotels and offer reduced prices. The Norway Fjord Pass® offers substantial discounts on accommodation at 150 hotels, guest houses, cottages and apartments all over Norway, and also offers reductions on activities and rental cars. A single Fjord Pass® costs NOK 140 and is valid for 2 adults and any children under the age of 15.

For more information: Fjord Tours AS Tel.: +47 815 68 222 (then press 2) www.fjordpass.no

Best Western Hotels Norway Booking: +47 800 11 624 www.bestwestern.no

For further information on discount schemes and cheque systems, check with the hotels directly or contact your local travel agency.

De Historiske - Hotels & Restaurants Booking: +47 55 31 67 60 www.dehistoriske.com First Hotels Booking: +47 23 11 60 80 www.firsthotels.com Heritage Hotels www.heritagehotels.no Mountainfjord Hotels Booking: +47 57 98 88 00 www.mountainfjord.com Nordic Choice Hotels Booking: +47 22 33 42 00 www.choicehotels.no

memories: y a d i l o H

l ground, amazing mountains, fjords, the capital... h, historica 71° Nort

Central Norway

Fjord Norway

North Norway

East Norway

Welcome to our hotels!

South Norway

Rica Hotels - a variety of hotels all over Norway Rica Hotels has more than 70 hotels centrally located in the proximity of the many exciting attractions in beautiful Norway and Sweden. We will take the same good care of you as we would with a well-loved guest in our own home – you are our most precious guest!

Enjoy Norway’s best hotel breakfast!* At our hotels you can look forward to a fine, healthy, all-inclusive breakfast. A breakfast that gives you that extra burst of energy for the rest of the day and all it has to offer!

For more information and reservation, visit www.rica-hotels.com. * Rica Hotels won the award “Twinings Best Breakfast” in 2012 for the seventh consecutive year with Rica Nidelven Hotel at the forefront.

18 | 19 PARK HOTEL HOLMENKOLLEN © RICA HOTEL

Nor Travels Booking: +47 57 66 58 70 www.nortravels.com

Trondheim/Værnes: Nordic Choice Hotels, Radisson Blu Hotels, Rica Hotels

Radisson Blu Hotels & Resorts + Park Inn By Radisson Hotels Booking: +47 815 160 91 www.radissonblu.com www.parkinn.com

HOTELS FOR ALLERGY AND ASTHMA SUFFERERS

Rica Hotels Booking: +47 66 85 45 60 www.rica.no Scandic Booking: +47 23 15 50 00 www.scandichotels.no The Prominent Hotels of the Fjords www.prominenthotels.com Thon Hotels Booking: +47 815 52 400 www.thonhotels.com

AIRPORT HOTELS The following hotel chains are present at, or close to, the main airports. See above for contact information: Oslo/Gardermoen: Best Western Hotels, Nordic Choice Hotels, Park Inn by Radisson Hotels, Radisson Blu Hotels, Rica Hotels, Scandic, Thon Hotels Bergen/Flesland: Nordic Choice Hotels, Scandic, Thon Hotels

The Norwegian association for allergy and asthma sufferers can help with information about suitable hotels in Norway.

Please contact: Norges Astma- og Allergiforbund Tel.: +47 23 35 35 35 www.naaf.no

RORBU HOLIDAYS In the Lofoten islands in Northern Norway, you can rent a traditional fisherman’s cabin, called a «rorbu». Fishermen used to come to Lofoten from other parts of the coast for the winter cod fishing season from January to April, and would make these cabins their temporary homes. Most have been modernised, and a number of them have their own shower and toilet. Nowadays you will also find newly built fishermen’s cabins. Although most Rorbus are in the Lofoten islands, you can rent these cabins all along the coast of Norway from north to south.

Prices range between NOK 600 and NOK 1 800 per night pr. rorbu. www.visitnorway.com

Basic Hotels Basic Hotels are centrally located hotels in Bergen that have all you need for a good night’s sleep “Luxury where it matters, Budget where it counts” from NOK 448 per person (approx. $ 75)

www.basichotels.no

Marken Gjestehus Enjoy budget accommodation in the heart of Bergen.

From NOK 195 per person (approx. $ 32).

www.marken-gjestehus.com

Storefjell Resort Hotel

– a visitor center for the whole family.

© STOREFJELL RESORT HOTEL

Golsfjellet in Hallingdal, standing 1001 m above sea level, is situated between Oslo and Bergen in the mountain between Rd7 and E16, on Rd51. The hotel features a mini water park, wellness center, restaurant, horse riding center,

play area for children, walking paths and cycling trails.

NO-3550 GOL GPS Position: N60 48 227 E 8 57 267 Tel.: (+47) 32 07 80 00 booking@storefjell.no www.storefjell.com

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THE SORRISNIVA IGLOO HOTEL IN ALTA, FINNMARK © TERJE RAKKE / NORDIC LIFE / INNOVATION NORWAY

(Where to stay/Fishermen’s cabin) www.lofoten.info

LIGHTHOUSE HOLIDAYS Several lighthouses along the Norwegian coast offer accommodation at various standards. For more information, search for “lighthouse” on www.visitnorway.com or contact the local tourist offices.

YOUTH AND FAMILY HOSTELS Norske Vandrerhjem/Hostelling International Norway has around 80 youth hostels in Norway. Each hostel is unique but all offer the usual informal, welcoming homey atmosphere.

The majority of rooms contain 2-4 beds, but many hostels now offer single rooms and family rooms (2 adults and 2 kids).

Members of Hostelling International are entitled to 10 % discount on the listed overnight price. Breakfast is often included but not all hostels serve food. All hostels have a kitchen that guests can share. Bedding linen may be hired. Sleeping bags are not allowed.

Hostelling International Norway Tel.: +47 23 12 45 10 www.hihostels.no See also: www.vipbackpackers.com

PRIVATE ACCOMMODATION

Bed & breakfast is developing in Norway – all of a high standard.

Rooms are generally booked through the local tourist office on the day. You may find accommodation signs displayed along roads or directly outside houses (Rom or Husrom). In larger towns, private rooms are priced from approximately NOK 350-500 for a single to NOK 450800 for a double, breakfast included. A B&B guidebook titled Norway Bed & Breakfast Book provides a key to reasonable accommodation. The book can be ordered from your local bookshop or found in bookshops in Norway. © KOPPERUD / www.bbnorway.com

COUNTRY OR FARM HOLIDAYS Farm holidays in Norway are many and varied and farms all over the country offer accommodation. Guests usually stay in their own comfortable cabin or house, complete with kitchen facilities, in or near the farmyard. Some farms also provide bed & breakfast. Many offer the opportunity to participate in various activities and aspects of daily life on a farm. The quality, the activities and the prices of the various farmhouse holidays on offer vary a great deal. Farm holidays

provide an excellent base for activities and experiences in a particular area. More information available on www.visitnorway.com (Where to stay / Farm Holiday) or from HANEN - Rural tourism, traditional food and freshwater fishing in Norway, www.hanen.no

CABINS /CHALETS Called «hytte» in Norwegian.

Chalets come in various sizes and with various level of comfort. They normally house four to six people and are priced between NOK 2 000 and NOK 10 000 per week. If you want to spend just one night in a cabin and then move on, the solution is to rent a cabin on a campsite. www.norgesbooking.com www.novasol.com www.dancenter.no www.dansommer.com

CAMPING

Norway has more than a thousand campsites, so you are / WWW.VISITNORWAY.COM bound to find somewhere to stay in the area you want. The sites

are classified 1–5 stars, depending on the quality, facilities and activities available.

There is no standard price and rates vary. Normally, the fixed charge per plot for a 2-3 star site is NOK 80 to NOK 280, 4-5 star is NOK 250 to NOK 420.

Many campsites have simple style cabins that can be booked in advance. Most cabins have electricity and heating, but note that you may need to bring bedding. Please check when making your booking. The cabins are classified from 1 to 5 stars depending on size and quality, independent of the classification of the campsite itself.

Prices range from NOK 300 to NOK 1 400.

For information about campsites, classification, the Norwegian Camping Guide and Camping Key Europe, take a look at the site: www.camping.no More details about other campsites and useful information about camping are available on www.nafcamp.com

The Drammen Region - Let us suprise you!

© TORBJØRN TANDBERG

Combine urban life in the city of Drammen with a wilderness expedition, or an art trip in Vestfossen with a round of golf in picturesque surroundings. www.visitdrammensregionen.no

ACTIVITIES IN NORWAY 22 | 23 SPIN-FISHING IN HOLSELVA,HALLINGDAL © YNGVE ASK / INNOVATION NORWAY

Norway is characterised by wilderness and beauty and can offer many exciting experiences. It is important to treat nature with respect, know one’s physical limitations and take the necessary precautions. Proper equipment is a must. Pay attention to local advice about weather forecasts, etc. If you have little “outdoor” experience it is advisable to participate in group outings to be safe.

AERO SPORTS

CANOEING

Norges Luftsportforbund (Norwegian Air Sports Federation) deals with every conceivable form of aero sport such as flying light aircraft, gliding, parachuting, tandem parachuting with an experienced instructor, hang-gliding and paragliding, ballooning or flying model aircraft. For more information about various classes or tandem parachuting contact: Norges Luftsportforbund Tel.: + 47 23 01 04 50 www.nlf.no

Numerous rivers, lakes and fjords in addition to an extremely long coast, make Norway an ideal holiday destination for those interested in canoeing and kayaking. Conditions are good all over the country. For more specific information please check the site of the Norwegian Canoe Association, www.padling.no or contact the regional tourist offices.

CAVING The county of Nordland offers great opportunities for exciting

caving adventures. For information on the various caves and guided tours, search for “caving” at www.northernnorway.com

CULTURAL HERITAGE For information on cultural heritage adventures and accomodation in Norway, see www.olavsrosa.no

CYCLING Cycling tourism is expanding rapidly in Norway. There are numerous well-marked cycle routes along the coast, in the mountains and around the fjords. These routes can also be combined. Fully organized cykling-holidays, maps and guide books relating to the various routes are available via www.cyclingnorway.no

DIVING The Norwegian coast offers extremely good opportunities for divers. Diving centres with

excellent facilities are situated all along the coast. Information about rules and regulations is available at www.ndf.no (NDF – Norwegian Diving Association).

In case of emergencies call 113, or contact +47 55 36 45 50 for medical questions regarding diving.

ECOTOURISM Ecotourism is about unique natural and cultural experiences, about authenticity, local distinctiveness and real encounters with people and nature. In ecotourism, one is more conscious of nurturing and protecting the environment, the cultural heritage and the area’s local inhabitants. For information about certified ecotourism companies in Norway, see www.ecotourismnorway.no

FISHING Everyone over the age of 16 who wishes to fish for salmon, sea

24 | 25

trout and sea char in watercourses must buy a fishing licence. The licence is valid for one year and is available online, at local banks or post offices in Norway. For 2011, the licence fee was NOK 235 for one person and NOK 375 for a family. In addition you must buy a local fishing permit. Local permits are sold at sports shops, newsagents, tourist offices or campsites. For most rivers, the fishing season starts in June and runs until the end of August.

Sports fishing in the sea is free of charge.

A maximum of 15 kg of saltwater fish per person can be taken out of Norway. For more information about sports fishing and fishing regulations, please see information on www.visitnorway.com/fishing www.dirnat.no (Outdoor recreation) or contact the local tourist office in the area you wish to fish.

Disinfecting fishing equipment and other equipment If you have already used fishing equipment, boats or other

equipment in watercourses abroad or in watercourses where there are suspected or proven cases of infectious diseases, you must clean and disinfect the equipment before using it in Norwegian rivers. In many watercourses there are disinfection stations, see www.mattilsynet.no (search for Disinfecting your fishing equipment).

GLACIER HIKING Glacier walking is an exciting option for enthusiasts seeking a different and unconventional holiday. However, it is imperative that one should be accompanied by an experienced local guide.

NB: The glaciers are in motion, which means that crevasses several metres wide and up to 40 metres deep may be present.

The crevasses are often covered with snow. There is always a danger of ice collapsing – even in front of the glacier. Never go onto a glacier without a local guide. Keep well away from steep glaciers and never venture under any glacier. It is possible to go for guided walks on several

Kystriksveien - Road 17

KYSTRIKVEIEN FV17 © JARLE WÆHLER / TURISTVEG.NO

The coastal road Fv17 stretches from Steinkjer to Bodø and has often been called the world’s most beautiful tourist route.

A host of wonderful experiences for those who enjoy slow travel.

Order our travel guide! www.kystriksveien.com

The Rauma Railway

-The most beautiful train journey Dombås - Åndalsnes A trip on the Rauma Railway is a unique opportunity to experience one of the most spectacular scenic areas in Norway.

Once aboard the train, just sit back and gaze out of the train’s large windows and enjoy the journey through contrasting, wild and magnificent scenery.

From 25th May to 25th August the train has an electronic guiding system that provides information on the scenic sights along the route.

The www.nsb.no/travel_inspiration site contains infomercial presenting the routes and the unique travel experience.

For more information and to book tickets, see nsb.no/raumarailway, call +47 815 00 888 or contact a specialist on Scandinavia.

Europe’s most spectacular train journeys

26 | 27 JOTUNHEIMEN © CH / WWW.VISITNORWAY.COM

glaciers («bre» in Norwegian) mainly from May to September.

For more information, search for Glacier walk at www.fjordnorway.com and www.northernnorway.com in the English language section of those sites.

There are various glacier information centres in Norway offering film viewings, exhibitions, glacier models and more. For more information, please see: www.nasjonalparksenter.no/ english

GOLF Golf in Norway is a fantastic outdoor experience with many interesting and highly challenging courses. Norway has a wide range of courses (approximately 170) where green fee players are welcome. Most

are located around the Oslo fjord and the main cities of Bergen, Stavanger and Trondheim, but there are also many fine facilities elsewhere in the country, even north of the Arctic Circle. Green fees vary from NOK 150-800.

For a list of local courses, see www.norskgolf.no/club www.golfforbundet.no

HIKING The country’s expansive mountain ranges and high plains make ideal hiking terrain.

You can choose to carry your own tent, stay in hotels or family hostels, or ramble from cabin to cabin. Please note that the hiking season starts mid June and lasts till the end of September, depending on the weather and the location. DNT, The Norwegian Trekking

GOLF UNDER THE MIDNIGHT SUN © LOFOTEN GOLF LINKS/ WWW.LOFOTENGOLF.NO

RAFTING

Rafting is an invigorating and exciting activity for adventurers and involves paddling down rivers and along open stretches in rubber dinghies. White water rafting is a risky activity. Do not go out alone.

We strongly advise that you participate in groups with a qualified instructor. The minimum age limit for

participating varies from 8 - 18, depending on the level of difficulty/danger. Trips are arranged at several locations in Norway. Some of the more popular locations for rafting are Sjoa, Trysil, Voss, Oppdal and Setesdalen. For more information, search for Rafting on www.visitnorway.com

HADELAND GLASSVERK

– a visitor center for the whole family.

You will find this 250-year-old attraction just an hour’s drive from Oslo at the southern point of the Randsfjord. See how fantastic crystal objects are made, and visit the exhibitions, Norway’s biggest sales outlet for crystal and porcelain, nine exciting shops and three unique cafés. ì 7D[ IUHH VKRSSLQJ Activities for people of all ages: ì %ORZ \RXU RZQ JODVV ì 'HFRUDWH \RXU JODVV ì &RORU FDQGOHV \RX KDYH PDGH ì 3OD\ DUHDV IRU FKLOGUHQ www.hadeland-glassverk.no

28 | 29 HORSE RIDNING AT VENABU © MORTEN BRUN/INNOVATION NORWAY

Association, runs guided hiking tours of varying difficulty during the summer, including glacier walks: www.turistforeningen.no The website also contains information about hiking areas, trails, cabins, mountaineering courses etc. More extensive information about hiking on www.visitnorway.com

especially in the south. In the north, temperatures may also be high enough to make swimming possible.

Alternatively, visit one of the many indoor water worlds, which offer activities for both children and adults: www.badelandene.no (in Norwegian only)

SAILING

WHALE SAFARI / NATURE SAFARI

The Norwegian coast and fjords are a veritable paradise for those who like to sail. For more information about sailing, contact the regional tourist offices. For an exciting and educational sailing experience, see www.radich.no www.fullriggeren- sorlandet.no www.lehmkuhl.no

RIDING Horse trekking and riding holidays are very popular in Norway. There are a number of riding schools and farms offering riding lessons and summer camps for families, individuals and groups.

For more information, search for Horse riding on www.visitnorway.com

SWIMMING You will find many attractive swimming areas. Water temperature can reach + 20° C,

Whale safaris by boat are organized in Northern-Norway.

In Vesterålen you can see sperm whales, killer whales and other species from the end of May until mid-September. In Tysfjorden, you can join a nature safari/killer whale safari from the end of October until January.

From November until March, you can join a nature safari in Lofoten and learn about marine life in the areas surrounding Svolvær. There is a good chance you will see sea-eagles and perhaps even seals and killer whales as well.

For more information about these exciting adventures, see: www.whalesafari.com www.arcticwhaletours.com www.orca-tysfjord.no www.lofoten-opplevelser.no www.lofoten.info (search for nature safari)

PILGRIMAGE

NIDAROS © TERJE RAKKE NORDIC LIFE / WWW.VISITNORWAY.COM

It is now possible to make a pilgrimage along signposted trails from Oslo to Trondheim/Nidaros.

For information about this

and other pilgrim trails in Norway and for information about accommodation, see www.pilgrim.info/en/ and www.culture-routes.lu

NORSK FOLKEMUSEUM IN OSLO Meet the People of Norway!

The many houses, fields and cobbled streets in the Open-Air Museum show history, traditions and life in Norway’s regions and towns. Gol Stave Church from 1200 AD is a major attraction.

The indoor exhibits feature our national treasures of folk dresses, rose painting, wood carvings and Sámi handicraft.

Activities Folk dance and music Traditional crafts Christmas Fair GOL STAVE CHURCH © NORSK FOLKEMUSEUM

www.norskfolkemuseum.no

30 | 31

FOOD AND DRINK YOU SHOULD TRY WHILST IN NORWAY © CH / WWW.VISITNORWAY.COM

Enjoy homemade food, Norwegian ingredients and food with a local identity. Norway has a rich culinary heritage where top quality local ingredients and unique regional specialties are often the recipe for success. Ask for tasty Norwegian salmon for dinner. Try freshly caught cod from the Lofoten Islands, tender reindeer meat from Finnmark or succulent sweet cherries from Hardanger. For breakfast you should try the sweet brown cheese.

HERE ARE SOME TRADITIONAL NORWEGIAN DISHES Fenalår Cured and seasoned leg of a lamb.

Pinnekjøtt Salted and dried, and sometimes smoked, lamb’s ribs which are usually steamed over birch branches. A typical Christmas dish.

Multekrem Dessert made of cloudberries and whipped cream.

Fårikål Lamb simmered with cabbage and whole peppercorns. A typical autumn dish.

Smalahove Lamb’s head. The meat is salted, sometimes smoked, and dried. It is then boiled and served with mashed swedes and potatoes. A traditional feast from Western Norway served during autumn and Christmas.

Tørrfisk (stockfish) Stockfish is unsalted, dried fish. Cod is the most common fish used in the production of stockfish, whilst other white fish, such as pollack, haddock and ling, are used to a lesser degree.

Lutefisk Stockfish softened in water and lye, then cooked and sometimes grilled. Typical accompaniments are potatoes, bacon, mushy peas and mustard. A typical Christmas dish.

Norwegian salmon The Norwegian salmon’s distinct and delicate flavour makes it an excellent basis for attractive and tasty dishes, whilst at the same time satisfying the rigorous demands of the best chefs in the world.

Rømmegrøt Porridge made from natural sour cream. Served with butter, sugar and cinnamon.

Pølse i lompe Hot dog in a thin ”tortilla” made from flour and potatoes. Buy it from a kiosk, or buy them in a supermarket and have a barbeque.

Kjøttkaker Minced beef rolled into balls and then fried. Served with gravy,

mushy peas and boiled potatoes.

A typical every-day dinner.

Brunost Brown cheese with a sweet, yet somewhat sharp flavour with notes of caramel. It is traditionally cut into wafer thin slices with a cheeseslicer and eaten on bread, toast or crisp bread.

Gravlaks Dry-cured salmon, marinated in salt, sugar and spices. The salmon is left to ferment.

Reker Eat shrimps Norwegian style: Peel them yourself, pile them on white bread, squeeze fresh lemon juice and mayonnaise on top, and sprinkle with dill.

Aquavit Norway’s national drink. It is a potato-based spirit flavoured with herbs such as caraway seeds, anise, dill, fennel and coriander. The preferred accompaniment to Christmas food.

NORWAY - exciting destinations 32 | 33 NORTHERN LIGHTS OVER THE ERSFJORD IN TROMSØ © BJØRN JØRGENSEN / VN

NORTHERN NORWAY If you really want to experience Northern Norway, you need to get out into the great outdoors. There are many wilderness safaris to choose from in Northern Norway on which you can see whales, eagles, sea birds and king crabs. The North Cape is mainland Norway's northernmost point – and the main destination for many people who visit this part of Norway. Here, you can really feel the breeze from the North Pole. Combine a trip to the North Cape with a voyage on the Hurtigruten coastal express, which calls at many harbors in Northern Norway.

GEIRANGER © SVEINUNG MYRILD / WWW.VISITNORWAY.COM

FJORD NORWAY Fjord Norway is famous for its easily accessible fjords and mountains, and it is perfect for activities such as hiking, glacier hikes, fishing, and cycling. We definitely recommend an organized fjord cruise, on which you can see steep cliffs and waterfalls up close in many places along Norway's 16,490 miles coastline. There are also many places where you can hire a boat or a kayak and explore the fjords on your own.

BREKKESETER GUDBRANDSDALEN © MORTEN BRUN / WWW.VISITNORWAY.COM

EASTERN NORWAY Jotunheimen and Rondane national parks are popular destinations for mountain hiking and skiing, and for extreme sports. There are marked trails, more than 20 summits higher than 6,560 feet and many cabins where you can stay overnight. You can go on a musk oxen safari, a moose safari, try whitewater rafting, or take a guided walking tour of Oslo, capital of Norway. The Navvies' Road, which runs through a breathtaking high-mountain landscape between east and west, is Norway's most popular cycling trip.

NIDAROS CATHEDRAL TRONDHEIM © MARIUS RUA

CENTRAL NORWAY Stay in a traditional fisherman's style rorbu at the coast and spend your vacation deep sea fishing or fishing for salmon in one of the many rivers. Visit Røros, a whole town of wooden houses and one of the few mining towns in the world to be included on UNESCO’s World Heritage List. Trondheim has a varied, well-developed network of hiking trails in the Bymarka nature area right outside the city.

STANGHOLMEN, RISØR © TERJE RAKKE / NORDIC LIFE / WWW.VISITNORWAY.COM

SOUTHERN NORWAY The coast of Southern Norway is perfect for recreation, fishing, and boat trips for the whole family. Further inland, you can go hiking or canoeing, and the mountains offer many opportunities for climbing.

The area also has stave churches, farms, and folk museums featuring Norwegian architecture, art and crafts, music, and dance.

34 | 35 © 1XPERT - FOTOLIA.COM Hurtigruten

The North Cape

Hammerfest

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EASTERN NORWAY

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Oslo Telemark

Haugesund

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Setesdal

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Larvik

Hirtshals Frederikshavn

DENMARK

Strømstad

Something new.

Something different.

Norway is like a breath of fresh air, untamed and full of hidden surpises!

NORWAY

SOUTHERN

STANGHOLMEN, RISØR © TERJE RAKKE / NORDIC LIFE / WWW.VISITNORWAY.COM

This is the realm of the Nordic summer. The region’s picturesque idyll can evoke strong emotions. Imagine the whitest, greenest and bluest colours in the colour scale and the sun shining on old wooden wharves. Welcome to a coastline with idyllic small islands and a bustling boating scene.

The inner part of the region is also known for its historic canals that run through a veritable cultural treasure trove.

For Norwegians, Sørlandet, Southern Norway, is Norway’s Riviera. It gets more hours of sun than anywhere else in the country. The region has a beautiful coastline with myriad small islands, where you can go crab fishing and enjoy authentic maritime experiences – with the sweet scent of woodland and heather as a backdrop.

Throughout the year, the small picturesque houses of the coastal towns shine brightly against the blue ocean. The maritime environment in the south is unique, and in the ‘white towns’, you get the feeling that you are still living in the Age of Sail. The areas around the Oslofjord also offer fantastic nature experiences, in addition to historical forts and relics from the Viking Age.

And just 20 or 30 kilometres further inland, you come to an area with big forests, canals and lakes. Telemark and the interior of Østfold are known for their cultural landscape and their well-preserved, rich traditions. The whole region comes to life in summer, offering a huge variety of cultural events and urban experiences.

HARDANGERVIDDA

OSLO

HARDANGERFJORD VESTFOLD TELEMARK

LYSEFJORD

HOVDEN SETESDAL

STAVANGER

EVJE

FARSUND LINDESNES

SVINESUND LANGESUND ARENDAL

SWEDEN

GÖTEBORG

HIRTSHALS FREDERIKSHAVN

SOUTHERN NORWAY

DENMARK

SØRLANDET AND TELEMARK 36 | 37 TELEMARKKANAAL © VIDAR ASKELAND

LINDESNES FYR © WWW.INNOVENTI.NO, JP LEHNE

GAUSTATOPPEN © ESPEN HALVORSEN

Only a short distance from Europe, Southern Norway is your natural starting point for a holiday in Norway.

Norway’s southernmost area consists of two regions, Sørlandet and Telemark. Allow yourself to be charmed by Norway’s picturesque south coast in summer, by untouched forests and mountains, and a wild and beautiful high mountain plateau. This is the sunniest area in Norway and it is ideal if you want to plan round trips.

Southern Norway is not far from Europe and there are several daily ferry crossings from Hirtshals in Denmark to Kristiansand, Larvik and Langesund. Using these towns as your base, you have many exciting round trips to choose from. It is also only a short distance to Oslo and the fjords of Western Norway. Since the opening of the 10.6-kilometrelong tunnel between Rosendal and Jondal in Hardanger in 2012, the fastest route between east and west is now via Southern Norway

The climate in Southern Norway is mild, and its coast is famous for its countless beaches, sheltered bays and myriad large and small islands. Boating, swimming, fishing, kayaking and scuba diving are popular activities along this stretch of coast, which is popularly known as ‘Norway’s Riviera’.

A short distance from the coast, you will find an inland belt dotted with forests, rivers, lakes and valleys. A network of winding roads criss-crosses the area, enabling you to plan your own personal itinerary that is sure to give you unforgettable holiday memories. The mountain areas in the north of the region offer some spectacular walking in beautiful and refreshing mountain terrain that ends up on Northern Europe’s biggest high-mountain plateau, Hardangervidda.

SIRDAL © TERJE RAKKE, NORDIC LIFE, SIRDALSFERIE AS

RISØR © TERJE RAKKE / NORDIC LIFE / WWW.VISITNORWAY.COM

FACTS Transport Color Line: Hirtshals Larvik, 3 hrs 45 min.

Hirtshals - Kristiansand: 3 hrs 15 min.

Fjordline: Hirtshals - Langesund Hirtshals - Kristiansand 2 hrs (summer) Kristiansand Airport Kjevik and Sandefjord Airport Torp have good connections both to the rest of Norway and abroad Several daily departures by train on the Sørlandsbanen Railway between Stavanger and Oslo. Connects with trains on the Vestfold Railway.

Daily express buses to Oslo and large parts of the region.

Five highlights of Telemark The Telemark Canal from Skien to Dalen Gaustatoppen, the tallest mountain in Southern Norway Kragerø, the summer town where Edvard Munch painted several of his most famous paintings

Hardangervidda, Northern Europe’s biggest highmountain plateau Heddal Stave Church, Norway’s biggest stave church Five highlights of Sørlandet Lindesnes Lighthouse – Norway’s oldest lighthouse at the southernmost point in Norway Lyngør – the island community voted Europe’s best preserved village Evje – Southern Norway’s activity centre Kristiansand – Southern Norway’s capital city and cultural centre Blindleia - between Lillesand and Kristiansand, one of the finest stretches of coast in Norway Find suggestions for itineraries and round trips at www.visitsouthernnorway.com and www.visittelemark.com Facebook: visitsouthernnorway

NORWAY

FJORD 38 | 39

GEIRANGER © SVEINUNG MYRILD / WWW.VISITNORWAY.COM

The Norwegian fjords are famed as one of the most beautiful destinations in the world. Along parts of Norway’s extensive coastline, the sea cuts far into the mountainous interior.

Where the mountain plateaus end, the mountains plunge hundreds of metres down into the water, and the contrasts with the surrounding mountain landscape create a wild harmony.

The views are never dull – there are awe-inspiring sights around every bend. The drama and beauty of Fjord Norway are as impressive as they are legendary. The fjords extend up to 200 kilometres inland, where they surrounded by the mountains of the interior.

Small mountain farms perch on narrow mountain ledges and bear witness to the hard life of those who once eked out a living there.

Fjord Norway has a welldeveloped network of tunnels and many examples of

audacious road building. Many spectacular stretches of road have been developed as National Tourist Routes, and the biggest cities are famed for their long history. The Hansa city of Bergen is best known for its Hanseatic wharf, Bryggen, and the Fløibanen Funicular. Stavanger is a modern, cultural metropolis, and the coastal towns of Kristiansund and Ålesund are known for klipfish and herring. Ålesund is also famous for its Art Nouveau architecture, while Molde is known far and wide for its international jazz festival.

TRØNDELAG

TRONDHEIM

KRISTIANSUND MOLDE

RØROS MØRE OG ROMSDAL GEIRANGERFJORD NORDFJORD

SOGN OG FJORDANE

SOGNEFJORD FLÅM

BERGEN

HARDANGERVIDDA

FJORD NORWAY

OSLO

HARDANGERFJORD HAUGESUND

RYFYLKE

LANGESUND

STAVANGER

LINDESNES

HIRTSHALS F

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THE STAVANGER REGION Everything within easy reach STAVANGER / PREIKESTOLEN © TERJE RAKKE / NORDIC LIFE

Magnificent scenery, a vibrant cultural scene and great culinary experiences. Welcome to a region you can’t help being enthusiastic about!

Stavanger offers a multitude of unforgettable scenic experiences.

And everything is within easy reach – whether you want to experience majestic mountains, beautiful fjords or endless sandy beaches.

A boat trip on the famous Lysefjord is a must when you are in the Stavanger region.

Here, you can see the Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen), which towers 604 metres above the Lysefjord, and Mount Kjerag, whose summit is 1,000 metres above the fjord.

If you are looking for an active holiday, you can go walking, cycling, kayaking or surfing, or try kiting on the beaches.

The region also has a lively cultural scene and lots of exciting culture to offer, whether you are interested in history museums, innovative architecture or colourful festivals.

Come and find out why the Stavanger region was chosen as European Capital of Culture in 2008.

The Stavanger region also offers lots of great culinary experiences. A good climate and an active industry have made the region one of Norway’s leading food-producing regions.

You can visit small producers and taste some terrific food. You can also visit the biggest food festival in the Nordic countries, Gladmat.

Welcome to an exciting and action-packed region!

FJORD CITY

FACTS HEMSEDAL

Transport It is easy to get to the Stavanger region – by bus, train, boat and plane.

Several daily departures from/to Oslo, Bergen and Kristiansand Flaggruten express boats: Two daily departures from/ to Bergen and Haugesund Several daily departures from/to Kristiansand and Oslo Car ferry from Hirtshals, Denmark Sola Airport, Stavanger has good connections to e.g.: Oslo - up to 24 arrivals daily Frankfurt - 3 return flights daily.

Berlin - 2 flights a week Amsterdam - 5 return flights daily London - 5 return flights daily.

Copenhagen - 4 return flights daily.

HARDANGERVIDDA HARDANGERFJORD HOVDEN HAUGESUND RYFYLKE

LYSEFJORD STAVANGER

TELEMARK SETESDAL

SØRLANDET

FLEKKEFJORD

SANDEFJORD

LANGESUND ARENDAL

MANDAL

LINDESNES

HIRTSHALS

Stockholm - Four flights a week Aberdeen - 5 return flights daily.

Newcastle - 4 return flights weekly.

Welcome to an exciting region!

Region Stavanger BA Tel.: +47 51 33 55 55 info@regionstavanger.com www.regionstavanger.com

42 | 43 BERGEN

HAUGESUND STAVANGER

VISIT HAUGESUND The Haugesund area is rich in history - particularly from the Viking Age and the period when Norway was unified as a kingdom. We also offer a wide range of scenic experiences, every thing from our rocky coastline and heathlands to mountains, fjords and waterfalls. The area also plays host to festivals and cultural events, and is excellent for boating and bathing, golf, extreme sports, urban life and shopping.

Watch

We recommend: movie!

Avaldsnes - Norway’s birthplace Skudeneshavn - A white haven by the north sea Island hopping – to Utsira and Røvær Akrafjord & Langfoss – one of the world’s most beautiful waterfalls Haugesund – seaport and culture town

Destination Haugesund & Haugalandet AS Strangaten 171, NO - 5525 Haugesund Tel.: (+47) 52 01 08 30 post@visithaugesund.no www.visithaugesund.no

Enjoy the ttrtrue rue FOTO: PÅL HOFF, NORPHOTO/ ROBIN STRAND, MATJAZ INTIHAR

Bergen view

The Fløibanen funicular, Bergen’s most popular attraction, runs to Mount Fløyen and the trip takes about seven minutes. From the impressive viewing area up on Mt. Fløyen, you can enjoy magnifi cent views of Bergen and the surrounding mountains and fjords. In addition to many walking trails, Mt. Fløyen also has a restaurant, café, souvenir shop and play area for children. The lower station of the Fløibanen funicular is situated right in the city center, just 500 feet from the Fish Market. The Fløibanen funicular, the only cable railway in Scandinavia, runs every day all year round. In summer, it runs from early morning until midnight.

www.floibanen.no www.floibanen.no Fløibanen Vetrlidsallmenningen 21, N-5014 Bergen Tel: +47 55 33 68 00 Fax: +47 55 33 68 01 E-mail: info@floibanen.no

... perfect moments

WWW.FOLGEFONNIBREFORARLAG.NO © PÅL HERMANSEN

TROLLTUNGA ROCK IN ODDA, WITH THE FOLGEFONNA GLACIER BEHIND © STIG TRONVOLD

KAYAKING IN EIDEFJORD © WWW.FLATEARTH.NO

THE HARDANGERFJORD – A PARADISE FOR ADULTS AND CHILDREN ALIKE An exciting European tourist destination since the 19th century.

The Hardanger region is not far from Bergen and is known as one of the most beautiful areas in Norway. Magnificent scenery that is great for hiking and outdoor adventures. Traditional good hotels, cabins and great campsites. Enjoy active or relaxing days by the fjord in Hardanger. www.hardangerfjord.com

BERGEN 44 | 45

The Gateway to the Fjords of Norway

BRYGGEN, BERGEN Š BERGEN TOURIST BOARD / ROBIN STRAND

Bergen is relatively small compared to other European cities, but it has all the more to offer those looking for new experiences.

Its diversity and many options make Bergen impossible to categorize. Here, history and strong traditions live side-byside with a vibrant cultural scene. The legacy from the time of the Hanseatic League goes hand-in-hand with the city's present-day status as a European City of Culture, and both these elements are clearly present in the city.

Bergen is unique, not least because of its fantastic location and world-famous

surroundings: Seven magnificent mountains and beautiful fjords form the backdrop to an international but at the same time distinctively local atmosphere that makes an indelible impression on everyone who visits the city.

Set aside three days and we guarantee you will leave with impressions and experiences you will never forget:

FJORD CITY Day I Start the day with a walk around the Fish Market and Bryggen Hanseatic wharf. Visit one of the city's many museums – some of which have unique art collections – before looking at the shops.

Day II Take the Fløibanen Funicular or the Ulriken cable car up to the mountains and enjoy the views of the city. The trails up in the mountains are perfect for hiking. Visit idyllic Old Bergen.

Finish the day with a concert at Troldhaugen, the home of composer Edvard Grieg.

Day III Visit Bergen Aquarium and take a fjord trip. Enjoy a great seafood meal, and finish off the evening at one of the city's many cultural venues.

BRYGGEN-BERGEN © TERJE RAKKE / NORDIC LIFE / WWW.VISITNORWAY.COM

WHAT'S ON IN BERGEN, THE CITY OF CULTURE 46 | 47

March 9 to March 15 Opera: 'The Cunning Little Vixen' Norwegian première of Leoš Janáček' fairy-tale opera.

May 22 to June 5 Bergen International Festival Bergen International Festival is the biggest music and theater festival in the Nordic countries.

May 22 to June 1 NATTJAZZ/Nightjazz NATTJAZZ is Northern Europe's longest jazz festival.

May 26 The 4-mountain and 7-mountain hikes The 7-mountain hike will be held for the 59th time in 2013. This event has become a big attraction with thousands of participants – enjoy magnificent views of the city from most parts of the route.

June 1 to September 30 Lunch concerts at Troldhaugen, daily Half-hour concerts in Troldsalen provide an introduction to Edvard Grieg's music.

June 12 to June 15 Bergenfest – music festival An all-round music festival with a profile that embraces many genres and styles.

August 1 to August 4 Fjordsteam 2013 One of the highlights of the year in Bergen – Fjordsteam 2013 features a fantastic collection of old boats, the history of road transport, crafts, technology, culture, the hustle and bustle of the marketplace and big crowds congregating around the harbor.

September 6 to September 8 Bergen Food Festival - Bønder i by'n Bergen Food Festival is Norway's biggest local food festival. The aim is to bring producers and consumers closer together. The result is a fantastic marketplace with a huge diversity of Norwegian products and producers.

Read more about what's on in Bergen, the City of Culture at www.visitBergen.com/events

The Bergen Card gives you free or discounted admission to museums, attractions, sightseeing and cultural events, free bus travel and discounts on meals and parking.

The card can be purchased at the Tourist Information.

FACTS Transport: Bergen – easy to get to regardless of how you choose to travel.

LILLEHAMMER / HAFJELL

SOGNEFJORD

BERGEN

Bergen Airport Flesland has good domestic and international connections.

You can fly there direct from more than 30 destinations in Europe.

Ferry from Denmark to Bergen with Fjord Line.

Bergen is a turnaround port for the world-famous Hurtigruten coastal express.

The Bergen Railway between Oslo and Bergen has been ranked one of the world's greatest train journeys.

Several departures daily to/from the fjord region, and Oslo.

Approx. seven hours from Oslo by car.

A short film will introduce you to the charms of Bergen.

OSLO

HARDANGERFJORD HOVDEN

LARVIK STAVANGER

Distances: Oslo – 515 km Stavanger – 210 km Ålesund – 385 km Contact us: Bergen Tourist Board Tourist Information Strandkaien 3 Tel.: +47 55 55 20 00 info@visitBergen.com www.visitBergen.com

The Gateway to the Fjords of Norway

48 | 49

MOLDE & ROMSDAL KRISTIANSUND & NORDMØRE THE ATLANTIC ROAD © TERJE RAKKE / WWW.VISITNORWAY.COM

Experience the world's most beautiful car journey: the Atlantic Road and the Trollstigen Road.

OUR NATIONAL TOURIST ROUTES, THE ATLANTIC ROAD AND THE TROLLSTIGEN ROAD The Atlantic Road, which runs between Molde and Kristiansund, winds its way over bridges and causeways from islet to islet right out at the ocean's edge. The Atlantic Road topped The Guardian's list of the world's most beautiful road trips. You can fish from fishing bridges or a boat and are almost guaranteed to catch something. Norway's most visited National Tourist Route, Trollstigen, winds its way from the floor of Isterdalen valley up to Stigøra (858 metres). You cross Stigfossen waterfall on an impressive stone bridge. It is also possible to walk up Trollstigen on the old Kløvstien bridle path.

THE COASTAL TOWNS OF MOLDE AND KRISTIANSUND The opera and klipfish town of Kristiansund is located in a beautiful setting on four islands connected by bridges at the ocean's edge. Take a trip on the Sundbåten boat, the world's oldest mode of public transport still in operation. Molde is known for its jazz, roses and panoramic view. Take the trip up to the Varden viewpoint (407 metres) and admire the magical Molde panorama with its 222 summits.

AN ACTION-PACKED ROUND TRIP Take a boat trip from Kristiansund to the little island of Grip, continue in the direction of the Atlantic Road and visit Kvernes stave church. Try kayaking or a cycling trip, learn about the history of the Viking longships at

the fishing village of Håholmen and about World War II history at Ergan Coastal Fort in Bud. Take a round trip by bus from Molde to Geiranger and return on the Hurtigruten coastal express via Ålesund in the evening. There are spectacular walks in the area, such as the Fjord Route near Kristiansund and the Romsdalseggen ridge near Åndalsnes. Or you can drive the Aursjøvegen mountain road, which is possibly even more dramatic than the Trollstigen Road. Take your time and experience more!

TROLLSTIGEN ROAD © TERJE RAKKE / VN

FACTS KRISTIANSUND

Transport By car from Oslo Molde 310 miles Kristiansund 350 miles The Hurtigruten coastal express calls twice daily at Molde and Kristiansund.

Kystekspressen express boat to/from Trondheim and Kristiansund.

To/from Åndalsnes and Oppdal, with bus connections to Molde and Kristiansund.

The Timekspressen bus service between Kristiansund-MoldeÅlesund-Ørsta.

Kristiansund Airport Kvernberget and Molde Airport Årø have daily domestic flights to/from Oslo, Bergen, and Trondheim.

MOLDE RØROS MØRE OG ROMSDAL GEIRANGERFJORD NORDFJORD

SOGN OG FJORDANE SOGNEFJORD

Destination Molde & Romsdal Tel.: +47 71 20 10 00 www.visitmolde.com

Destination Kristiansund & Nordmøre Tel.: + 47 71 58 54 54 www.visitkristiansund.com

ÅLESUND & SUNNMØRE 50 | 51 KAYAKING IN ÅLESUND © FRED JONNY HAMMERØ

GEIRANGERFJORD

THE GEIRANGERFJORD © TERJE RAKKE / NORDIC LIFE

The world famous fjord landscape and the unique Art Nouveau town – an almost unbeatable combination of nature and culture.

THE GEIRANGERFJORD The Geirangerfjord is so unique that it has been included on UNESCO's World Heritage List and has been a visitor attraction ever since the middle of the 19th century. See 'the Seven Sisters' waterfall as it cascades down towards the fjord, surrounded by the many mountain farms that cling to the steep mountainsides.

ÅLESUND - THE ART NOUVEAU TOWN Ålesund has been voted Norway's most beautiful town, and it has many experiences to offer! Lift your gaze as you wander around the Art Nouveau town and you will discover myriad spires, towers and beautiful ornamentation adorning the facades of buildings. Walk up the 418 steps to the top of mount

Aksla and you will be rewarded with a panoramic view of the coast, fjords and mountains.

CLOSE TO NATURE Experience teeming bird life on the bird island of Runde and be captivated by picturesque Alnes lighthouse. Sail up the magnificent Hjørundfjord, or experience the seasons at first hand on a walk in the Tafjordfjellene mountains, the Sunnmøre Alps and the mountains in the Geirangerfjord area. In winter, even the biggest skiing

enthusiasts will find a favourite spot here, maybe at Stranda Ski Resort, which has been voted Norway's best ski centre for powder snow skiing. Recharge your batteries on a cycling or kayaking trip, and try your luck fishing in waters that abound in fish. Get your adrenaline going on a whitewater rafting trip or a sea safari, or explore the Geiranger to Trollstigen National Tourist Route, perhaps Norway's most breathtaking road.

FACTS KRISTIANSUND

Transport By car from Oslo Ålesund 340 miles Geiranger 270 miles The Hurtigruten coastal express calls twice daily at Torvik and Ålesund, and at Geiranger between April and August and at the Hjørundfjord in September and October.

To Åndalsnes, then by bus to Geiranger and Ålesund, and other places in the region.

Several daily arrivals from Oslo, Bergen and Trondheim. Ålesund Airport Vigra has good domestic connections and direct services to Amsterdam (new April 2013), Gdansk (new April 2013), Las Palmas, Alicante, Riga, Copenhagen and London. Ørsta/Volda Hovden Airport to - from Oslo Gardermoen.

MOLDE RØROS MØRE OG ROMSDAL GEIRANGERFJORD NORDFJORD

SOGN OG FJORDANE SOGNEFJORD

Destination Ålesund & Sunnmøre Tel.: +47 70 15 76 00 www.visitalesund.com

Destination Geirangerfjord Tel.: + 47 70 26 30 99 www.visitgeirangerfjord.com

NORWAY

EASTERN 52 | 53

BREKKESETER GUDBRANDSDALEN © MORTEN BRUN / WWW.VISITNORWAY.COM

Turn your back on the bright city lights and set off on an adventure into one of the world’s last wildernesses, where wolves, bears and the gigantic musk oxen still roam free.

This is the mythical realm ruled by the trolls, at least for those who believe in them.

Eastern Norway is known for the wide expanses and mountains of its national parks, for stave churches and its lively and charming small towns. In the mountains, you are so high up that you can almost touch the blue sky with your fingertips. You discover dramatic landscapes and get to see untouched nature close up. The region has the highest summits in Northern Europe that are covered in snow all year round, with jagged peaks and beautiful undulating formations.

Standing on the top of Besseggen ridge with its 360-degree view makes an impression you will never forget. It opens your mind.

The wilderness can be as wild as you want it to be, but you can also go on gentle walks through wide expanses, where thousands of kilometres of waymarked

trails await you and make the mountains easily accessible.

There are lots of accommodation options. You can camp practically anywhere, stay in well-equipped hotels in towns and cities, or try a traditional, rustic Norwegian cabin.

RØROS

EASTERN NORWAY FJELLNORWAY DOVRE

LILLEHAMMER / HAFJELL

BESSEGGEN

TRYSIL HAMAR GJØVIK

VALDRES HEMSEDAL GEILO GOL HALLINGDAL HARDANGERVIDDA

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THE BEST

MUSEUM

IN OSLO - www.tripadvisor.com, 2012

Spectacular Northern Lights experience Freezing cold dark walk – if you dare! Exciting and interactive in 10 languages Framheim bar & cafeteria Explore the Northwest Passage - new building opens in 2013.

PPERUD / WWW.VISITNORWAY.COM

opens 2013

opens 2013

Join us on

“Fantastic!! The guidebooks really don't do it justice!”

“Outstanding: the best of the Bygdøy museums” “The best thing to see in Oslo” “One of the best museums I´ve ever seen” “Fascinating displays” “Captivating photos” “Not to be missed” “Unexpectedly fantastic”

- tripadvisor.com

www.frammuseum.no The Fram Museum // Bygdøynesveien 36 // 0286 Oslo // Norway // Tel: + 47 - 23 28 29 50

FJELL NORWAY 54 | 55

FRESH AND UNSPOILED!

HIKING IN FJELLNORWAY © TERJE RAKKE / NORDIC LIFE / WWW.VISITNORWAY.COM

FjellNorway is Lillehammer, Jotunheimen and Rondane, hiking up Norway’s highest mountain, Galdhøpiggen, or along the beautiful Besseggen ridge.

Fresh air, clear lakes, magnificent mountain landscapes – luxury for everybody. You can go on glacier walks and cycling trips, go horseback riding or rafting.

Find peace and quiet in the clear mountain air!

LILLEHAMMER Lillehammer is a great place for a family holiday. Meet the trolls from traditional Norwegian fairy tales in the Norwegian Troll Park at Hunderfossen, which offers 50 exciting attractions for both children and adults.

Several destinations in the Lillehammer area offer cabin or hotel accommodation that have a broad range of activities right on their doorsteps. Cycling trips, walks, horseback riding and canoeing are just some of the activities on offer.

NATIONAL PARKS The FjellNorway region boasts several national parks, of which Jotunheimen, Rondane and

Dovrefjell are the best known.

Here, you can experience the most popular hike in Norway, completed by more than 40,000 people each summer: the walk along the Besseggen ridge. The highest mountain in Northern Europe, Galdhøpiggen (2,469 metres) is also an easy hike for people of average fitness. This area, which attract hikers from all over the world, has the country’s highest concentration of Norwegian Trekking Association (DNT) cabins and walking trails.

SJOA One of the worlds best water sports rivers, Sjoa, is located in the FjellNorway region. The activities available here vary from

family rafting to spectacular extreme rafting. Glacier walks, canyoning and exploring caves are also among the activities you can enjoy in FjellNorway.

VIEWPOINT SNØHETTA A visit to Viewpoint Snøhetta, which won the title World Building of the Year in 2011, is a must. In this area between the national parks of Dovrefjell and Rondane, you can experience

wild reindeer and hardy musk oxen.

CLIMATE PARK Climate Park 2469, where you can walk in a tunnel carved in 6,000-year-old glacier ice, is located near the Juvasshytta cabin in Jotunheimen National Park.

Jotunheimen was named as the best hiking destination in Europe in 2012 by the Royal Dutch Mountaineering Association (NKBV).

FACTS Tourist information Most towns and areas have their own tourist information offices. Look for the sign with the big ’I’ against a white background.

Kiosks and small shops often also serve as tourist information points.

Public transport Travelling to Norway or in Norway, you can choose

between buses, trains operated by the Norwegian State Railways (NSB), or express coach services between the cities of Oslo, Bergen and Trondheim.

Lonely Planet recently named the Rauma Line as the most beautiful rail journey in Europe.

56 | 57

THROUGH BESSEGGEN The hike across Besseggen ridge is one of the most famous mountain hikes in Norway, if not the most famous.

Three boys, three generations: Terje (60), Martin (36) and Sebastian (10)

we packed all we might need in our backpacks, but making sure they were not too heavy.

The amazing views of the wild Jotunheimen mountains and the feeling of mastery you get on the steepest sections were what attracted us to do this hike, which goes between Gjendesheim and Memurubu.

Besseggen ridge is 16 kilometers long, and 1743 meters at its highest point.

We were ready at nine o'clock on the dot, and the weather was fantastic – clear blue skies without a cloud to be seen.

We drove to Gjendesheim and took the afternoon boat to Memurubu to do the hike across Besseggen and back to Gjendesheim. The whole route is signposted with cairns and red Ts, and, if you take due care, it is not dangerous at all.

After a pleasant evening with a good dinner and a good night's sleep at Memurubu cabin, we were ready for the challenge. We were advised to take plenty to drink and some food with us, as well as extra clothes. So, to make sure we would really enjoy the hike,

We expected to take between six and eight hours, although some people take longer.

It depends on what shape you are in and how many breaks you take en route.

Finally up on Besseggen ridge, we could admire the view of the green Gjendevannet lake (984 meters) 400 meters below us, with the deep blue Bessvatnet lake (1374 meters) on the other side. The fact that Gjendevannet lake is green shows that it is a glacial lake. Small particles from glaciers float in the water, creating a refraction effect that produces a strong green color, particularly when the sun is shining. Bessvatnet lake is not supplied by glacial water, which is why it is blue.

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ĂŹ It is a good idea to start from Memurubu, where you can stay the night and enjoy a good breakfast before setting off.

This is the best route, and the one most people take.

Alternatively, you can take the morning boat in and start right away. If you are in really good shape, you can also choose to walk along Gjendevannet lake in one direction. ĂŹ 7KH RSSRVLWH GLUHFWLRQ LV DOVR D popular alternative. ĂŹ 5HPHPEHU WKDW \RX DUH JRLQJ to be outdoors for a whole day, so take plenty of food and drink with you. ĂŹ 7KH ZHDWKHU FDQ FKDQJH quickly in the mountains, so take extra clothing along.

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You can do the hike across Besseggen ridge from early summer until well into autumn. The high season for hikers is July and August, and the first weekends in September.

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SANDEFJORD 60 | 61 SANDEFJORD © NILS KAVLIE-BORGE

Welcome to the friendly seaside town of Sandefjord, which is blessed with a long and beautiful coastline in addition to having rich historical heritage. Sandefjord is located 120 km south of Oslo with Torp Sandefjord Airport only 10 km away from the town. The ferry from Strømstad, Sweden arrives directly in the town centre.

The nature that surrounds the town centre calls for active day trips. The environment is perfect for hiking along the coast or through the woods, paddling in a kayak or a canoe, fishing in the lake, and, not least, riding a bike across the flat and cycle-friendly countryside.

Take part in the history of Sandefjord with memories from the Viking Age, the glory years of its rise in popularity as a Spa Town in the 19th Century, the Whaling Period, as well as modern times, of course. The historic grave site, Gokstadhaugen, where the famous Gokstad Viking ship was excavated, the distinct building of the health spa, the whaling museum (Hvalfangstmuseet), Dakota Norway and the Midtåsen sculptural pavilion are amongst the attractions.

The town centre is small enough to be able to walk around easily, with lots of different types of products to see and buy, and a variety of parks to enjoy.

You will also enjoy many great dining experiences. Geir Skeie, winner of Bocuse d’Or 2009, offers seafood at the edge of the wharf, and the town is home to several distinguished chefs.

Offers for overnight stays await you, as a guest, in all categories.

INFO Visit Sandefjord Kurbadet - Thor Dahlsgt. 7 N-3210 Sandefjord Tel.: +47 33 46 05 90 info@visitsandefjord.com www.visitsandefjord.com ww.visitsandefjord.com

HORTEN

© SVEND AAGE MADSEN

Welcome to Horten – Where you can enjoy some amazing experiences! Our cultural diversity will most certainly surprise you, with a well-known and much loved marine history with roots going all the way back to The Viking Ages. Even Edvard Munch had his summer residence in Åsgårdstrand, which has now been turned into a wonderful museum. Follow Edvard Munch’s footprints by taking a walk in Åsgårdstrand!

Take a step back into Viking history in Borre, where The Midgard Historisk Senter (Midgard Historical Centre) tells you the story of the archaeological findings here.

Close to the centre you will find Borreparken (Borre National Park) with its majestic tumuli (burial mounds). Borrehaugene (Borre Mound Cemetery) is currently being considered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site of outstanding universal value.

The Viking Hall will open in 2013 and is a delightful sight!

Near to the town centre you will find the Horten Car Museum, which illustrates the colourful history of the motor vehicle.

In the outskirts of Horten, and encircled by the sea, lies the scenic Karljohansvern. This

is THE place to enjoy life with magnificent hiking grounds in scenic surroundings, fortifications and artillery batteries. The Naval Museum, Preus Museum (The National Photography Museum) and Lokalhistorisk Senter (Local Historic Centre) are all located here, together with a diverse range of artists and workshops.

INFO Visit Horten Tollbugata 1a, 3187 Horten Tel.: +47 33 03 17 08 turistkontoret@visithorten.com www.visithorten.com

TØNSBERG 62 | 63 © MASTERFOTO / VISIT TØNSBERG

Welcome to Tønsberg, the oldest town in Norway.

Tønsberg has a rich history to offer. There are many hiking tour opportunities and noticeable bicycle tracks from the coast to the inland. There are also a variety of offers for all ages.

Tønsberg has a rich cultural life.

We have summer revues, music festivals and cultural experiences.

Along the wharf in Tønsberg you can enjoy the sunshine and good food at one of the many restaurants.

Alongside the wharf in Tønsberg you will also find the Viking ship, Saga Oseberg. ”Nordbyen” is situated at the end of the wharf in Tønsberg, and is the oldest continuous congregation of wooden buildings. There you will also find the oldest house in the town, ”Bentegården”, built around 1690.

If you move somewhat away from the sea you will find that Tønsberg is a pleasant town with many old wooden buildings and small streets with a good and varied range of shops.

The area around the town also has much more to offer.

Marked coastal tracks running between Stokke, Tønsberg and around Nøtterøy and Tjøme.

There are good fishing opportunities along the coast, and at the many lakes we have inland.

Furthermore we have a lovely coastal line with beautiful sandy beaches in the surroundings of Tønsberg. You can also visit one of the many museums we have in the area.

INFO Visit Tønsberg Storgaten 38 3126 Tønsberg Telephone: +47 48063333 info@visittonsberg.com www.visittonsberg.com

LARVIK

THE LIGHTHOUSE AT STAVERN HEADLAND © RUNE@BILDEBLOGGEN.COM

Treat yourself and visit Larvik! Larvik, Stavern, Lågendalen, Helgeroa, Nevlunghavn, Ula, Kjerringvik and our Lighthouses offer great experiences in beautiful nature, gorgeous archipelago and cosy villages amongst happy, friendly people.

Larvik is the the largest camping municipality in Norway due to it´s climate, nature and residents!!

Larvik Golf Club offers world standard and has one of the nicest courses and the longest season in Norway!

The High and Low Activity Park is the largest climbing park in Scandinavia and has the longest zip-line in Norway!

Foldvik Family Park offers activities for everyone and close encounters with sweet animals!

Farris Bad Hotel has the largest spa in the Nordics with over 2.500 square meters!

Go back in time at Fredriksvern Shipyard, established in 1750-58, and experience galleries, museums and events!

Fish salmon and experience wild, beautiful nature at The Kjærra Waterfalls Park!

Enjoy great artists at The Stavern Festival!

Color Line World Cup will be the largest handball cup in the world!

Enjoy the brand new Jippi Playland! with the largest climbing frame in Norway, laserworld, golf simulators, mini golf and mini handball courts!

Welcome to Larvik!

INFO Visit Larvik Bølgen Culture House Sanden 2 3264 Larvik Telephone: +47 33697100 post@opplevlarvik.no www.visitlarvik.com

NORWAY

CENTRAL 64 | 65 NIDAROSDOMEN TRONDHEIM © MARIUS RUA

This is the real Scandinavia where rivers roar and salmon leap. The city of Trondheim is the heart of Central Norway.

Situated on the Trondheimsfjord, it is a historic gem with a youthful atmosphere, while the streets of Røros bear living testimony to the history of times gone by.

Perhaps it is the fine balance between the north and south of Norway that makes Central Norway such an interesting and varied destination for tourists.

The magnificent mountains in the south and east, the large, fertile expanses of agricultural land around the Trondheimsfjord, the thriving island communities off the coast and its extensive forests make the Trøndelag region a ‘Norway in miniature’.

hub for research and culture in Norway. Young people dominate city life in historical Trondheim, while time is happy to stand still in Røros. UNESCO has recognised this living memorial to mining history as a world heritage site.

KYSTRIKSVEIEN RV. 17 NAMSOS STEINKJER TRØNDELAG FRØYA

Trondheim also offers great variety, with a history stretching back a thousand years, as Norway’s first capital city and a pilgrimage destination, and nowadays also as the leading

HITRA

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TRONDHEIM

KRISTIANSUND MOLDE

CENTRAL NORWAY

RØROS DOVREFJELL

GEIRANGERFJORD

The Trøndelag region – also known as Central Norway – offers a great variety of historical as well as exciting contemporary experiences. Visitors come into close contact with people and nature in this region, with its mix of fjords and mountains, coast and rivers, towns and countryside.

CREATIVE TRONDHEIM Norway’s third biggest city with a population of 170.000 is the ideal starting point for a visit to the region. Trondheim has exciting museums, charming small shops and creative restaurants.

The Nidelven river winds its way through the city center, passing the magnificent Nidaros Cathedral, the old, charming district of Bakklandet and long rows of brightly colored wharves. The spectacular, new Rockheim museum offers an interactive journey through the history of modern music.

VIKINGS AND PILGRIMERS Many of the most important events in Norway’s history took place in the Trøndelag region. Stiklestad is known as the birthplace of Norway, while the impressive Nidaros Cathedral in Trondheim (built 1070-1300) is a national treasure.

Both of them reflect the legacy of St Olav, who played a key role in the Christianization of Norway.

The Pilgrims Route to Trondheim and Nidaros Cathedral is since 2010 a European Cultural Route, in the same way as the road to Santiago de Compostela.

Areas such as the Golden Route (den Gyldne Omvei) in Inderøy at the Trondheimsfjord provide a fantastic opportunity to sample the area’s culture, arts and crafts, beautiful scenery and delicious food.

THE UNESCO SITE OF RØROS AND MUSKOX Røros, with more than 100 listed wooden buildings, is a unique and charming mountain town, which was built in connection with the copper works that opened there in the mid17th century. There are galleries, cafés and craft shops in the town’s many charming old backyards. A large number of local food producers ensure that the restaurants and shops sell exciting, award-winning produce. Røros is also known for its focus on sustainable tourism.

The nine national parks in Trøndelag are all excellent for hiking. You can also go on a safari to see Europe’s only herd of muskoxes.

THE COAST AND COASTAL CULTURE The coast of Trøndelag, with the islands of Hitra and Frøya to the south and the Fosen peninsula and the coast of Namdal to the north, are famous around the world for fantastic deep-sea fishing. You can also go on an eagle and seal safari or try kayaking, island hopping or diving for scallops. There is a flourishing coastal culture in several old fishing villages, for example Sør-Gjæslingan near Rørvik.

The Kystriksveien Coastal Route (Fv 17) – often called the world’s most beautiful tourist road – connects Trøndelag with Northern Norway between Steinkjer and Bodø.

For more information about Trøndelag: www.trondelag.com

NORWAY

NORTHERN 66 | 67 NORTHERN LIGHTS OVER THE ERSFJORD IN TROMSØ © BJØRN JØRGENSEN / WWW.VISITNORWAY.COM

For many people, Northern Norway symbolises the promise of never-ending light in summer and dancing Northern lights in the deep, dark blue winter. The unspoiled nature and the spark and contagious sense of humour of the people who live in Northern Norway draw visitors to the area. In summer, night is merely a slightly dimmer version of the day. The light of the midnight sun gives the landscape a magical and romantic hue.

Lots of superlatives can be used about the region – it is unique and slightly mysterious. Nowhere else in the world is the North Pole as close to the mainland as at the North Cape. The areas bordering

Sweden, Finland and Russia are still a natural and unspoiled paradise, and the breathtaking combination of sea and mountains you find in Lofoten, Vesterålen and the Lyngsalpene

peaks is unparalleled in Europe. The people of Northern Norway enjoy freedom and living their lives to the rhythm of nature. The Sami, Norway’s indigenous people, have lived at one with nature and developed the Sami culture since settling in the Arctic areas of Norway more than 11,000 years ago. If you visit Tromsø, the biggest city in the region, in summer, you will be able to soak up the vibrant atmosphere of the city’s streets and squares, which is reminiscent of more southerly climes.

THE NORTH CAPE

SVALBARD VADSØ FINNMARK KIRKENES ALTA

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VESTERÅLEN

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NORTHERN NORWAY

experience 68 | 69

NORTHERN NORWAY © CHRIS CRAGGS / WWW.NORTHERNNORWAY.COM

Of light, darkness and colours

Sápmi the land of the Sami

In summer, there is no night in Northern Norway. At midnight, the sun shines in the north, bathing mountains, fjords and islands in gold and bronze, and invigorates people with limitless energy. On sparkling, dark winter nights, the Northern Lights suddenly erupt in an illusive, silent, light-footed dance, like flickering curtains or like thin veils, all in an electric green with a hint of pink and violet.

A completely different language, a unique lifestyle and a vital culture; the Sami constitute the indigenous population of Northern Scandinavia. Reindeer herding between coast and inland, fishing and farming or urban living; Sami lifestyle combines traditional with modern. Look for duoddji, handicraft, joiggus, the traditional chant, and bidos, reindeer stew, preferably served in a lavvu, a round tent.

© ØYSTEIN LUNDE INGVALDSEN WWW.NORDNORGE.COM

© JOHAN WILDHAGEN / INNOVASJON NORGE

Northern Norway, a mere 1,250 miles from the North Pole, is where the warm Gulf Stream meets the Arctic.

Home to Norwegian fishermen and Sami reindeer herders, the region basks under the glorious rays of the midnight sun, and northern lights dance across the winter skies.

The coast and coastal culture

Svalbard - North Pole Next Stop

You can hear history echoing among the racks of dried fish and the traditional fishermen’s shacks Norwegians call rorbu. Here, centuries of history meet modern coastal Norway. In some places, the fishing boats queue up to deliver their catches, while artists flock to others, fascinated and inspired by the ranks of dried fish drying on the big racks in these picturesque small communities.

Come and visit us – you are guaranteed to be fascinated by these colourful villages.

An archipelago of pyramidshaped mountains and gigantic glaciers halfway between Norway and the North Pole, Svalbard (Spitsbergen) is the world’s northernmost tourist destination. Go snowmobiling and dog sledding in winter, and kayaking, hiking or fossil picking in summer. Leave the mod-cons of Longyearbyen by boat to see bird cliffs and walruses. If you are lucky, you might even see a polar bear if you go on an organised trip.

© CHRISTIAN HAOUGE / WWW.VISITNORWAY.COM

© LINDA DRAKE / WWW.HURTIGRUTEN.US

70 | 71

NORTHERN NORWAY The wild and beautiful landscape REINE, LOFOTEN Š CH / WWW.VISITNORWAY.COM

THE WILD AND BEAUTIFUL LANDSCAPE The most unique aspect of Northern Norway is its wild and beautiful landscape. The mountains, ocean, high plateaus and fjords are guaranteed to impress even the most seasoned traveler. You will find vibrant towns and villages across the whole of Northern Norway, but they vary greatly in character, from thriving fishing villages along the coast and Sami communities on the high plateaus to the exciting urban culture of the northernmost towns.

WHERE THE OCEAN MEETS THE MOUNTAINS Small, flat, green islands are situated as far out as you can get along the coast, like strange figures cut from ancient rock.

And then you see the coastline plunging into the sea. The ocean works its way deep inland, where snow-capped mountains and pale blue glaciers are reflected in the clear waters of the fjords. There are fields, grazing grounds and lush foliage at the feet of the mountains, which you wouldn't expect this far north. Deep, silent valleys cloaked in pine woods cut a swathe between

the mountains of the interior.

Innermost, uppermost and furthest east lie the mountains and plateaus with their sparkling lakes and broad horizons. There is something new around every corner in Northern Norway.

LIGHT AND COLOR, SUMMER AND WINTER During the summer months, the midnight sun remains above the horizon for weeks and months at a time. Its light paints the mountains a golden color, creating glittering reflections and long shadows. The people of Northern Norway live for these few short months, and, in addition to bathing the mountain roads in golden light, these long summer nights are ideal for pastimes such as culture festivals and night fishing.

Winter has its own colors – when the sun never rises for several weeks at the end of the year.

There is still some light, but it is a pink and gold pastel-colored light in the middle of the day and a deep blue twilight during the afternoon. As soon as the evenings draw in, we look again to the sky to wonder at and be astonished by the Northern

Lights. This phenomenon, which is the result of explosions on the surface of the sun, manifests itself in green, purple and red electrical waves, which flit and dance across the night sky. Your best chance of seeing the Northern Lights is to join a Northern Lights safari guided by those who know where to spot them. There are lots of different safaris available – by dog sled, car or snowmobile. The Northern Lights are most beautiful in complete darkness, so it's a case of finding the best spot nearby where there is no electric light.

THE SMELL OF SALT The pure clean waters of the Barents Sea produce seafood of the finest quality. The people of Northern Norway have exported fish for more than 1,000 years – first dried cod, then pollock, herring and prawns. Now, the gigantic king crab has created a new livelihood for many coastal fishermen. The old fishing villages are often situated in the areas that are most exposed to the elements and that are close to the rich fishing grounds to the south. Today, many of the old fishermen's rorbu shacks have been converted into comfortable accommodation for enthusiastic

anglers. Traditional food is often served at old trading stations.

Even if you're not interested in fishing, you should still take a fishing trip on a summer's night... and cook your catch on the beach. It is a great culinary experience.

The sounds of time immemorial The Sami people live in the vast interior, in small villages by the fjords and along the big rivers, and they have the oldest traditions up here in the north.

Some of them follow their reindeer from their winter grazing on the mountain plateaus to the lush grass out by the coast in summer. Others farm sheep, fish for salmon with nets in the rivers and fish for cod in the fjords, depending on the time of year. Sami crafts combine functionality and beauty, and the Sami people make jewelry made from tin thread and leather, colorful woven woolen bands, woven mats in natural materials, and articles made from wood and bone decorated with geometrical patterns – duodji.

Joik, the old Sami form of song, is about people, animals, and states of mind, which is only natural up here in the north.

FACT

72 | 73

Facts Geography: ĂŹ $UHD VTXDUH NLORPHWUHV RI 1RUZD\ DOPRVW DV big as the Netherlands, Belgium and Switzerland combined. ĂŹ &RXQWLHV )LQQPDUN VTXDUH NLORPHWUHV

Troms (25,848 square kilometres) and Nordland (38,327 square kilometres) Ï 1RUWKHUQPRVW SRLQW 7KH 1RUWK &DSH ODWLWXGH r ü è (the same as the northern coast of Alaska) Ï 0RVW RI 1RUWKHUQ 1RUZD\ LV DERYH WKH $UFWLF &LUFOH Ï %RGº HQMR\V WKH PLGQLJKW VXQ IURP -XQH WR -XO\ Ï 7KH PLGQLJKW VXQ VKLQHV DW WKH 1RUWK &DSH IURP 0D\ WR 31 July Ï 1RUWKHUQ 1RUZD\ LV VLWXDWHG LQ WKH PLGGOH RI WKH SODQHWüV Northern lights belt, which means you have the best chance of seeing them here.

Population: ĂŹ 3RSXODWLRQ $URXQG LQ )LQQPDUN 159,000 in Troms and 240,000 in Nordland) ĂŹ &LWLHV DQG WRZQV 7URPVÂş %RGÂş

Mo i Rana (25,000), Harstad (23,000), Alta (19,000) ĂŹ /DQJXDJHV 1RUZHJLDQ 6DPL LV DQ RIILFLDO ODQJXDJH LQ VL[ municipalities. The Kven language is an official language in one municipality.

Travel information: Airports from south to north (flight time from Oslo in brackets): ĂŹ %RGÂş KRXU PLQ

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Train, Trondheim - Mo i Rana - Bodø.

Train connections from Narvik to Sweden The Hurtigruten coastal express from Bergen to Kirkenes calls at 25 ports in Northern Norway.

www.nordnorge.com

MEET MOBY DICK

WHALE SAFARI, VESTERÅLEN © HVALSAFARI AS

Since 1988 whale safaris have been arranged in Andenes where research, learning and activities meet to create a complete experience. The concept has awakened national and international interest.

Researchers and guides The guides onboard and at the whale centre are students and researchers from various countries. Each and every trip can therefore be experienced as a research project.

Shortest distance to the whales It takes a mere hour to get from Andenes to the area where the whales are, so you get to spend more time actually seeing the whales!

The world’s best whale safari!

The Whale & Dolphin Conservation Society (WDCS), an organisation that specialises in assessing whale safari offers, says the following: “Hvalsafari AS in Andenes – the world’s biggest and best arctic whale safari operator.”

Season, 25 May – 15 September There are daily departures in season. During peak season

there are several departures per day. The trips are normally 3-5 hours long, and are carried out by experienced skippers on well equipped boats, where safety is the highest priority. A guided tour of the whale centre is included in the trip. The centre gives basic information about the biology of whales, their place in the ecosystem and current research.

Whale guarantee If you don’t see a whale we guarantee you a new trip free of charge (the first available). You must arrange the new booking yourself. If you for some reason are unable to join us for a new trip, you’ll get your money back.

Hvalsafari AS P.O.Box 58 NO-8483 Andenes Tel.: +47 76 11 56 00 www.whalesafari.com

74 | 75

NORWAY A-Z AURLANDSFJORD © MORTEN RAKKE / FLÅM UTVIKLING

A TASTE OF THE ARCTIC For those who want a break from skiing, there are an abundance of other activities to indulge in: King Crab fishing, a stay in the magical Igloo Hotel, dog sledging and snowmobiling are just some of the things to whet your appetite in Northern Norway this winter. On the same latitude as Siberia, Greenland and Alaska, the northern coast of Norway is surprisingly mild thanks to the Gulf Stream, with temperatures around zero degrees not unusual in winter.

ACTIVE PURSUITS Snowmobiling and husky sledging are extremely popular and available to do throughout Northern Norway. What better way to take in the stunning scenery than gliding over the snowy plains!

ACTIVE WINTER HOLIDAYS Norway offers ideal skiing conditions, sun and adventure in the winter. And now is the time to go, as never before have there been so many options for you to get the most out of your holiday – in a country that offers everything from ice climbing to

snowboarding in powder down from Reidarskaret in Hemsedal, if you dare.

Get the family all fired up, find a cottage or a beautiful hotel with a view and book an adventure holiday. Try kite surfing on a mountain lake or race down the uncrowded alpine slopes. We are a nation of passionate skiers and would love visitors to enjoy our superb facilities as much as we do.

Stay in one of the many alpinestyle resorts with their stateof-the-art lift systems and high quality restaurant and accommodation facilities, or base yourself in a smaller village and take advantage of the plethora of cross-country trails which scatter the entire country - the choice is yours!

ALCOHOL You cannot obtain wine or spirits from any local supermarket. This is possible only in shops specially set up by the state for this purpose (Vinmonopolet). Such shops are usually to be found in the larger towns. However, beer can generally be bought in the supermarket. The age limit for

buying wine and beer is 18 years, and 20 years to buy spirits. You will find that nearly all restaurants are licensed.

BANKS 24-hour cash dispensers are found in strategic locations throughout Norway. Bank opening hours are approximately: Monday - Friday: 09.00 – 15.30 Banks usually close earlier during the summer and are closed on weekends.

CELL PHONES AND INTERNET The following mobile phone systems can be used in Norway: GSM 900 and GSM 1800 (both 2G), and also UMTS (3G). The Internet network is very well developed in Norway and most hotels offer an Internet connection.

CLIMATE AND CLOTHING Norwegian summer weather is unpredictable. Some days it is cloudy and raining, on others the sun blazes down at near Mediterranean temperatures even in Northern-Norway thanks to the Gulf Stream! Be prepared for all eventualities and bring

raingear, a warm sweater and good walking shoes in addition to your summer wardrobe. You are not usually required to dress formally for dinner at Norwegian resort hotels. For weather reports: www.visitnorway.com and www.yr.no

CREDIT CARDS MasterCard, American Express, Diners Club, Eurocard and Visa are all accepted at hotels, major restaurants and large shops, even for small amounts. Be aware that some petrol stations do not accept all these cards.

You can also withdraw money with your VISA card and Mastercard (limited) from cash points throughout the country.

CURRENCY Norwegian currency consists of kroner (NOK or Kr) and øre.

100 øre = NOK 1 Exchange rate November 2012: 1 Euro = 7,32 NOK / 1 Dollar = 5,72 NOK Visitors can bring in currency (Norwegian and foreign) worth NOK 25 000 (travellers’ cheques included). Currency over this amount must be declared at customs.

CUSTOMS REGULATIONS

76 | 77

Duty free limits (as of October 2012): 1 liter of spirits and 1.5 liters of wine and 2 litres of beer, OR 3 liters of wine and 2 litres of beer OR 5 liters of beer.

Tobacco: 200 cigarettes or 250 g tobacco and 200 cigarette papers.

NB: You must be 20 years or over to buy or import spirits and 18 years or over for wine, beer and tobacco products. For more detailed information, see: www.toll.no

DINING Norwegian cities offer a good selection of restaurants in all categories and price ranges. The main course at an average restaurant costs between NOK 170 - 300. Lunch is often less costly. A glass of wine costs from NOK 80 and a pint of beer from NOK 75. Cafés and “Kro” (often situated along the main roads) also serve dinner, often at very reasonable prices. A coffee in a coffee shop costs from NOK 20 and a soft drink from NOK 30.

DISABILITIES Over the last couple of years, the travel industry has put more emphasis on adapting their facilities for people with disabilities. However, there are still many locations with limited accessibility and we recommend that you check this before traveling. For information on rental cabins, contact Norges Handikapforbund (NHF): Tel.: +47 24 10 24 00 www.nhf.no

EASILY ACCESSIBLE All resorts are easily accessible by public transport. The majority of ski resorts are located in the

south of the country, so the average midwinter temperature is around -6°C and there is daylight from 9am to 4pm. By March, the number of daylight hours increase to 10. In addition, the season is long, with snow virtually guaranteed from November to May and conditions that are second to none.

ELECTRICITY The Norwegian grid is set to 220 volts AC and you might need an adapter with two round-ended prongs.

EMERGENCY NUMBERS In the event of an emergency in Norway dial: 110 Fire Service 112 Police Service 113 Ambulance Service 120 Emergency at sea

FOODIMPORT LIMITATIONS Import of agricultural products is subject to special import restrictions to avoid, among other dangers, the spread of plant and animal diseases.

However you may import, for private use, up to 10 kg fruits, berries and vegetables but not potatoes. From EU/EEA countries you can also bring a maximum of 10 kg of meat, meat products, fish, eggs, cheese and foodstuffs except dog and cat food, as long as the product is stamped with the country of origin (that country being an EU member).

Permission to import listed products can be revoked at any time if the necessity arises (in case of an outbreak of plant and animal diseases for example).

From countries outside the EU/ EEA, it is prohibited to bring meat, meat products, milk and

THERE ARE SOME ROADS YOU WISH WOULD NEVER END

VIEWING PLATFORM ABOVE TROLLSTIGEN, NATIONAL TOURIST ROUTE GEIRANGER-TROLLSTIGEN © JARLE WÆHLER / STATENS VEGVESEN

Fortunately, it is still possible to find roads that are not just intended to get you to your destination as quickly as possible.

The National Tourist Routes in Norway are 18 selected stretches of road that pass through the most beautiful and varied scenery Norway has to offer. Spectacular architecture and magnificent scenery are the defining characteristics of the National Tourist Routes.

We welcome you to unforgettable experiences on our National Tourists Routes.

Havøysund

Varanger

Tromsø

Senja Andøya

At the Norwegian Public Roads Administration, we pride Lofoten ourselves on offering picnic areas, viewpoints and service buildings with daring designs, and we endeavour Helgelandskysten to ensure that visitors will enjoy unique experiences.

Trondheim

Atlanterhavsvegen

Bodø

For more information please scan the QR code.

Geiranger - Trollstigen Gamle Strynefjellsvegen

Rondane

Sognefjellet Gaularfjellet Aurlandsfjellet Bergen

Hardanger

Valdresflye

Hardangervidda Oslo

Ryfylke Larvik

Stavanger

Jæren

Kristiansand

nasjonaleturistveger.no

78 | 79 FISHING IN KATTFJORD, TROMS © YNGVE ASK / WWW.VISITNORWAY.COM

milk products in your luggage.

Dried and tinned foodstuffs are permissible. More information about import limitations on www.toll.no

GREAT FACILITIES In Norway, it is said that Norwegians are born with skis on their feet and it is easy to see why. Norwegian children start skiing from the age of three and it really is a family activity. This is reflected in the country’s ski resorts which all boast fantastic family ski facilities including dedicated children’s ski areas, ski schools and crèches. Both Alpine skiers and snowboarders are well catered for, in fact, some of the best terrain parks in Europe can be found here. The Norwegian ski resorts also boast uncrowded slopes, lack of lift queues and affordable lift passes and ski schools.

Norwegians speak excellent English and the vast majority of ski resorts have English speaking crèches with qualified nannies and ski schools which are all extremely reasonably priced. Children that are too young to ski will love simply spending time outside playing in

the snow. Those old enough to don their own skis can take advantage of the dedicated children’s ski areas. These typically include dedicated runs, lifts and even terrain parks with jumps and rails! Many resorts also offer free ski helmet hire and free ski passes for children.

HOLIDAYS It can be both pleasant and economical to travel in Norway outside the school and industrial holiday season. Prices tend to be lower, and there is less hustle and bustle. The school holidays vary somewhat but are approximately from June 20th to August 20th. The industrial holidays are the three last weeks in July. In addition to autumn and winter breaks, schools are closed for two weeks over Christmas and one week during Easter.

HURTIGRUTEN For those who want something a bit different, why not join the popular voyage “In Search of the Northern Lights” from Bergen to Tromsø. The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, caused by electrically charged

solar particles entering the earth’s atmosphere which light up the sky at an incredible speed. It is impossible to predict when they might appear and now guests can take advantage of a unique “wake up call” which means customers can request to be called whatever time, should the Northern Lights appear. The Hurtigruten ships are perfectly placed viewing platforms as the Northern Lights, which can be seen from November to March, are set against a dark sky free from artificial light.

KING CRAB FISHING Unique to Finnmark in Northern Norway is the gigantic King Crab offering a truly amazing experience. Travel by snowmobile or inflatable dinghy to fish for the crab through the ice. The King Crab can be as large as two meters and weigh up to 15 kilos. Afterwards you can enjoy your morning’s work with a lunch of delicious fresh crab meat. A true gastronomic experience in unforgettable surroundings.

LANGUAGE The official language of Norway is Norwegian. The Sámi population has their own official language called Sámi, and in Finnmark you will find signs marked in both languages. Most Norwegians have a good working knowledge of English and some also speak German, Spanish and French.

MEDICAL ATTENTION Pharmacies are called “Apotek” and are open during normal business hours. In some larger cities, one or two of them will be open 24 hours and on weekends.

Should you fall ill while on vacation in Norway, the hotel reception should be able to put you in touch with a local doctor.

Outside normal consultation hours you should go to the local emergency clinic (Legevakten).

If you take medication on a regular basis, make sure you take sufficient supplies for your stay in Norway.

Norwegian pharmacies are not permitted to issue medicine on foreign prescriptions. If you run out, you will have to visit a Norwegian doctor to get a new prescription. You are

80 | 81 NORTHERN LIGHT, AURORA BOREALIS © BJØRN JØRGENSEN / VN

recommended to take out holiday insurance before leaving your home country.

MIDNIGHT SUN Norway is the Land of the Midnight Sun. In the summer, the sun never fully sets north of the Arctic Circle and even in Southern Norway the days are extremely long.

NATIONAL PARKS Norway’s 41 National Parks are established to secure the rich diversity of our natural heritage for future generations. In the National Parks nature is protected by law and all visitors must show respect by not disturbing plants and wildlife.

You can obtain more information about the National Parks by contacting the Directorate for Nature Management: www.dirnat.no www.nasjonalparksenter.no/ english

NORTH CAPE North Cape is Europe’s northernmost viewpoint (71º10’21’’ North) and a popular tourist attraction. There is a

tourist centre on the plateau where you will find a supervideograph, historical exhibitions, chapel, restaurants, bar, souvenir shop and post office. Entrance price (2013), including parking, supervideograph, historical exhibitions and full access for 48 hours: NOK 245 per adult (NOK 170 for students/bikers) NOK 85 per child under 15 yrs.

NOK 575 for families (two adults and two children).

North Cape is open all year, but daily opening hours vary. It is possible to visit during the winter, please contact Nordkapp Tourist Office in advance: www.nordkapp.no

NORTHERN LIGHTS The Northern Lights, aurora borealis in Latin, are bright colourful waves of light illuminating the night sky. The common viewing season is between October and March, however, you are never guaranteed this treat, as it depends on certain meteorological conditions. The best vantage points are in Northern Norway, above the

Arctic Circle. The Northern Lights may, under particular weather conditions, also be seen in Southern Norway.

PASSPORT AND VISA REGIMES Norway is not a member state of the European Union (EU), but is part of the Schengen area. To visit Norway, all foreign nationals (except citizens from the other Nordic countries) must have a valid passport and/ or other identification papers approved as travel documents.

Certain foreign citizens must also carry a visa. Contact the Norwegian Embassy or consulate closest to you for more information, see www.norway.info

PETS Norway is one of the few countries in Europe where rabies does not exist, and the Norwegian authorities aim to keep it that way through strict animal control measures. If you wish to take a pet to Norway, the animal must have a valid certificate from an authorized veterinarian proving that the animal has all necessary injections. Please note the new rule about mandatory treatment for echinococcosis for cats and dogs that have been in Sweden before entering Norway. For updated information and application forms, please consult www.mattilsynet.no (see section Traveling with pets)

RELIGION The Church of Norway, which is Lutheran, oversees about 1 600 churches and chapels around the nation. For more information: www.kirken.no

In addition, there are houses of worship for most denominations and religions in major cities. For info on Stave Churches, see www.stavkirke.info

MEETINGS, EVENTS AND CONVENTIONS Norway is an exotic destination with a lot to offer the well travelled client. With its high tech industry and breathtaking scenery, it is the perfect destination for companies that want to take advantage of the pristine natural environment while still profiting from all the comforts of a modern destination. For more information about possibilities of organizing meetings, events or conventions in Norway, please contact the local Innovation Norway Office in your country or contact Norway Convention Bureau, see www.visitnorway.com/Meetings

RIGHT OF ACCESS The law of access to the natural environment, known as «Everyman’s Right» allows you to walk wherever you want in the wilderness areas such as the seashore, forests, mountains and in other areas which are not cultivated. This should be done with consideration, so that neither the countryside nor the property is damaged. Be considerate to wildlife and towards other people who are in the area. Note that stricter access regulations can be enforced in protected areas.

Use paths and roads when you go for walks in agricultural and populated areas. It is preferable to make use of campsites if you

82 | 83

are staying overnight outdoors.

If you pitch a tent in the wilderness, it should be situated at least 150 meters from the nearest house or cottage. The lighting of fires is prohibited during the period from 15 April to 15 September.

STAY IN THE IGLOO HOTEL Alta boasts the world’s northernmost ice hotel. Chill out with a drink in the ice bar before heading off to your icy chamber for a night you will never forget sleeping on ice-beds covered with reindeer skins!

SHOPPING

SAMI EXPERIENCE

Normal opening hours are: Mon.–Fri. 10am – 5pm Thursday 10am – 6pm/8pm Saturday 10am – 1pm/3pm Supermarkets and shopping centres are generally open 9am – 8pm on weekdays and 10am – 6pm on Saturdays. Sundays closed.

Kiosks tend not to close until 10pm or even 11pm, and are usually open on weekends too.

Petrol stations often sell groceries and are often open until 11pm. Most shops accept major credit cards.

For a really authentic Northern Norway experience, pay a visit to the Sámpi Park in Karasjok where you can try driving a reindeer sleigh, learn more about the way of life and enjoy an authentic meal seated on reindeer skins around an open fire in the laavu (Sami tent).

SMOKING RESTRICTIONS Smoking is not permitted on board air crafts or on other means of public transport. Nor is smoking permitted in public buildings and other places open to the public, offices and other places of work. This includes hotels, bars and restaurants. You must be 18 years or over to purchase tobacco in Norway.

SUMMER TIME Norway has Central European Time, i.e. GMT+1 hour. In 2013 Norwegian summertime begins March 31st at 02.00 (clock set forward one hour) and ends October 27th at 03.00 (clock set back one hour).

TAX FREE SHOPPING AND SOUVENIRS Norway can offer more than beautiful scenery. Popular souvenirs from Norway include knitted jumpers, cardigans, gloves and mittens, pewter ware, silver jewelry and cutlery, hand painted wooden objects, bowls with rose designs, trolls and fjord horses carved out of wood, reindeer skin, enamel jewelry, watches, woven wallcoverings, furs, handicrafts, glass and pottery. Throughout the country, shops displaying the Tax-free for tourists’ logo offer visitors quality goods at highly competitive prices. If your purchase at any of the 4 500 stores connected to the system exceeds NOK 315 on regular goods, the store issues you a Tax-free voucher for the amount of VAT you paid. On departure from Norway, a refund of 12-19 %, depending on sale price, will be given to you on presentation of goods, Taxfree cheque and passport, on condition that the item has not

been used while in Norway and purchased less than one month before departure. There are approximately 55 Refund points at various exits from Norway at airports, road borders, on board ferries and cruise ships.

Custom officials cannot refund VAT. As a part of Global Blue’s network of Cash Refund offices, Norwegian Tax Refund Cheques may also be cashed at most of the large airports in Europe as well as in Asia.

Global Blue www.global-blue.com Please note that it is possible to buy tax-free goods upon arrival in Norway at the following airports: Oslo/Gardermoen, Bergen/Flesland, Trondheim/ VĂŚrnes, Stavanger/Sola and Kristiansand/Kjevik.

TELEPHONES

WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU HERE There are a range of other activities to enjoy whilst on a winter break in Norway. Try your hand at horse drawn sleigh rides, ice fishing, snowshoeing, ice skating and tobogganing which are only some of the activities available.

We look forward to seeing you in Norway this winter and remember, every time you say ski or slalom, you are speaking Norwegian!

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION General: www.visitnorway.com www.turistforeningen.no Skiing: www.skiingnorway.com www.skiinfo.com

Norwegian pay phones take 1, 5, 10 or 20 kroner pieces (and also 0.5 and 1 and 2 Euro coins). The minimum charge is NOK 10 / 2 Euro. For directory enquiries, dial 1881 for Norway, Sweden and Denmark, 1882 for all other countries. To call Norway from abroad dial +47 in front of the eight digit number. When calling other countries from Norway you must first press 00.

Other winter destinations: www.northernnorway.com www.fjordnorway.com/ski

THE OSLO PASS AND THE BERGEN CARD

Coastal experience: www.hurtigruten.com

These cards entitle the user to free or discounted admission to museums, attractions, cultural events and sightseeing. Also, free bus travel and discounts on meals and parking. The passes are sold at tourist offices in Oslo and Bergen. www.visitoslo.com www.visitBergen.com

Ice hotels/igloos: www.kirkenessnowhotel.com www.sorrisniva.no www.ice-lodge.com www.vinterparken.no Icebar: www.icebaroslo.no

ATTENTION Innovation Norway - Tourism brings to your attention that travelling in certain areas in Norway should be in the company of a qualified guide.

Also pay attention to official signs and applicable regulations.

The best Norway has to offer - all in one place!

84 | 85

On the award-winning website Visitnorway.com, Norway's largest travel and tourism portal, you will find inspiration and information about Norway and special offers from the travel and tourism industry.

It is easy to explore Norway, search for products and destinations and book trips and accommodation.

WITH VISITNORWAY ON FACEBOOK YOU CAN

VISITNORWAY - FREE APP FOR YOUR HOLIDAY IN NORWAY

ĂŹ $VN TXHVWLRQV DQG ILQG inspiration ĂŹ 6KDUH SKRWRV WUDYHO experiences and tips with other fans of Norway ĂŹ 3DUWLFLSDWH LQ FRPSHWLWLRQV ĂŹ )LQG YLGHRV SKRWRV DQG WKH best travel links

FOLLOW VISITNORWAY ON

TWITTER AND RECEIVE The whole of Norway in your TWEETS ABOUT pocket! Find accommodation, ĂŹ $WWUDFWLRQV DQG HYHQWV events, activities and restaurants ĂŹ $UWLFOHV DQG SUHVV where you are or where you are releases about going.

Norwegian travel and tourism ĂŹ &RPSHWLWLRQV ĂŹ 7LSV DQG LGHDV IRU QHZ WUDYHO destinations in Norway

ONLINE BOOKING AT BOOKNORWAY Lowest prices - widest selection BookNorway collaborates with Visitnorway to offer a 'one-stopshop' for experiences, accommodation and trips to and within Norway. We know Norway and we have the widest range of Norwegian travel and tourism products. We provide the best prices available from Norwegian travel and tourism companies - guaranteed.

BARCODE INFO New intelligent opportunities for user experiences are emerging with the widespread use of smartphones. This catalogue uses 3D barcodes with a completely new and unique marketing concept.

THIS IS HOW IT WORKS You scan the barcode using your smartphone. This is free of charge and can be done with all types of smartphones (iPhone and Android). The advertiser's website address, which is hidden in the barcode, then comes up on your smartphone.

Download the barcode scanner free on your smartphone/iPhone.

NORWAY ON A BUDGET 86 | 87

10 Budget Holiday Tips

HODDEVIK, SOGN OG FJORDANE © CH / WWW.VISITNORWAY.COM

You can travel in Norway on a fairly tight budget.

Here are ten tips for cheap accommodation, activities and means of transport

1

CAMPING

The cheapest way to stay in Norway is to bring a tent. Public right of access in Norway means you can put up your tent practically anywhere free of charge.

There are also campsites for tents and caravans throughout the country, where you pay a small charge and can use the showers and kitchen. These campsites often have simple cabins for rent as well.

2 CHEAP ROOMS

If you are travelling by car in Norway, look for ‘Room for rent’ signs. Sometimes, they are only in Norwegian, i.e. ‘Rom til leie’. With a little planning, you can easily find budget accommodation.

There is a wide range of reasonable accommodation available in Norway.

VIP Backpackers have cheap rooms in Norway. B&B Norway is an organisation that provides bed & breakfast throughout the country. Norwegian hostels are part of Hostelling International, and there are 75 hostels from the north to the south of Norway.

They offer reasonably-priced accommodation and the chance to meet people from all over the world who are in Norway for the same reason as you. You can book single rooms, double rooms or family rooms at www.hihostels.no

3

BUDGET-PRICED CABINS

Norway is one of the most sparsely populated countries in the world. Vast areas with extensive networks of waymarked walking trails await you. Walking is free, and there is a wide choice of cabins available for people who want to explore

the mountains and wilderness.

The Norwegian Trekking Association has 460 cabins of varying standard. The cheapest are the no-service cabins where you bring your own food.

Read more at: www.turistforeningen.no You can also rent a budgetpriced cabin for a week or longer at www.norgesbooking.no

4

WALKING HOLIDAYS

Bringing your own tent and walking in the mountains is free. If you book a room at one of the Norwegian Trekking Association‘s no-service or selfservice cabins (see above), you pay a reasonable amount that varies with the standard of the cabin. The self-service cabins are slightly more luxurious and a bit more expensive.

Š TERJE RAKKE / NORDIC LIFE / WWW.VISITNORWAY.COM

88 | 89 OSLOMARKA © TERJE BORUD / WWW.VISITNORWAY.COM

5

SEA FISHING FROM SHORE

Bring your fishing rod on a cycling or motoring holiday in Norway. Sea fishing from the shore is free.

6

CYCLING HOLIDAYS

A cycling holiday where you bring your own tent is a cheap way of exploring Norway.

If you don’t like tents, you can book reasonably-priced cabins at Norway’s many campsites before you set off. If you don’t want to cycle on your own, you can book an organised cycling trip.

7

BUY YOUR OWN FOOD AT A SUPERMARKET

Buying food at a supermarket is the cheapest way of filling your stomach. The following are the cheapest of the many supermarket chains in Norway: Bunnpris, Prix, Rema 1000, Kiwi and Rimi.

You can’t buy wine or spirits in ordinary shops and supermarkets in Norway. You have to find a Vinmonopol wine and spirits store. Since it is a state-owned chain, it is not required to make a profit, and expensive wines are actually competitively-priced in Norway.

8

EAT AT SMALL ASIAN RESTAURANTS

In cities and towns. you will often see small Asian restaurants. Many of them are cheap and serve good quality food. In Oslo, many of these restaurants are located in the Grønland area, or along Torggata, which goes from Oslo city centre to the Grünerløkka area.

You can drink tap water, so it is unnecessary to order a bottle of water with your meal.

Most restaurants will bring a jug of water and glasses to your table free of charge.

9

GETTING AROUND By train

The Norwegian State Railways (NSB) sell Minipris tickets from NOK 249, irrespective of the length of the journey. These tickets must be booked in advance at www.nsb.no Also check out ‘Norway in a Nutshell’, which is a reasonablypriced, well-organised round trip. www.fjordtours.com By bus Travelling by bus can be a cheap option, and the bus company NOR-WAY Bussekspress

covers most of the country and sometimes has good discounts. Book tickets online in advance to get the best deal.

10

Discounts Many places offer good discounts for youth, students, seniors and families. If you qualify for any of the above, you must always mention it. Students must show their international student ID card (ISIC).

Driving a car in Norway If you come in your own car or hire one when you get here, there are lots of reasonable accommodation options available to you, and there is a wide range of impressive National Tourist Routes throughout Norway.

© NILS-ERIK BJØRHOLT / WWW.VISITNORWAY.COM

BUY AN 'EXPLORE NORWAY TICKET‘

The airline Widerøe has many good deals on round trips in Norway. Go for their ‘Explore Norway Ticket’, which offers unlimited air travel for two weeks during the period from 21 June to 27 August. www.wideroe.com

AROUND NORWAY With backpack and bike 90 | 91 © NILS-ERIK BJØRHOLT / INNOVATION NORWAY

Backpacking in Norway?

No problem! There’s loads to see and do. Get yourself a map and the right guidebooks and you can start preparing your trip right away. And you can find exotic places to stay at farms across Norway.

‘Norway, yes, of course! It is the world’s most beautiful country, after all. What are you waiting for?’ Getting an experienced globetrotter like Jens A Riisnæs to enthuse about his native country is not difficult. He recommends taking a backpack of course: ‘Suitcase? ‘What on earth is a suitcase? In addition to the indispensable backpack –

and, not least, the equally indispensable plastic payment card, you could also take a bike with you, if that’s what you like.

You can take it on trains, buses, boats and planes. And that’s you pretty much ready.’

‘Backpacking in Norway? Yes, why not? Public transport is good and frequent. Since the esteemed National Geographic has voted the Norwegian fjords the most beautiful in the world, there’s no reason why we shouldn’t enjoy them too. My motto is: Don’t let tourists scare you away – there’s not THAT many of them. And don’t turn your nose up at the most popular destinations in Norway – there’s at least one good reason that they’re popular with tourists.’

© RIISNÆS

Jens A Riisnæs is Norway’s most widely traveled journalist and number one travel guru.

For more than 40 years he has devoted most of his time to exploring the world and, through his weekly travel program on the cultural channel on national radio, he has for many years taken listeners to some of the most fantastic places on the planet.

GO WEST! ‘That is why many of my best tips point in one direction, namely westwards. With Oslo as your starting point, you should check out the Fram Museum, the Kontiki Museum, the Norwegian Museum of Cultural History and the Viking Ship at Bygdøy to understand a bit more about this strange country before setting off.

Catch a train heading west, or take a bus part of the way, and get yourself to Myrdal. There, you simply must take the miraculous train ride called the Flåm Railway and continue by boat on the Nærøyfjord to Gudvangen, where you take a bus up the hairpin bends of Stalheimskleivene before arriving in Voss. A tourist trap, some people might say?

Definitely, and a very successful product marketed under the moniker “Norway in a nutshell”.

But it is also unbelievably beautiful. We simply can’t leave out something as magnificent as this,’ says Jens A Riisnæs. ‘From Voss, you continue on to Bergen by bus or train, where you can see the sights the student travel agency Kilroy Travels’ recommends to backpackers: Mount Fløyen, Mount Ulriken, the old Hanseatic wharf Bryggen, Bergen Aquarium and Edvard Grieg’s home, Troldhaugen. And don’t embark on the Hurtigruten coastal express and head north right away. There are a lot of express boats in Bergen harbour, you see. One of them takes you up the Sognefjord, which you definitely shouldn’t miss. Make sure you have plenty of time, take a good look around and improvise a bit before catching a bus to take you to Førde and on to Stryn.

Beautiful Stryn is, by the way, a

92 | 93

perfect base for short excursions to Olden, Loen etc.’

and – on the way to Åndalsnes – the Trollstigen Road.’

MAP AND BOOKS

‘Jump on a train at Åndalsnes and take an exciting railway journey via Dombås to Trondheim, where you should definitely see Nidaros Cathedral, the Bybroen Bridge, the colourful Bakklandet area and the fortress, and check out lots of concerts and bars.

Planes, trains and buses take you further north from Trondheim. Maybe a flight to Bodø – in brilliant sunshine of course – would be just the thing? Or are Namsos, Træna and Lurøy more tempting?’

Remember not to bite off more than you can chew. When you are carrying a backpack, it’s important to find a sensible travel rhythm. But once in Bodø, you should make your way to the quay and get on the ferry to Moskenes. Seeing the Lofoten mountains rise up from the ocean should be compulsory for everyone with a sense of adventure.

‘Let’s take a breather and think about some essential equipment, i.e. what we need to pack. A map is a must.

Preferably a large scale one. I probably don’t need to say this, but you should buy a map long before you’re standing there with the pack on your back.

Planning is half the fun. And a plan is no obstacle to improvisation. An example of a bit of improvisation that I could have mentioned before would be to travel from Voss to Bergen via Kinsarvik.’ And a walk up the Husedalen valley, towards Hårteigen and Hadlaskar – a little valley that Riisnæs does not hesitate to call Norway’s most beautiful.

AND SO TO THE NORTH ‘Right, so we’ve arrived in Stryn. From there, there is a bus that goes to Grotli then on across the mountain and down to Geiranger. Maybe the bus driver will provide a little extra service and stop off at the Dalsnibba viewpoint. But, regardless, you’ll get to see Ørnevegen (the Eagle’s Road)

‘When you have reached the southern tip of Lofoten at the village of Å, don’t forget to walk across to the other side, i.e. to the north, to see the lagoons on

SEE THE FANTASTIC FILM ABOUT THE FLÅM RAILWAY HERE

the seaward side, and then catch a bus that takes you slowly to the town of Svolvær.

The Hurtigruten coastal express is there to welcome you and show you the Trollfjord and loads more before you walk down the gangway in Tromsø.

Tired? Yes, but don’t forget exotic Finnmark, either this time or perhaps next year. The distances in this part of Norway

farms, if somewhat less easy to find, are an exciting alternative.

The organisation HANEN is a nationwide network with 500 members. Some of them only serve food, but around 300 of them will also put you up for a night. You can choose between cabins, small houses, apartments and farms – ranging from simple, reasonablypriced accommodation to more refined options.

The counties of Sogn og Fjordane, Nord-Trøndelag, Telemark and Hedmark/Oppland are particularly well represented in this network.

Please note that some of these places are not located right beside bus stops and ferry quays, so it is a good idea to phone in advance to arrange transport and get some good advice. There is an excellent list of the accommodation on offer in Norwegian, English and German at www.hanen.no

Tip: The 'Explore Norway Ticket' sold by Widerøe, which can be used all summer, is recommended. are huge and travelling by plane is a good idea. It can be a good idea to check timetables and book early. The North Cape, Berlevåg, Båtsfjord and Kirkenes are good destinations, as is Sør-Varanger, where four peoples come together and the Russian taiga forests start.’

WHERE TO STAY Hotels and guest houses abound in eye-catching locations along the proposed route. Norwegian

This interview by Lars-Ludvig Røed was originally published in the newspaper Aftenposten

SEE THE FANTASTIC FILMS FROM LOFOTEN HERE

94 | 95

· Foto: VisitFlåm / Morten Rakke

Wild and dramatic nature - the world’s best reason to visit

FLÅM

Beautiful Flåm is situated at the innermost part of the Aurlandsfjord, a tributary of the 204 kilometer long and up to 1308 meter deep Sognefjord.

The Flåm Railway is the unique train journey between Flåm and the mountain station Myrdal on the Oslo – Bergen Line, and is widely recognized as one of the steepest and most beautiful railways in the world. The boat company Sognefjorden invites you to a memorable voyage between Flåm and Gudvangen on the spectacular Nærøyfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy a good night sleep at the historical Fretheim Hotel, one of Fjord Norway’s most unique and comfortable hotels.

Flåm welcomes everyone, regardless age and season.

ÅLESUND

FLÅM VOSS

HEMSEDAL GEILO

BERGEN MYRDAL

OSLO STAVANGER LARVIK

KRISTIANSAND

LÆRDAL–OSLO

UNDREDAL AURLAND

GUDVANGEN STALHEIM

FLÅM

VOSS BERGEN

OSLO

MYRDAL

www.visitflam.com FERRY

TUNNEL

RAILWAY

ROAD

Oslo – Flåm .................. 350 km · 5 h 30 min Bergen – Flåm ............. 165 km · 2 h 30 min Voss – Flåm.................... 65 km · 50 min Hemsedal – Flåm........ 115 km · 1 h 45 min Geilo – Flåm................. 115 km · 1 h 45 min Stavanger – Flåm ....... 350 km · 7 h Kristiansand – Flåm..... 490 km · 8 h Ålesund – Flåm ........... 298 km · 5 h

Tel: (+47) 57 63 21 00 e-mail: flaamsbana@visitflam.com www.flaamsbana.no

Tel: (+47) 57 63 32 00 e-mail: post@sognefjorden-as.no www.sognefjorden-as.no

Tel: (+47) 57 63 63 00 e-mail: mail@fretheim-hotel.no www.fretheim-hotel.no

the easy way!

Book tours, hotels and activities all in one package.

Norway in a nutshellŽ – Norway’s most popular round trip!

This tour includes the spectacular Flüm Railway, the unbelievably narrow NÌrøyfjord and the steep hairpin bends of Stalheimskleiva (May – September). Combine an overnight stay in Flüm with a fjord safari, kayaking or a walk along the NÌrøyfjord.

FOR BOOKING AND MORE INFORMATION: Visit www.fjordtours.com or call Fjord Tours Customer phone: +47 815 68 222

.%/,!" s 0!!, !5$%34!$ &*/2$ 4/523

Explore Norway -

THE RAUMA RAILWAY © ROLF SØRENSEN

PRODUCTION Design and layout: Legind as, Copenhagen Responsible: Innovation Norway Cover photo: The Geirangerfjord © CH / www.visitnorway.com This book was printed in Feb. 2013 and the information compiled during the winter months of 2012. Information is based upon data collected from participating companies and organisations, official authorities and the Norwegian travel trade.

Innovation Norway – Tourism can not accept responsibility for any omissions or inaccuracies, or for any consequences arising there from. Prices may be subject to change.

Innovation Norway - Tourism brings to your attention that travelling in certain areas in Norway should be in the company of a qualified guide. Also please pay attention to official signs and applicable regulations.

© Bjørn Eide - Guest image

CONNECTING TO THE REAL NORWAY with 34 ports of call whatever the season

Why HURTIGRUTEN is the best way to explore the Norwegian coast

We call at 34 ports, 365 days a year

Marvel at the Midnight Sun

Go in search of the magical Northern Lights

Join in on exciting excursions

Experience the rugged coastline of Norway with Hurtigruten, the original coastal voyage since 1893. With us you are guaranteed unique views and memories to last a lifetime. From the Midnight Sun of summer through the changing seasons you can experience the friendly and truly Norwegian way of life.

Every day of the year a Hurtigruten ship visits one of its 34 scheduled ports. Enjoy relaxing days, local cuisine and the warm company of like-minded adventurers.

You can also embark on an exciting range of excursions including dog sledging, snowmobiling and the North Cape. The Classic Round Voyage from Bergen to Kirkenes and back takes 12 days, but there are also sailings offering shorter sections of what some call “the World’s most beautiful voyage”.

To start planning your Norwegian voyage of a lifetime, visit www.hurtigruten.co.uk or visit your local travel agent.

Hurtigruten.com The Original Coastal Voyage since 1893

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ROUTE PLANNER either www.viamichelin.co.uk, or www.visveg.vegvesen.no

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MONETARY UNIT Norwegian krone, NOK (as of October 2012) 1 Euro = 7,33 NOK 1 USD = 5,72 NOK 1 GBP = 9,12 NOK

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RELIGION Protestant Christianity

alvatn 12 Mo i Rana E12 K

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Lovu

OFFICIAL LANGUAGES Norwegian (two variants, bokmål and nynorsk) Sami (equal status with Norwegian in certain municipalities in Troms and Finnmark)

Lönsdalen

ya

Åmø

a Træn

POPULATION 5,017,500 inhabitants as of July 2012 Norway has a Sami indigenous population and five national minorities: Jews, people of Finnish descent in Northern Norway, the Roma people (gypsies), the Romani people (travellers) and Forest Finns.

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MONARCHY Harald V, King of Norway, born 21 February 1937 Sonja, Queen of Norway, born 4 July 1937 Haakon, Crown Prince of Norway, born 20 July 1973 Mette-Marit, Crown Princess of Norway, born 19 August 1973 Ingrid Alexandra, Princess of Norway, born 21 January 2004 Sverre Magnus, Prince of Norway, born 3 December 2005

77

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