Majestic Fjords & Historic Hotels 2010
4 days / 3 nights, Oslo - Myrdal - Flåm Railway - Balestrand - Gudvangen - Voss -Bergen | An exciting combination of the Sogne Fjord, Norway Nutshell Excursion and Historic Hotels! This unique tour features some of the most magnificent scenery in Fjord Norway. Spectacular train rides, from the scenic Bergenbanen to the famous Flåm Railway, combined with cruises on the Sogne Fjord, the Aurland and Nærøy Fjord, as well as a bus tour across the steep Stalheim Canyon Road. Experience the culture, history and rich tradition of the historic Kvikne's Hotel, anno 1877, when Ole Kvigne (with "g") bought Holmen Guesthouse. The guesthouse was gradually developed into Kvikne`s Hotel. Already in 1880, Ole and his wife and brother Knut expanded the old guest house. One of Norway's most prestigious resorts. Royalty, emperors, presidents, movie stars and artist grace the guest list at the Kvikne's!
From Balestrand to Voss, where we stay at the over 100 years old historic Fleischer's Hotel, dating back to 1889.
| Departure | Departures: Daily, May 1st - August 30th, 2010 |
| Price | $1,375 per person in double room $1,715 single room $1,105 per person in a triple room $125 per person water view upgrade* *Upgrade is in the main building at Kviknes Hotel and fjord view room at the Admiral Hotel in Bergen. |
| Included | 3 nights first class hotel accommodations Scandinavian breakfast buffet daily 2 x Buffet dinners Train, Oslo - Myrdal Seat reservation in 2nd class (not available in 1st class) Flam Railway, Myrdal - Flam Sogne Fjord cruise, Flåm - Balestrand Cruise, Balestrand - Gudvangen Bus, Gudvangen - Voss Train, Voss - Bergen Taxes & services |
| Not Included | Airfare and airport taxes and customs fees Transfers Return train to Oslo Gratuities Personal insurance / personal items Alcoholic beverages $25 Service fee |
| Please Note | This is a non escorted tour. The services are based on public transportation and are on an individual basis. No tour leader is provided. |
| Tour Options | Additional nights in Bergen and/or Oslo Return train, Bergen - Oslo Fjord Line, Bergen - Hirtshals |
Day 1 OSLO - BALESTRAND (D)
From Oslo Central Station board the scenic Bergenbanen through the Hallingdal Valley, via Geilo and across a mountain plateau to Myrdal. Ride the famous Flåm Railway, descending 2,840 feet in 12 miles, into the wild Flåm Valley, passing spectacular scenery of waterfalls, mountain cliffs and tiny settlements and farms. Upon arrival in Flåm you have about one hour to stroll in the quaint fjord village, or perhaps enjoy a lunch in the beautiful Fretheim Hotel located across from the railway. Cruise on the Sogne Fjord from Flåm to Balestrand. Short walking transfer from the pier to the hotel (3 minutes). The Kvikne's Hotel offers a free shuttle to transport the luggage. This evening enjoy the world famous buffet dinner, beautifully prepared by the Swiss Chef. Overnight at the historic Kvikne's Hotel.
Day 2 BALESTRAND - FLÅM - GUDVANGEN - VOSS (B, D)
Enjoy your Scandinavian breakfast buffet and the spectacular view over the Sogne Fjord. Morning at leisure to enjoy the fabulous hotel, its art collection, antiques and hand-carved furniture displayed throughout the hotel. Perhaps you might explore the quaint harbor of Balestrand and the breathtaking scenery surrounding the town. Your mid day cruise from Balestrand through the narrow Aurland and Nærøy Fjord will reward you with unforgettable views of majestic mountains, waterfalls, snow covered peaks, tiny fjord villages nestled along the shores, ending in the fjord village of Gudvangen. Continue by bus around the steep hairpin bends of the famous Stalheim Canyon Road, descending steeply into the valley to Voss. Dinner and overnight at the historic Fleischer's Hotel, dating back to 1889.
Day 3 VOSS - BERGEN (B)
Breakfast at the hotel. Time to explore this historic city before continuing by train to Bergen. Afternoon at leisure to explore the sights. Perhaps enjoy a harbor cruise on the "White Lady", or a scenic ride on the Fløybanen to Mt. Fløyen for a spectacular view over the city and the fjord. Overnight at the Augustin Hotel, ideally located in the city center, minutes from the waterfront and Fish and Flower Market.
Day 4 BERGEN (B)
Enjoy breakfast before check out. End of program, or extend your stay in this colorful city of Bergen.