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The scenery of the Flam railway in Norway

Norway's Spectacular Rail Journeys

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By Kelly Mills


Europe is spoilt with idyllic beaches, emerald lakes and towering mountains, making it inevitable that there are plenty of amazing rail journeys. From passing picturesque mountain vistas in Switzerland to the ancient villages and rolling hills of Italy, there are some stunning journeys. These are guaranteed to be incredible, but it is our Nordic neighbour that offers the most spectacular journey with its rugged and dramatic landscape. Norway boasts spectacular rail routes throughout the country, the most impressive of them all is the iconic Bergen and Flam Railway. This is what to expect on a rail escapade to the fjords.

Boarding the Bergen Railway in Oslo

This incredible journey starts in Norway’s vibrant capital city. If you have time, spending a few nights in Oslo is highly recommended, with plenty to do for all interests. Explore the imposing Opera House along the waterfront and the impressive Munch Museum, discover the endless shopping and dining options along Karl Johans Gate or for a taste of Norway’s wonderful landscape, enjoy a leisurely cruise through the picturesque Oslofjord. 


Oslo is quite a compact city so is great for walking but also benefits for an excellent tram network. In the centre you will find the main train station where you have brilliant value connections to the airport as well as the iconic Bergen Railway. Finding your train is super clear and straight forward, with signs easy to understand, simply board your train and set off.


 

Oslo promenade, Norway

Onboard the Bergen Railway

The Bergen Railway is used by tourists and locals alike and offers a comfortable way to travel. Store your luggage and settle into your allocated seat. This scenic journey takes you to the small mountain village of Myrdal to join the Flam Railway, although the Bergen Railway extends all the way to Bergen. 


Starting in metropolitan Oslo, the journey soon transforms from urban cityscapes into glorious rolling countryside with traditional Norwegian farmhouses and cottages. Climbing in elevation, the route begins to showcase incredible mountain scenery, passing Geilo, the popular ski resort town before reaching the vast Hardangervidda plateau. The scenery here is spectacular, especially when passing the remote village of Finse where you can admire incredible glaciers and stark landscapes. The journey then reaches the mountain village of Myrdal, where you can disembark for the Flam Railway.


 

Flam in Norway

Onboard the Flam Railway

A simple switch of train amongst the spectacular surroundings of Myrdal and you are on the iconic Flam Railway. With no allocated seats, simply board and get comfortable for this hour journey through impressive landscapes. The seats can be folded up so that you can stand and look out of the open window. This mesmerising journey clings to the mountainside, weaving through tunnels and showcases breathtaking views of cascading waterfalls, steep valleys and vibrant rivers below. 


During the journey, the train will make a quick stop allowing you to get off and take a closer look at one of the spectacular waterfalls. This is one of the worlds steepest rail journeys, and as you finally descend from the mountains you reach the small village of Flam.


 

The scenery of Flam in Norway

Fjord village of Flam

This small, idyllic village offers a tranquil escape compared to the bustle of Oslo. It is well worth spending a night or two here but with only two hotels and an ever-increasing demand it is best to book as early as possible. For such a small village, however, there is a great choice of activities. There is a fantastic range of water-based activities such as kayaking and fjord cruises as well as hiking, cycling and even a zipline! There are day tours to join which delve into Norway’s Viking heritage as well as a microbrewery designed to pay homage to its mystical past. The views from Flam are incredible and it is the perfect place to unwind.


 

Aerial of Flam in Norway

Continue to Bergen by rail or fjord cruise

After a wonderful time in Flam, the incredible scenery does not finish here. You can travel to Bergen by the Flam Railway, seeing the scenery from a different perspective, then continuing onboard the Bergen Railway pass idyllic fjords. Alternatively, you can opt to combine with a fjord cruise. Leaving from Flam, embark on a two hour adventure aboard a silent cruise through the UNESCO World Heritage listed Nærøyfjord to Gudvangen. From here, take an hour coach journey through gorgeous scenery to Voss where you re-join the Bergen Railway.


 

Fjord Cruise in Norway

Exploring Bergen

Surrounded by seven mountains, Bergen is a glorious harbour city filled with history, nightlife, and charm. Stroll the lively harbour where you can watch the boats sail by and sample freshly caught seafood from the fish market. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage listed district of Bryggen, known for its historic colourful wooden buildings and visit the museum next door. If you are still craving the serenity of the outdoors, many day trips to the fjords are available or take the Fløibanen funicular up Mount Fløyen for incredible views of the city, as well as hiking trails and canoe hire.


 

Houses in Bergen, Norway

Take a look at our Norway Highlights by Rail: Oslo to Bergen or our Norway Highlights by Rail & Fjord cruise: Oslo to Bergen itinerary to find out more, or for more inspiration take a look at our Norway Holidays pages.

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Written by Kelly Mills

Kelly works as a Contract Analyst in our Kensington head office. Kelly has worked at Trailfinders since 2019 and has travelled to 25 countries. Her favourite destinations include Tanzania, Madeira and Peru.

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