If you are a traveller like us, you can’t wait until a friend or family member returns from a trip so you can sit down with them and find out all about it, vicariously living through their tales and photos.
When Clint recently returned from travelling through Norway with Travelmarvel on board their Arctic Circle Express tour, we couldn’t wait to drill him on all the details, and share them with you! And we’re pretty sure those pics of the spectacular fjords will make you as envious as they made us!
Clint, you’ve recently returned from touring Norway with Travelmarvel on board the Arctic Circle Express. What surprised you most about the journey?
The dramatic landscape of the mountains (Trollstigen, Geiranger and Dalsnibba for example) is something you simply cannot prepare yourself for!
Also the beauty of the cities which are quaint, colourful and have so much history. The main cities are small compared to European standards so they didn’t feel crowded. I felt like everything was ‘ordered’ and no one was in a rush which gives you such a feeling of calm while you’re there, and can just stroll at your own pace and take it all in.
The tour includes some of the world’s most famous and scenic rail journeys, including the Flam Railway and Rauma Railway. Can you describe these experiences?
Let me say first of all that along with being some of the most scenic experiences on the planet, both rail journeys are incredible engineering feats. I marvelled at how both the Flam and Rauma Railways had been built as we climbed to dizzy heights and passed through hundreds of tunnels carved directly into the mountains.
The Rauma Railway captures everything from rolling hills and incredible mountain peaks (including Trollveggen cliff face) as well as the many bridge crossings and rivers which are a beautiful sight.
Flam Railway finished too quickly – I wanted more! The journey takes you to a height of 866 metres above sea level and the 20-kilometre track winds its way through small towns perched on the side of streams and rivers as well as through tunnels – with the longest being 1320 metres long! Our stop at the Kjosfossen waterfall was awesome. The sight of it and its sheer power was well worth getting up close and taking the small soaking it dished out.
In all, the rail experiences on the trip made it such a unique journey. It was so relaxing to sit back in the comfort of the trains with your eyes glued to the breathtaking scenery out the window. Trains really are one of the best ways to travel straight through amazing landscapes at the perfect pace to see everything.
What did you learn about Norway and its people and culture?
There is so much history and the local people are incredibly proud of their culture. One of our local guides Gunn, who showed us around Trondheim, explained this sentiment to me and I think it rings true.
She also said the locals are discerning at first but once you chat and engage with them they will be your best friend, and truly, we encountered so many warm and inviting locals who loved showing us their amazing country.
What was the food like?
I love seafood so I was in the right place! Norwegian cuisine isn’t too well-known so it was such an interesting experience discovering it. We ate many dishes that took advantage of the local seafood, including chowders similar to Bouillabaisse and many other dishes with an international influence.
We were also surprised to learn how much produce is grown on the land surrounding the fjords including so many fruit orchards!
Every opportunity I had, I ordered seafood and it didn’t disappoint!
Try and describe the scenery for us!
Dramatic, grand, mystical, and lush. When I first laid eyes on Geirangerfjord I was captivated by the sheer size of it! Cascading waterfalls around every turn was certainly an experience and you always have to keep your eyes wide open for the next spectacular scene to appear before you!
Tell us about travelling with the group – what were the dynamics like and how did you find the itinerary?
We had a small group with many different personalities. As the trip went on, the more you got to know each other and the deeper the stories flowed – there were new friendships formed between all of us and always someone to chat to.
The itinerary was perfect with long travel days split up with short breaks to keep things interesting plus lots of free time is always a winner as you get to do your ‘own’ thing when you get the chance. I took the opportunity to use my free time to experience an electric car tour of Geiranger, check out the Bergen Fish Markets and Funicular, and tour the Kristiansten Fortress in Trondheim. We also discovered so many great cafes and restaurants in our own time, and have so many good memories.
Tell us your favourite experience/memory from the trip!
I loved the city of Bergen. It has ‘everything’ including the beauty of historic Bryggen waterfront, great places to eat and drink by the wharf including the fish markets, and a funicular to the top of Mt Floyen for a breathtaking view over the city. There were even walking tracks for a hike if you liked. And all of this was 5 minutes walking distance from our hotel!
Any funny stories to relay to us?
Yes, but It’s not a funny one. One of our fellow passengers travelled to Bergen for work 20+ years ago and he stumbled on what he regarded as ‘one of the best pubs on the planet’. He shared many good stories with us which included sampling the wonderful local beers (he brews beer himself and he loved the local mix) and singing songs with strangers well into the night. This was one of main reasons why he wanted to bring his wife on the trip to Norway, as Bergen was one of the last stops on the tour and he could take his beloved wife to show her his version of ‘the best pub in the entire world’.
When arriving in Bergen, and as soon as he possibly could, he led his wife towards the harbour and his night was short lived when he discovered that the ‘best pub in the world’ had been completely refurbished and replaced with a large modern restaurant.
While enjoying the modern ambience he quietly shed a tear to himself and then picked himself back up and on reflection realised that all was not lost as he said the beer is still magnificent, the midnight sun was slowly setting and he got to share this moment with his beautiful wife which meant more to him than sharing it alone all those years ago!
What was it about the journey or destination (or both) to truly made it unique?
For me it was the fjords, as this was the first time I had ever seen them. It’s definitely a sight and a feeling that I will never forget. While I was on the boats, staring up at the mountains that dwarfed us, and watching the water cascading down the sides I knew that all of this was Mother Nature’s work and it blew me away.
Lastly, tell us why we should all go too!
If you like a destination that has interesting history, mind-blowing nature, incredible rail journeys and experiences being brought to life by knowledgeable, happy and caring locals, then Norway is the place to visit!
Have you been to Norway or planning to go? Tell us in the comments!
I went to Norway in 2001. I was in a Hostel in Oslo, when two fellows sharing the room, called me: “a plane has just flown into the World Trade Centre. ” I’d just come back from Akershus Castle, and was pre occupied by seeing an actual Enigma Machine from WWII. Within minutes, a second plane hit. Suddenly, it seemed like the way the world was, would change.
I had booked a Hurtigruten trip which left the next day, so it was too late to cancel. Besides, this was a trip said to be too good to miss, as you now know. By the time Narvik got as far as Tronheim, I felt that I’d better get off and re join the world.
I had to wait practically all day for the train to go across to Stockholm, so visited the local museum of buildings, which was really worthwhile. At the station, I found that the train I had to catch had only two carriages, and about three passengers. This seemed very odd. Was it the right train? It felt like a local train for nearby suburbs. Anyway, off it went, and after a while, it pulled up at a stop, called Hell. Nearby there was a goods shed, with the sign. ” Hell, God’s Expedition.” A woman and child were waving goodbye to a man who had just boarded the train. The train went on and on and on. By late night, it stopped somewhere high in mountains, and everyone had to get out, and board a bus. Again we went on and on, until arriving at a dark station, surrounded in cloud and fog. There was the longest train I have ever seen. Really, probably 30 or 40 carriages. My ticket meant I had to walk about half a mile to the front. I found myself in a compartment by myself. The train offered music, a broadcast of Jazz from Stockholm, which was quite “groovy”. By 3 or 4 AM the train was descending from altitude, and winding its way through an endless marshalling yard bathed in weird Orange Mercury Vapour lighting. It just seemed to suit the music, and everything seemed timeless. By about 7.30 or 8 AM, it arrived in Stockholm, and I could hardly believe that I had made such a transition from Norway. In Stockholm, life returned to normal again.
A great story Rod, captivating from the start. The rail journeys sure are iconic in Norway and a great way to see the country. Have you been back?
Looks and sounds magnificent ! Norway is now right up there on my travel priorities, I must see those fjords !!!
Yes, Ted, they’re amazing to see in person and well worth the trip to get there. I was glued to the water coming down off the mountains and didn’t want to come back in to shore. #justdoit
It would certainly give your knees a good work out on those hills
It might be best to do some training before you go, Gavin, that’s for sure as there are many a hill!
OMG. I suddenly got really emotional looking at these pictures and reading about Norway.
I did a Rotary Exchange here many years ago, and the fabulous memories are still very fresh of the scenery, wonderful people and the SEAFOOD!
And you’re not the only one Dan. It definitely has that effect on people. And yes, the seafood is outstanding.
Thanks for such a wonderful update on Norway. A great way to have a country described, is by those who have recently visited. I know so little of Norway, yet from this brief description, I feel I have learnt so much. It is definitely a part of the world I would love to visit. A very beautiful country, a magnificent fish market, and a history that involves a lot of us. Being of Viking ancestry in Ireland, I feel perhaps I am part of their history.
Well, you should definitely try to travel to Norway and trace that Viking history Robert! When you’re there you get swept up in the history, culture and stories. If you do go please let us know what you thought of the place.
Cheers Clint
What a wonderful diary of events on your recent tour in Norway, Clint! I am a rail traveller ‘freak’ and have completed many interesting journeys around the World, and, coincidentally, I was looking at one of Scott McGregor’s tours of Norway/Sweden to complete next year, so I rushed to enter the competition to win the Norrway tour! Your description of yout trip resembles, (to a small degree!) the Rocky Mountaineer and Alaska Railroad journeys, all of which I undertook in 2009 (I think), and I really enjoyed those experiences. I would definitely l;Ike to receive any further notifications regarding rail trips in the future. Not promising anything, though – I am undertaking Scott’s tours to Sri Lanka in Nov this year, and then his trips to Japan and Borneo in April/May next year. These are already booked! Cheers, Rod Palmer.
Great to hear that you’ve booked some overseas trips with some magnificent destinations Rod, including many great rail journeys. The Rocky Mountaineer is a great trip and if you get the chance to visit Norway you will absolutely love it and I was fascinated by the engineering feats to create the Flam railway. Jaw dropping!
Yes we are hoping to go some time. I want to show my husband. I did the Flam railway with girl friends in the early 1980. so all those photos brought back memories. I loved the Viking history. I think I must have Viking in my blood via my Scottish ancestry. My husband has asked is it better than New Zealand? Oh my God !! Much Bigger and spectacular.
The Flam railway certainly is a show stopper. I still can’t believe they were able to build a railway that high!!! If you do go again make sure you let us know what it’s like since the eighties. I know one thing for sure Rosemary, you will love it just as much as the first time you travelled. Enjoy. Cheers Clint
I loved reading Clint’s blog. The photos are like picture postcards! Thanks for sharing!
You’re welcome, Adrienne. It was like walking in a postcard most of the time. Very surreal and you’ve got to love that midnight sun!
Cheers Clint
Whoah !!!
Midnight Sun – now that’s something I aspire to see, now I’ve heard of it. Sounds even better than a moonlit beach!
‘Busting-to-go Roslyn’
Having viewed a friends Coffee Table album with many photographs of Norway, certainly makes a fantastic reason to actually see this place for ones self.
Go do it, Peter, you will not regret it! Seeing it up close and personal is an eye opener that will stay with you forever.
Cheers Clint
What a magical awesome place!
Doing it my train is the way to go!
It’s a great way to travel Joyce. Comfortable, large windows to see the passing jaw-dropping scenery and small towns plus they have coffee and tea on board which is a winner 🙂 Cheers Clint
What an amazing place, have always wanted to visit this amazing part of the world and cannot wait to view it on Places we go. It certainly looks breathtaking to say the least and somewhere I really hope I will get to one day.
What did you think Donna? Did you see the show? Did it whet your appetite to visit?
Would love to hear your thoughts.
Cheers Clint
I have travelled Britain Europe Canada Alaska New Zealand Australia but not to the top northern parts of europe. I can only imagine summer in those locations and seeing some of the scenery and to know some more of the history and meet the locals would be the ultimate.
It is incredible Darrel. I couldn’t believe how good the weather was while we were there. You’ve done some serious travelling and time to visit Norway I think! If you go remember to let us know what you thought. Cheers Clint
You have shown that Norway is an incredible destination. We met a couple from Trondhiem on a cruise and had always planned to visit them. Your show has rekindled our desire to make this happen.
Great to hear Christine. It’s certainly a beautiful place to visit and better if you know people who can show you some special spots as well. Get booking 🙂 Cheers Clint
I really enjoyed your blog of your travels throughout Norway, Clint! I have long entertained the idea of travelling to Scandinavia and your spectacular photos and informative comments about Norway have made me determined to visit this majestically, beautiful country, for myself. Norway, here I come!
Glad to hear it, Lee. You will not be disappointed as its such a beautiful country! Go Lee go! Cheers Clint
I love to travel to new destinations and still have A LOT to tick off my bucket list. Norway had never really crossed my mind. However, after reading Clint’s tales and looking at the photos, I want to go now! I am an avid ‘foodie’ and love fresh seafood.. and the spectacular scenery! Absolutely stunning!! Yep, definitely adding this one to the bucket list and it may even jump in front of some other places on my list! Thank you for sharing! ?
Ooh nice one Deb and great to hear that Norway is now on the list. If you love food then you have to travel to Trondheim, the countries 3rd largest city which is known for its ‘foodie’ culture. The seafood straight from the fjords is just delicious. Goodluck on your foodie travels! Cheers Clint
The scenery looks spectacular and I’ve never done a train trip like that and think it would be great.
You’ve got to do it, Lyn. It’s simply stunning and so worth it viewing the jaw-dropping scenery from the comfort of a train! Cheers Clint
MY WIFE AND I WATCH YOUR TV EPISODES EACH SATURDAY AND FIND THEM VERY INFORMATIVE AND INTERESTING.
THEY HAVE WETTED OUR APPETITE TO VISIT NORWAY.
Wonderful to hear Bernie and we appreciate your support tuning in and watching the show when it’s on. Norway is certainly one of the most beautiful countries I’ve travelled too. Make sure you let us know what you liked when you visited Norway. Im sure it will be lots! Cheers Clint
This trip looks amazing
It was my partner of 23 years dream to travel by rail and see the beautiful places like Norway
I had a benign brain tumour removed 3 weeks after he passed away (what a terrible time)
I am deeply committed to living his dream for him and what a way to start This trip looks absolutely perfect to start my journey
Well, Marie, you’ve certainly been through quite a bit lately and I’m sure a trip to a beautiful destination like Norway would be good for the soul. Travel is an amazing gift and a friend of mine has a great saying. He says that ‘travel is the only thing you do that makes you richer’. Good luck with the destination of choice and happy travels. Cheers Clint
I watched your program yesterday (25th August) and was amazed at the incredible scenery, the history and the food. I would so love to experience this for myself.
Go do it, Marilyn, as you will not be disappointed! A beautiful country to be experienced. Cheers Clint
I watched The Places we go episodes then I saw Clint’s photos. Such an amazing journey through such picturesque scenery. Thank you!
Thanks for watching the show Susan and I’m glad you enjoyed the article too. Cheers Clint
Would love to go Norway, always dreaming seeing Fiords, looks beautiful
They are certainly a beautiful site to see up close and personal those Fjords! If you ever go please share your photos and experience with us. Cheers Clint
We would love to go to so many of these simply beautiful places … Norway Finland Denmark … all on our bucket list, so hope we can get there some time.
Canada and Japan are also on our list of “want to do”.
Wow, some beautiful destinations on your bucket list Annie. I hope you get to one of them soon. I’m biased and think Norway should be the first cab ‘off the rank’. Any travel is great for the soul. Good luck on your next trip. Cheers Clint
OMGOSH this is the Trip I watched last week & it’s the one my husband & I would love to do as his father wanted to do with him & now has gone. He left the Earth with cancer & my has had the same cancer last year & is now in remission.
Don’t know if we will be able to afford next year but is definitely on our bucket list for next year.
Diana, there is a chance that you can go with your husband to Norway as we have a competition running and its open till the 27th of September. Here is the link or you can find it under competitions on our Places We Go site. You can copy and paste this into your browser. https://placeswego.com/win-your-way-to-the-fjords-of-norway-entry-form/
It’s definitely worth it and such a beautiful country to experience.
Cheers Clint
Is this the actual Norway in a Nutshell that you can buy tickets for or just part of a separate tour all together. ?
Hi Vanessa, we did the Arctic Circle Express tour with Travelmarvel – you can find it here! https://www.travelmarvel.com.au/trips/russia-the-baltics/rjtacj16p
saw your film, will go (soon) friend did it by own means and loved his photos, but your trip seems to cover more particularly the rail journey looks great
Saw the program on telly and thought what a fantastic show. It really gives a great perspective into what it is like to be with a tour group. Well done 😁
Hi! I would love to see the most beautiful scenic place of Norway and experience the moments in my life that i never have one Yet.. It was so fantastic when I watched the show in TV, I can’t wait if i ever have a chance one day. Thank you for all the tips and showing,sharing it. I feels like I’m there too👌Fantastic☺️💕