Norway offers spectacular, pristine landscapes–fjords, mountains, waterfalls, lakes, woods–so you’re going to be eager to spend time outdoors. Here are some things to do to get you started:
1. Walk Under a Waterfall
The Geiranger fjord in the western part of Norway is nature at its most wild and magnificent. The tourist office gives out free maps and descriptions of hikes–some easy, some demanding–that immerse you in the breathtaking scenery. One walk even takes you behind the Storseterfossen waterfall!
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2. Hike on a Glacier
The Jostedalen Glacier Guides organize hikes across the blue ice of the Nigardsbreen Glacier in western Norway. The easiest one, the Family Walk, takes about an hour and is suitable for children age 6 or older. The price is NOK200 for adults and NOK100 for children.
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3. Drive across a Mountain Pass
The Sognefjellsvegen, or National Tourist Route, stretches across 68 miles of western Norway. Along the way, take in the Jotunheimen National Park, with Northern Europe’s highest mountain peaks, and the Sognefjord, one of the world’s longest fjords.
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4. Island Hop Across the Bridges of the Atlantic Road
This 5 mile long road is built across an archipelago on the western coast. Spanned by eight bridges, the road offers a view of the open sea, and you might catch a glimpse of a whale or a seal.
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5. Bike Along the “Old Navvy Road”
This road was built as a supply road for the construction of the Bergensbanen railroad line during the late 1800’s, but today it offers bikers views of Arctic mountains, lush valleys, old stone bridges, and more. Be warned: the weather can change quickly because of the elevation, and the road can be too rough for children under 12 on their own bikes.
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6. Fish for 26 Different Species in One Lake
Oyeren lake, located in eastern Norway on the outskirts of Oslo, is the fourth largest lake in Norway but richest in variety of fish species. Anyone over 16 must have a fishing license, which can be purchased at local post offices for a cost that begins at NOK95.
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7. Be Awed by a Spectacular Waterfall
Voringfossen is the most visited waterfall in Norway–it’s 600 feet high! The tourist office in Eidfjord, located in southwest Norway, can provide hiking information.
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8. Kayak a Fjord
Tofino Expeditions offers a six day kayaking/camping expedition covering 50 stunning miles of Norway’s fjords. US $1900.
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9. Ski in the Summer
Galdhopiggen is Norway’s highest mountain, and its summer ski center opens in June.
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10. Roam Through a Zoo
Commune with a lynx or an orangutan at the Kristiansand Zoo and Amusement Park in southern Norway.
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