Norway's breathtaking glacial fjords are a truly spectacular natural attraction, surrounded by views of snow-capped mountains, roaring waterfalls, diverse wildlife and quaint fishing villages frozen in time.
On this eight-day tour, you'll discover the beautiful fjords of Norway's western shores as they're ablaze with autumn colours.
Your base for the trip will be Kviknes Hotel in the idyllic village of Balestrand, on the shores of the stunning Sognefjord. There'll be plenty of free time for you to explore Balestrand, with its quaint wooden houses, fragrant cider farms, and impressive Viking history.
Look forward to taking in the incredible sight of Sognefjord which, at 180 kilometres long and 1300m deep, is one of the biggest fjords in the world. You'll see more of western Norway's awe-inspiring natural landscapes on a two-hour cruise through Aurlandsfjord and Nærøyfjord to the tiny port of Gudvangen.
There'll also be a day trip to Bergen, the city known as the 'gateway to the fjords.' Here you can wander the narrow cobbled streets lined with mediaeval houses down to its bustling harbour area and open-air Fish Market.
You'll have the opportunity to see Bergen from above as you ride the Fløibanen funicular railway to the impressive summit of Mount Fløyen.
Your home-from-home for seven nights will be the welcoming Kviknes Hotel, an elegant, fjord-side, Swiss-style wooden building with modern amenities including comfortable lounges and a stylish bar.
Enjoy breakfast and dinner here each day, with local ingredients including fish fresh from the Sognefjord served at the sumptuous buffet.
* From price is per person, based on two people sharing a twin room, subject to availability and based on 16 October 2024 departure date, from LGW. Price shown includes savings and is capacity controlled. Price and itinerary correct at time of print but may be subject to change. Single supplement applies. Deposit £500pp. Local charges such as tourist tax may apply. Offers are not valid in conjunction with any other offers or promotions. Travel insurance is not included and should be taken out at time of booking. Images used may not reflect your actual tour experience. This holiday may be sold through other selected brands. Tour is operated by and subject to the booking conditions of TS Travel Ltd and Newmarket Holidays ABTA V7812. ATOL protected 2325. ABTOT 5509.
Today you'll fly to Bergen, where you'll meet your tour manager and board your coach for the scenic drive to Balestrand, on the shores of mighty Sognefjord. Once here, you'll check in at the warm and welcoming Kviknes Hotel, your base for the next seven nights.
Take some time to settle into your room and get to know your beautiful surroundings, before enjoying your first evening in the hotel.
Today, you'll have time to get to know Balestrand and its welcoming residents, who are keen to act as your hosts, sharing their love of their beautiful home town with you.
You might choose to visit Sognefjord, one of the world's largest fjords, which has been welcoming guests since the late 19th Century, when the first British travellers came in search of clear mountain air and stunning scenery.
The village at Sognefjord, with its shops, café, bank, historic, wooden English church, neat white-painted cottages and stylish artists' villas, is surrounded by orchards. In the autumn, new snow adorns the peaks but summer sunlight still lingers by the fjord and the surrounding forests blaze with vibrant colour.
Today you'll enjoy an unforgettable day trip, starting with a boat ride through the stunning scenery of Western Norway to historic Bergen, known as the gateway to the fjords.
Explore this city of narrow cobbled streets and mediaeval houses, with its vibrant harbour area and open-air Fish Market.
Don't miss the chance to stroll through the ancient Bryggen area past its beautifully preserved wooden warehouses, or the opportunity to view the city from above as you ride the quaint Fløibanen funicular railway to the summit of 'Mount' Fløyen.
Today you can either take some time to rest and relax in your idyllic surroundings or join an optional trip to the breathtaking Jostedal Glacier.
This is Europe's largest glacier and is a mesmerising natural wonder dominating the northern interior beyond the fjords.
A visit here is a must for anyone with an interest in Norway's natural landscapes. As well as taking in the incredible sight of the glacier itself, you'll learn more about Jostedal Glacier and Norway's other natural wonders at the fascinating and informative Norwegian Glacier Museum.
Today you can choose to enjoy another day relaxing near your hotel or join an informative Norway in a Nutshell tour.
This day trip includes an unbelievably scenic journey, travelling by coach, boat and train across the most stunning parts of western Norway.
The tour includes the unforgettable experience of a ride on the world-famous Flåm Railway from Myrdal to Flåm and a two-hour cruise through spectacular Aurlandsfjord and Nærøyfjord to the tiny port of Gudvangen.
Today you'll join your expert guide to spend a day exploring the beautiful Sognefjord and visit the fascinating Sogn Folk Museum at Kaupanger.
The museum's fine collection of fishing and 'ice' boats tells the fascinating story of Norway's age-old relationship with the sea and the fjords.
Spend your final day relaxing in Balestrand and exploring more of the local area at your own pace.
It's your last chance to soak up the tranquillity of your surroundings and make the most of the village. Perhaps you'll take a wander through the town to admire the very special architecture here, or head down to the beach.
This evening, enjoy a final dinner at the hotel and look back on the highlights of your unique Norwegian fjords holiday.
Say goodbye to Balestrand, as you set off on your journey home. You'll retrace your route through the scenery to Bergen and check in for your flight home, taking with you a treasure trove of wonderful memories.
Kviknes Hotel is an elegant Swiss-style wooden building by the fjord which once welcomed the Kaiser and his entourage. It is a family-run hotel, designed to make you feel at home.
The hotel features delightful public areas, including a spacious restaurant overlooking the fjord, large and comfortable lounges, and a stylish bar. The restaurant boasts an extensive fresh fruit and salad bar, various hot and cold meat dishes, an excellent selection of fish, and a delightful array of freshly made desserts and cheeses.
Bedrooms are located both in the modern 1960s building extension and in the historic building. All feature delightfully comfy bedding and many boast spectacular views of the Sognefjord.
For general information, click here.
