At a Glance
Succumb to 9 glorious days of refuge amidst the picturesque fjord landscapes of Norway. The sublime nature captivates you at every turn as you hike and discover snow-capped mountains, serene waterfalls, authentic Norwegian heritage and culture on this unparalleled 9 day walking adventure from Bergen to majestic glaciers.
Start your awe-inspiring journey of discovery in the remarkable city of Bergen. Explore the city's stunning landmarks and lively culture, then board a stately ferry bound for the gorgeous paradise of Sogndal. Discover the allure of Nes Gard, tucked away in the heart of the stunning fjordic scenery. Partake in a soul-stirring hike to the top of Molden Peak and take in the breathtaking views of the fjords and the Urnes Stave Church, a World Heritage Site recognized for its traditional timber architecture ...
Trip Highlights
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What's Included
- All breakfasts, 7 x packed lunches, 6 x dinners
- 8 nights accommodation in comfortable hotels on a twin-share basis
- 5 days of walking
- Meals as specified
Itinerary
Your adventure begins in the picturesque city of Bergen. After a briefing at the hotel provided by our tour guide, we'll go out to discover this stunning Norwegian city, sometimes referred to as Norway's "Second city." Settle into the opulent Thon Orion hotel for a night's accommodation. Located in the heart of Bergen, Norway, this 4-star hotel features esquisite rooms equipped with modern amenities like air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and minibars. The hotel also boasts facilities such as an on-site restaurant and a wellness centre. |
As the first rays of sunlight gently kiss the sky, we will enjoy a hearty breakfast before embarking on a short yet breathtaking journey from Bergen pier to Sogndal aboard a ferry. This is not your normal cruise, but it is an experience that will leave you enthralled as you take in the breathtaking scenery of the Sognefjord, the longest and deepest fjord in Norway. After we have arrived at our destination, we will take a picture-perfect transfer of approximately 30 minutes to get to Nes Gard. |
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You’ll stay at the cosy family-run Nes Gard guesthouse for three nights and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Lustrafjord and the waterfall at Feigumfoss. Experience deep relaxation in your cosy room fitted with a private bathroom and comfy beds. Relax in the tranquil atmosphere and take in the beautiful views from the comfort of your private balcony or terrace. |
Approx. 6 km (3.7 miles), 4 hours walking, Elevation gain: 620 m (2,035 ft) As you set foot in Norway's enchanting wilderness, prepare to embark on an invigorating warm-up hike that will leave you breathless. Molden Peak is a spectacular peak that rises more than 1,116 metres (3,360 feet) above sea level, and its summit is where you may catch your first glimpse of the breathtaking Sognefjord. As you stand on this lofty perch, take in the spectacular panorama of the fjord's deep abyss stretched out before you in all its beauty. As we explore the region further, we will have the privilege of visiting the awe-inspiring Urnes Stave Church, a UNESCO-listed landmark that transports you back in time with its 12th-century traditional wooden architecture. This historical gem, hidden away in the fjordic scenery, is a sight to behold thanks to its ancient artefacts and intricate carvings, which shed light on the country's illustrious past. Marvel at how beautifully the church contrasts with the heavenly backdrop of the surrounding fjords, leaving you with memories that are sure to last a lifetime. |
Approx. 10 km (6.2 miles), 6 hours Walking, Elevation gain: 200 m (655 ft), Elevation loss: 200 m (655 ft) After indulging in a hearty breakfast spread, gear up to embark on an epic journey to Jostedal National Park, where the mighty Jostedal Glacier awaits you. This mammoth ice cap, covering vast swathes of the park itself, boasts of nearly 30 glacial arms that offer a sight like no other. As we make our way through the picturesque landscapes, we'll start our exploration with the Bergset glacier - a stunning ice wall covering the upper part of Krundalen Valley. Brace yourself for an awe-inspiring experience as you stand before this magnificent ice formation and take in its sheer grandeur. Our adventure continues as we trek towards the breathtaking Nigards glacier, getting so close that it'll feel like you can almost touch it! With every step, you'll be transported into a world of icy wonder and natural beauty beyond comparison. Optional Walk: For those seeking the ultimate adventure, join our optional guided walk on the glacier using crampons and an ice axe. As you navigate your way through the frozen expanse, immerse in the surreal surroundings and bask in the glory of nature's icy masterpiece. |
Approx. 11.0 km (6.8 miles), 6 hours Walking, Elevation gain: 350 m (1,150 ft), Elevation loss: 350 m (1,150 ft) Today, we'll take a trip into the magical Mrkrisdalen Valley in Norway, a veritable paradise of natural beauty. Starting with a thrilling hike down a narrow canyon dominated by a majestic waterfall is the perfect way to kick off our journey. We continue to make our way up the valley, and as we do, the canyon gradually opens up, revealing a vast moorland dotted with wildflowers and traditional Norwegian summer cabins. |
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After taking in the sights at Mrkrisdalen, it's time to leave Nes Gard and make the picturesque journey to our next stop, the Fjaerland Fjordstove Hotel (about 1 hour and 30 minutes). Located on the waterfront, this chic hotel provides breathtaking panoramas of the nearby glacier. For the next three nights, you'll be staying at the charming hotel in Fjaerland, on an upper branch of Western Norway's stunning Sognefjord. Each room boasts comfy beds, private bathrooms and stunning views of the surrounding mountains or glaciers. The hotel also features an on-site restaurant where you can enjoy a range of Norwegian specialties. |
Approx. 12.0 km (7.5 miles) 5-6 hours Walking, Elevation gain: 350 m (1,150 ft), Elevation loss: 350 m (1,150 ft) This morning, we venture out from the hotel and tread upon a rugged gravel trail that runs parallel to a tranquil river. Our journey takes us through working fields where sheep and cows roam freely, introducing us into a peaceful, picturesque landscape. We start off on relatively flat ground, but getting closer to the trail's end, we begin to encounter some steep inclines and rocky areas. A delicious meal and the breathtaking panorama of the valley awaits us at the end of our journey. We take a break at a mountain cabin that was previously used to store grass for animals to eat during the harsh winters, and drink in the beautiful scenery. After satisfying our hunger and capturing some unforgettable moments with our fluffy companions, we retrace our steps back to the hotel, filled with new experiences and memories that will last a lifetime. |
Approx. 10 km (6.2 miles) 4-5 hours Walking, Elevation gain: 400 m (1,310 ft), Elevation loss: 400 m (1,310 ft) Get ready for a day of wonder and adventure as we kick off with a quick transfer to the Norwegian Glacier Museum. A window into the mysteries of the surrounding landscape and its glaciers, the museum's modern and angular architecture stands in striking contrast to the old mountain peaks that surround it. Learn fascinating and eye-opening details on how climate change is influencing this natural treasure. Then, hang on tight because the ride to the trailhead will take the better part of 10 minutes. This path is a favourite among locals, and with good reason. We get breathtaking views of the Fjaerland fjord and the impressive Jostedalsbreen glacier as we climb Besshovden. If the weather is right, you could see some daredevils setting up hammocks on the highest point for a night beneath the stars. The trek will leave you gasping for air. |
Rise and shine, adventure awaits as we fuel up with a hearty breakfast before setting off on an epic journey. The first stop on our journey is the picturesque town of Gudvangen, where we will get a ferry to the Naerøyfjord, which is on the list of World Heritage Sites maintained by UNESCO. The tight, serpentine curve of this fjord, bordered by high cliffs and verdant vegetation, is sure to impress when we sail through it. The excitement doesn't stop there: we subsequently board the Flåm railway, widely considered to be among the world's most breathtaking train rides. Take in the stunning scenery at every turn as we travel through a landscape of mountains, valleys, and waterfalls. Finally, we arrive in Berge, where it all began and a quick 10-minute transfer takes us to our familiar hotel, Thon Orion. What a day it has been! This is a journey that promises to leave you truly enchanted. |
As our incredible journey comes to an end in Bergen, we bid farewell after a sumptuous breakfast. Join the scheduled group transfer to Bergen Airport or make your own arrangements for your onward journey. Alternatively, if you yearn for more time to soak up the magic of this beautiful city, extending your stay is available, please contact us. NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation. |
Dates & Prices
Please contact us for private departures and group bookings. Single Supplement is available on request.
More Info
- The departure and finish point is Bergen
- Major commercial flights provide convenient access to Bergenv. The nearest major airport is Bergen Airport, Flesland which has international and domestic flights and is 21 km from the center of Bergen
- Airport transfers are only included with a scheduled group transfer from Bergen Airport. Alternatively, joining location starts in your accommodation in Bergen making your own arrangements there. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes’ drive from the airport by using local public transport or taxi.
From June to September, Lustrafjord has about 15 days a month with some kind of precipitation. When the sun shines, expect temperatures to average 18C-22C (64F-72F). Expect some rainfall, even though warm and sunny weather is not infrequent in this area and summer rain is also common.
The walking level on this trip is rated Level 3 Moderate.
Level 1 Leisurely: Experience is not necessary; anyone fit and healthy enough to complete a weekend walk will thrive. Walks are often optional. Trails are seldom flat, so expect a reasonable number of ascents and descents. You normally walk for two to five hours per day; daily ascents will likely be around 985ft to 1,640ft (300m to 500m), perhaps with the odd day around 1,970ft (600m).
Level 3 Moderate: Expect easy, medium-length walks or harder, shorter walks. Some experience is useful, but not essential. Good health and reasonable fitness are important. There will be walks at higher altitudes and some longer, harder days. Generally, though, the underfoot conditions will be fair. A walking day is normally five to seven hours; daily ascents will likely be around 1,640ft to 2,625ft (500m to 800m), perhaps with the odd day around 2,955ft to 3,280ft (900m to 1,000m).
Level 5 Challenging: Fitness is vital with extended walking in mountainous terrain. You might also experience high altitude, challenging climates and remote locations. Trekking experience is desirable, but not vital if you are confident in your physical condition. Walking days are usually between six and eight hours, although they may be longer for passes or peaks. Daily ascents can be around 2,955ft to 3,280ft (900m to 1,000m), perhaps with the odd day around 3,610ft to 3,940ft (1,100m to 1,200m).
Level 7 Tough: Trekking experience is essential and preferably at altitude. You need complete confidence in your ability to trek for many days over difficult terrain. You may encounter extreme altitude and weather conditions and may need to use ice axes and crampons. Stamina is essential as walking days last six to nine hours (sometimes more on occasions). Daily ascents will likely be around 2,955ft to 3,280ft (900m to 1,000m), perhaps with the odd day around 3,610ft to 3,940ft (1,100m to 1,200m).
Split and optional grades: Where a trip falls between two grades, an intermediate or ‘split’ grade is used. For example, Level 2 (Leisurely/Moderate). Occasionally there are optional ascents available; in this case, the grade will be highlighted.
We walk on easy, well-maintained trails, which may be steep in places. On average we walk for three hours in the morning and two in the afternoon, including stops. On the longest day, we may walk for up to seven hours including stops.
Single supplement from AUD 984
Onlyluxe Travel acts as travel agency and work with different tour operators.
Payment Detail
All pricing is in Australian dollars and are quoted on a per person twin share basis. A supplementary price is available (see below). Bookings are not confirmed until full payment and the signed Booking Form has been received by Onlyluxe Travel.
A non-refundable 30% deposit is payable within 7 days of your booking, with the final balance due 90 days prior to departure. If a booking is made 90 days or less before departure, the full payment is payable immediately. Last minute bookings are payable before arrival. Failure to pay on time may result in automatic cancellation of a booking with cancellation penalties payable to Onlyluxe Travel. If you pay by credit card or PayPal a surcharge will be added to the total price.
Single Supplement
All accommodation is twin share. Single guests will share with someone of the same gender. If a single room is demanded, a supplementary price of will apply. The supplementary price refers to our quotation and needs to be stipulated at the time of booking.
General Cancellation Policies
- Outside of 90 days monies will be refunded less 30% of full fee
- Within 90 days prior to arrival all monies will be forfeited
- No refunds will be given in the event of non-arrival, any unused services or unused nights due to flight or weather disruption
- We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance and medical insurance
Please Note: Cancellations must be advised in email and will take effect from the date they are received.
Liability
The participant agrees to indemnify Onlyluxe Travel, and its servant, tour operator and agents, in relation to any liability, loss and damage which the tour operator, or its servants and/or agents may incur as a result of the participants, negligence or misconduct during the tour.
Smoking is not permitted on the bus, or in tents or in other accommodation being used by tour operator at the time that a trip is being conducted.
Child Policy
Please consult travel consultant on age limit.
Changes to Itineraries
Local conditions may necessitate changes to sightseeing, walking and driving routes, camping and accommodation locations. While every effort will be made to provide the services and experiences as offered in our brochure, on our website, and in our trip letters, we reserve the right to vary your itinerary. In the event that we are forced to change your arrangements, substitute arrangements of a similar standard will be provided. The tour operator will not be liable where interruptions to itineraries are caused by weather conditions, technical problems to transport used by the tour operator, industrial action, political or civil commotion or other circumstances beyond our control. We refer you to the conditions regarding travel insurance.
Changes in Prices
While we will do its utmost to honour its pricing unforeseen circumstances may mean that prices may be subject to change without notice.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age Limits
You need to advise Onlyluxe travel and the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. Onlyluxe Travel and the tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.
Cancellation by The Tour Operator
The tour operator is at the mercy of nature in all her beauty and all her fury. The tour operator will under no circumstance knowingly place at risk the health and well-being of our guests and guides. In the case of natural threats, acts of God and the like (e.g. bushfires, impassable snow, etc) the tour operator may need to cancel a tour with very little notice. In some cases, this can occur after the tour has commenced. The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any tour up to 60 days prior to departure if the minimum number requirement of 6 is unable to meet for a tour. If the tour operator needs to cancel for any reason, the cost of the tour or any other costs associated with travel to the designated pick up point, overnight accommodation, meals, etc will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore we strongly recommend travel insurance be taken out prior to travel.
Force Majeure
'Force Majeure' means (without restriction) any event which Onlyluxe Travel or its third party providers could not, even with due care, foresee or avoid. Force Majeure covers events such as, but not limited to, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events beyond our control. In the case of Force Majeure Onlyluxe Travel will not accept liability, and reserves the right to change and cancel trips.
Evacuations
In rare circumstances, due to injury or unforeseen illness, the tour operator may need to evacuate you from a remote part of the walk. Helicopter evacuations are expensive and in most cases will be at a cost to the customer.
In the genuine spirit of expedition travel, we encourage exploration and adventure offering flexibility in challenging environments. This itinerary is only a guide and is subject to change due to weather, sea and other conditions beyond our control.
For Australian residents, under the Australian Government Medicare Act, it is prohibited for any domestic travel insurance product to provide any financial reimbursement with regard to ambulance or air ambulance services. We therefore strongly advise our customers to take specific ambulance cover through their health insurance provider. Evacuation cost will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore it is also strongly recommended that our customers take out travel insurance to cover (amongst other things) the costs associated with evacuation.
Travel Insurance
In view of the heavy cancellation penalties applied to cancelled reservations in certain circumstances, we strongly recommends suitable travel insurance be purchased at the time the holding deposit is paid. We recommend insurance cover that covers any loss which may be suffered due to cancellation. We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance against loss of baggage and medical expenses.