Classic Norwegian Fjords - T2310 Bolette departing 21 Apr 2023

The Port of Tyne comprises the commercial docks on and around the River Tyne in Tyne and Wear in the northeast of England.

The Lysefjord is a stunning example of the Norwegian fjords’ spectacular natural beauty. Carved into the landscape by glacier movement in the Ice Age approximately 10,000 years ago, Lysefjord is lined by magnificent mountains and dramatic cliff faces – some soaring over 1,000 metres high into the unpolluted skies above.

In some sections of the fjord the water is as deep as the mountains are high, however at the shallowest point the water depth drops to just 13 metres. This means only small ships such as those in the Fred. Olsen fleet can cruise the Lysefjord.

Sailing along the glassy waters on board a smaller cruise ship is without doubt the best way to take in the fjord’s eclectic sights. Lookout for tumbling waterfalls, wonderful wildlife and pretty settlements dotted along the shores; and marvel at the sight of the impressive Lysefjordbrua suspension bridge as so you sail into the fjord.

On a clear day it is possible to see the famous Preikestolen – a huge 604 metre-high flat mountain plateau – and Kjeragbolten, a large rock wedged in one of Mount Kjerag’s crevices. If you’re very lucky you may hear the gunshot-like bang of Kjeragsmellet – an unexplained natural phenomenon that’s particularly prominent in the winter months.

A wonderfully peaceful village at the head of Eidfjord, an arm of western Norway’s serene Hardangerfjord, whose glassy waters and towering cliffs encompass some of the country’s finest fjord scenery. From here you can travel to Voringfoss, Norway’s best-known waterfall and discover the breathtaking beauty of the Mabodal Valley.

Seven hills and seven fjords frame Hanseatic Bergen, a city steeped in maritime heritage. Of Bergen’s many attractions, the 900-year-old UNESCO-listed Bryggen Wharf is a standout highlights. A delight to explore, the Bryggen’s cobbled stairways are lined with traditional half-timbered buildings and climb away from the waterfront, leading to curious open spaces that are often overflowing with colourful flowers that perfume the air.

Bergen has a vibrant fish market and hosts one of Norway’s biggest cultural events of the year, the Bergen International Festival. The city was once the home of Norway’s most famous composer, Edvard Grieg, and the Troldhaugen Museum is devoted to his life’s work.

Not to be missed is a chance to ride the Funicular Railway to the top of Mount Fløyen, offering spectacular panoramic views of Bergen and its scenic surroundings.

Little Flam lies at the southern end of the Aurlandsfjord, one of the branches of the beautiful Sognefjord. From the tiny village you can enjoy a spectacular 40-minute rail journey spiralling nearly 3,000ft up a steep mountain gorge to Myrdal. Flam claims Norway’s oldest church (built in 1667) – and with its traditionally decorated walls also arguably the prettiest.

At the head of the three valleys amid the sublimely peaceful surroundings of the Inner Norfjord, idyllic Olden is the key to a not-to-be-missed journey up the million-years-old and ever-advancing Briksdal Galcier, best known of the gigantic Jostedal’s many icy arms.

The Port of Tyne comprises the commercial docks on and around the River Tyne in Tyne and Wear in the northeast of England.