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Norway is a land famed for its natural wonders. From Norway’s world renowned fjords, mountains and glaciers which were formed in the Ice Age, to the otherworldly experiences of the northern lights and the ‘midnight sun’ whereby the sun doesn’t set for the whole summer, it’s easy to see why Norway is dubbed one of the most beautiful countries in the world.
Although Norway’s epic wilderness has enchanted travellers for generations, it isn’t just the great outdoors that keeps visitors coming back for more. Archaeological findings from as far back as 10th millennium BC have been discovered in Norway, but it’s the mighty rule of the Vikings in the 8th – 11th CE which will really interest you on your visit; you can investigate Viking collections at numerous museums across the country. You may know that the Vikings aided Norway’s expansion, but did you know they also colonized much of Ireland, Scotland and Iceland? Norway grew significantly in the 12th and 13th centuries, but unfortunately soon after this the plague arrived, eradicating 60% of the population. Norway rapidly rebuilt itself and after several alliances and reformations with Sweden, France and Denmark, Norway eventually achieved independence in 1905, and now ranks as the wealthiest country in the world.
Norway’s capital city, Oslo, offers everything from historic treasures such as the 13th century Akershus Fortress, the Viking Ship Museum and Oslo City Museum, to the ultimate in cutting edge culture including the striking Vigelandsparken sculpture park and the ultra-modern Norwegian Opera and Ballet House.
Beyond Oslo, visit the quintessential Norwegian towns of Kristiansand, Flekkefjord and Stavanger which are all steeped in history and surrounded by striking snow-capped mountains. Also make time to explore ancient Lillehammer and Hamar, which offer plenty of cathedral ruins, museums and Winter Olympics remnants to admire, as well as serene river walks.
For a real taste of Norway, don’t miss the brightly painted timber-clad buildings of Bergen (a UNESCO World Heritage site), the breathtaking scenery of the Sognefjord which features the second longest fjord in the world, or the incredible waterfalls of the Geirangerfjord either. They’re all testament to the constant beauty of the awe-inspiring nation of Norway and are best enjoyed from up above on the cloud skimming Flam railway, which sits at over 3,000 feet above sea level!
Henrik Ibsen once said that to know a Norwegian, one must know the land of Norway first. Once you’ve been introduced to this striking country and its huge glaciers, vast landscapes and quaint towns, be prepared to fall head over heels in love.