Bergen, Norway

We are to visit the incredible city of Bergen, which is the second largest city in Norway, and located in the heart of the stunning Fjord region. The city has the most breathtaking setting with a beautiful backdrop of seven mountains and facing onto Byforden fjord. The Bryggen area of the city (the old wharf of Bergen) is a living museum with its colourful wooden buildings, cobbled streets and narrow alleyways, which date back to the medieval ages, and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

One of the most popular things to do in Bergen is to take the funicular from the city centre to the top of Mount Floyen and admire the wonderful views of Bergen, its suburbs and the fjords stretching out below. For the more adventurous, you can walk up the mountain taking different routes to the top. There are also many hiking trails that start from the summit with walks suitable for all abilities.

Bergen has a compact centre, so it is easy to explore on foot to see all the main attractions. The city is rich in history, from its Viking origins to its medieval trading past, and there are many fascinating museums to discover. The city is also the centre for the Norwegian fishing industry and there is a bustling fish market with local delicacies to sample.  The home of the famous composer Edvard Grieg is a short distance from Bergen and worth a visit. (Did you know that Grieg has Scottish ancestry?!)

Included in the cost of the holiday is a two-hour guided walking/boat tour which gives a great introduction to this fascinating city.  Another tour included is a Fjord cruise to Rosendal village at the mouth of the Hardangerfjord.  The leaders will give details of many interesting places to visit and excursions that can be done independently.

Accommodation is in the 4-star Radisson Blu Royal Hotel next to the city’s historic wharf area.  A breakfast buffet and a three-course dinner is included.  There are several lifts in the hotel and they have an in-house gym/sauna.