Fjords, Trolls & Brown Cheese in Norway

Sailing through the Aurlands fjords, riding a steep mountain tram to breathtaking views, sipping cocktails in an ice bar, and learning about some trolls was beyond what I imagined for my Norwegian holiday. From Bergen to Flåm to Oslo, every stop felt unreal. I was transported to different worlds with unique identities, all in one place!

Bergen

I began my journey in Bergen, Norway's second-largest city and former capital. It's known for its cobbled streets, historic waterfronts, Bryggen. I loved walking around this cozy city and having dinner at the bustling fish market. The fish would melt in your mouth and was cooked to perfection. It was one of the best seafood experiences I've ever had.

🚋 The Fløibanen Funicular 

I got the best views of Bergen when I rode the Fløibanen Funicular, a steep tram ride that climbs 320 meters up Mount Fløyen in just a few minutes. At the top, I was greeted with amazing views of the waterfront city, fjords, and neighboring islands in the distance. 

🍹 Magic Ice Bar

We visited the Magic Ice Bar, where the entire bar, including the drinking glasses, was made of ice. I sipped my cocktail while bundled up in a thick cape provided. The Viking-themed ice sculptures inside added a mystical touch; it felt as though we'd stumbled upon a frozen chapter of history.

Flåm

At one end of the Aurlandsfjord lies Flåm, a tiny village with a population of only a few hundred people. It is renowned for its quaint charm, scenic beauty, and adventure opportunities. This village remains practically empty for most of the year but is heavily populated in Summer. Last year, this small village had 1 million tourist visits for such a small place, which is extraordinary. 

🚤 Cruising Through Aurlands Fjords

From Gudvangen to Flåm, we sailed the Aurlands Fjords. I was surrounded by towering cliffs and majestic waterfalls; their faces were etched with age-old scars of glaciers and time. The air was crisp, and I could hear the boat's splash against the water's surface. I was lucky enough to see some wildlife on this tour, including deer grazing on the mountain grass and seals basking on the rocks.

🐉 The Trolls of Aurlandsvangen

According to Norwegian folklore, trolls of Aurlandsvangen were once mischievous creatures who roamed the fjords, but one day they were caught in the sunrise, and they turned to stone. The trolls were transformed into massive rock formations, and it is said that the fjords are composed of rocks that resemble the trolls' faces and hands.

 

🧀 Brown Cheese

I got to taste an iconic Norwegian food, Brunost (brown cheese). It is a caramelized goat cheese made by boiling whey, giving it a sweet, fudge-like texture. I was expecting a very sweet taste due to the caramel, but it was not as sweet as I had anticipated and was more savory. Its consistency was unique and wasn't creamy like other cheeses. 

🎥 The Flåm Railway

The train ride from Flåm to Oslo was stunning. This railway is ranked one of the world's most scenic train rides, and it's easy to see why. I passed deep valleys carved by glaciers, lush forests dotted with wooden cabins and snow, and roaring waterfalls.

Oslo 

Oslo is the capital of Norway, and it blends rich Norwegian history with modern architecture. This city offers a wide range of experiences, making it a city that never fails to amaze. In recent years, Oslo has experienced a surge in the popularity of cold plunges, making it a hotspot for both locals and tourists. It is home to Edvard Munch's iconic painting, "The Scream." 

🏰 The Royal Palace

On the top of Karl Johans Gate, Oslo's main street, is the Norwegian Royal Palace. It is the official residence of the Norwegian royal family and is surrounded by beautiful gardens and many guards on duty. Tourists can watch the changing of the guard ceremony outside the palace every day. 

🎨 The Vigeland Park

Vigeland Park (also known as Frogner Park) is one of the world's most unique sculpture parks, which features over 200 sculptures created by Gustav Vigeland, Norway's most celebrated sculptor. Gustav Vigeland was a perfectionist and opportunist; when he saw the chance to exchange his artistic talent for a free apartment and workspace, he seized it. Naked sculptures of a father or grandfather and a son or grandson lined the park bridge, portraying the human experience. The Vigeland Monolith is a 14-meter-high granite pillar with carved, intertwined human figures standing at the park's center. 

My favorite sculpture in the park was the Sinnataggen, a unique bronze statue of an angry, naked boy, which became the symbol of Oslo due to its perfect depiction of authenticity and emotional openness. 

    

My holiday in Norway was an unforgettable experience that has left me in awe of its natural beauty, rich history, and welcoming culture. The environment and people in Norway are so genuine, and I would love to visit again.