Beautiful Norway (Semi-Independent)

Arrive in Oslo, the beautiful Norwegian capital by the Oslofjord. Make your own way to your centrally located hotel in the heart of Oslo, an easy direct express train ride away from the airport. The Norwegian capital has a great deal to offer for the observant traveller. We can recommend a walk around the centre of town to view the Parliament, the Castle, and the Harbour area.

Discover the new area of Bjorvika with the new Opera House and Munch Museum and then explore the charming shopping streets, cosy cafés and exciting eateries of Grünerløkka. After going shopping at numerous design boutiques, vintage shops and flea markets, head to the Mathallen food hall for local specialties. Lastly, visit the new National Museum of Norway down by the harbour before finding a spot in one of the local fish restaurants for dinner. Stay: Clarion Hotel The Hub or similar

Board your train at the Oslo Central Station and head towards Lillehammer, the small town that rose to international fame when it hosted the Winter Olympics in 1994. Check into your central hotel. Spend the day at your leisure: Sunday is a quiet day in Lillehammer, however the main attractions are open. We recommend a visit to the open-air museum Maihaugen, the Norwegian Olympic Museum, and do not miss the impressive Garmo Stave Church. Stay: Aksjemøllen Hotel or similar (B)

Join the 50 Degrees North mini-coach to Lom, a 3-hour scenic drive from Lillehammer. This bus trip takes you through some of Norway's most beautiful highlands and lush valleys. Experience the valley of Gudbrandsdalen surrounded by the national parks, an abundance of locally produced food, old architecture, and good hiking. Lom is a small town encapsulating the very essence of the Norwegian countryside. Situated in the famous Jotunheimen National Park, Lom is surrounded by majestic nature. Check into your charming historic hotel and then browse design shops, local cafes and galleries.

Be sure to cross the river and wander around the famous Lom Stave Church, constructed in Norman-style in 1170. It still operates as the local church today so opening hours vary. Dinner is included this evening. Stay: Located in the picturesque village of Lom, Fossheim Hotel is surrounded by Norway's stunning national parks – Jotunheimen, Breheimen, and Reinheimen. This historic hotel offers a peaceful, welcoming stay with a touch of traditional charm. Enjoy locally inspired Norwegian cuisine with a gourmet twist, perfect after a day of hiking or exploring the breathtaking landscapes. (B/D)

Day trip to Geiranger, which is 1.5 hours' drive away from Lom.

On arrival, join a fjord rib boat cruise and experience the Geirangerfjord UNESCO World Heritage site. The scenery here is absolutely breathtaking. Take a closer look at the “Seven Sisters”, “Bridal Veil” and “Suitor” waterfalls, the majestic fjord cliffs and abandoned mountain farms. Perhaps you'll be lucky enough to see porpoises playing in the fjord. You will then have some free time for lunch. Travelling back from Geiranger, the mini-coach will stop at Dalsnibba look out, if there is time available. Please note that the Geirangerfjord visit is subject to change due to weather and snow conditions. The mountain road from Lom to Geiranger normally opens from end of May. Alternatively, have a day to yourself in Lom.

We suggest visiting Brimi Bue, a popular Lom hot-spot for fresh local produce and traditional Nordic flavours, owned by renowned chef Arne Brimi -the lunch time slot has good value options to try. Indulge yourselves in the historic atmosphere of Lom open-air museum and its houses dating from the early 1600s and experience the old farmer culture. The Norwegian Mountain Centre is also worth a visit. Stay: Located in the picturesque village of Lom, Fossheim Hotel is surrounded by Norway's stunning national parks – Jotunheimen, Breheimen, and Reinheimen. This historic hotel offers a peaceful, welcoming stay with a touch of traditional charm. Enjoy locally inspired Norwegian cuisine with a gourmet twist, perfect after a day of hiking or exploring the breathtaking landscapes. (B/D)

Depart Lom for another scenic journey through the spectacular mountain and fjord country of Breheimen and Jostedalsheimen. Stops along the way can change depending on the times and weather conditions. Sognefjellshytta (approx. 1 hr drive) can be one of the coffee/tea breaks, and the cubist stone art work at Mefjellet.

A final stop before descending down the mountain is Oscarshaug – another fantastic spot for photos and great views. Enjoy a relaxing lunch along the way before driving over the beautiful Aurlandsfjellet mountain road. End the trip with a stop at the amazing Stegastein viewpoint before reaching the peaceful village of Aurland. Read about today's drive along Northern Europe's highest and arguably the most striking mountain pass, the road over Sognefjellet. (B/L/D)

Spend your day relaxing, hiking and taking in the views in the peaceful little town of Aurland. Enjoy the harbour area with unspoilt views of the fjord and surrounding gardens. If the weather is warm, you can swim in the fjord. We can book optional visits to local mountain farms, guided hikes, kayaking or a fjord safari. These can be pre-booked at an additional cost. (B/D)

Transfer from Aurland to Flåm, and step aboard the world famous Flåm Railway to Myrdal Station with several stunning lookout points along the way. Thanks to its steep incline (from sea level to almost 900 meters above sea level in a short hour), the train-ride is rated as one of Europe's best rail journeys and has become a real highlight for visitors in Norway.

Return to Flåm to board the express ferry to Bergen. Take in the fresh air on Norway's longest fjord, the Sognefjord, during this 5-hour ferry-ride towards Bergen. Check into your centrally located hotel at the end of the day - arriving approximately 8pm. Stay: Experience refined comfort at Bergen Børs Hotel, offering some of the city's most elegant rooms and suites. Located steps from the Fish Market, Bryggen, and top shopping streets, it's the perfect base for exploring Bergen. Dine in style at the historic Frescohallen or enjoy gourmet flavours at BARE Wine & Food Bar. (B)

This trip concludes after breakfast. If possible, we recommend spending the day in Bergen exploring the sights or extending with another night. (B)