From Fjell To Fjord: 5 Must-Do Train Journeys In Norway

21.10.2023 - 17:35 / forbes.com / Star Wars

In some countries, train travel is nothing more than a means to an end. In Norway, the journey itself is what matters. Views from the carriage window range from snow-covered mountain plateaus through to lush, green valleys and everything in between.

Not only is the scenery worthwhile, train travel between the major cities is also cheaper than flying when booked in advance, and of course, there’s the environmental benefits. If you have the time, incorporating at least one rail journey into your Norway travel itinerary is well worth considering.

Hopes for a new Arctic line between Bodø and Tromsø have been dashed following a recent government committee recommendation. Such a route would have offered remarkable winter scenery, but there are many rail lines offering spectacular views already in operation.

In many countries, a rail link connecting the two biggest cities would be focused on speed and business travel. Not so in Norway. Locals and especially students do use the train, but it’s a major tourist pull too.

The Bergen Line (Bergensbanen) takes a leisurely 6.5 hour journey over Norway’s rugged heartland. Highlights include the panoramic views from Europe's highest mountain plateau, Hardangervidda.

Here, you’ll make a brief stop at Finse station, once used to film scenes representing ‘Hoth’, the ice planet in Star Wars, where there is often patches of snow even at the height of summer.

At the tiny station of Myrdal, the Bergen line connects to the Flåm railway, one of the world’s most stunning rail journeys that ends at fjord level. Many tourists combine the two trips, often with a boat trip thrown in too, for a stunning introduction to Norwegian nature.

Often ranked among Europe’s most scenic train rides, the Flåm railway (Flåmsbana) descends more than 2,800 feet from the Norwegian mountains down to the shores of the Aurlandsfjord in under one hour.

Along the way, passengers witness a lush Norwegian valley, a vibrant blue river, historic farmsteads, and fabulous waterfalls. One of the handful of stops along the route allows travelers a photo stop at the powerful Kjosfossen waterfall.

Once you’ve completed your journey on one of the world’s steepest railways, add some context by exploring the free museum in the station building at Flåm. Exhibitions highlight the remarkable 15-year construction project that included 3.5 miles of tunnels.

While many tickets are pre-sold to passengers on cruise ships arriving in Flåm, some carriages are always reserved for independent travelers. That being said, some departures will sell out ahead of time at the height of summer, so do book in advance to avoid disappointment.

Though primarily a tourist attraction, the railway also serves locals and hikers. If time