EXPLORE NORWAY'S MAJESTIC FJORDS & ADVENTUROUS OUTDOORS! $4995 +$1095 INT'L AIR

EXPLORE NORWAY’S MAJESTIC FJORDS & ADVENTUROUS OUTDOORS WITH FUN HAPPENINGS TRAVEL GROUP THIS AUGUST 4TH - 15, 2026!

GET READY FOR AN AMAZING ADVENTURE AS WE FULLY IMMERSE OURSELVES IN THE BEAUTY AND NATURE OF THIS BEAUTIFUL COUNTRY, VISITING 5 ICONIC REGIONS!

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Norway on an unforgettable 11-day group adventure! There are no words to describe the beauty of Norway, you have to go and see it for yourself!

Join your fellow travelers as you fully immerse yourself in the nature of this spectacular country—kayaking between towering fjords, hiking along dramatic Norwegian landscapes, visiting cozy cider breweries, and exploring some of the world’s most stunning fjords and waterfalls by zodiac boats and ferries. Our journey unfolds primarily by scenic train routes and luxury ferries as we discover Oslo, Flåm, Lofthus in the Hardanger Fjords, Gudvangen, magnificent Balestrand, and conclude in the charming coastal city of Bergen over 11 memorable days.

This custom-curated itinerary was designed exclusively for Fun Happenings Travel Group by a local Norwegian guide, giving our group rare access to authentic, off the beaten path villages and regions that are seldom visited by typical tourists. Join us for this Epic Trip of a Lifetime to Norway, August 4–15, 2026, and see for yourself what words can’t fully capture. Norway 🇳🇴 is truly one of the most beautiful places on Earth... you must see it for yourself!

SOME OF THE HIGHLIGHTS OF OUR NORWAY TOUR INCLUDE…

• Exploring the beautiful and modern city of Oslo with our local guide
• Enjoy a History & Food tasting tour of Oslo on Day #2, immersing in the local Norwegian culture
• Have the opportunity to Hike Nigardsbreen Glacier during a free day (optional)
• Enjoy a thrilling adventurous Zodiac Cruise in Hardanger Fjords
• Hike and experience the breathtaking Vøringsfossen Waterfalls near Loftus.
• Traveling on the Famous Flam Railway from Myrdal to Flam, one of the Top Rail Journeys in the World!
• Visit a local Cider brewery in Balestrand and enjoy a Norwegian lunch
• Have the option to Hike the famous Monk Steps "Norwegian Queen's Hike" with Spectacular Views! (Optional activity on free day)
• Kayaking between the Fjords on Lake Vangsvatnet (Optional activity on free day)
• Visiting quaint UNESCO-protected seaside town of Bergen with a walking tour by our local guide
• Visit scenic Mt. Fløyen in Bergen on scenic tram ride
• Staying at Norway's Top Rated Hotels with incredible panoramic views!
• Experience the "Real Norway" with our own dedicated Norwegian Guide throughout the tour

OUR AMAZING 11 DAY NORWAY TOUR INCLUDES SO MUCH

• Roundtrip Airfare: Washington IAD to Oslo / Bergen to IAD (With Air/Land Pkg)
• 10 Nights / 11 Days Accommodations in Top Rated 4-star Superior Hotels:
• ➨ (2) nights at the stylish, centrally located Clarion Hotel, The Hub Oslo [https://www.strawberry.no/hotell/norge/oslo/clarion-hotel-the-hub/]
• ➨ (3) nights at the scenic 4-star Ullensvang Hotel, situated in the heart of the Hardanger Fjords [https://www.hotelullensvang.no/en]
• ➨ (3) nights at the scenic 4-star Kvicknes Hotel, in the heart of the stunning Sognefjord region and surrounded by Fjords. [https://en.kviknes.no/]
• ➨ (2) Nights at Bergen's 4-star Clarion Collection Hotel Havnekontoret [https://www.hotelullensvang.no/en/]
• All excursions listed in the itinerary are included, except 3-4 optional activities
• Dedicated local Norwegian guide throughout tour
• All Transportation by Private Motor Coach, Train or Scenic Fast Ferry making the logistics seamless
• 19 Included meals: 10 breakfasts, 7 Dinners, 2 lunches
• All Flight, hotel & city taxes included.

WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED WITH OUR NORWAY TOUR:

• Airfare to Washington Dulles IAD from your home city, as our trip begins at IAD. A land package is available, if you choose to meet us in Oslo Aug. 5th.
• Meals and beverages, not listed on itinerary.
• No alcoholic beverages included with meals, but can be ordered on your own
• 4 optional activities offered during free days in Ullensvang & Ballestrand Sognefjord region
• Gratuities for our tour guide, coach driver and local guides (suggested amount will be emailed before departure).
• Souvenirs, personal expenses like internet and laundry service (Most hotels provide complimentary Wi Fi), medical services, spa treatments and alcoholic beverages not included with meals.

➨ 4 EASY STEPS TO JOIN THIS AMAZING 11 DAY NORWAY TOUR!

1.) Make either 1st Recurring Payment or Full Payment by Check or Credit card to secure your spot. [NOTE: Making a Payment is the only Way to reserve your space]
2.) Take a Photo or Scan of your Passport Info Page & Email to funhappenings.traveldocs@gmail.com. List "Full Name and FH NORWAY 2026 Trip" in Subject Line.
3.) RSVP "Yes" on the Meetup Trip Page on Meetup site [Note: You must be logged into Meetup . com or "Register your name, email" on Meetup to RSVP and see full details on trip page]. When RSVP’ing for the Trip... List guests (+1, +2), if anyone is joining you.
4.) Email Fun Happenings Travel Group at funhappenings.traveldocs@gmail.com and provide us with the best email and cell number for trip updates and if you're traveling solo, or with someone else and if you prefer a roommate or single room. (NOTE: Finding a roommate is not guaranteed, so a single room supplement may be necessary… However, mostly we canmatch roommates.)

➨ TO VIEW 11 DAY NORWAY TOUR BROCHURE WITH MORE PHOTOS & DAILY ITINERARY... CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW…
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1aeUNpIBbSbNB8rx-myR5ts_Gz04NE1285CC4Rk0-gTk/edit?usp=sharing

PRICING / PAYMENT TERMS FOR AUGUST 2026 NORWAY TRIP

➨THERE ARE 4 WAYS TO PAY FOR THIS NORWAY TOUR…
PAYING BY CHECK INSTRUCTIONS

1.) $4995.00 per person (Double Occupancy) for 11 DAY NORWAY LAND PACKAGE + $1095.00 FOR INTERNATIONAL AIR FROM WASHINGTON IAD: [TOTAL: $6090.00], IF PAID IN FULL BY CHECK.

➨ Make Checks Payable to Fun Happenings and Mail to:
Fun Happenings
PO Box 322
Brentwood 37024

➨ IMPORTANT NOTE: Check payments are only allowed in Full Payment of Trip. Partial payments can be made with recurring credit card payments. [See Payment options below]

➨ FULL PAYMENT BY CREDIT CARD
2.) PAYMENT IN FULL BY CREDIT CARD FOR NORWAY LAND & AIR PACKAGE = $5145.00 (Land) + $1128.00 INT’L AIR Per Person = $6273.00 per person (Double Occupancy) (Single room is Additional Cost- See details Below).

➨ PAYMENT LINK FOR FULL PAYMENT FOR AUGUST 2026 NORWAY LAND & AIR PACKAGE ($6273.00 per person, based on double occupancy): https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/7SRWPBKEVR548

➨ PAY FOR LAND & AIR PKG WITH 6 RECURRING PAYMENTS BY CREDIT CARD
3.) 6 RECURRING MONTHLY PAYMENTS of $1045.50 (6 X $1045.50 = $6273.00), Paid over 6 months [Totaling $6273.00) [PayPal Link]: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=95FDKSJYDHBFS

➨ AFTER MARCH 1, 2026: USE THIS PAYMENT LINK FOR 4 RECURRING MONTHLY PAYMENTS OF $1568.25 (Totaling $6273.00) FOR NORWAY LAND & AIR PACKAGE: [PayPal Link]: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=6SQCHCJJHEPX2

➨ IMPORTANT NOTE TO SECURE YOUR SPACE ON TRIP: You must begin Recurring Payments Immediately or Make Full Payment, to secure your spot, as this is only way to reserve your space

➨ NOTE: All payments must be paid in full by July 15, 2026 - If you begin payments late, you may be required to make extra payments at the end to catch up and pay in full by July 15, 2026.

➨ PAY FOR LAND ONLY PACKAGE IN FULL- NO AIR IS INCLUDED (Meet us in Oslo)
4.) LAND ONLY PACKAGE (NO AIR) FOR NORWAY $4995 BY CHECK OR $5145 BY CREDIT CARD (SEE PAYPAL LINK BELOW) [NO AIR INCLUDED]: https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/MSHC88L58FKMW

➨ PAY LAND ONLY NORWAY PKG (NO AIR INCLUDED) WITH 6 RECURRING PAYMENTS

➨ LAND ONLY PACKAGE WITH 6 RECURRING MONTHLY PAYMENTS OF $857.50 = $5145.00 (PayPal Link): https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=UXVBCJ8ZMZ2XG

➨ AFTER MARCH 1, 2026; USE THIS PAYMENT LINK TO PAY LAND ONLY PACKAGE (NO AIR INCLUDED) WITH 4 RECURRING MONTHLY PAYMENTS OF $1286.25 (Totaling $5145.00) FOR NORWAY LAND ONLY PACKAGE (NO AIR INCLUDED): [PayPal Link]: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=BLS8B9JNASFXU

➨ NORWAY SINGLE ROOM SUPPLEMENT ($1498.00) - Limited to 4 single rooms [PayPal Link]: https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/4R2SWLYL3QHUL

➨ WANT TO UPGRADE YOUR AIR TO PREMIUM ECONOMY OR BUSINESS CLASS… WE HAVE LIMITED SEATS, GRAB ONE TODAY! PREMIUM ECONOMY & BUSINESS CLASS UPGRADES ARE AVAILABLE IN LIMITED SUPPLY! - [Contact Fun Happenings first at [funhappenings.traveldocs@gmail.com](mailto:funhappenings.traveldocs@gmail.com) to make sure these upgrade seats are available]

➨ [8] PREMIUM ECONOMY SEATS AVAILABLE ON 2 LONG-HAUL FLIGHTS [$1350 Upgrade in addition to Economy Fare of $1095- Limited to 8 seats]: SOLD OUT

➨ [6] BUSINESS CLASS SEATS (with lie-flat beds) AVAILABLE ON 2 LONG-HAUL FLIGHTS [$4600 Upgrade in addition to Economy Fare of $1095- Limited to 4 seats now] (PayPal Link): https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/SGFPXGKDFS6CJ

➨ NOTE: IF PURCHASING LAND ONLY PKG: Meet Us in Oslo on AUGUST 5, 2026 before 9:05am at OSL Airport or at the Oslo hotel that day or evening).. THE LAND ONLY PACKAGE INCLUDES EVERYTHING, EXCEPT INTERNATIONAL AIR.

➤ NOTE, we are arriving into Oslo OSL on Aug. 5, 2026 at 9:05am- Flying 0ut of Bergen BGO Norway on August 15, 2026 at 6:55am...

LUFTHANSA AIRLINES GROUP FLIGHT ITINERARY

Tuesday, August 4, 2026
➨ Lufthansa #417: DEP Washington IAD at 3:25pm | ARR Frankfurt FRA 5:30am (+1 day)

Wednesday, August 5, 2026
➨ Lufthansa #858: DEP Frankfurt FRA 7:00am | ARR Oslo OSL 9:05am (same day)

Saturday, August 15, 2026
➨ Lufthansa #877: DEP Bergen BGO 6:55am | ARR Frankfurt FRA 9:00am
➨ Lufthansa #416: DEP Frankfurt FRA 10:30am | ARR Washington IAD 1:30pm (same day)

IN CLOSING
This Amazing 11 Day Norway Itinerary is an Incredible Deal to spend 11 Days on a fully escorted Norway Tour, visiting 5 iconic regions in Norway with Top Rated 4-star centrally located Hotels. You may not realize this, Norway is one of the most expensive countries in the world, so this trip is a great value and includes so much!

Our tour includes a good mix of cultural sightseeing, active outdoor activities and free time in each area we visit... Making this a Fun, Adventurous and Enjoyable tour of Norway!

➨ Space is limited to only 40 persons and we are limited to only 4 single occupancy rooms on this tour. [18 double or twin rooms and 4 single occupancy rooms = 40 Persons]

Please contact Fun Happenings Travel at funhappenings.traveldocs@gmail.com, if you have any questions regarding this amazing tour.

Our Tour of Norway is going to be an Experience of a Lifetime and I hope you can join us in Norway 🇳🇴 this August 4 - 15, 2026!

Your Travel Planner,

Michael
Fun Happenings Travel Group

AUGUST 2026 NORWAY TOUR REFUND POLICY
Due to the strict policies of Norway’s hotels and Lufthansa Airlines strict ticketing deadline. The last day to cancel without penalty is 125 days before departure (which is April 1, 2026); No refunds are available within 125 days of our departure date. In less than 125 days, you can sell your spot(s) to another traveler or someone on the Waitlist

Hotel Details, Daily Overview and Traveler Photos Past Fun Happening Norway trips Below…

OUR MAGNIFICENT 4-STAR SUPERIOR NORWAY HOTELS

➨ Clarion The Hub Hotel - Oslo Norway: Clarion Hotel The Hub is a spectacular hotel in Oslo featuring a sustainability concept, and impressive interiors that combine classic and futuristic design solutions. The Norda restaurant on the 13th floor is Nordic fusion, featuring plenty of local and sustainable produce with global flavours, served in an incredible setting with the Opera House, Bjørvika and the Oslo Fjord as a stunning backdrop. When the sun is out, the large floor-to-ceiling windows are opened up to embrace Oslo's bustling city vibe. The Hub Bar, located on the ground level, is a cool city bar to swing by and chill out with friends or colleagues after a busy day in the capital – and eat fresh, tasty food, sip a scintillating cocktail or mocktail and unwind. The GrowHub is a unique rooftop field where ingredients are grown to be used in the food served at the hotel. The lower ground floor features a spacious wellness area with an indoor pool, sauna, menthol room, steam room and gym.
Hotel Website: https://www.strawberryhotels.com/hotels/norway/oslo/clarion-hotel-the-hub/

➨ Hotel Ullensvang - Lofthus Norway: Hotel Ullensvang is a historic, family-run fjord hotel in Lofthus, beautifully set among orchards on the shores of the Hardangerfjord with sweeping views of mountains and the Folgefonna glacier. Guests enjoy stylish, comfortable rooms, many with balconies and scenic views, along with extensive wellness facilities including indoor and outdoor pools, an 88-meter swimming channel, and saunas with panoramic fjord views. The hotel’s restaurants highlight Norwegian ingredients with an international twist, while easy access to hiking, glacier walks, and fjord excursions makes it an ideal base for both relaxation and adventure in Norway’s Hardangee fjord country. Hotel website: https://www.hotelullensvang.no/

➨ Kviknes Hotel - Balestrand Norway: Kviknes Hotel is a grand, historic waterfront property in the charming village of Balestrand, beautifully set on the shores of the Sognefjord and surrounded by dramatic mountains. This famous historic hotel has been run by the same Kviknes family for generations. The hotel blends an elegant Swiss-chalet style heritage wing full of character, art, and antiques with a modern wing offering comfortable rooms. Guests can savor the extraordinary buffet and à la carte dining that showcases fresh local ingredients, relax in atmospheric lounges and gardens by the water, and use the hotel as an ideal base for fjord cruises, hiking, biking, kayaking, and explore Norway’s famous Sognefjord fjord region. Hotel website: https://en.kviknes.no/

➨ Clarion Collection Hotel Havnekontoret - Bergen Norway: The Clarion Collection Hotel Havnekontoret is a stylish, Neo-Baroque hotel set in a historic 1920s stone building right on Bergen’s iconic Bryggen waterfront, offering easy walking access to the Fish Market, Fløibanen funicular, and the cobbled streets of the old town. Warm, contemporary rooms blend rich earth tones with tall windows, and many enjoy views over the harbor and classic wooden rooftops. Guests appreciate the homely atmosphere, where a generous breakfast buffet, afternoon “fika” with pastries, and a light evening meal are all included, along with relaxing lounges, a small gym, sauna and steam bath—making this an inviting and convenient base for exploring Bergen’s fjord-side charm.
Hotel Website: https://www.strawberryhotels.com/hotels/norway/bergen/home-hotel-havnekontoret/

DAILY TRIP ITINERARY
DAY 1- Wed. August 5 - ARRIVAL IN OSLO: This first day begins with arrival at Oslo Gardermoen Airport (OSL). After a short transfer into the city, you will leave your luggage at the hotel reception and meet our guide in the lobby to begin a 2-hour introductory Oslo Walking Tour on foot-friendly streets. Together, you will explore Oslo’s modern city center, taking in key sights while hearing engaging stories about Norwegian culture and daily life, and quickly see why this compact, waterfront capital has become such a beloved destination for visitors from around the world.

DAY 2 - Thurs. August 6 - FREE MORNING | AFTERNOON WALKING FOOD AND HISTORY TOUR OF OSLO: This memorable day in Oslo begins at 10:30 AM with a leisurely walk from the Clarion Hotel Oslo to the historic Kvadraturen district, where well-preserved streets and buildings offer a window into the city’s past. From here, the tour continues to the imposing Akershus Fortress, a medieval castle overlooking the harbor, where sweeping views of Oslo’s waterfront and skyline complement stories of centuries of Norwegian history. The focus then shifts to local flavors at Fenakroken, a beloved shop and café, where you enjoy a classic prawn sandwich followed by a generous tasting plate of Norwegian meat and fish specialties, showcasing the country’s rich culinary traditions. With appetites satisfied, a scenic bus ride highlights key landmarks and lively neighborhoods en route to tranquil Vigeland Park, home to the world’s largest sculpture park created by a single artist, where a gentle walk among the striking sculptures deepens your appreciation of Norwegian art and everyday life. The day concludes in a cozy local café, relaxing over coffee and freshly made Norwegian waffles—the perfect finish to a full day of history, culture, and food in Oslo.

DAY 3 - Fri. August 7 - DEPART OSLO FOR FLAM AND FULL DAY TRIP TO HARDANGER FJORDS: This full-day journey from Oslo into Norway’s spectacular fjord country begins with an early check-out and short walk to Oslo Central Station, where the famous “Norway in a Nutshell” experience starts aboard the Bergen Railway toward Myrdal, climbing through wild mountain plateaus and dramatic highland scenery. From Myrdal, the adventure continues on the legendary Flåm Railway, a steep, winding line that offers close-up views of towering peaks, deep valleys, and the thundering Kjosfossen waterfall before arriving in the charming fjord village of Flåm. Midday is free for an independent lunch and exploration, with options ranging from the elegant, locally sourced cuisine at Fretheim Hotel’s restaurant to casual cafés, the Ægir BrewPub, and the waterfront bakery in the village center. In the afternoon, a fjord cruise glides from Flåm through the UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord, where sheer cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and tiny, storybook villages create one of the world’s most beautiful fjord landscapes. Disembarking in Gudvangen, the group meets the driver for a scenic coach ride along valleys, past waterfalls and orchards, and over the impressive Hardanger Bridge before arriving in Lofthus to check in at the idyllic, waterfront Hotel Ullensvang, where dinner is included and guests can unwind amid gardens, fjord views, and the hotel’s signature spa bathing facilities.

DAY 4 - Sat. August 8 - EXPLORE HARDANGER: This day in Hardanger offers a perfect mix of gentle exploration and fjord adventure, showcasing both the region’s dramatic nature and rich heritage. The morning features a low-intensity excursion to Eidfjord, where you experience the thunderous beauty of Vøringsfossen waterfall from thoughtfully designed viewpoints, then gain insight into Norway’s largest national park and its fragile alpine ecosystem at the Hardangervidda Nature Centre before stepping back in time at the tranquil 13th-century Eidfjord Old Church. In the afternoon, the pace shifts with an exhilarating RIB safari on the Hardangerfjord, skimming across the water past towering cliffs and farms, with chances to spot porpoises or golden eagles while your skipper shares stories about the Trolltunga region, glaciers, and local traditions. Midway through the ride, you pause to sample Hardanger’s famed sparkling apple cider, adding a distinctly local flavor to the experience, and later can unwind back at Hotel Ullensvang’s fjord bath and wellness facilities, open year-round and complimentary for guests.

DAY 5 - Sun. August 9 - OPTIONAL TOURS IN HARDANGER: This flexible day in Hardanger is designed around optional adventures that showcase the region’s dramatic fjords, waterfalls, and famous fruit orchards, with choices suited to different interests and fitness levels. Active travelers can join a guided kayaking tour on the Sørfjorden, gliding beneath steep mountains with views of the snowcapped Folgefonna glacier, or opt for a moderate electric bike ride into the stunning Husedalen “valley of the waterfalls,” passing four impressive falls and riding through Norway’s largest fruit-growing area. Another option is the guided Fruit Orchard Trail hike, which begins at Hotel Ullensvang and leads through sun-drenched orchards to an open-fire lunch, while introducing participants to basic outdoor skills and local wilderness traditions. Those seeking a bucket-list challenge can instead focus on planning the iconic Trolltunga hike—an all-day, high-altitude trek across rugged terrain to a dramatic rock ledge 700 meters above Ringedalsvatnet—best suited to well-prepared, experienced hikers with proper gear, ample time, and a strong commitment to safety and environmental stewardship.

DAY 6 - Mon. August 10 - ARRIVAL IN BALESTRAND: This travel day carries you from the shores of the Hardangerfjord to the tranquil beauty of Balestrand, blending engineering marvels, classic fjord scenery, and historic hospitality. After checking out of Hotel Ullensvang, the drive leads across the impressive Hardanger Bridge, one of Norway’s longest suspension bridges, where wide-open views of fjord and mountains set the tone for the journey. Continuing along the E16, the route passes shimmering fjord waters and fertile orchards before turning toward the high mountain plateau of Vikafjellet, an ideal spot to pause for unforgettable photos of rugged peaks and wide horizons. The road then descends toward Vangsnes, where a short ferry ride across the fjord to Dragsvik offers peaceful time on the water and fresh perspectives on the surrounding landscape. Arriving in Balestrand, you check in at the storied Kviknes Hotel, a modern property with old-world charm whose roots date back to 1752, today known for its warm hospitality, fjordfront setting, and distinctive interiors adorned with artworks and antiques.

DAY 7 - Tues. August 11 - ACTIVITIES IN BALESTRAND AND OPTIONAL HIKING AND KAYAK BLUE ICE GLACIER TOUR: Today you will have the extraordinary option to experience Hiking Nigardsbreen Glacier! This adventurous day offers an unforgettable day of adventure on one of Norway’s most accessible glacier arms, combining serene paddling with the thrill of walking on ancient blue ice. The experience begins with a peaceful boat journey across the glacial lake, where towering ice and rugged peaks rise dramatically from turquoise water, creating a true “Arctic” atmosphere. Once ashore, certified guides equip you with crampons, ice axes, and safety gear before leading a carefully paced hike onto the glacier itself, weaving between crevasses and sculpted ice formations while sharing insights into glacial geology and climate. Suitable for reasonably fit, sure-footed travelers, this combined kayak and glacier walk offers both gentle moments of quiet beauty and a genuine sense of exploration, making it a highlight for those seeking an active, close-up encounter with Norway’s ice age landscape.
This relaxed day in Balestrand highlights the village’s blend of outdoor adventure, local culture, and fjordside charm, with both structured and free-time options. In your spare time, you can choose from scenic hikes like the Tjuatoten Trail or gentler Kreklingen Nature Trail, peaceful kayaking or cycling along the Sognefjord, fishing, spa time, and visits to attractions such as St. Olaf’s Church, the Sognefjord Aquarium, and the art-filled lounges of Kviknes Hotel. Around midday, the experience deepens with a cider tasting and lunch at The Cider House (Ciderhuset), an organic orchard and glasshouse restaurant just a short walk from the village, where you learn about Norway’s fruit-growing traditions and sample five distinctive ciders while overlooking the Sognefjord.

DAY 8 - Wed. August 12 - ACTIVITIES IN BALESTRAND: This relaxed day in Balestrand highlights the village’s blend of outdoor adventure, local culture, and fjordside charm, with both structured and free-time options. In your spare time, you can choose from scenic hikes like the Tjuatoten Trail or gentler Kreklingen Nature Trail, peaceful kayaking or cycling along the Sognefjord, fishing, spa time, and visits to attractions such as St. Olaf’s Church, the Sognefjord Aquarium, and the art-filled lounges of Kviknes Hotel. A scheduled RIB sightseeing tour adds adrenaline and storytelling as you skim across the fjord to waterfalls, Viking legends, dragon-style villas, and historic churches, gaining a fresh perspective on Balestrand’s dramatic landscape. Around midday, the experience deepens with a cider tasting and lunch at The Cider House (Ciderhuset), an organic orchard and glasshouse restaurant just a short walk from the village, where you learn about Norway’s fruit-growing traditions and sample five distinctive ciders while overlooking the Sognefjord.

DAY 9 - Thurs. August 13 - EXPRESS CRUISE TO BERGEN: This travel day carries you from the calm shores of Balestrand to vibrant, harbor-side Bergen, combining a classic fjord voyage with a stylish city hotel stay. After checking out of Kviknes Hotel, you board a comfortable express boat for the 4-hour cruise through the Sognefjord, Norway’s longest and deepest fjord, where steep mountains, waterfalls, small villages, and eventually the island-dotted coastline create a constantly changing panorama through large picture windows. On arrival in Bergen, you check in at Home Hotel Havnekontoret, an elegant hotel in historic Bryggen, set in a Baroque Revival building that blends local history with a warm, home-like atmosphere. Enjoy an inviting lounge and bar areas, a small gym plus sauna and steam room for unwinding, and easy access to a rooftop area with 360-degree views over Bergen’s colorful waterfront and surrounding hills—an ideal base for beginning your exploration of Norway’s fjord capital.

DAY 10 - Fri. August 14 - FREE DAY TO EXPLORE BERGEN: This final day in Bergen is free to enjoy at your leisure. You can wander the UNESCO-listed Bryggen wharf, exploring its colorful wooden warehouses, narrow alleys, and nearby fish market for a taste of the city’s Hanseatic heritage. For views, many ride the Fløibanen funicular up Mount Fløyen or take the cable car to Mount Ulriken, where easy walks, longer hikes, and panoramic fjord-and-city vistas await. Indoors, options include the KODE art museums and composer homes, Bergenhus Fortress with Rosenkrantz Tower, the Bergen Aquarium, and cozy cafés perfect for sampling local seafood and baked goods between strolls along the harbor.

DAY 11 - Sat. August 15 - DEPART BERGEN TO RETURN TO US: Morning Transfer to the airport for your journey home via Bergen Airport (BGO).