We are in the planning stage of our 3+ wk. trip to Norway, Denmark, & Sweden. Flying into Oslo (2 nites), and out of Stockholm. We are taking the train from Oslo to Bergen(3 nites), cruising (5 nites) north to Stamsund(Lofoten Islands), then backtrack, south to Trondheim. Renting car/or taking train, & heading south. Should we do Norway in a Nutshell, as well, if we are cruising the coast, and Geiranger Fjord?
Any suggestions are appreciated!
You've almost got to do both. Geiranger is more spectacular, especially if the falls are flowing good. The Nutshell appeals because of all the changes in modes of transportation, but it's not the best of Norway.
I have been to both and both are beautiful. We loved our bus trips in the area of Geirangerfjord and the beautiful costal or fjord towns nearby, particularly Alesund, Molde, Andalsnes and Trondheim. The train ride from Dombas to Andalsnes is spectacular. A bus ride on the Eagle Road (many switchbacks with Geirangerfjord overlooks) and the Trollsteigen (even more switchbacks) is worth considering. Trollsteigen schedule is very seasonable. Go to http://www.visitnorway.com/en/Articles/Theme/What-to-do/Attractions/Trollstigen-mountain-road/ Since you are taking the train from Oslo to Bergen, the Norway in a Nutshell makes sense and has its own charms. But if you have to choose a fjord area, Geiranger and nearby sites are by far the best, worth spending extra time. Trondheim is a neat town with plenty of history. Norwegian Christianity began there. Quite a cathedral. Great parks. Bergen and Oslo have a big city feeling but Trondheim is a big town with plenty to enjoy. Molde was a dead place when we got there on a Sunday night in June but others say it can be quite lively especially during the Jazz Festival 18-23 July > http://www.moldejazz.no/2011/index.php?page_id=11470 It is on a beautiful fjord with a great view of snow-capped mountains to the South. Andalsnes was bombed in WW2 and lost a lot of its charm but the views of the fjord and mountains still make it a desirable place. And I bought my favorite Norwegian sweater there for half the price of a Dale and it was made in Norway not Bangladesh. Oh, and I have Norwegian relatives so I love to talk about Norway. My grandparents grew up in Mandal, off the tourist route but another wonderful place on the Norwegian Coast. Norway has spectacular secenery but don't miss the culture and the people. The food is a lot better than its reputation would suggest.
Geiranger Fjord is one of the most spectacular places I've seen. My advice is to see it if you can. My trip was in June with many waterfalls. It will still be beautiful without them. Visit the old church in Geiranger and its graveyard, too.
Geiranger fjord is spectacular! We did a Norway cruise a few years ago and that picture is permanently etched in my memory. All of Norway is stunning, you will NOT be disappointed in your choice of destination I promise! Try to do the Flam rail trip as well, and add a traditional smorgesbord lunch. See Grieg's home in Bergen and the fish market. BE SURE to do Acrehaus (old castle) near the pier in Oslo - old tapestries just hanging on the walls for anyone to enjoy. Also Vigeland park is fascinating in Oslo.
Tusen takk, everyone, for your advise. It's all very helpful! Do you know any charming places to stay/explore, near Bergen? Someone suggested 3 nights in Bergen is too many. We will be cruising along Geiranger Fjord, unable to explore via land. Any suggestions for the Trondheim area? From there, we will train, or drive through central Norway, to Denmark, and Sweden. Any suggestions?? Patsy