Fjords and sites of Norway

Welcome to Norway!

We all have our lists and high on Scott's was to see the sights of Norway and the fjords. On our summer break we set off to Oslo to begin a week of exploring Norway. Norway is characterized by high peaks that fall quickly into deep waters. It is home to the Vikings and to trolls! In fact we found a troll waiting to greet us at every place we visited. They all seemed to be the friendly kind and provide for a bit of fun.

In Oslo we visited a Viking Ship Museum which included a collection of ancient viking artifacts and ships. We also saw the place that is the home of the Nobel Peace Prize, including the red brick hall where the prize is awarded each year.

the ancient Oseberg Viking Ship built in 820 A

Taken from our ship the harbor in Oslo, in the distance is the red brick hall that is home to the Nobel Peace Prize

We boarded our ship and headed away from Oslo. We traveled west and north along the sea coast to find the fjords. Our stops included towns and villages that were all quite colorful and all were nestled in dramatic settings of the mountains and the waters.

Stavanger, a town of many colors 

One of the locals who was there to greet us

Our ship made its way through the fjords. We were  surrounded by the sheer walls of the mountains with an abundance of water falls and the deep green waters of the fjords. This is a magical kind of place. Here even the roofs of the buildings sported ferns and flowers.

Scott and friend!

I wonder who cuts the grass

In Geiranger we booked a small boat exploration of the cliffs and falling waters. We were outfitted in rescue gear and set off in a fast and maneuverable inflatable boat. Getting closer to the cliffs made them even more amazing as they towered up over us and seemed to go on forever. We did get a little wet and  wind blown but really enjoyed the experience.

Time to hold on and enjoy the ride

Getting wet was just part of the fun!

Our ship docked in Alesund and from there we set off into the mountains, following the "Pathway of the Trolls". Along the way from Alesund we were treated to a visit of a beautiful painted church from 1799 with hand painted walls and ceilings that depicted biblical stories and characters.

The Trollstigen, a road with eleven switchback turns, provided breathtaking views 

through the countryside, and up into the mountains. The visitor's center at the top provided 

incredible views across the valley. 

This guy welcomed us to Trollstigen and the pathway of the trolls, or maybe he was he guarding it?

The view from the top with the Trollstigen winding below us.

Norway did not disappoint… It is an incredable and unique place full of beauty at every turn. We will remember the warm hospitality of the people we met and, of course, the trolls!