Adrenalin Rush: Exploring the Outdoors in Norway

Oslo is full of many wonders to lay your eyes upon and to experience. A must is to walk near the harbor and on top and around the library. This will give you a birds-eye view of this section of the city, as well as the art installation in the harbor, ferris wheel and saunas that are available to relax in should you stay in the city center. Stroll the streets of Oslo,

Bergen is known for its walkability. Leave the car at your accommodation and stroll the streets of this historic and strategically important city. The fort is a must-visit as well as the fish markets located right on the harbor boardwalk. Bergen is known as the 'capital of the fjords' as it is nestled between two of the largest fjords.

Take the Funicular (Funicular Bergen) to reach the highest point in the city. There is a beautiful walking path around the summit and well into the forest behind the restaurant. You can stroll, run, canoe and have a coffee near the pond).

While there is much beauty to see in Bergen, it's time to hop on a train and head to Flam. Flam is a gateway for small cruises to take you on adventures through the fjords. It is a nature lovers paradise boasting stunning waterfalls and steep mountains. This is also where one would catch the train to Finse for more adventure-seeking activities.

Finse - the journey from Flam to Finse is memorable, which in turn makes the return just that enjoyable. Once in Finse, there are two ways to return, one is by train and the other is by bicycle. If you are the adventure traveler, then the 53 km bike ride on the Rallarvegen back to Flam is just for you. While trying to pay attention to the path you are biking, your eyes will dart from glaciers, waterfalls and watch out for snowy patches on your route. Staying at Hotel Finse 1222 is a must. Views that provide award-winning photographs and outstanding food. Expect ANY kind of weather while biking. It is all worth it.

Arriving in Finse, reunited with the car and new clothes, drive towards Klingenberg and rest your head among the fjords that surround this quaint village. While this might not be the most centrally located hotel, the drive from Flam to Klingenberg will leave you with jaw-dropping views and more glaciers to behold!

Adventure seekers will love the options that are available in Lillehamer. If you are a downhill mountain biker (we did this) then Hafjell is the place to be. If you love putting your capabilities to the test, then the Via Ferrata at Loen is where you will get your adrenaline rush. We did this, also, a near five hours climbing a rock face and loved every nerve-bending minute of it.

Stavanger will leave you begging for sunshine. It tends to rain in this city frequently. However, this does not stop those who seek adventure. There are wonderful restaurants and many hikes in this small city. One very intense hike is Kieragboltrn. This hike should only be done with proper hiking clothing and pay attention to the weather as it can change. Another hike is Pulpitrock, and you should give yourself plenty of time to complete it as well.

These are just some of the activities in the lower fjord region of Norway that we experienced. Norway is exploding with activities for all.

Food recommendations:

Bergen:

Colonialen Litthus - small, beautiful spot for a quiet meal, coffee or some interesting organic wine

Stavanger:

Fisketorget - famous for their fish soup. Should you wish to go, speak to hotel concierge to make reservations or if in Airbnb/VRBO then stop by to make one

Renaa Matbaren — this bistro is of Michelin star quality, boasting French cuisine and an excellent wine selection

Lervig Brewery - famous for its wonderful ales

Oslo:

Vippa - food court overlooking the water

Mathallen - probably the most well-known and popular food court

Osloslo - another gem in the city for a mouth-watering bite