The northernmost European country, the Kingdom of Norway, is well renowned for its colossal and magnificent mountains, fantastic fjord shoreline, coastlines and breathtaking waterfalls where time seems to stand at a halt and the past and present merge without a glitch. Sharing a border with Sweden, Russia, Finland and Denmark, Norway is deemed one of the wealthiest countries in Europe. It enjoys the status of high and quality living standards due to innovative unearthing of offshore oil and gas deposits in 1960.
Although Norway is sprinkled with stunning, picturesque landscapes and exquisite panoramas like islands, forests, lakes, glaciers, and waterfalls, the two natural phenomena that compel thousands of visitors to Norway and behold the breathtaking occurrences are the northern lights or aurora borealis and the midnight sun. The northern lights are described as green bands that transverse in the night sky and materialise as glimmering curtains or undulating smoke. Their inconsistent hues sparkle and magnificence continues to astound and leave the spectators mesmerised. Experiencing the midnight sun in Norway is also a supernatural experience bound to remain etched in the memory. During the summer season, the sun never sets, and darkness is banished from the Norwegian land. Therefore, the midnight sun can be associated with twilight or sunset when a soft, low radiance cloaks the sky and proffers the landscape with a dream-like quality.
What to Visit in Norway
It can be tricky to identify the top attractions and landmarks in Norway because it’s speckled with varied landscapes and untainted natural beauty that will leave the visitors breathless. Below are some of the top attractions in Norway that should be visited to appreciate Norway’s true significance and appeal.
Vigelandsparken sculpture Park
The Vigelandsparken Park boasts of drawing about 1 million tourists in its vicinity annually. The largest sculpture park in the world was created by a single artist and houses more than 200 bronze and granite sculptures. In addition, the majestic park is a popular picnic spot amongst locals because it features expansive lawns, striking ponds and streams and a chain of sheltering trees.
Holmenkollen ski jump
At the pinnacle of Oslo, the latest and only steel ski jump of the world, Holmenkollen is an exceptional and incomparable monument that prides itself on enjoying unrivalled and matchless engineering. Visitors can revel in the spectacular and awe-inspiring view of the fjord and the entire city of Oslo by visiting the platform at the pinnacle of the ski jump tower.
The Geirangerfjord
Also known as the jewel of the Norwegian fjords, the Geirangerfjord landscape with its distinguishing S-shaped waterfalls, deserted mountainous farms and snow-covered mountain peaks is one of the most stunning and captivating vistas in the world. Geirangerfjord proffers tourists with fantastic skiing prospects on the Alps of Sunnmore, kayaking tours in the fjord, mountain walking and tracking along The Golden Route.
The North Cape
A popular destination, North Cape is a breathtaking encounter with mind-blowing natural views, strange climate, the impressive cliff and the reality of being present at the most northern part of Europe. North Cape is visited by a quarter of a million tourists every summer season. It is one of the top destinations in Norway. Tourists can enjoy the bird safaris; behold the midnight sun and the northern lights in the area of the North Cape.
The Flam railway
The steepest railway line in the world, riding in the Flam railway, is a lifetime experience. This train journey offers the tourists a great lure of inducement for innumerable visitors to behold the grandeur of tumultuous rivers slicing through deep ravines, waterfalls gushing down the grand snow-covered mountains and mountain farms hanging onto steep slopes.
Atlantic Ocean Park
A top tourist destination, Atlantic Ocean Park is a saltwater aquarium that allows visitors to witness the remarkable North Atlantic’s undersea life. The aquarium is situated in charming recreational vicinity that includes the coastline and the ocean, and there are hiking, swimming and diving prospects available for the visitors.
Getting There
Major airports in Norway are:
- Oslo Airport – Gardermen – IATA: OSL
- Sandefjord Airport – Torp – IATA: TRF
- Moss Airport – Rygge – IATA: RYG
- Stavanger Aiport – Sola – IATA: SVG
- Bergen Airport – Flesland – IATA: BGO
- Trondheim Airport – Vaernes – IATA: TRD
- Tromso Airport – IATA: TOS
Weather
The climate in Norway is delightful throughout the year. In July and August, the temperatures can reach 25-30 degrees Celsius. During autumn, especially in September, the temperature begins to drop. In winter, Norway is converted into a snowy paradise, and the temperatures can drop to as low as -40 degrees Celsius. From May to mid-June, when the spring flowers are blossoming everywhere, Norway is transformed into a spectacular dreamland bewitching all those who behold the vast array of colours sprinkled under the golden sun.
Getting Around
Although Norway is deemed to be an expensive country, the public transport system is very efficient. The trains, ferries and buses follow the schedule in a way that they link with each other. The range of domestic airlines and a network of railways dotted throughout the country make Norway more proficient. The best way to experience the kaleidoscope of scenic views in Norway is to hire a car and drive at your own pace.
Care and Tips
- When venturing outdoors, look for yourself and tread and travel with utmost caution because many places lack signposts.
- Always check the weather forecast before planning an outdoor activity, as the Norwegian weather can abruptly worsen.
- Pack the clothing according to the climate you are planning to travel in. The winter weather can be very severe and frosty. It is best to travel to Norway in the spring and summer seasons to enjoy and savour the landscape and take pleasure in activities.
- Always don a lifejacket when arranging a boating trip.
- The increase in avalanche activity can be dangerous, which is why it is recommended that you follow the local instructions, remain on-piste and only ski in the suggested areas.
- Due to a ban on smoking placed by the Norwegian government, cigarettes in Norway are costly and greatly taxed.
