Discovering the charms of Flam, Norway

5 de December, 2023
Updated on 5 de December, 2023
7 Mins Read
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Flåm is a small village located in Norway, situated on the banks of the stunning Aurlandsfjord. This picturesque tourist destination is known for its exceptional natural beauty and breathtaking landscapes.

Norway and its fjords have always been a desired destination for us. This year the opportunity arose to take a cruise through the Norwegian fjords and it is based on this experience that we write these articles.

Norway

Norway is located in the northern region of Europe and is a country of incomparable beauty, known for its spectacular landscape, its majestic fjords and its people’s deep connection with nature. Enjoying nature is something written into the laws and constitution of the country itself. It is a Scandinavian nation that occupies the western part of the Scandinavian Peninsula, sharing borders with Sweden, Finland and Russia. With a relatively small population in relation to its vast territory, Norway offers an atmosphere of tranquillity and untouched space that makes it a truly unique travel destination.

If you are looking for outdoor adventures and a rich culture, Norway is the perfect destination. In this article, we explore a small village in one of the best-known fiords.

Documentation and Currency

Norway is not a country in the European Union but belongs to the Schengen area. Therefore, for citizens of countries in the Schengen area, it is only necessary to present a valid citizen card or passport. No visa is required.

Norway’s currency is the Norwegian krone. During the days I was in Norway I didn’t exchange money or use cash since bank cards are used a lot in Norway. To avoid commissions we use the Revolut card.

More about the fjords

Norway’s fjords are one of the most spectacular and iconic natural settings in the world. These unique formations are characteristic of the Norwegian landscape and are widely recognized for their natural and imposing beauty. Here is some additional information about the fjords:

What are fjords?

Fjords are deep, narrow valleys that extend from the sea and are surrounded by high mountains or cliffs. They are formed by the retreat of ice that existed millions of years ago when the ice carved deep valleys in the mountains. When the ice retreated, the sea flooded the valleys, creating the fjords we see today. Some, due to their depth, are navigable, even for huge cruise ships.

Extension and location

Norway’s fjords stretch along the entire west coast of the country, forming a spectacular landscape that stretches for more than 1000 miles. Some of the most famous and visited fjords are Geirangerfjord, Sognefjord, Hardangerfjord and Nærøyfjord.

Natural beauty

Norwegian fjords are famous for their natural beauty that takes your breath away. This was the main reason that led us to cruise along its coast. The mountain walls surrounding the fjords are often covered in lush green vegetation during the summer and covered in snow in the winter, creating a stunning contrast to the deep, calm waters of the fjords.

Spectacular waterfalls

Many fjords feature spectacular waterfalls. The Seven Sisters waterfall on the Geirangerfjord is a famous example. These waterfalls, the green vegetation and the calm water of the fjords complete the beauty and grandeur of the entire space that surrounds us.

UNESCO World Heritage

Several Norwegian fjords, including the aforementioned Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord, are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites due to their exceptional natural and cultural importance. This further highlights the importance and beauty of these natural wonders.

Panoramic view of Flam

Sea life

The fjords are home to rich marine life, including a variety of fish species and marine mammals such as seals and dolphins. Observing wildlife while adventuring through the fjords is a unique experience. However, during our trip, we had no such luck.

Do you want to prepare for your trip? Do your research now



Flam’s location

Flam is located on the banks of the stunning Aurlandsfjord in the middle of valleys that look like something out of an animated film.

 

Flam

Flam is a small village hidden at the end of a fjord, with a train station that looks like it came out of a fairy tale.

The surrounding landscape is magnificent, the small beach, the bridge and the waterfall that can be seen from a small hill is stunning.

Flam is a mandatory stop for anyone passionate about travel and on many of the cruise routes that visit Norway. This village, which has very few inhabitants, offers a unique experience of tranquillity and natural beauty. Flam is the end point of the famous panoramic train that runs along one of the most beautiful railway routes in the world, offering spectacular views of valleys, mountains and waterfalls.

What to visit and do

Flam Panoramic Train Route

Flåmsbana is a railway jewel that stands out as one of the most spectacular in the world. Known as the Flåm Railway, this scenic journey takes passengers on an unforgettable adventure through the stunning Norwegian fjords and mountains. It is one of the most visited attractions in Norway and is approximately 20 km long.

The route starts from Flam, via the Aurlandsfjord to Mydral, in the mountains. Here you can return to Flam.

However, if you are travelling from Bergen or Oslo, it is possible to take the train to Mydral and then take the scenic train to Flam.

During the one-hour journey the train passes through several tunnels, green fields with wooden houses that seem to have been created on purpose and makes a brief stop at one of the most spectacular waterfalls on the route, Kjosfossen.

Kayak

From Flam, you can book and take a kayak trip around the fiord. It’s a fantastic way to get to know the nature around Flam.

Train Museum

Next to the train station, you will find the Flam Train Museum.

In it, you will find more information about the history of the Flam train line and images and equipment already used on the line.

Flam also offers numerous activities. From walks through the fjords on foot or by mountain bike, visits to waterfalls, boat trips through the fjords or even through the villages around Flam.

How to get to Flam?

To get to Flåm, there are a few different options available. The most popular way is to travel along the famous Flåm Railway – one of the most spectacular railway routes in the world. This railway line leaves the city of Myrdal, which can be reached via another main line connecting Bergen-Oslo.

The train journey between Myrdal and Flåm offers incredible panoramic views of the Norwegian fjords, mountains, stunning waterfalls and passes through tunnels carved into the rock. Along the route of approximately 18 miles, you can admire the almost untouched nature of this region.

Furthermore, it is also possible to reach Flåm using the roads that connect the village with other parts of Norway. The other way is by cruise, as we arrived, which travels through the fjords until reaching Flåm.

The best time to visit Flam?

The time when you can best enjoy Flam, its hiking trails and its landscapes, will be during the short summer. The weather in northern Europe tends to be very uninviting for hiking during the winter. However, the Norwegian landscape is still magnificent in spring, autumn and even winter.

Where to stay in Flam?

Flam is very small and has little choice of accommodation. However, as in all towns and villages in Norway there is always a campsite.

Regardless of which way you choose to get to Flåm, rest assured that you will be greeted by an unforgettable setting made up of towering snow-capped mountains, calm waters of the fjords reflecting the glow of the sun, and a peaceful, serene atmosphere that invites you to explore the natural wonders of this city. region of Norway.

Did you like Flam! Do you want to get to know Norway? The combination of the scenic train and stunning natural scenery makes Flam a popular tourist destination in Norway. You will certainly find other reasons in our posts to think about visiting this magnificent country.

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