Take The Classic Hurtigruten Voyage

PHOTO: Try the classic Hurtigruten voyage for a true taste of Norway. (photo courtesy of Hurtigruten)

Earlier this year, Norway was called the ‘world’s happiest country.’ It’s easy to see why.

Known for its stunning and tranquil nature and charming towns, this Scandanavian nation is an adventure you’ll want to take again and again. Make your first jaunt to Norway worthwhile via 12-day, roundtrip voyage with Hurtigruten, which introduces you to 34 ports of the country, with 22 of them north of the polar circle.

This is Hurtigruten’s ‘classic voyage’ in which you get a true taste of Norway.

You’ll see so much of this beautiful kingdom on an adventure that starts and ends at the beautiful southwestern city of Bergen, which is surrounded by mountains and the country’s longest and deepest fjords, the Sognefjord. On your journey, you will also visit other fjords, including the Geirangerfjord and idyllic Hjorundfjord, where only Hurtigruten ships sail.

The next stop at Trondheim, Norway’s third largest city, brings you up-close-and-personal to Trondheim’s exquisite architecture, where you’ll tour the gorgeous Nidaros Cathedral and walk among the restored wooden buildings in the Bakklandet district.

You will also have an opportunity to see the Northern Lights, a natural phenomenon of colorful lights that dance across the sky, as well as Norway’s second largest glacier, Svartisen. Throughout your voyage to the various ports, you’ll see many majestic coastlines and mountains, such as the 3,280-foot high mountain of Lofotveggen in Lofoten.

Moving north, a trip to Tromso, the capital of the Arctic, wouldn’t be complete without a whale watching or dog sledding excursion, and here you’ll have the opportunity of a lifetime to engage in both adventures. In the port of Kjollefjord, you’ll learn about the area that’s famous for its birdlife.

At the most northern point on the continent, the North Cape, you’ll have an opportunity to visit the Kirkenes Snowhotel, which is built from over 15 metric tons of snow and ice, and tour fishing villages and, if you have the fortitude, hike the Lyngen Alps. Right in front of you will also be the spectacular Seven Sisters mountain range, which are more than 2,950 feet high. You can choose to have breakfast at North Cape, this northernmost point on the European continent, where you will be 1,000 feet above the Arctic Ocean.

READ MORE: Navigating The Northwest Passage

On your voyages to these ports, you’ll have more than 50 excursions to choose from, including a sea eagle safari, a fishing excursion, a RIB boat ride, culinary adventures, horseback riding and more. You can ride with the Alaska huskies at the Gednje Snow Station, explore the famous Geirangerfjord which is surrounded by snow-covered peaks and waterfalls, or take the Art Nouveau walk in Alesund. Stop at the Ringve Museum of Musical History, where you can see and learn about instruments from all around the world.

Your adventure on the Hurtigruten is just as fun as what you’re seeing on your travels. Be comfortable in an Expedition Suites, which are situated on the upper deck and include TV, bathrooms with shower and double beds.

From UNESCO World Heritage sites to breathtaking views that you’ll never forget, your 12-day Hurtigruten adventure to Norway is a must-see.