Port
Skjolden, Norway
Activity Level
Easy
Excursion Type
All
Wheelchair Accessible
No
Starting At
$249.95
Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
Duration
Approximately 3 Hours
Meals Included
Meals included
Set your sights on the panoramic vistas surrounding Skjolden on this excursion designed for those who prefer very little walking but want lots of photo opportunities, awe-inspiring scenery, and cool, crisp air.
Traveling by comfortable motorcoach, you'll head east out of Skjolden along the famous Sognefjellet National Tourist Road -- "the roof of Norway." Spot the ancient stone pyramids called varde, which marked safe trails over the mountain. Rising to an elevation of 4,700 feet, this mountain pass is Northern Europe's highest and boasts eye-popping views of towering mountains and emerald valleys. A series of hairpin curves takes you past the quaint mountain village of Fortun, wedged at the bottom of a tranquil fjord. Charming wooden houses appear glued to the side of the mountain walls. The views become increasingly spectacular as you climb higher up into the impressive Jotunheimen Mountains -- 24 colossal peaks that soar to more than 6,560 feet tall.
There's a break at a traditional Norwegian Mountain Lodge with an hour here to rest or do a little exploring on a leisurely walk. Jotunheimen claims a wide array of Norway's mountain flora. You may find strawberries growing wild among the heathery terrain. The white-petal glacier buttercup, purple saxifrage and rock-climbing avens are also Arctic-loving plants. Although they may not make an appearance, reindeer, elk, deer, foxes, minks, and golden eagles all make their home at Jotunheimen.
Later, enjoy Norwegian waffles and a cup of coffee or tea.
The return journey is the same scenic route back to Skjolden, with a number of dazzling viewpoints where you can stretch your legs.
Notes:
Tour consists mainly of sightseeing from the transportation. Stops are brief, and participants can remain in the vehicle except at the mountain lodge. Participants must be able to (dis)embark the coach with a companion to assist.