Jotunheimen National Park & Sognefjell Mountain Pass
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Port
Skjolden, Norway
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Activity Level
Easy
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$249.95
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 3 Hours
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Meals Included
Meals included
After boarding your comfortable motorcoach, you'll head east out of Skjolden along the famous Sognefjellet National Tourist Road, voted 'most scenic' by Norwegians. Known as the 'roof of Norway', this route was for centuries the only road connecting east and west Norway. Look closely and you may be able to see 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. Look for the charming red and yellow wooden houses that appear glued to the side of the mountain walls and the steep paths that lead to their front doors. In Fortun, you’ll stop for a coffee and waffle break at a traditional Norwegian Mountain Lodge. You'll have some time here to rest, or to take photos and do a little exploring on a leisurely walk.
Back onboard your coach, the views become increasingly spectacular as you climb higher up into the impressive Jotunheimen Mountains. Aptly named Home of the Giants, they're some of the highest mountains in Europe north of the Alps. In fact, there are 24 colossal peaks that soar to more than 6,560 feet above sea level. Stops will be at viewpoints along the way, allowing you to capture wonderful photos and stretch your legs.
Upon reaching the top of the valley, stop to soak in the unspoiled beauty of this dynamic area. 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 will likely not make an appearance, reindeer, elk, deer, foxes, minks and golden eagles make their home at Jotunheimen.
Back aboard your motorcoach, take the return journey along the same scenic route back to Skjolden.
Notes:
This tour is predominantly scenic viewing from the motorcoach. Participants must be able to (dis)embark the coach with a companion to assist.