Step into the enchanting realm of Norway, where every corner whispers tales of awe and wonder. First, let me tell you this: Norway is not just gorgeous; it's a breathtaking! And trust me, that's an understatement.
Norway, with its fairy-tale landscapes, is the ultimate family adventure destination, offering a treasure trove of experiences beyond the famed Northern lights.
As you traverse the Norwegian roads, you'll be captivated by the beauty that unfolds at every turn. Forget the bustling cities and big towns; the real magic of Norway lies in its tucked-away villages and rest stops with no names!
The real star of this adventure – the glorious road trip through the fjord region of Norway! A road trip with kids? Absolutely! Norway's well-maintained roads and amazing infrastructure make it a delight for young families seeking unparalleled flexibility and fun.
We travelled in May 2023.
Now, let's dive into the itinerary that'll take you on an unforgettable journey through Norway's fjord region:
DAY 1 - Land in Oslo, pick up your rental car and drive to Lillehammer.
Day 2 - Lillehammer to Rauma (Andalsnes)
Day 3 - Rauma.
Day 4 - Rauma to Valldal via Alesund/ Trollstigen
Day 5 - Day trip to Geiranger
Day 6 - Valldal to Stryn
Day 7 - Stryn
Day 8 - Stryn
Day 9 - Hafslo
Day 10 - Hafslo
Day 11- Hafslo to Lom
Day 12 - Lom to Oslo, return rental car
Day 13 - Oslo
Day 14 - Oslo
Day 15 - head back home
DAY 1 -
The adventure begins as you land in Oslo! Pick up your rental car from Oslo airport and embark on a scenic drive to Lillehammer. Take it easy on your first day, as you get acquainted with the new country and your new set of wheels.
Lillehammer, with its picturesque lake and Winter Olympics history, is the perfect place to unwind and ease into your magical journey.
DAY 2 -
Prepare to be enchanted as you drive from Lillehammer to Rauma (Andalsnes). This four-hour scenic drive is an extraordinary experience, surrounded by breathtaking vistas. Charge up your car and grab some snacks for the road.
Amusement park, Hunderfossen, near Lillehammer can be a great stop if you are travelling with kids.
Otta is a bigger town somewhere midway where you can charge or refuel your car and get some lunch ! Else, you can choose to stop at Dombas, another big town suitanble to make a stop. Most of the journey this day will be on E6 highway - the roads are great and there are plenty of option for fueling.
DAY 3 -
Today is all about exploring the wonders of Andalsnes! Take the Ramdalsgondolen and witness the magnificent views of Isfjorden and Andalsnes town. For the adventurous souls, a trek to the top is equally rewarding. Afterward, indulge in a delightful lakeside lunch at Issfjorden. In the evening, spend some time at the Rauma river bank and venture to the base of the iconic Trollstigen road, though its opening status might be worth confirming before you head out.
DAY 4 -
In the morning, travel to Alesund, like we did and spend some time at the Atlantic Aquarium for some family-friendly fun! If you have some time on your hand, you can also plan to drive on the Atlantic ocean road (one of the popular tourist roads in Norway) or check out the lighthouse in Alesund.
Later, we headed to Valldal, the gateway to the majestic fjords! The journey is equally thrilling, whether you opt for the scenic Trollstigen in summer or the charming Sjoholt route.
DAY 5 -
Today, prepare for an exhilarating day trip to Geiranger! Hop on a ferry from Linge to Eidsdal for a hassle-free experience, and make sure to stop by the stunning Eidsvatnet lake along the way. The road to Geiranger, adorned with countless hairpin bends on Ornisvegen, leads to a picturesque town that's both breathtaking and touristy. Take a memorable walk along the waterfall and later enjoy snacks and coffee at the Norsk museum's restaurant . If time permits, a visit to Dalsnibba and Flydalsjuvet is well worth the uphill drive.
DAY 6 -
Take a short two-hour drive to Stryn . Base yourself in Stryn to explore the surrounding Fjord and Glaciers. Dalsnibba is also a short and scenic drive away from here. Loen is a beautiful village 15 minutes drive from Stryn. Enjoy panoramic views from Loen Skylift and savor a delectable meal at the top. Then, venture down the narrow, scenic road alongside Lovatnet to Kjendalsbreen. Lovatnet's charm will leave you in awe, making it an ideal spot for a family picnic!
DAY 7 -
Head to Brikdalsbreen via the picturesque town of Olden. After parking, embark on a well-marked, moderately difficult 3 km trek to the glacial lake. While there's an electric vehicle option, we recommend the trek for a super fun experience! If energy permits, visit Tvinnefossen or Lokifossen waterfalls .
DAY 8 -
Explore the town of Stryn. Journey to the National Tourist Centre, Jostudel National Park, and head to see the magnificent Ovstefossen waterfall. Head to Dalsnibba if the weather permits . The weather can be unpredictable, as we experienced on our visit to Dalsnibba, but that's part of Norway's charm – experiencing it all, even the rain!
DAY 9 -
Travel to Hafslo and visit the Boyabreen glacier on the way, stopping at Skei for a snack, recharge and refuel. Witness the awe-inspiring Boyabreen glacier from the parking lot, and a minimal walk leads you to the glacial lake – a perfect option for tired feet! Take time to explore the charming Hafslo village on foot in the evening.
DAY 10 -
We headed for a day trip to Flam and Aurlandsfjord on a rainy day and what an amazing experience! We could only imagine how beautiful the village would look along the Fjord on a glorious sunny day! One can easily spend the whole day here in Flam, enjoying the waterfalls nearby and taking a ride on Flamsbana. Make sure to visit the Stegastein viewpoint for great views of Aurlandfjord. Norway has a great network of tunnels and this day we also drove the longest tunnel in Norway - the 24.5 km long Lærdal Tunnel !
DAY 11 -
Get ready for a power-packed day as you trek to the Nigardsbreen glacier in Jostedal National Park. Savor a delicious lunch in Gaupne, catch your last glimpse of Norwegian fjords at Skjolden, and traverse the breathtaking National Tourist Route 55, known as Sognefjellet or the "roof of Norway", on your way to the enchanting village of Lom.
DAY 12 -
On the last day of road trip, head back to Oslo via Otta. This journey will take around 5 hours.
Return your rental car at the airport and head into the city to relax and recharge for the next day.
DAY 13 -
Utilize the Oslo Pass to take a ferry to the Bygdoy Peninsula and immerse yourself in the extraordinary Fram and Kon-tiki museums. Once back, explore the Akershus Fortress, City Hall, and the Nobel Peace Prize Museum located nearby. Take a stroll along Karl Johans Road or relax in the gardens near the Royal Palace.
DAY 14 - On your final day in Oslo, start early and visit the Zoological and Geological Museums, Climate change museum and Botanical garden. After lunch, head to Munch museum and Oslo Opera house for a spectacular view of Oslo Fjord. If travelling with kids, make sure to check out the Oslo reptile park!
Norway's allure is one of a kind, especially for young families seeking unparalleled adventures. Embrace the magic of this fjord region road trip, as you create cherished memories that will forever be etched in your hearts.
Remember, it's the tiny villages that hold the true essence of this wonderland.
So, dare to venture off the beaten path and be enchanted by Norway's splendor.
Happy travels!
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