Autumn Fjords of Norway

On the island of Stord, between Bergen and Haugesund, lies the small town of Leirvik, a friendly and authentic slice of western Norway. It has long been a regional hub, with a history shaped by fishing, shipbuilding and trade, with a town centre that is easy to explore on foot, including a lively marina, shops and cafés. Close by is the Sunnhordland Museum, where you can see exhibitions on local culture and traditions, including historic boats and houses, and the impressive steel Storddøra monument that has propellors that rotate in the wind and sparkle in the sun.

The idyllic village of Skjolden is located at the end of Norway’s longest fjord, the Sognefjorden, where the deep blue waters contrast against the green landscape and red-roofed houses, creating a summer kaleidoscope of colour. Spectacular waterfalls tumble down steep cliffsides into the fjord below, and close by are the magnificent Jotunheimen Mountains and Jostedalsbreen Glacier, which you will have opportunities to explore on a tour from your ship. You’ll also be ideally placed to enjoy a hike to the tiny hut where world-famous Austrian philosopher Ludwig Wittgenstein exiled himself to write some of his most important works.

The beautiful village of Olden is nestled in the inner arm of Nordfjord, with sparkling green fjord waters framed by rolling meadows and towering cliff faces. Venture further afield to visit Briksdal Glacier as it glistens in the autumn sun, offering remarkable views across the fjord on a hike to a natural viewing platform, while the village itself is delightfully compact enough to explore on foot, with paths that offer vistas of the surrounding mountains. Meanwhile, one of the steepest cable cars in the world, Loen Skylift, offers you the chance to be transported to the top of Mount Hoven in just a few exhilarating moments. For those wishing for a more tranquil experience, picturesque Lovatnet Lake is close by, whose striking mix of blue and green crystal-clear waters come from melted glaciers.

Ålesund promises a captivating blend of history, nature, and adventure. After ascending the 418 steps to Mount Aksla’s summit, which reveals panoramic views of the surrounding islands and fjords, you could be enjoying an autumn stroll in the charming city centre, with its colourful Art Nouveau buildings and eateries serving fresh seafood and local dishes like bacalao. Meanwhile, the nearby islands of Giske and Godøy, with their quaint villages and unspoilt scenery, offer opportunities to partake in outdoor pursuits such as hiking and wildlife spotting.