Norway is home to some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the world, and what better way to experience its beauty than by traveling aboard the scenic railways that wind through its majestic mountains, fjords, and valleys? Here’s a guide to the best ways to travel the Norwegian scenic railways, highlighting the most famous routes and offering tips on how to make the most of your trip.
1. The Flam Railway (Flåmsbana)
One of the most famous and iconic scenic train journeys in Norway is the Flam Railway (Flåmsbana), which takes you from the village of Flam at the base of the Aurlandsfjord to the mountain station of Myrdal. The route is known for its steep climbs, dramatic waterfalls, and awe-inspiring views.
- Route Details:
- The Flam Railway covers a distance of 20 kilometers (12 miles) and has a vertical climb of over 800 meters. The journey takes around 1 hour, but every minute is packed with scenic beauty.
- The train passes through lush valleys, traditional Norwegian farms, and dense forests, while also offering fantastic views of snow-capped peaks and the fjord below.
- Key highlights include the Kjosfossen Waterfall, where the train stops so passengers can enjoy a breathtaking view of the cascading water, and the picturesque village of Flam.
- Best Time to Travel: The Flåmsbana is open year-round, but the best time to travel is from May to September, when the weather is more pleasant, and the scenery is at its peak. Winter, however, offers a unique experience, with snow-covered landscapes.
- Tips:
- Consider combining your train journey with a fjord cruise on the Aurlandsfjord and Nærøyfjord, which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. You can do this as part of the Norway in a Nutshell tour, a popular package that includes the Flam Railway and a fjord cruise.
2. The Bergen Railway (Bergensbanen)
The Bergen Railway (Bergensbanen) is one of Europe’s most scenic train routes, connecting the cities of Oslo and Bergen. This 7-hour journey takes you through dramatic mountain landscapes, across the Hardangervidda Plateau, and past fjords, valleys, and rivers.
- Route Details:
- The route covers 496 kilometers (308 miles) and passes through a diverse range of landscapes, from lush forests and lakes to rugged mountain plateaus.
- The journey takes you through Finse, the highest station on the railway at 1,222 meters above sea level, where the landscape transforms into a stunning, stark alpine environment.
- One of the highlights of the Bergen Railway is crossing the Hardangervidda, the largest mountain plateau in Europe, offering panoramic views of the untouched wilderness.
- Best Time to Travel: The summer months (June to August) provide the best weather for the journey, while winter (November to March) is ideal for those who want to see snow-covered peaks and glaciers.
- Tips:
- For an even more scenic experience, opt for the first-class tickets, which offer large windows and greater comfort, allowing you to take in the spectacular views more easily.
- Pair your journey with a visit to the vibrant city of Bergen, known for its charming wooden houses, seafood markets, and access to the fjords.
3. The Rauma Railway
The Rauma Railway is another gem in Norway’s scenic rail network. It runs between Dombås and Andalsnes, offering passengers a chance to witness Norway’s natural beauty from the comfort of their seats. The route takes you through dramatic valleys, alongside rushing rivers, and past towering mountains.
- Route Details:
- The 114-kilometer (71-mile) route offers views of some of the most iconic landscapes in Norway, including the Romsdal Alps, the Trollveggen (Troll Wall) (the tallest vertical rock face in Europe), and the Kylling Bridge, one of the most photographed railway bridges in the world.
- The train journey lasts about 1.5 hours, but it’s packed with views of picturesque villages, lush forests, and steep mountainsides.
- Best Time to Travel: The best time to travel is during summer (May to September), when the weather is warmer, and the landscapes are lush and vibrant. The autumn months also offer beautiful views with the changing colors of the foliage.
- Tips:
- Take your time to stop at Andalsnes, a small town that offers hiking opportunities, including the famous Romsdalseggen Ridge.
- Consider combining the Rauma Railway with a visit to the Geirangerfjord, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is just a short drive away.
4. The Nordland Railway (Nordlandsbanen)
The Nordland Railway offers a journey from Trondheim to Bodø, taking you through northern Norway’s diverse landscapes, including forests, mountains, and the Arctic coastline. It is one of the longest scenic train routes in Norway, stretching over 729 kilometers (453 miles).
- Route Details:
- The Nordland Railway offers breathtaking views of the Saltfjellet Mountain Range, as well as the chance to see the Arctic Circle.
- The route takes you across the Polarsirkelen (Arctic Circle), where the landscape begins to change as you approach the Arctic region, offering opportunities to witness the midnight sun in the summer and the Northern Lights in winter.
- Key sights along the route include the Ulvåsen Tunnel, which offers stunning views of the surrounding fjords, and the picturesque town of Bodø, where you can explore the Arctic wilderness and see the Lofoten Islands.
- Best Time to Travel: The summer months (June to August) offer the best weather and the opportunity to experience the midnight sun, while winter provides the chance to see the Northern Lights.
- Tips:
- Opt for a first-class ticket for panoramic windows that offer the best views.
- If you’re looking to explore more of northern Norway, consider taking a detour to the Lofoten Islands or Tromsø, both of which are accessible from Bodø.
5. The Dovre Railway
The Dovre Railway runs between Oslo and Trondheim, passing through some of the most scenic parts of central Norway. It is often overshadowed by other routes like the Bergen Railway, but it still offers spectacular views and a chance to experience the heart of the country.
- Route Details:
- The 550-kilometer (342-mile) journey passes through Dovrefjell, a mountain range that is home to musk oxen and other wildlife, and offers breathtaking views of Norway’s rugged interior.
- The Dovre Railway is particularly scenic in winter, when the snow-covered mountains and valleys offer a magical atmosphere.
- Best Time to Travel: Travel is great year-round, but winter provides a fairy-tale setting with snow-covered landscapes.
- Tips:
- First-class tickets provide more space and comfort for longer journeys, ensuring you can fully enjoy the views.
Traveling on Norway’s scenic railways is a spectacular way to explore the country’s diverse landscapes. Whether you’re looking for majestic mountains, stunning fjords, or the beauty of the Arctic Circle, these train journeys offer some of the most memorable experiences in Norway.
