Luxury Scenic Drive Through Rural Norway - 7 Days

Highlights

• Hit the highlights of Oslo and Bergen—Norway's most famous cities
• Explore the woodlands and valleys of the countryside on foot and horseback
• Go kayaking and hike to waterfalls around the country's gorgeous fjords
• Stay in intimate, hidden-gem boutique hotels and enjoy farm-to-table dining

Brief Itinerary

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Oslo, Guided City Tour

Welcome to Norway! This weeklong getaway will take you to some of the highlights of the country's southern region. It begins in the handsome capital of Oslo, a dynamic and progressive city located on a fjord and filled with art, music, culture, and fine Nordic cuisine. At the airport, you'll pick up your rental car and make the 40-minute drive into the city and your accommodation, Grand Hotel.

You couldn't ask for a better location, as this historic property, which dates to 1874, has a grandiose exterior facing the Norwegian Parliament. The classic building has been revamped to include an indoor tranquility pool, spa, and fitness center, plus various dining options, including a sophisticated lobby restaurant and bar. As for the rooms and suites, they feature plush king beds and Nespresso machines, and many offer spectacular views out over Oslo to the fjord.

After settling in, you'll meet your private guide for an insider city tour. During this three-hour excursion, you'll travel around Oslo's famous landmarks and visit hidden gems. These include the 19th-century Royal Palace, the Gustav Vigeland Sculpture Park, the Kistefos Museum of Contemporary Art, and the Nobel Peace Center, inspired by the lives and works of Nobel Peace Laureates. You'll also stroll the waterfront and see the iconic Opera House, a marvel of modernist design.

Day 2: Drive to Nes, Honey Farm Tour

Time to hit the road! It's an hour's drive north into the country and the bucolic town of Nes. There, you'll hop over to adjacent Helgøya. This 7-square-mile (18 sq km) island covered in farmland sits on a large lake and is known for its whitewashed 19th-century church. However, your destination is a local honey farm, where an expert guide will lead you on a private walk around the meadows amid the low hum of honeybees as they collect nectar from various blossoms. Of course, the tour concludes with a tasting of locally produced honey.

Afterward, transfer just outside of Nes to Herregården Hoel. This 5-star hotel is right out of a fairy tale, set in an 18th-century manor home featuring spacious rooms with antique bed frames, hardwood floors, French tubs, and silver candelabras perched on vintage bureaus. Many of the rooms and suites offer expansive views of the verdant countryside, and there's an on-site restaurant where you can enjoy farm-to-table dining with an emphasis on sustainability—many of the ingredients are sourced right from the hotel's own garden.

Day 3: Drive to Storefoss via Horseback Riding in Valdres

Depart Nes after breakfast on a 2.5-hour drive northwest to Storefoss. Situated at the end of the Heggefjord, this charming little town is the quintessential Norwegian country village. It's surrounded by unspoiled forests, rivers, and waterfalls, as well as historical sites and cultural landmarks.

Along the scenic drive, you'll stop for a break in Valdres, a picturesque mountain region offering a range of fun outdoor activities. At a local farm here, you'll visit the stables and meet the horse that will be your partner on today's private equestrian experience. Then, saddle up and head out on private mountain trails, spending an hour or two enjoying rural Norway's natural splendor. After the ride, you'll return to the stable and say goodbye to your host/guide.

From Valdres, it's another 30 minutes to Storefoss and your accommodation, Herangtunet. This family-run boutique hotel perfectly balances intimacy and luxury. It features just four spacious suites and theme rooms outfitted with plush double beds, full baths, antique furniture, and wood stoves—plus mod-cons like flat-screen TVs. Upon arrival, you can sit down for a meal at the rustic restaurant, which takes you on a culinary journey through Norway, featuring locally sourced fish and meat grilled to perfection on the outdoor barbecue. Afterward, retire to your suite for a nightcap in front of a crackling fire. 

Day 4: Drive to Aurland, Guided Waterfall Hike & Picnic

The journey continues this morning to Norway's UNESCO-listed western fjords region, which extends up the long coastline all the way to the Arctic. Your destination is the Aurlandsfjord, an offshoot of the Sognefjord—Norway's longest and deepest fjord. Here, at the fjord's eponymous main town, is your lodging: 29|2 Aurland.

Nestled in the green meadows of the Aurlandsdalen Valley, this historic country property began life as a fishing lodge for a British lord. Today, it's a family-run boutique hotel with a friendly staff that includes a private chef and artist-in-residence. The owners will happily arrange outdoor activities during your stay, and each night, a gourmet dinner of organic ingredients is served in the smokehouse.

After checking in, you'll head out and explore the gorgeous fjordlands on a private nature hike. This half-day excursion begins when you embark on a hike right from town to Turlidfossen, a nearby waterfall. As you explore the nature trails, your local expert guide will reveal fascinating insights into the Norse myths and folklore that define the region. A major highlight is when you arrive at a secluded spot at the top of a hill, where you'll break for a gourmet picnic lunch overlooking the Aurlandsfjord. After hiking back to the hotel, you'll have the rest of the day to explore on your own.

Day 5: Day Trip to Stegastein Viewpoint, Scenic Fjord Boat Tour

You're in for a treat this morning, as you'll transfer just outside of Aurland to nearby Stegastein. This scenic area is famous for its viewpoint, which offers dazzling panoramic views of the surrounding fjords and mountains. The viewpoint itself is an architectural marvel featuring a cantilevered platform that extends out over the edge of the cliff. It's a short walk from the parking area to the structure, which is made of wood and glass, where you'll be treated to awe-inspiring views.

Day 6: Kayaking in Eidfjord, Drive to Bergen

This morning, you'll begin the drive from Aurland to the west coast and the historic port city of Bergen. On the way, you'll stop at the scenic town of Eidfjord for a relaxing kayak ride. On the waterfront, you'll meet your guide, strap into a life vest, grab a paddle, and set off along the shimmering waters of the mighty Hardangerfjord. During this three-hour excursion, there will be stops for nature hikes, to view wildlife, and to fill your water bottle at a cascading waterfall.

After the kayak trip, return to the car and continue for two hours to Bergen. This port city is famous for its UNESCO-listed Bryggen Wharf, filled with colorful buildings. You'll be staying in the midst of all this heritage at Opus XVI. Housed in a former bank dating to 1876, this 4-star hotel features sophisticated rooms outfitted with luxe amenities like smart TVs, Nespresso machines, and heated bathroom floors. If you like, relax in the airy first-floor lounge or sit down for a bite at the French-inspired brasserie. On Sundays, live jazz performances are the norm during traditional afternoon tea service.

Day 7: Viking Heritage Walk, Depart Bergen

It's time to bid farewell to Norway—but not before one last activity! Walk in the footsteps of the Norse kings this morning as you hit the streets of Bergen on a private Viking heritage walk. This three-hour jaunt begins at your hotel around 9 am, and from there, you'll trace the origins of Norway's famous saga known as "Norske Kongesoger." Written by Snorre Sturlason, the stories take you through Ynglinga, early medieval Scandinavian history, and the times of Vikings and kings.

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