GRANT AND MARISA

Hey everybody, today we are here to talk about one of our favorite places in Norway – Flåm. It’s definitely a hidden gem that’s worth exploring!

How to Get to Flåm

So, let’s start with how to get to Flåm and where it is. Flåm is on the western coast of Norway, nestled in one of Norway’s hundreds of fjords. The most popular way to get there is by cruise. If you’ve been to Flåm, you probably visited on a Norwegian fjord cruise. However, we believe Flåm is more than just a cruise stop.

You can also get to Flåm by car. Renting a car from Oslo or Bergen and driving is a great option. Alternatively, you can take a ferry from Bergen to Flåm. But our personal favorite way to travel is by train. We took the train from Oslo to Myrdal station, where we transferred to the Flåmsbana, a scenic railway that takes you down into the valley to Flåm. You can do the same from Bergen, taking the train to Myrdal and then the Flåmsbana down to Flåm.

The Flåmsbana Railway is one of the most scenic railways in the world, offering breathtaking views. It’s important to note that it’s not part of Norway’s normal train system – it’s an old-timey, touristy train. If you’re coming in on a cruise, you can take the train from the port up to Myrdal and back. It’s a bit crowded and you might have to hold your luggage, but it’s totally worth it for the views.

Our Train Experience

For context, we got the train from Oslo to Flåm. It was our second destination, and we quickly discovered the joys and slight stresses of European train travel. There was a slight weather delay, and we were worried about missing our connection from Myrdal to the Flåmsbana. However, the scenic railway knows that people are making these connections, so they waited for us – a nice relief!

Why Flåm is More Than a Cruise Destination

What set Flåm apart for us is the awe-inspiring scenery. When you get off the train, you’re at the bottom of the valley, surrounded by soaring mountains on every side with the fjord in front of you. It’s a jaw-dropping moment that we highly recommend experiencing.

Where to Stay in Flåm

We stayed in Flåm for two nights, giving us more time to explore than the average tourist. One of the great parts of our trip was where we stayed – Flåmsbrygga Hotel. It’s not the most luxurious hotel, but it’s amazing. The hotel is literally on the water, with rooms offering stunning views of the fjord. We had a corner room with an L-shaped balcony, allowing us to enjoy both mountain and water views.

Dining and Brewery Experience

Flåmsbrygga Hotel is also home to Ægir Brewery, named after the Norse god of the sea. It’s one of Norway’s great microbreweries. We loved the Viking Plank meal at their premier restaurant, which features traditional Norwegian foods paired with their beers. The taproom feels like a Viking beer hall, with a stone fireplace and benches covered in furs. The staff was knowledgeable and friendly, making our dining experience unforgettable.

Must-Do Activities in Flåm

Here are some activities you shouldn’t miss:

Brekkefossen Trail: This trail is a 30-minute walk from the port, passing through fields of Highland cows and Norwegian farms. The trail has a lot of stairs, but it’s worth it. At the top, you’ll get an amazing view of the entire fjord, the farms, and a giant waterfall. It’s a moderate hike, suitable for most people.

Stegastein Viewpoint: For another stunning view, you can visit Stegastein, a platform offering panoramic views of the fjord. You’ll need to arrange a car or shuttle to get there.

Relax in a Sauna: For a unique and relaxing experience, consider spending some time in a floating sauna on the fjord. This is a quintessential Norwegian activity and offers a perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring. The combination of the sauna’s warmth and the crisp fjord air (and water) is invigorating, and the views from the sauna are simply spectacular.

Explore the Town: When you’re not hiking or relaxing, take some time to wander around Flam. The village itself is charming, with quaint shops, cafes, and beautiful scenery everywhere you look.

Final Thoughts

Flåm is a hidden gem worth exploring beyond a few hours. Whether you’re there for a short visit or a longer stay, there are plenty of activities and sights to enjoy. We highly recommend visiting Flåm and experiencing its natural beauty, unique accommodations, and fantastic brewery.

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