Springtime Norwegian Fjords & the Faroes

Stretching over 66 nautical miles from the westernmost point in Norway, overlooking the Sunnmøre Alps, to Jostedalsbreen, the largest glacier in mainland Europe, picturesque Nordfjord has postcard-perfect icy-blue waters framed by towering peaks covered in lush greenery. As your ship navigates into Innvikfjord, a narrow branch of Nordfjord, the landscape becomes fairytale-like, with forested hillsides leading down to tranquil waters, cascading waterfalls, and remote villages and farms dotted along the fjord edge.

Located at the eastern end of the Nordfjord where it divides into three arms beneath the glaciers of the Jostedalsbreen, the charming village of Olden sits among green meadows, towering cliff faces, and sparkling glacial waters. In the centre of the village is the Old Church; and just a short journey away is the Briksdal Glacier, formed thousands of years ago, while still breath-taking, has retreated some 859m in the last century, a stark reminder of the effects of climate change.

One of the longest, and cleanest fjords in Norway, Romsdalsfjorden is framed by the majestic peaks and waterfalls of the Romsdalsalpene Mountains, which tower over lush green valleys and charming waterside villages. The fjord village of Isfjorden is situated at the innermost part of the fjord, and has an unspoilt charm - surrounded by some of Norway’s most famous natural landmarks, such as Romsdalshorn and Trollveggen.

Åndalsnes is often referred to as the 'Alp town by the fjord'. Located at the mouth of the Rauma River, and surrounded by snow-capped mountains, the town is in one of the most scenic areas of Norway, and a natural starting point for forest walks and hikes to magnificent viewpoints. The Rauma Railway is considered to be one of the best railway routes in Europe, since it was constructed 100 years ago.

Situated in the most spectacular of settings, Ålesund is built on three islands with a magnificent mountainous backdrop. The city was rebuilt in 1904 after a devastating fire, into the classic Art Nouveau style it is renowned for today, and which can be seen in the displays at the Jugendstilsenteret, The National Art Nouveau Centre. The panoramic views of the city, archipelago and Sunnmore Alps from the top of Mount Aksla are well worth the 418 steps to the summit.

The Faroe Islands, which translate to “Sheep Islands” was a name given by the Norse during the Viking Age, and Tórshavn is the capital city of these islands. Sheep farmers are well established here and produce wool to be made into clothing using traditional methods. Vestmanna Seacliffs are close to Tórshavn, full or narrow gorges, and home to thousands of seabirds, including puffins, fulmars and guillemots.