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Price from £2,315pp
VISITING: Norway BROCHURE CODE: 5998
All prices include: transfers, accommodation and car hire; all as listed.
Experience the magnificence of Norway's famed fjords on a self-drive adventure, allowing you to set your own pace and immerse yourself fully in some of the world's most stunning landscapes. You’ll have the freedom to personalise your trip with optional activities, creating your ideal bucket-list holiday.

What's included?

  • Car Rental (Toyota Rav 4 or similar SUV-type vehicle)*
  • Accommodation: 2 nights at the Clarion Havnekontoret (start and end of trip), 2 nights in Flåmsbrygga hotel, 1 night in BesteBakken, 2 nights in Grande Fjord Hotel, 1 night in Thon Hotel Jølster
  • Meals: 8 Breakfasts, 2 evening meals in Bergen
  • Does not include petrol, toll stations or ferry crossings. Toll stations and ferry crossings will be charged when you hand in the car.

NB Flights are not included but please contact us if you would like to include these in your quote

*Car hire includes tire and windshield protection, personal accident protection, interior protection, loss damage waiver (including theft protection) with minimum deductible (zero excess). You will have full directions provided in your final travel documents but if you would like a Sat Nav this can be arranged on picking up your hire car as can an additional driver – one named driver will be included.


Norway’s natural beauty is unparalleled, with majestic fjords, towering mountains, and cascading waterfalls seemingly at every turn. What better way to discover this country of wonder than with you in the driver’s seat and on the open road through the rolling countryside.

Your self-drive journey begins in Bergen, a charming city surrounded by stunning fjords and unique architecture. You’ll have time at the beginning and end of your holiday to explore the city and soak up its cultural delights.

From Bergen, you’ll make your way to Flåm where the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Nærøyfjord awaits. Here, you’ll check into your peaceful hotel for two nights to give you plenty of time for optional activities in the area. We recommend the Flåm Zipline for an adrenaline-fuelled way to be amongst the towering mountains. You could also embark on a scenic fjord cruise through Nærøyfjord to get close to the natural wonders and wildlife in the area.

Next on the fjord bucket-list is Sognefjord - Norway’s longest and deepest fjord. Then it’s onto UNESCO-listed Geiranger Fjord, where you can opt for a thrilling RIB safari or a serene kayaking tour to get out onto the invitingly-blue waters.

As you make your way back to Bergen, you can stop in peaceful villages and enjoy the scenic ferry crossings before savouring the city’s attractions - from the historic Bryggen Wharf to the bustling fish market.

This fjord-filled self-drive holiday has been carefully crafted to ensure you see the best of Norway, but in your own time and done your way. We have a range of optional activities to add onto your trip to really make it your own - speak to one of our travel advisors today to craft your perfect holiday.

We include more, no hidden costs

On each of our holidays you will see a clear outline of exactly what's included in the price of your holiday. We never use 'headline' or 'lead-in' prices like so many tour operators, as we prefer to include as much as we can, rather than see our clients incur considerable additional costs in our destinations.
Price guarantee
Departure dates between
Wed 01 May 2024
to Sun 15 Sep 2024
Adults £ 2,315 To £ 2,465

For our full booking terms and conditions please click here

The Specifics

Group Size

We always try to provide an approximation of the group size you can expect to be with for the duration of each of our holidays. It may be that you are joined by others for parts of your holiday (such as transfers and particular activities) but the above number reflects those you can normally expect to be with from beginning to end. If group size is something which is particularly important to you, please speak to our Travel Experts and they can suggest the best holidays for you.

Tailor-made holiday group sizes will vary for all activities as will the group size for any additional activities you book.

Minimum and maximum age

If a specific minimum age applies to this holiday, it can be found in the Key Facts box on the holiday Overview page.

Unless otherwise stated in the in the Key Facts box on the holiday Overview page, the minimum age for participation in an Artisan holiday is typically 8 years old (there may be younger children in some destinations who have booked with other companies). If an adult-only environment is important to you, then please contact our Travel Experts and they will advise on the best dates and destinations for you. If you are looking for a holiday designed specifically for families then please see our sister company www.activitiesabroad.com

Itinerary amendments

The order of activities listed in this agenda is provided for guidance only, your final and detailed itinerary will be provided either with your final travel documents (which are uploaded into your online account around a week prior to departure) or upon arrival.

Medical History and Advice

We want our holidays to be accessible as they can be and will do our best to accommodate any special requests and requirements where possible. We have a wide range of holidays and destinations and so our travel experts will help find the best holiday for you.

In order to give us the best possible chance to do this we ask that if you or any member of your party has any medical condition or disability which may affect your holiday or has any special requirements, that you tell us at the time of enquiry or booking. You must also promptly advise us if any medical condition or disability which may affect your holiday develops after your booking has been confirmed. You may need to provide a doctor’s note and proof of insurance in some cases as the health and safety of our clients is absolutely paramount.

In providing this information you are allowing us to work with our expert local partners to ensure that your whole party can enjoy the holiday. By letting us know in advance we can discreetly work with you to adapt any part of the holiday which may potentially be challenging. Being able to prepare for this in advance makes an incredible difference to what we can offer and minimises any impact on your party and the rest of the group.

Unfortunately, if you choose not to share this information with us in advance then it may limit some or all of the itinerary you have booked, and we cannot be held accountable for any additional costs or missed activities resulting from this.

Insurance

Insurance is not included in your holiday, but it is a pre-requisite to travelling with us. You will need to ensure that you have cover for all the activities that you will be participating in during your holiday.

It is extremely important that you take out a suitable travel insurance policy at the time of booking. Plans do sometimes change, and you will need this policy should you need to cancel your holiday.

If you are struggling to find a suitable policy then details of our preferred provider, who will cover you for all the activities we offer, can be found on our website by clicking here. Please note that this policy is available to EU residents under the age of 75 only.

The UK Foreign Office Advice

Our clients’ safety is at the centre of everything we do, and our operations team continually assesses and monitors the destinations we feature. We carry out thorough risk assessments and work closely with all of our suppliers to continually follow best practice. For up to date travel advice the UK government offers its Travel Aware website as well as the advice detailed below.

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office Advice

We receive all updates from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) with regards to travel advice and we always ensure that we follow this advice in our operations. The FCO issues travel advisories for countries based on a very wide range of factors. They may provide notification about things as simple as a football match and crowds, or they may go so far as to advise against all travel to a region. We ask all our clients to refer to the relevant Travel Advice by Country for the destinations they are visiting in order to make an informed decision on the safety of the destination based on the details provided. It also provides vital information regarding entry requirements, embassy information, local laws and customs as well as specific safety and health. Guests should take responsibility for keeping themselves up to date with this advice. Please also ensure that, if you are transiting through another country, you have read the advice and meet the entry requirements for that destination too.

The FCO travel advice is applicable to British Passport Holders. Most governments will issue their own travel advice for a region and, if you are not a UK resident then you can find some helpful links below:

Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade http://www.smartraveller.gov.au/                                                   

New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade http://www.safetravel.govt.nz/                                                 

Canadian Consular Affairs Bureau http://voyage.gc.ca/                                                                                                     

The U.S. Bureau of Consular Affairs http://travel.state.gov/content/travel/english.html

If the FCO deems that there is an unacceptable level of risk for UK citizens then, together with the government, they may issue an advisory against all travel to a region or country. If such an advisory is published, then we will act accordingly, and this may require the cancellation, curtailment or amendment of a holiday itinerary. These decisions are made on the basis of ensuring our clients’ safety and will affect all clients on the holiday, regardless of their nationality.

If one of our local experts suggests an amendment due to a situation which develops locally then we may also take the decision to amend an itinerary appropriately.

If we have to cancel your holiday prior to departure you will be offered the option of an alternative trip (where any price difference will either be refunded to or covered by you) or a full refund of the monies paid.

If we have to curtail a holiday, then you will be refunded for any costs for the elements we have been unable to deliver, where we have been able to secure a refund from our suppliers. If we must reroute a holiday, then any basis for refund is determined on a case by case basis and dependent on whether the central holiday experience was provided or not.

Booking activities locally

Additional activities can be booked locally in almost all our destinations. However, as per our booking conditions, we cannot be held responsible for any injury or loss incurred through participation in activities which are booked at your destination outside of our holiday itinerary (see our ‘Terms and Conditions’ for further details).

When arranging any such activity please always ensure that safety is your primary concern.

In some of our destinations, you can borrow or hire equipment for use in your free time. You do so entirely at your own risk. You must ensure that you are properly prepared, have the necessary equipment and knowledge (maps, etc) and ensure that where applicable, you follow marked routes. We recommend discussing your plans with the local teams who will be able to advise on the most suitable options for you.

Always let the reception/guide know where you are planning to go and take a torch and mobile phone (with the hotel/guide’s phone number stored). It is also a good idea to leave your contact number and the time you expect to return to the hotel should the hotel need to contact you.

Brexit information for British Passport holders

For the most up to date information on how the UK’s departure from the EU may affect your holiday please click here to view our Brexit information for British Passport holders.

Flight schedule changes and connecting transportation

On your documentation, we will confirm your flight schedule. Sometimes the flight number, routing and timings might change prior to your departure. If the change is classed as a significant change then we will contact you to discuss this. Please see our booking conditions for details.

Flight schedule changes can impact on your pre and post-holiday travel arrangements if these have been booked separately to your holiday. We strongly recommend that you do not book transport (such as trains or transfers), car parking or non-connecting flights to the departure point for your holiday until you have received your final confirmed travel times when your final travel documents are issued. We are not responsible for the effect of any schedule change on your pre or post travel arrangements. We strongly recommend that you do not purchase non-flexible or non-refundable tickets to avoid cancellation and penalty charges.

Booking your own flights - cancellation disclaimer

If you have chosen to book your own flights, then you will need to wait until we confirm to you that the holiday departure has met the minimum numbers required to run (if applicable to your chosen holiday). Once the holiday is guaranteed to run, you will be informed and you can then make your arrangements.

If transfers are included in your holiday, please ensure that any potential flights will be met by our standard transfers (speak to one of our Travel Experts for advice) otherwise private transfer supplements may be applicable. Once your flights are booked, please send us a copy of your detailed flight itinerary.

Please be aware that most tickets are non-refundable in the case of cancellation. For this reason, we strongly advise you check the rules of the ticket and check the limitations of your cancellation insurance before booking. We cannot be held liable, in the unlikely eventuality that we should be forced to cancel or amend your trip, for losses incurred relating to any flight booking you have made.

Terms and Conditions

Our full booking terms and conditions can be found on our website: https://www.artisantravel.co.uk/booking-conditions

Minimum travellers 10, Maximum travellers 20

  • Arrival Day

    Included Meals:  None
  • Following breakfast at the hotel, you’ll take to the open road to see the spectacular scenery Norway has on offer.

    Driving out of Bergen, you’ll leave the city behind and become immersed in the natural wonders of the region. Along the way, you’ll see the village of Gudvangen where the road intersects with Nærøyfjord. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the narrowest fjords in the country, with plunging cliffs and deep blue waters.

    As you arrive in the charming village of Flåm, you'll be greeted by the tranquillity of the Aurlandsfjord on one side and the majestic mountains on the other for a truly Norwegian welcome.

    You’ll check into the Flåmsbrygga Hotel which is ideally situated at the Flåm harbour with incredible views of the fjord. These quiet and peaceful surroundings will help you totally unwind whilst still being close to all transport routes, shops, and restaurants where you could go to enjoy dinner this evening.

    Included Meals:  Breakfast
  • Today, following breakfast in the hotel you have a free day to explore Flåm. We recommend taking on a ziplining adventure or a fjord cruise to immerse yourself in the stunning landscape.

    Zipline

    The Flåm Zipline is Scandinavia's longest zipline, offering a thrilling experience in the Flåm Valley. You'll take the famed Flåm Railway journey, a beautiful train ride that takes you high up into the mountains and is an unmissable experience all in itself. You’ll arrive at Vatnahalsen station and then proceed to the zipline's starting point, just a few minutes away. Breathtaking views await you as you zoom through the mountains. Please note that there are weight and health restrictions for this activity.

    To add to your adventure, you could take a bike up with you to ride down after the zipline experience. In Kårdalen there are a limited number of bikes for rent.

    Nærøyfjord Fjord Cruise

    To really experience the beauty of the fjords, you can take a cruise on the Nærøyfjord. On board, you’ll find a top deck to see the beautiful waters, towering mountains, and tumbling waterfalls - out here, it won’t be long until you see why this is a world heritage site. Make sure you keep an eye out for the seals, porpoises, and eagles in the area! Inside you will find Nordic-inspired interior design offering a high level of comfort.

    RIB FjordSafari in Nærøyfjorden

    On this exciting RIB tour, you’ll speed through the Aurlandsfjord and to the entrance of the spectacular Nærøyfjord. You’ll see Sagfossen, a breathtaking waterfall in the heart of the World Heritage site, where you’ll have a beautiful view of Nærøyfjord.

    The RIB boats only holds a maximum of 12 guests, ensuring a personal experience with our guides and a chance to get close to small villages and waterfalls along the way. Enjoy the scenery, stories, and history shared by your personal guide. We take you closer to nature and try spot seals, porpoises, and eagles along the way.

    Please talk to our travel advisors at time of booking if you wish to add on these activities.

    Included Meals:  Breakfast
  • After breakfast, say farewell to Flåm and set off on your self-drive journey to the Bestebakken Hotel.

    Along the way, you'll pass through charming villages like Aurlandsvangen and Sogndal. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Stegastein viewpoint and admire the stunning Sognefjord, Norway's longest and deepest fjord.

    As you approach Hafslo, the Bestebakken Hotel will greet you with its panoramic views and cosy accommodation. Tonight, we recommend relaxing in the hotel’s outdoor jacuzzi before enjoying a delectable dinner in the onsite restaurant (not included.)

    Included Meals:  Breakfast
  • Following breakfast, you’ll check out from BesteBakken and begin your drive to Geiranger.

    Along the way, you'll reach the town of Sogndal, where you can take a break and explore the local attractions, such as the Sogn Fjord Museum or the Fosshaugane Campus Park. Further along, you’ll arrive in Skei, where you can stop and explore the local attractions, such as the Breheimsenteret Glacier Center or the Jølstravatnet Lake.

    From Hellesylt, you’ll take the ferry across the Geirangerfjord to the town of Geiranger, which is surrounded by jaw-dropping natural beauty.

    Here, you’ll check into the Grande Fjord Hotel, located in the heart of Geiranger and just 100 metres from the World Heritage Geiranger Fjord. This modern hotel is located 2km from the centre of Geiranger with a private shuttle to take you into town.

    Included Meals:  Breakfast
  • Today, following breakfast in the hotel, you’ll have the day to soak up the sights of Geiranger.

    We recommend taking the RIB Safari into the Geirangerfjord for spectacular views of the famous waterfalls Seven Sisters, the Friar, and the Bridal Veil. With knowledgeable guides, you’ll hear local stories as you cut between the steep mountains and feel the sea spray.

    If you want to spend more time on the water, you could opt for the discover kayaking tour for an even closer experience of the fjord. This is the perfect introduction to kayaking as you enjoy a gentle paddle with an experienced guide. Starting at the harbour, you’ll paddle down the fjord and toward the Seven Sister waterfall. Make sure you bring a camera for this unique view right from your kayak.

    Included Meals:  Breakfast
  • Following breakfast, you’ll check out of your hotel and start your journey to Jølster.

    You’ll get back on the scenic ferry ride back to the charming village of Hellesylt. Upon arrival, you'll continue your drive along the National Tourist Route where you’ll navigate hairpin bends and be rewarded with panoramic vistas of deep valleys, glistening lakes, and majestic peaks.

    Finally, you'll arrive in the welcoming village of Jølster, nestled amidst the breathtaking Jølster Valley. The road leads you directly into the village, where you can relax and revel in the peaceful ambiance of this scenic region. We recommend going to the Jølstramuseum to soak up the culture, art, and exquisite local food.

    You’ll check into your hotel with its warm and welcoming atmosphere and in the perfect location to admire the surrounding mountains and lakes. Tonight, we recommend unwinding in the hotel’s wellness facilities.

    Included Meals:  Breakfast
  • Following breakfast in the hotel, you’ll check out and leave the village of Jølster to make your way towards Førde, with views of the shimmering lakes and verdant landscapes that surround you.

    We recommend stopping here to explore the town's cultural offerings, visit local museums, and soak up the lively atmosphere. Førde is known for its rich history and artistic heritage, offering a glimpse into the region's cultural scene.

    From Førde, the road leads you towards Lavik, where you'll catch the Lavik-Oppedal ferry for a stunning journey across the Sognefjord.

    Arriving at Oppedal, you’ll continue your drive to Bergen. This lively coastal city offers a wealth of attractions to explore, including the historic UNESCO-listed Bryggen Wharf, the vibrant Fish Market, and the picturesque waterfront area - and your hotel puts you in the heart of it all.

    Spend some time wandering through the city's narrow streets, visit museums that showcase Bergen's maritime heritage, the aquarium and indulge in the local cuisine, which features a delightful array of seafood specialties.

    Included Meals:  Breakfast, Dinner
  • Today, following breakfast, it is unfortunately time for your memorable Norwegian adventure to come to an end. You’ll drop off your car at the airport before catching your flight home.

    Included Meals:  Breakfast

Included in price

Clarion Havnekontoret

Nights: 1,8

The Havenekontoret Hotel is a historic hotel located in the heart of Bergen, close to many of the city's top attractions, including Bryggen, the fish market, and the Fløibanen funicular which is featured on your itinerary. The hotel occupies a beautiful 18th-century building that has been carefully restored and renovated to offer modern amenities and comfortable accommodations.

The hotel has 45 rooms, all of which are individually decorated and feature unique design elements that reflect the building's history and character. The rooms are all ensuite and equipped with amenities such as coffee makers, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and hair dryers.

The Havenekontoret Hotel also features a restaurant and bar, which serves a range of traditional Norwegian dishes and international cuisine. Guests will enjoy a complimentary breakfast and evening buffet each day.

Parking is available at the Havnekontoret but must be paid for locally at the hotel itself.

Room Type

Double room with private bathroom and tea and coffee-making facilities.

Flåmsbrygga Hotel

Nights: 2-3

Ideally situated at the Flåm harbour, the Flåmsbrygga Hotel is a wonderful base close to local shops and restaurants in a peaceful setting with fantastic fjord views.

The hotel is a cluster of buildings featuring Norwegian pinewood panelling to offer a traditional and rustic style yet with a modern feel.

Hotel Facilities

  • Show off your surroundings to your loved ones with use of the hotel’s free Wi-Fi
  • Enjoy delicious food in the Norse-themed restaurant and pub
  • Make sure you try the local beer which is brewed on-site
  • Relax in the cafe with outdoor terrace

Room Types

DOUBLE/TWIN ROOM: The rooms all come equipped with a private bathroom and shower, flat-screen TV, tea/coffee making facilities and seating area. Some rooms also come with a balcony with a fjord view.


Image credits: Flåmsbrygga Hotel

BesteBakken

Nights: 4

This charming boutique hotel has a rich tradition as a former mountain farm and exudes a sense of history as well as a welcoming and cosy atmosphere. It’s a place where adventure, culture, and good food meet – all against the fantastic backdrop of the Hafslo Valley and Sognefjord.

The hotel offers a variety of amenities, including a restaurant, bar, sauna, and outdoor hot tub. The restaurant serves traditional Norwegian cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients. The bar offers a wide selection of beers, wines, and cocktails.

Hotel Facilities

  • Outdoor jacuzzi for magnificent views of Norway’s natural wonders
  • Restaurant onsite

Rooms

Double room with private bathroom and tea and coffee making facilities. All the bathrooms are exquisitely tiled and several are equipped with bubble baths and showers.

Grande Fjord Hotel

Nights: 5-6

The Grande Fjord Hotel boasts a location right on the shore of the World Heritage Geirangerfjord. It is well appointed with an onsite bar and restaurant but the small town of Gerainger is just 2km away and the hotel operates a free shuttle bus.

Hotel Facilities

  • Private shuttle into town
  • A panoramic restaurant on the 6th floor with stunning views of the fjord
  • A bar with a wide selection of drinks and cocktails
  • Hot tub with fjord views

Rooms

Double room with private bathroom and tea and coffee making facilities.

Thon Hotel Jølster

Nights: 7

On the site of an Inn founded in 1889 and nestled in the heart of the serene Jølster Valley, Thon Hotel Jølster offers a tranquil retreat surrounded by Norway's breathtaking nature. This charming hotel combines modern comfort with a warm and welcoming atmosphere, providing guests with a perfect base to explore the stunning landscapes of the region.

Hotel Facilities

  • Wellness facilities with sauna
  • Indoor pool
  • Onsite restaurant with dishes inspired by Norwegian cuisine

Rooms

Double room with private bathroom and tea and coffee making facilities.



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