Voss is where Norway’s big landscapes meet small-town warmth. Tucked between fjords and mountains about 75 minutes by train from Bergen, this valley town (Norwegians call it “Voss” or “Vangen” for the center) has built a reputation for high-adrenaline adventure, winter skiing, farm-to-table food, and lakeside lounging that suits families just as well as thrill-seekers. … Read more
Osterøy is the big, brooding island you pass when cruising Osterfjorden from Bergen, a place of steep green hillsides, quiet coves, and timeworn boathouses. It sits so close to the mainland that it feels like you could almost step across, yet the villages and valleys keep their own rhythm. I grew up visiting relatives here … Read more
Tucked at the far end of the Mofjorden, Modalen is one of Norway’s smallest municipalities and one of the easiest places to feel like you’ve slipped off the map without actually going far from Bergen. Think mirror-still water, steep green walls, small farms clinging to the hillsides, and a tiny village center where everybody seems … Read more
Øygarden is where western Norway meets the open North Atlantic. Picture low, windswept islands stitched together by bridges, with fishing cabins tucked into coves and sea eagles cruising overhead. It feels remote yet sits just beyond Bergen, making it an easy add-on to any Fjord Norway itinerary. Whether you’re here for rugged coastal hikes, war … Read more
Lysøen is a small, pine-scented island south of Bergen with big character. Famous as the summer retreat of violin virtuoso Ole Bull, it mixes light forest trails, polished rock outcrops, and sheltered coves with airy views toward Bjørnafjorden. On a good day the light here feels almost Mediterranean, with the sea flashing between the trees … Read more
Sitting in a green valley between gentle farmland and the rugged Lifjell mountains, Bø in Telemark is a classic slice of Norwegian countryside with a playful streak. People come for summer swims and water slides, for quiet forest walks with blueberry-stained fingers, and for winter skiing on surprisingly steep slopes just a short drive from … Read more
Kristiansand Dyrepark is Norway’s most beloved animal and theme park, blending wildlife experiences, storybook villages, and watery summer fun into one big day out. As someone who grew up visiting the park and now takes my own nieces, I can vouch for how well it’s designed for families, couples, and anyone who enjoys a full, … Read more
Den Lille Dyrehage, “The Little Zoo,” is a family-friendly animal park in Gjerstad on Brokelandsheia, right along the E18 between Kragerø and Arendal in Southern Norway. It’s a compact, hands-on zoo with a big heart, known for its intimate animal encounters, a humid tropical house perfect for rainy days, and welcoming staff who love to … Read more
Bjørneparken in Flå is a beloved wildlife park in Hallingdal where Norwegian brown bears, wolves, and lynx live in spacious, natural enclosures you can explore along forested paths. It’s a classic day trip from Oslo or a great stop on a longer Hallingdal itinerary, especially for families. Expect keeper talks, feeding sessions, playgrounds, and close … Read more
Namsskogan Familiepark is one of those places that quietly surprises visitors. Tucked into the forests of Trøndelag, right off the E6 highway, this family-run park mixes close encounters with Nordic wildlife, playful activities for kids, and that distinctly Norwegian “bring a backpack and stay all day” vibe. If you’re driving between Trondheim and northern Norway, … Read more