Follow Norway’s biggest fjord east, and you’ll eventually come to Aurlandsfjord – home to the villages of Flam and Aurland. Both have Viking heritage, when members of the powerful Aurland lived in the river delta. But these days, they offer different views of the fjord. Thanks to the spectacular (and spectacularly popular) railway, Flam is a magnet for day-trippers and cruise ships. Aurland, meanwhile, admires the hustle and bustle from a more relaxed spot a 20 minute bus ride away. Whichever village you choose, our Flam and Aurland holidays open up sights that day-trippers often miss – including a network of fjord and mountain walks.
The famous Flam Railway
Flam is the starting point of the Flam Railway. From the village, it clambers up the vertiginous Flam Valley to the mountain station of Myrdal. And all via 20 tunnels, thundering Kjosfossen falls, and some of the most dramatic scenery in West Norway. Many people step out at Myrdal for the Bergen Line or to take a sip of mountain air before making the return trip back down. Adventurous souls can also choose to walk or cycle back; part of the journey is even covered by a zip line. Stop by the Flam Railway Museum for more on the story of one of the steepest railways in the world.
Walking the wild west
Many footpaths start from Flam and Aurland’s doorsteps. Hike to Brekkefossen waterfall and Flam Church, with its fading paintings of roses, hares and foxes. There are also challenging routes and plenty of viewpoints, the Stegastein viewpoint gives generous views over the fjord and can be booked as an excursion. Fancy exploring further afield? Buses and ferries connect walkers to even more trails, including Aurlandsdalen – a valley with treks to snowy glaciers and lakes. See our excursions for more details.
Viking villages
Aurlandsfjord pops up in ancient sagas as the home of the Aurlands – a wealthy Viking clan that farmed and fished the river delta. Curious about what life was like back then? Catch the ferry to Gudvangen in neighbouring Nærøyfjord for a ramble around the replica Viking village. It’s also a great spot for kayaking and walking – from mountain marches to fjordside strolls.
Organic food, micro-breweries and long summer evenings
Most cruise ships and day-trippers drift out of Flam and Aurland by dinnertime – so you’ll get to enjoy the long, light evenings of summer in peace. The sun doesn’t set until 10.30pm in summer, leaving time for luxuriously relaxed waterside dinners. Organic food drawn from the fjords is a speciality around these parts – salmon and cod, venison, goats cheese and berry desserts. Bakeries shift from serving cinnamon rolls and coffee to snacks like pizza in the evening. Meanwhile, the brewpub in Flam goes above and beyond tastings and tours. Pull up a chair for food and beer pairings in surroundings inspired by Norse legend. Skål!
Why book a summer holiday in Flam & Aurland with Inghams?
With over 85 years of outdoor travel experience, our holiday packages to Flam and Aurland include flights, transfers, and accommodation, so you can relax and leave the small details to us. Our experts can help you choose the best holiday for you, and our team in resort can give you the inside scoop on how to spend your time away with us.
At Inghams, we do walking holidays differently. With no fixed itinerary, you have more time in your destination and the freedom to walk as much or as little as you like, discovering some of Norway's best walking routes and activities at your own pace.
