OSLO TO THE FJORDLANDS - SELF DRIVE

Day 1 Oslo

Arrive into Oslo and head to the The Thief hotel which can be found sheltered between the Tjuvholmen canals, Oslofjord and the wonderful Astrup Fearnley Museum of Modern Art. The Thief plays homage to its neighbourhood with modern art reigning supreme, complemented with a smattering of live music and impressive views of the fjord – opulence at its best.

Overnight: The Thief

Day 2 Oslo

Start your exploration with the contemporary Astrup Fearnley Museum before lunch in one of the chic restaurants along Aker Brugge harbour. From the Viking Ship Museum to a view of The Scream at the Munch museum you can fill your day with art. Hop on two wheels and bike around the city or take to the canals by kayak before perhaps a visit to the Viegland Sculpture park or the mighty Akershus Castle and Fortress.

Overnight: The Thief

Day 3 Drive to Aurland

As you depart Oslo collect your hire car and travel northwest to the fjordlands of Aurland. Magnificent mountains, azur waters and clean air await you after your four-hour drive. 29/2 Aurland is your home for the next two nights. This gorgeous farmstead lies on the beautiful Aurland River with its excellent fly-fishing opportunities. For centuries, cattle and horses were driven up the Aurlandsdalen valley on their way to market in Eastern Norway. Spot the drovers initials carved into the timber walls of the ‘fish house’. Aurland has been a magnet for tourists since European royal families sailed up the fjord on their steamboats in the late 19th century – not least for its tall mountains and glaciers, and its location in the innermost reaches of the world’s longest and deepest open fjord.

Overnight: 29/2 Aurland

Day 4 Aurland

Endless activities await today: get up high at the Stegastein Viewpoint and lookout over Aurland or take to the waters below in a kayak or Oselver row boat. Take the train from Flåm to Myrdal perhaps the prettiest train journey in Europe and if you are brave enough bike for 17 kilometres and zip-line for just over one back down!

Overnight: 29/2 Aurland

Day 5 Drive to Solvorn

The quiet town of Solvorn has changed very little in the past 150 years, set between mesmerising fjords and tree-covered mountains. In less than two hours you will reach Norway’s oldest family-run hotel (since 1690), which continues to preserve a piece of the region’s history. Nine generations have nurtured Walaker Hotel’s quaint former inn and trading post; its thoroughly traditional and comfortable rooms; and the roses, lilacs and fruit trees that bloom in its garden on the very edge of the calm blue Sognefjord.

Overnight: Walaker Hotel

Day 6 Solvorn

The landscape intensifies much of the Walaker Hotel’s charm. Relax at the hotel’s bathing beach and explore its scenic surrounds, a walker’s paradise for strolls and ambitious excursions alike. Later, sail across the fjord to visit the 12th-century stave church at Urnes or venture towards the vast Jostedalsbreen glacier. As for indoor entertainment, the hotel’s gallery built using timbers from a 16th-century wooden church houses exhibitions by Norwegian artists.

Overnight: Walaker Hotel

Day 7 Drive to Åmot Operagard

A two-hour drive west, Åmot Operagard is a Scandinavian home from home, secluded on an inlet by streams and green fields where sheep and horses roam free. Seven snug and well-appointed suites extend a warm welcome, while a central barn with a performance space for local and international musicians – from folk to opera – also houses an outstanding kitchen. The property’s orchards and kitchen garden are the backbone of its wholesome and sustainable farm-to-table dining agenda, along with the rivers that yield salmon, eel and crayfish each spring. Over the next couple of days you might kayak alongside porpoises, swim under waterfalls, go fly fishing, riding or on a helicopter ride over this breathtaking landscape – the choice is yours.

Overnight: Åmot Operagard

Day 8 Sunnfjord

Your stay here is about embracing the hills that roll all around and the lifestyle that comes with it. You might help restore traditional fjord boats, or step into the home of an elderly couple keeping local cuisine alive. Spend the rest of the day exploring the Sunnfjord’s cliff faces, cascades and serene open waters.

Overnight: Åmot Operagard

Day 9 Outdoor Adventures

Today might take you walking to Sunnfjord’s landmark Storehesten mountain (which translates as “big horse”), fly fishing on the Gaula River, rafting or learning about Sunnfjord lifestyle from the locals. Follow your feet and your sense of adventure.

Overnight: Åmot Operagard

Day 10 Transfer for your flight home