Tromso - Hamburg Norway’s fjords with North Cape: a taster adventure in the far north

The rugged beauty of the countryside, combined with the powerful waves in the sea, create an unforgettable atmosphere when your ship cruises off the legendary North Cape. The most northerly point on the European mainland is on a majestic cliff 307 m (1,007 ft) above the ocean. The North Cape is a geographical point, as well as a symbol of the spirit of adventure that will also come to life in you.

Honningsvag is the maritime centre of the North Cape region. Its colourful houses are huddled together on the slopes of the local mountain, Storfjellet, which stands at a height of around 300 m (984 ft). Walk from the port to the little shops and restaurants offering Nordic specialities or visit the church built in 1885. When the town was destroyed by German occupying forces in 1944, only the whitewashed church remained undamaged. Take a hike in the surrounding hills to appreciate the idyllic sight of the town today. Honningsvag is also the starting point for reaching the legendary North Cape, where a huge globe symbolically marks the end of the European mainland. The geographical location so far north makes it the perfect place for seeing the Northern Lights.

Exceptional weather conditions and the remarkably clear sky have made the region around Alta an ideal place to observe and study the Northern Lights ever since the 18th century. The first Northern Lights observatory was built in the 19th century in the charming little town right at the end of the Altafjord. The Northern Lights Cathedral, with its bell tower spiralling up into the sky, is also worth a visit. The architecture of the building was inspired by the lights in the sky and has a similarly undulating appearance from all sides. Compare for yourself: the aurora borealis can be observed in clear weather in the surrounding area. Alta is the perfect starting point for numerous outdoor activities*.

Nestled between fjords, mountains and the North Atlantic lies Harstad – the gateway to northern Norway’s fascinating island world. The city offers the best of both worlds: a rich history and a vibrant contemporary life, breathtaking nature and cultural diversity. From the traces of the Vikings in nearby Trondenes to the colourful streets and cosy cafes, Harstad tells a story of centuries-old tradition. Culinary delights reflect the region: fresh fish and seafood – especially cod, salmon and king crab – feature on many menus. To experience authentic northern Norway, Harstad is a worthwhile and often underrated insider tip.

Hungry for adventure or thirsty for knowledge? Trondheim sates both. In the city where Norwegian kings were crowned, you will feel like you have been transported back to the Middle Ages. Old warehouses line the banks of the Nidelva River and horse-drawn carriages rumble through the streets. The city’s main landmark, Nidaros Cathedral, reveals Trondheim’s Gothic beauty. One of the most magnificent churches in Scandinavia, it has been an important place of pilgrimage for centuries as the tomb of the national saint, King Olav Haraldsson. The cathedral is adorned with around 5,000 sculptures. Will you be able to spot Bob Dylan or other famous faces among them?

Charming Molde, on Romdalsfjord, is also known as the “City of Roses” because of its many rose gardens. Colourful facades line the streets, while the cathedral and the Romsdal Museum invite visitors to take a stroll through history and culture. The spectacular Molde panorama opens up from the Varden viewpoint: more than 200 mountain peaks, many over 1,000 m (3,280 ft) high, frame the dark-blue fjord and offer unique views for outdoor enthusiasts. Its idyllic location makes Molde the ideal starting point for exploring the dramatic fjord landscape. Cosy cafes and regional restaurants invite you to while away some time, while the surrounding nature is fascinating. Whether you’re climbing mountains, relaxing by the fjord or strolling through the narrow streets, Molde shows you Norway from a perspective you won’t forget.

Your small expedition ship will also take you to the famous Geirangerfjord as it hugs the coastline. The UNESCO World Heritage Site seems unreal and will draw you under its spell with its majestic mountains and cliffs rising up to 1,000 m (3,280 ft) out of the water. Numerous waterfalls plunge into the fjord, including the “Seven Sisters” with a drop of 250 m (820 ft). Legend has it that the “Suitor” waterfall on the opposite bank had its eye on the beautiful sisters, but its desires remained unfulfilled because of the fjord that kept them apart. Out of frustration, it took to the bottle, which is now apparently reflected in its shape like a liquor bottle. You too will be intoxicated by the sight of this natural wonder, which will stay in your memory forever.

Stavanger is proof of how colourful and picturesque history and monuments can be. In the old town centre, Gamle Stavanger, you will find a collection of narrow cobbled streets and small, white-painted, lovingly decorated wooden houses from the 18th and 19th centuries, which give the historic centre a special kind of charm. Stavanger Cathedral, built in 1125, is Norway’s only medieval church to have kept its original architecture in the Anglo-Norman Gothic style. The city also has an interesting story to tell about the history of seafaring and oil extraction. On a walk through its narrow streets, soak up the casual, almost Mediterranean atmosphere in the boutiques, galleries and cafes. Stavanger is the starting point for exploring the impressive Lysefjord.