The apple blossom season is one of the most delightful times of year to visit the 'garden of Norway' and this week-long summer road trip sees the Hardangerfjord at its blooming best. You'll take in the region's mountains, waterfalls and orchards on a driving route into the fjords from Bergen to Solstrand and Utne. We also recommend using your hire car to make the trip from Utne to Rosendal and the Folgefonna Glacier before returning to Bergen for two nights, where you can enjoy some additional sightseeing before returning home.
Fjord Norway: Blossoms of Hardangerfjord
To book call us on:
At a glance…
Discover Hardangerfjord on this six-day luxury road trip, taking in Bergen, Soltrand and Utne
» 6 day tailor-made self-drive
» Price from: £1,320
Day by day itinerary
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Day 1 » Solstrand
Fly to Bergen and collect you hire car for the short but scenic drive Solstrand and the spa delights of your fjord-side hotel. Spend the rest of the day soaking up the spring sunshine in its sprawling gardens, and indulge with a swim in the heated outdoor pool, or even in the fjord itself. There's also a stylish wellness centre on site, complete with Finnish sauna, fitness room and an indoor pool, all framed by stunning views of the fjord and mountains beyond. The dining here is equally impressive, with modern takes on traditional Nordic dishes, all locally sourced and perfectly paired with a world-spanning collection of wines.
Stay: Solstrand Hotel & Spa
Meals: Dinner
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Days 2-3 » Utne
After a delicious breakfast, it's time to check out for the drive to the Utne Hotel which, having first opened its doors in 1722, is Norway's oldest hotel in continual operation. Utterly charming and idyllically located overlooking Hardangerfjord, it's a wonderful base from which to region. And there's much to discover, from the dramatic landscapes of Trolltunga and the Husedalen Valley to scenic hikes between blossoming orchards and kayak paddles on the fjord. There's even a daily tasting session in the hotel's very own cider room.
Stay: Utne Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
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Days 4-5 » Bergen
Wind your way back to Bergen today to check into your harbour-side hotel, just a stone's throw from the city's Hanseatic wharf and famous fish market. You'll have a full day to explore its meandering cobblestones which creep up the steep hillsides, all lined with pretty whitewashed houses. It's a setting best taken in from the summit of Fløyen Mountain, reached via a scenic funicular ride. Spend your evenings here indulging in a restaurant scene that ranges from the utterly contemporary to the fiercely traditional. The excellent Bryggen Tracteursted is among our favourites. Set in a converted 18th-century warehouse, its delicious tapas-style dishes are inspired by the food cultures of Bergen and the Hanseatic League, and accompanied by a wide range of locally brewed beers.
Stay: Clarion Collection Havnekontoret, Bergen
Meals: Breakfast
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Day 6 » Departure
Make your way to the airport, return your hire car and board your onward flight.
Meals: Breakfast
Gallery
To book call us on:
At a glance…
Discover Hardangerfjord on this six-day luxury road trip, taking in Bergen, Soltrand and Utne
» 6 day tailor-made self-drive
» Price from: £1,320
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