Category: Norway

Nordkapp – 71′ 10′ 21″ – Land of the midnight sun

Nordkapp – 71′ 10′ 21″ – Land of the midnight sun

North of the Arctic Circle, the sun barely sets for most of the summer. It’s why it’s called the land of the midnight sun. I (Merge) was fortunate to experience this for several days in July/August 2023 aboard the Island Princess. On one of those days, we visited Nordkapp (literally translated, North Cape), which is […]

North of the Arctic Circle – the Lofoten islands archipelago

North of the Arctic Circle – the Lofoten islands archipelago

Lofoten Islands, located at the 68th and 69th parallels north of the Arctic Circle in Norway, are renowned for their striking natural beauty, characterized by rugged mountains, pristine fjords, and charming fishing villages. Among these villages, Leknes on Vestvågøy Island serves as a central hub, offering a range of amenities and convenient access to Lofoten’s […]

Trondheim – in the footsteps of Norway’s kings

Trondheim – in the footsteps of Norway’s kings

Trondheim, located in central Norway, is the country’s third-largest city and a vibrant cultural and historical hub. With a population of around 200,000, it marries the old and the new, boasting a rich heritage that dates back to Viking times while embracing a modern urban landscape. Purely by coincidence, Merge happened to visit Trondheim during […]

Mountains and fjords in spectacular Åndalsnes

Mountains and fjords in spectacular Åndalsnes

Occupying an area of just approximately 3 square kilometers and home to around only 3,000 residents, Åndalsnes, Norway is a small town. But when it comes to visitor appeal, it is huge! Situated at the convergence of the Romsdalsfjord and the base of the towering Romsdal Alps, Åndalsnes serves as a gateway to both scenic […]

Haugesund – home of Viking king Harald Fairhair

Haugesund – home of Viking king Harald Fairhair

In July/August 2023, Merge spent two weeks in Norway, and this next series of posts reports on some of the places she visited. Situated along the western coast of Norway, Haugesund historically was known for its Viking history and herring fishing. Today, it has transitioned to its contemporary role as a significant player in the […]