The group meets in Bergen, Norway’s charming second city, beautifully set between mountains and sea and known as the gateway to the fjords. On arrival at Bergen Airport, make your way into the city centre — the frequent airport bus and light rail (Bybanen) both offer an easy 30–45 minute journey. Our centrally located accommodation is within easy reach of the harbour and the city’s many restaurants and cafés.

Depending on your arrival time, you may wish to wander along the waterfront, visit one of the city’s excellent museums, or simply relax by the quayside and watch the boats come and go. Bergen’s lively atmosphere, framed by its surrounding peaks and maritime heritage, makes it a perfect introduction to Norway.

After breakfast, we take the funicular railway up Mount Floyen (320m), one of the seven mountains that frame the city. The short ride is an experience in itself, climbing steeply through forest before emerging at the summit station with its sweeping views. From here we enjoy a leisurely hike on well-marked trails through woodland and meadows, a favourite spot for locals to escape into nature. There are plenty of viewpoints overlooking Bergen, its harbour and the maze of surrounding fjords. We descend on foot, following a pleasant forest path back towards the city. Later there is time to explore Bergen's historic Hanseatic Wharf, the colourful wooden houses of Bryggen and the narrow cobbled streets close by.

This morning we board a high-speed ferry for a spectacular journey along the Sognefjord, Norway's longest and deepest fjord. The cruise itself is a highlight, as the boat weaves between steep mountainsides, cascading waterfalls and small, brightly painted villages that seem to cling to the shoreline. After around four hours we arrive in the picturesque village of Balestrand, once a favourite retreat for 19th-century artists and travellers. After checking into our hotel, we head out on foot for a rewarding hike above the fjord. Our goal is Buråsi (575m), where we are treated to wide-ranging views across the Sognefjord and its side valleys. For those with the energy, there is the option to continue further up to Raudmelen (972m), a more challenging summit with a commanding panorama if conditions allow. We return to Balestrand for dinner at the hotel.

We continue our fjord journey by boat this morning, travelling deeper into the Sognefjord system before reaching the small village of Flam, tucked at the head of the Aurlandsfjorden. After a short walk through the village, we set out on a pleasant hike to the Brekkefossen waterfall, which tumbles down in several stages from the mountains high above. Only the lower section is visible, but it still drops an impressive 115m in a single cascade. Returning to Flåm, we board the famous Flamsbana - one of the most scenic railway journeys in the world. The train climbs steeply through the wild Flamsdalen valley, passing tunnels, cliff faces and rushing rivers. At its steepest point the train makes a stop at the Kjosfossen waterfall, where the sheer volume of water and thundering sound leave a lasting impression. After around an hour we reach Vatnahalsen (820m), a mountain hotel accessible only by rail and set in a stunning valley landscape. We settle in here for two nights with full board.

From our hotel at Vatnahalsen, we set off directly on foot for today's hike. The trail first leads down towards the famous Kjosfossen waterfall, before following the lakeshore of Reinungavatnet. From here the route climbs steadily through birch woodland and open mountainside to reach the rounded summit of Sjebergsnuten (1166m). The effort is rewarded with superb views across the valley and a string of glacial lakes - Reinungavatnet, Seltuftvatnet and Klevavatnet - lying in sequence along the old construction road known as the Rallarvegen. On a clear day, the panorama stretches back down the Flåm Valley and across the surrounding peaks. We return to Vatnahalsen in time to relax at the hotel and enjoy a hearty evening meal.

This morning we rejoin the famous Bergen-Oslo railway, often described as one of Europe's great train journeys. The line climbs across the Hardangervidda plateau, passing mountain lakes and rolling tundra, before descending gradually through thick forests and fertile farmland. Along the way we cross isolated hamlets and glimpse wide glacial valleys that contrast with the bustle of the capital ahead. Arriving in Oslo in the early afternoon, we check in to our centrally located hotel. The remainder of the day is free to stretch your legs and begin exploring the city. A walk along Karl Johans Gate, the main pedestrian avenue, gives a first impression of Oslo's relaxed atmosphere.

A full free day to discover Oslo at your own pace. Norway's capital is compact and easy to get around, with a wealth of cultural and historical sites. You might choose to visit the Royal Palace and its surrounding gardens, or the medieval Akershus Fortress which looks out across the harbour. Art lovers can explore the Munch Museum, the National Gallery or the sculpture park at Frogner, where Gustav Vigeland's works are displayed. Down by the waterfront are several excellent museums including the Fram polar ship, the Kon-Tiki raft and the Viking Ship Museum, each giving a fascinating glimpse into Norway's maritime heritage. Alternatively, you may simply enjoy wandering the city's streets, stopping at cafés and soaking up the Scandinavian atmosphere.

After breakfast this morning, your holiday ends at the hotel in Oslo. The rest of the day is free for you to explore more of Norway’s vibrant capital, or to make your own onward travel arrangements.