PRIVATE GUIDED TOUR: Norway’s Highlights Viking Special, 11-12 hours WINTER

Exploring Norway’s Viking past and breathtaking landscapes becomes effortless with this private guided tour departing from Bergen. Priced at $764.12 per person and lasting approximately 11 to 12 hours, this tour offers a personalized experience with a local professional driver-guide at the wheel of a luxury air-conditioned vehicle. Its carefully curated stops bring you face-to-face with historical Viking settlements, spectacular waterfalls, and iconic fjords, all while providing flexible options like private fjord cruises or scenic viewpoints.

This tour is particularly well-suited for travelers who appreciate customized, small-group experiences and wish to explore Norway’s highlights comfortably. With door-to-door pickup in Bergen’s city center, the experience minimizes hassle and maximizes sightseeing, making it ideal for those seeking a comprehensive day trip that balances nature, history, and culture. A notable strength is the personalized guidance, which turns sightseeing into a richer, more engaging activity.

Key Points

• Private Tour with a dedicated driver-guide ensures a personalized experience.
• Includes visits to Viking villages, waterfalls, fjords, and viewpoints like Stegastein.
• Flexible options for fjord cruise or scenic viewpoints, which can be arranged in advance.
• Stops at notable sites such as Tvindefossen waterfall, Stalheim Hotel, and Stalheimsfossen waterfall.
• Tour duration of 11-12 hours accommodates a full day of sightseeing with a relaxed pace.
• Cost per person is $764.12, covering all fees, taxes, bottled water, and private transportation.

From the Gateway of Bergen to Viking Settlements

The tour begins in Bergen, a city founded in 1070, renowned for its rich history and cultural landmarks. As the tour departs from the city, you pass familiar sights on your way out of Bergen, setting the tone for a day filled with history and scenic beauty. The driver-guide offers insights into Bergen’s past while heading toward the Viking-focused stops ahead.

Traveling in a luxurious Mercedes V Class, the journey feels comfortable and exclusive from the start. The flexible pickup from anywhere in Bergen’s city center ensures easy access, especially for those staying in central accommodations.

Visiting Historic Voss and The Famous Tvindefossen Waterfall

First, the route takes you through Voss, a small town known for its historical sites like Vangskyrkja (from 1277) and St. Olaf’s Cross (from 1023). These sights offer a glimpse into Norway’s medieval past.

Then, a highlight arrives with a 15-minute stop at Tvindefossen waterfall, a 110-meter-tall cascade that draws visitors year-round. During spring and autumn, the waterfall flows at its fullest, creating a thunderous display, while in winter, it can freeze into a spectacular icy formation. Visitors can come close to the falls, making for memorable photos.

Scenic Stops at Stalheim Hotel and Hairpin Waterfalls

Next, the tour visits the Stalheim Hotel, a historic hotel dating back to 1647. Although the hotel’s outlook terrace is closed from September to May, a nearby viewpoint offers stunning vistas. This spot provides an excellent photo opportunity of the surrounding mountains and fjord landscape.

Further along, the Stalheimsfossen waterfall is a key stop. At 126 meters, it’s one of Norway’s tallest waterfalls. A short walk brings visitors close to the cascading water, offering a chance to appreciate the power of nature. Alternatively, the Sivlefossen waterfall, which stands at 142 meters, can be visited with a brief uphill walk, providing an even more dramatic waterfall experience.

Exploring Gudvangen and the Viking Village Njardarheimr

The main destination is Gudvangen, a charming village at the end of the Nærøyfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2005. The village is famous for its proximity to Kjelfossen waterfall, Norway’s tallest at 840 meters. Here, visitors can enjoy a lunch break, choosing between local restaurant options or Viking-themed eateries.

The highlight in Gudvangen is the Viking Village, Njardarheimr. A guided tour offers insights into Viking history, culture, and society, complemented by activities like archery and axe throwing. Guests also meet modern-day Vikings who practice authentic arts and crafts, adding a lively, tangible element to the Viking experience.

Options for visiting the Viking Village include a regular tour with included entrance tickets and a private Viking guide for a more personalized, in-depth hour-long experience. This flexibility caters to different preferences for guided storytelling.

The Spectacular Naeroyfjord Cruise or Viewpoints

One of the tour’s crown jewels is the Naeroyfjord, recognized as one of the most stunning fjords globally. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, its pristine waters and towering cliffs are breathtaking.

Travelers can choose from two options for exploring the fjord:
– A ferry ride from Gudvangen to Flåm, which takes approximately 2 hours, or
– A private RIB cruise, ideal for those seeking a more adventurous, close-up perspective.

This part of the tour requires advance booking if a fjord cruise is desired, since it’s not included in the basic package. The fjord cruise offers an unmatched view of Norway’s rugged coastline.

The Village of Flåm and the Stegastein Viewpoint

After the fjord cruise, the tour reaches Flåm, a lively village that serves as a hub for fjord excursions. While it is known for its cruise ships and charming shops, the highlight for many is the Stegastein viewpoint. Located 640 meters above sea level, the lookout offers panoramic views of the Aurlandsfjord and surrounding mountains.

A 20-minute drive up the hairpin turn road leads to Stegastein, where visitors can take in dramatic vistas and capture unforgettable photos. This stop provides a perfect alternative to the fjord cruise or can be combined if time permits.

Returning via Voss and the Mount Hangur Cable Car

On the way back to Bergen, the tour makes a stop in Voss. Here, travelers have the option to take the Voss Gondol cable car to the top of Mount Hangur at 820 meters. This additional activity offers sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. An extra fee applies for the cable car ticket and extra time at this stop.

The return journey concludes in Bergen around 7:30 pm, wrapping up a full day of scenic and cultural exploration.

Practical Details, Inclusions, and Limitations

This private tour includes a local professional driver-guide, all fees and taxes, bottled water, and private transportation. The experience is designed for most travelers, with confirmation received within 48 hours and pickup available near public transportation in Bergen.

Not included are ferry tickets, the private RIB fjord cruise, lunch, and gratuities. The fjord cruise and cable car tickets require additional arrangements and payment, and it’s recommended to book the fjord cruise in advance to ensure availability.

The tour’s flexibility in stops and activities allows for some customization, making it ideal for those wanting an intimate, tailored day in Norway’s spectacular landscape.

Final Thoughts on the Viking Special Tour from Bergen

This private guided tour offers an immersive day exploring Norway’s Viking heritage, fjords, and mountain viewpoints. Its personalized approach, with small group size and flexible options, makes it a compelling choice for travelers seeking comfort and detailed storytelling.

While the price may seem high, it covers all fees and private transport, providing a stress-free way to see some of Norway’s most iconic sights in one day. The guide’s professionalism and knowledge shine through, as reflected in glowing reviews praising the guide Vlad for his friendliness and expertise.

This tour suits those who value comfort, flexibility, and depth of experience. It’s especially recommended for visitors interested in Viking history, scenic fjord cruises, and panoramic viewpoints, making it an engaging and memorable way to experience Norway’s landscapes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all age groups?
Yes, the tour is designed to be accessible for most travelers. It involves walking at certain stops, but physical requirements are generally moderate.

Can I customize the fjord cruise option?
The fjord cruise needs to be arranged in advance and is not included in the base price. You can choose from ferry or private RIB options, with additional booking.

What is included in the tour price?
The local driver-guide, private transportation, all fees and taxes, and bottled water are included. Food, additional activities, and optional tickets are extra.

How long is the stop at each site?
Stops vary from 15 to 30 minutes at waterfalls and viewpoints, with longer durations at Gudvangen for lunch and Viking Village visits.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of Viking history, stunning fjord cruises, and panoramic viewpoints in a private setting makes it a comprehensive and personalized Norway experience.

Is this tour available year-round?
Yes, but some stops like the Stalheim Hotel outlook terrace are closed from September to May, with alternative viewpoints available during those months.