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     Hellesylt is the gateway to some spectacular Norwegian scenery nestling in the country of fjords. Surrounded by steep rocky mountains, dissected by cascading waterfalls and decorated with thriving fruit trees, the fjords are among the Earth's most inspiring landscapes. The air is pure, the water clear and nature unspoilt.
     The evolution of the fjords began some three million years ago when Norway was covered by an ice cap, thinner along the coast than inland. When the climate became milder, the ice began to melt, producing great waterfalls that dug into the soil and descended towards the sea. This created valleys that were subsequently filled by the ocean, forming the fjords.
     Three of the most magnificent Norwegian fjords are in the counties of Möre og Romsdal and Sogn og Fjordane. They are Geirangerfjord, at one end of the 110km long Storfjord, Hjörundfjord, described as the 'nave of a Gothic cathedral' and Romsdalfjord, surrounded by beautiful mountains that turn amber in the reflection of the sun on the icy waters. The many waterfalls of the area are a great attraction, as is Horningdalsvannet, the deepest lake in the world, reaching a depth of 600 metres and according to local folklore inhabited by some very strange marine life. A short distance away in the direction of the tourist village of Stryn is the perpetually snow-capped Tsytig glacier, a meeting point of two mountain ranges. The village of Geiranger lies in a steep, long valley at one end of the fjord of the same name. In addition to the spectacular attraction of the fjord, the area is known for its river salmon fishing and its cod fishing out to sea. An interesting excursion from Geiranger is Djupavnett Lake and the Dalsnibba glacier, dissected by numerous rivers and waterfalls.

     Geirangerfjord is the name of a large fjord in western Norway, one of the most beautiful in the country, attracting a constant stream of passenger ships.
     The hill-top village of Geiranger lies at the end of a steep, long valley. In addition to the spectacular attraction of the fjord itself, the area is known for its river salmon fishing and its cod fishing out to sea. Geiranger is also renowned for the hospitality of the local people and for the peaceful way of life. It is very popular among walkers.
     An interesting excursion from Geiranger is Djupavnett Lake and the Dalsnibba glacier, dissected by numerous rivers and waterfalls.

     Norway's second largest city with a population of around 200,000, Bergen is a destination of architectural, historical and natural fascination. The city lies facing the sea with a dramatic backdrop of seven hills. Some 50,000 tourists visit Bergen annually, attracted by the beauty of the region and the accessibility of Norway's spectacular fjords. Bergen's port has throughout its history been crucial to the city's prosperity - and even the very survival of its people. In 1702, when a fire swept through the wooden houses of the then village of Bergen, the sea provided an escape route for thousands.
     Bergen was founded as Norway's capital in the 11th Century by King Olav Kyrre and its high status remained until the 13th Century when the powerful Lubeck Hanseatic League made the 'Bryggen' quarter into a German ghetto, contained by a barrier and with special localised rules which gave great favour - and power - to the merchant classes. German dominance remained for 400 years, eventually being replaced by the Danes, and then the Swedes, until Norway gained peaceful independence in 1905. Only four houses remain from the days of the Hanseatic League, although the area of the former ghetto is the financial centre of the city.
     One of Bergen's most illustrious sons was the composer Edvard Grieg, whose life and work is celebrated in his former home Troldhaugen. The contemporary cultural life of Bergen is also thriving and the city was selected as one of the Cultural Cities of Europe for the year 2000. Architecturally, Bergen has much to offer. Of particular note is the stone-built 12th Century St Mary Church. The Hanseatic Museum in the centre of Bergen near the Fish Market is one of the city's best-preserved wooden buildings. The wooden Fantoft Stave Church is another structure of particular fascination. The original church, which also dates to the 12th Century, was destroyed by fire in 1992 and the present structure is a faithful restoration.
     Norway has much to offer souvenir hunters, including high quality hand-made glassware and china. Pewter items are particularly popular and have the distinctive feature of being lead-free. Other Norwegian specialities include jewellery made from the national semi-precious stone thulite, and woollen clothing. Among the culinary specialities of Norway are smoked salmon dishes called lads, and pickled herring.

When it comes to the sea, there is no more important place in Germany – and arguably in Northern Europe – than Kiel. This port city in Schleswig-Holstein is a vital link between the Baltic and North Seas, located at the head of the Kiel Canal.

Kiel is also one of Northern Europe’s major cruise and shipbuilding centers, and it is especially known for Kieler Woche (Kiel Week), one of Europe’s largest regattas. Don’t miss a visit to the Kiel Aquarium, with its rich collection of marine life from the Baltic and North Seas.

Nature lovers can enjoy the expansive Baltic Sea beaches, seaside promenades, and picturesque botanical gardens with over 14,000 plant species. For those seeking historical and cultural experiences, fascinating open-air museums in Molfsee and the Baroque fortress in Eutin are located not far from Kiel.

Choose a Kiel cruise for unforgettable adventures in this captivating part of Germany.

Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark, delights everyone – from history lovers eager to explore magnificent Baroque palaces to gourmands looking to indulge in Michelin-starred restaurants.

In the city center, you’ll find three impressive royal landmarks: Christiansborg Palace (seat of the Danish Parliament), Rosenborg Castle (home to the Danish crown jewels), and Amalienborg Palace (residence of the Danish royal family).

Culture and history enthusiasts can enjoy numerous museums and galleries, while those seeking relaxation will appreciate the city's laid-back pace, extensive cycling paths, and beautiful parks – we recommend a leisurely coffee along the Nyhavn canal or the thrill of historic rides at the Tivoli Gardens amusement park. The city’s symbol, The Little Mermaid statue, pays homage to the fairy tales of Hans Christian Andersen and is a must-see photo spot.

Whether you're looking for an urban adventure, royal grandeur, world-class dining, or simply want to soak up the atmosphere of Scandinavian life – Copenhagen will win you over with its effortless elegance and warm hospitality.