Norway - overview
Nearly 70% of Norway is uninhabitable and
covered by mountains, glaciers, moors, and
rivers. The hundreds of deep fjords that
cut into the coastline give Norway an overall
oceanfront of more than 19,000 kilometres.
The 'Land of the Midnight Sun' has delightfully
long summer days, pleasantly simple cities,
unspoiled fishing villages and rich historic
sites that include Viking ships and medieval
stave churches.
Sights to see when in Norway include its
capital, Oslo, the oldest of the Scandinavian
capitals. Founded in 1050, it is Norway’s
largest city and home to the spectacular
Akershus Fortress ? a medieval castle and
fortress built in 1300. Away from the capital
Oslo, one of the world’s most picture perfect
capitals, the major cities of interest are
medieval Trondheim, Bergen, on the edge of
the fjords, and Tromso, known as the Gateway
to the Artic. Each are likeable cities, easily
enjoyed by walking, and worth time for themselves
as well as being on top of startlingly picturesque
countryside. The constant drawcard is the
western fjords ? every bit as scenically
stunning as they’re cracked up to be.
Nidaros Cathedral is the largest medieval
building in Scandinavia and is regarded as
Norway’s national shrine. The Lofoten Islands
are a cluster of mountainous islands situated
60 miles above the Arctic Circle on the northern
Norwegian coastline. The islands are also
home to the world’s oldest mountain, an
extinct volcano situated on the island of
Bo. Ajostedal Glacier National Park is a
strikingly beautiful national park positioned
between a fjord and a glacier known as Jostedalsbreen,
the largest glacier in Europe. Norway is
a must for those who love nature and the
outdoors. The spectacular countryside, mixed
with the beautiful cities, and rich culture,
make for a truly remarkable country. |
