Hello from the Bodmin branch!
Jackie Wall has returned from escorting a wonderful group trip to the Norwegian Fjords with Fred Olsen, and we’re so excited to share her experience with you. If you’ve ever dreamed of majestic scenery, charming villages, and the possibility of spotting the Northern Lights, this blog is bound to inspire your next adventure.
Escorted Journey to the Norwegian Fjords:
“I had the pleasure of escorting the Fred Olsen Springtime Norwegian Fjords group, departing on the 1st of April from Southampton, with the bonus of local pick-ups that made life easy for everyone. Norway in spring is breathtaking the snow is beginning to melt, so the waterfalls are full and dramatic, and there’s even the chance to glimpse the Northern Lights! On this trip, guests were lucky enough to see Orcas, Sea Eagles, and yes those magical Northern Lights dancing across the sky.
First Stop: Skjolden – Gateway to the Fjords:
Our first stop was Skjolden, the gateway to the longest fjord in the world. Surrounded by towering mountains, this little village was a joy to explore. I opted for a scenic 5.5km walk with gentle hills, while others enjoyed adventures like a fjord rib ride or a trip to a local llama farm!
Discovering Haugesund:
Next up was Haugesund, a vibrant town with Viking history woven through its streets. From city train tours at just £30pp to a thrilling 2-hour rib experience at £199pp, there was something for everyone.
Eidfjord’s Breathtaking Beauty:
We then arrived at Eidfjord, a picture-perfect village nestled in the Hardangerfjord. Quiet and peaceful, it was ideal for strolling, but those looking for something unique could take a seaplane experience (£279pp) over the glaciers and frozen waterfalls truly unforgettable.
Final Stop – Stavanger:
Our final port was Stavanger, a cosmopolitan city with a charming old town of cobbled streets and white wooden houses. With shops, cafés, and bars just 500m from the ship, it was easy to explore at leisure. Some guests chose a rib ride along Lysefjord, stopping beneath the famous Pulpit Rock rising 600m above the water a highlight for the thrill-seekers!
Life Onboard the Balmoral:
Life onboard The Balmoral was just as wonderful. My cabin, an outside room with a large window, was airy by day and perfectly dark at night thanks to blackout curtains. The L-shaped beds worked brilliantly for two ladies sharing, and there was plenty of storage space. I loved the nightly newsletter on the pillow with a mint it made planning each day so easy and added a touch of charm.
The Fred. Olsen Difference:
What really makes Fred Olsen special is the ship size. The Balmoral is small enough to slip into the narrow fjords that other ships can’t reach, yet large enough to comfortably handle the North Sea in April. The food, the service, and the warm atmosphere were outstanding. For single travellers especially, Fred Olsen is fantastic the intimate size of the ship makes it easy to meet people and make friends.
An Unforgettable Journey:
All in all, I had a thoroughly wonderful experience, and I truly cannot fault anything. Norway in spring is magical, and with Fred Olsen, it becomes an unforgettable journey.”
Ready to discover the Norwegian Fjords for yourself?
Contact our friendly team at Newell’s Travel Bodmin today and let us help you plan your next adventure.
Call us on: 01208 72655
Email: bodmin@newellstravel.co.uk
