Nordiva Tours

20/06/2024

Borgund Stave Church is a genuine masterpiece of medieval architecture and a popular tourist attraction. Located in the vicinity of Nærøyfjord (within an hour's drive from Flåm), this wooden church was constructed around 1180 and dedicated to the Apostle Andrew. Today, it is one of the best-preserved stave churches in Scandinavia.

Borgund Stave Church was built in the basilica style, with a raised central nave and lower side aisles. The church has a unique, tiered roof design with dragon heads adorning the peaks, a common feature in Norse architecture.

So, if you are planning a trip to this area, don't miss out on visiting this historic church. Make sure to include it in your itinerary! ;)

16/06/2024

Jotunheimen, literally translated into English as "Home of the Giants", is a national park in Norway and a genuine paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and hikers. Renowned for its dramatic landscapes, the national park is home to Galdhøpiggen and Glittertind, the two highest mountains in Northern Europe. :)

If you prefer not to venture into summiting Galdhøpiggen while overcoming the glacier, there is an easier hike through Besseggen Ridge — one of the most popular hikes in Norway, by the way. ;) Overall, Jotunheimen offers a plethora of activities for adventurers and hikers.

And what is your favorite hike in Norway so far? Let us know in the comments below! ;)

14/06/2024

Located in the Oldedalen Valley (near Stryn and Olden), Oldevatnet Lake is a mesmerizing lake known for its clear, green water. This lake is truly popular among kayakers, but there are plenty of other things to do as well. ;)

Hiking: There are many hiking trails in the area, ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs.

Boating: You can take a boat trip on the lake and enjoy the scenery.

Camping: There are several campsites around the lake.

After all, the water to this lake runs down from Briksdal Glacier (pictured in the photo), one of the most easily accessible glaciers in the country. So, don't miss your chance to take a trip to that magnificent glacier as well. ;)

09/06/2024

The iconic Segla Peak offers stunning views of the Norwegian fjords, but it's not for the faint of heart. Located on the island of Senja, right between the Lofoten Islands and Tromsø, Segla is easily one of the ten best hikes in Norway. The steep, 5km trail from Fjordgård takes 3-4 hours to complete, and the difficulty of this hike is rather strenuous. If you are up for the challenge, here are some tips for you ;)

Tips:
Wear sturdy hiking boots
Bring plenty of water and snacks
Start early to avoid crowds
Be prepared for changing weather conditions

And what is your favorite hike in Norway? ;) Let us know in the comments below! :)

06/06/2024

Bergenhus Fortress in Bergen is one of the country's oldest and best-preserved stone fortifications. Dating back to the 12th century, it has served as a royal residence, military stronghold, and episcopal see throughout the ages. Key parts of the complex incude the magnificent 13th-century Håkon's Hall and the imposing Rosenkrantz Tower (dating back to that century as well).

Nowadays, the fortress is a popular tourist attraction and cultural venue, hosting concerts, festivals, and other events throughout the year. Much of the fortress grounds are open to the public, offering a unique opportunity to explore its historic buildings and grounds. ;)

And have you visited this attraction? ;) Let us know in the comments below! :)

30/05/2024

Hundreds of thousands of visitors arrive in Norway every year on cruise ships. This is a truly convenient and popular way to reach this beautiful Scandinavian country. ;)

If you are planning on joining this folk, here are the best destinations to visit in Norway for cruise ship passengers (make sure to visit at least one of them😉):

Geiranger: This remote, picturesque village deservedly occupies the first place on our list. It is known for its UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjoprd, stunning waterfalls, and dramatic scenery (pictured above).

Flåm: A picturesque village located at the end of Aurlandsfjord, Flåm is renowned for the world's most scenic railway ride (Flåmsbana) and spectacular nature.

Bergen: Visitors love the second-largest city in Norway for its colorful wooden houses, vibrant fish market, and Bryggen, a historic Hanseatic wharf.

Stavanger: Often called "Norway's oil capital, Stavanger is a starting point for the popular hikes to Preikestolen and Kjeragbolten. Besides, its beautiful old town and well-preserved wooden houses are definitely worth a stroll.

Olden: A small village that lies on the shore of Nordfjord, Olden attracts visitors thanks to its unrepeatable nature. If you to want to hike Briksdal Glacier (the most accessible glacier in the country), this is the place to go!

And what are your favorite destinations in Norway? :) Let us know where you want to travel (or have already travelled) in the comments below! :)

26/05/2024

Fargegaten, or "The Colour Street," is a popular tourist attraction in Stavanger, Norway's oil capital. It is a small street in the old town area, known for its colorful houses.

The houses were originally painted white (just like the rest of Stavanger), but in the early 2000s, a local artist came up with the idea to paint them in different colors to brighten up the street. The idea was a success, and Fargegaten quickly became a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. :)

The street is now home to a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants. There are also a number of art galleries and studios.

19/05/2024

Preparing for your summer travels? Perhaps you should consider some mountain adventures in Norway. ;)

Check out our article on the best hikes in Norway, which contains all the necessary information about these routes. :) Get ready for your summer adventures now! ;)

https://nordivatours.com/blog/top-hikes-peaks-in-norway/

Check our list of top 10 awesome hikes and peaks in Norway. Discover off-the-beaten-path trekking and hiking routes, with tips and detailed info.

10/05/2024

Fløibanen is a funicular railway that takes you from the heart of Bergen up to Mount Fløyen, one of the seven mountains surrounding the city. The journey takes about 5-8 minutes and covers around 850 meters of track.

The main reason to ride the Fløibanen is for the incredible views! At the top, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramas of Bergen, the surrounding islands and fjords. :) Besides, you can also relax and grab a bite with a view at the café. ;)

05/05/2024

Haukland Beach (Hauklandstranda) is a stunning beach located on the western side of Vestvågøy Island in the Lofoten archipelago. :) You can reach by taking a 10-minute drive from the town of Leknes.

This beach can boast of being one of the best surfing spots in the north, which attracts thousands of cold-water surfers every year. And while being here, you can consider setting out on a popular hike to Mannen peak for panoramic views. And, of course, there are designated areas for camping and campervans near the beach.

Undoubtedly, it's one of the best places to experience the midnight sun in Lofoten. :) And if you like our tips and want to get more of them, join our "Nordic Explorers Group" on Facebook! ;)

30/04/2024

This amazing restaurant offers picturesque views, and it is situated at a 640-meter elevation at Øygardsstølen, which is the starting point for the hike to the iconic Kjeragbolten. Here, you can enjoy the stunning scenery on its outdoor terraces or relax in the cozy indoor space.

The restaurant is generally open from around May/June to September/October, depending on weather conditions. You can get here by either driving directly to Øygardsstølen or taking a bus (which runs only during the summer months) from Stavanger.

And what's the most incredible place you have ever dined in? ;) Share it with us in our Nordic Explorers Page on Facebook! :)

26/04/2024

Located near Byrkjelo, Bergheimsvatnet Lake is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts who venture to arrive here. The lake is surrounded by mountains and forests, and the best way to enjoy is to take a short scenic drive from this town.

It's a pretty unconventional choice, isn't it? ;) And what is your favorite place to stay in nature in Norway? Let us know about in the comments below or share it in our "Nordic Explorers Group" on Facebook. ;)

21/04/2024

Lom Stave Church is one of Norway's most iconic and best preserved stave churches. It dates back to around 1170 and is one of the largest and best-preserved stave churches in Norway. :)

Don't miss to visit this attraction on your trip to Norway. ;) You can find it in the village of Fossbergom, in the Lom municipality.

Do you want to get more tips about travels to Scandinavia? Join our Nordic Explorers Club group on Facebook! ;)

16/04/2024

This extraordinarily designed building is Powerhouse Brattørkaia, the energy-positive icon in Trondheim, Norway: :)

Over its estimated 60-year lifespan, the building aims to produce more energy than it will consume, including its construction, operation, and eventual demolition. This includes even the embodied energy in the materials used!

The distinctive angled roof and upper facade are clad with almost 3,000 square meters of solar panels, maximizing energy harvesting from the sun. :)

This is just one of the many ways how Norway is trying to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030. ;)

11/04/2024

This unbelievable place is Bondhusvatn Lake, a stunning glacier-fed lake with incredible turquoise water located in Norway's Folgefonna National Park. :)

You can easily hike to this place in summer: the hike is moderate, and a roundtrip takes about 2-3 hours. The path is well-trodden and easy to follow, making it accessible for many travelers.

The hike begins in the Sundal Valley, accessible by car or bus from cities like Odda or Rosendal. In summer, a ferry runs from Odda to Sundal, making the trip even more scenic. :)

Do you want to get more tips about travels to Scandinavia? Join our Nordic Explorers Club group on Facebook! ;)

06/04/2024

Ålesund Church is a beautiful example of Art Nouveau architecture. Built in the early 1900s after a devastating fire destroyed the city, it features a striking marble facade, intricate stained glass windows, and a distinctive tower. Today, it is one of the most outstanding attractions in the city. :)

Do you want to get more tips about travels to Scandinavia? Join our Nordic Explorers Club group on Facebook! ;)

04/04/2024

Hey! If you are planning a trip to Southern Norway this year, check out our latest video on YouTube. 😊 There are definitely at least a couple of places that you would like to visit yourself 😍

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oQL-vqvJ0OM

Contact us to book a trip to Norway: https://nordivatours.com/Book your hotel: https://www.zenhotels.com/?cur=USD&lang=en&partner_extra=None&partner_slug=162...

02/04/2024

Eidfjord is a small village nestled at the end of the majestic Hardangerfjord in Norway. Here, you can visit breathtaking waterfalls, set out on numerous hiking trails, and get a glimpse into traditional Norwegian culture.

Besides, the village also serves as the gateway to Hardangervidda, the largest mountain plateau in Northern Europe. If you are seeking outdoor adventures, this is the right destination for you! :)

Do you want to get more tips about travels to Scandinavia? Join our Nordic Explorers Club group on Facebook! ;)

27/03/2024

Bryggen, in the vibrant Norwegian city of Bergen, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that takes you back to the time of the Hanseatic League. This row of tall, narrow, wooden buildings lining the eastern side of the Vågen harbor is featured on myriads of postcards, souvenirs, and photos from Norway. :)

Bryggen was established in the 14th century as one of the major trading outposts of the Hanseatic League, a powerful network of merchant cities across Northern Europe. The main trade was with stockfish (dried cod) from Northern Norway, a valuable commodity during the Middle Ages.

Today, this place buzzes with shops, restaurants, and artisan workshops. And this helps to keep its commercial heritage very much alive. :)

And have you had a chance to visit this iconic place? ;) Let us know in the comments below! :)

22/03/2024

Undoubtedly, Ålesund, a delightful city that combines architectural beauty with a stunning natural backdrop, is one of the most charming cities in Norway. :)

Much of the city was destroyed in a devastating fire in 1904. What followed was a remarkable rebuilding in the Art Nouveau architectural style, which was popular at the time.

Today, you can walk the streets of Ålesund and marvel at the colorful facades, playful turrets, ornate decorations, and buildings that draw inspiration from nature and mythology.

In order to enjoy this fabulous perspective on the city on your own, you need to hike or take the stairs up to the Aksla viewpoint. :)

17/03/2024

When you are in Bergen, one of the things you must absolutely do is get to the peak of Mount Fløyen. From there, you will get this astonishing view that you can see in the photo. :)

An undoubtedly exciting way to reach the top is the Fløibanen funicular, a scenic train ride departing from the city center. The journey itself offers fantastic views of Bergen as you climb. ;)

Do you want to get more tips about travels to Scandinavia? Join our Nordic Explorers Club group on Facebook! ;)

10/03/2024

Blåvatnet Lake, located in the Lyngen Alps in Norway's North, is easily one of the most beautiful lakes in the country. So, if you are travelling to Tromsø in summer, don't hesitate to include a trip to this stunning place! ;)

The easiest way to hike to this gorgeous lake is to drive from Tromsø to Blåvatnet Parking (though, be aware that it is not free). The hike is relatively simple (4 kilometers each way), but the entire adventure may take up half of your day. :) So, plan your trip accordingly. ;)

The best time to travel here is May through October.

07/03/2024

Trollfjord is deservedly recognized as one of the most beautiful fjords in Norway. Although it is just 3 kilometers long, it lies in the most dramatic and picturesque setting. :)
If you are visiting Lofoten or Vesterålen, make sure to book a Trollfjord cruise. ;)

Fun fact: both Lofoten and Vesterålen claim that this fjord is a part of their regions.
After the release of the movie Downsizing (2017), it was reported that some scenes featuring Trollfjord were filmed in Lofoten. This upset the residents of Vesterålen, who think that this natural treasure belongs to them as well.
In fact, both parties are right: the fjord is located on Austvågøya Island (Lofoten) but also lies within the limits of the Hadsel Municipality (Vesterålen).

04/03/2024

Housed in a former cinema building that was revamped and repurposed, the public library building in Tromsø is a genuine architectural gem. Make a visit to this as much modern as practical building with a welcoming open space, located in the city center.
By the way, if you are seeking free Wi-Fi in Tromsø, this public library is the place to go to. ;)

27/02/2024

Have you ever had plans to travel to Norway in winter? ☺️ Check out this fabulous winter wonderland in the new video on our YouTube channel. 😍

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PePa5cXFiiQ

For more insightful travel guides and hands-on information about trips to Norway, visit our website: nordivatours.comIn winter, Norway, with its pristine lan...

21/02/2024

Hey everyone ;)
Have you ever thought of traveling to the Baltics? ;) Check out our detailed guide to Lithuania, the first country on our list. :)

Discover the best cities to visit, the country's highest-rated beaches, and what attractions you must absolutely see! Start getting ready for the summer now. ;)

https://nordivatours.com/blog/lithuania-holidays-baltic-travel/

Planning holidays to Lithuania? Check out the best towns and cities to visit. Explore top Lithuania beaches in our Baltic travel itinerary.

17/02/2024

One may call Norway "the land of the fjords" deservedly. This Scandinavian country has undoubtedly been blessed with fabulous nature, which is the reason why so many travelers come to Norway every year. There are over 1,700 fjords in this country, but which are the ones you shouldn't miss? Let's find out ;)

Nærøyfjord. Having inspired Disney's Frozen and being listed in the UNESCO World Heritage list, this is one of the most impressive attractions in Norway. The National Geographic Society ranked this fjord (together with Geirangerfjord) the world's number one natural heritage site. Besides, the famous "Norway in a nutshell" trip includes a cruise across this stunning fjord.

Geirangerfjord. Another UNESCO-listed fjord in this list. Geiranger, nestled between towering mountains with snowy peaks, offers dramatic views and an unforgettable experience. And two farms, Knivsflå and Skageflå, that are located at an altitude of a few hundred meters will absolutely blow your mind!

Lysefjord. It's not just about this "fjord of light" (it is the literal translation) that is worth seeing. You shouldn't miss out on hiking to the famous Preikestolen (the Pulpit Rock), which offers breathtaking views over this light-blue fjord.

Hardangerfjord. This picturesque fjord is also nestled between the mountains. But one hike is definitely worth your attention: you can hike to Trolltunga and get a stunning photo on the cliff over this fjord. The hike isn't easy, but the rewards are very well worth it. ;)

And which fjords have you had a chance to see? ;) Share your experience with us in the comments below! ;)

15/02/2024

🌟✨ We've been absolutely thrilled to share in the Arctic adventure of the amazing couple, MD Kavitha Chinnaiyan and MD Arul Chinnaiyan! 🌌💑

From the mesmerizing aurora borealis to the pristine snowy expanses, every picture they've shared tells a story of wonder, adventure, and love. 🌨️💖 Check out the breathtaking snapshots of their journey (visit Kavitha's homepage for more details) and get inspired to embark on your own unforgettable expedition!

Thank you, Kavitha and Arul, for letting us be a part of your incredible adventure. Here's to many more travels and memories! 🍾🥂

09/02/2024

Around half of the 80,000 Sami people live all over Northern Norway (the others reside in northern Sweden, Finland, and Russia), a unique culture that features languages, customs, traditions, and craftwork techniques that are distinctively different from the rest of the country.

There are 9 different (but quite similar) Sami languages, but only half of the Sami population speaks at least one of these languages. Lavvu (pictured on the photo) are a traditional way of housing in the Sami culture, and something people usually associate this ethnic group with.

As the numbers of tourists visiting Norway, Sweden, Finland — especially their northern regions — grew in recent decades, the Sami culture has experienced a genuine renaissance. Today, travelers can enjoy the traditional Sami activities, such as dog sledding and reindeer safaris (reindeed herding has been essential for Sami people for centuries).