Created by 3GoExploring
Flam can appear hidden at first with its steep fjords, located in the south west of Norway it has become a firm favourite for tourists visiting by both land and sea.
The most popular excursion is the Flam Railway described as one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world. This 20.2 kilometre stretch has one of the world’s steepest standard gauge lines. We purchased tickets in advance for the Flam Railway, with our trip booked for the latest slot available, therefore giving us the opportunity to get out on foot and see Flam in person.
We started our adventure from the cruise port to Brekkefossen, following the asphalt road up the valley alongside the Flåm river. We stopped to admire the local sheep with there characteristic bells ringing from their necks, a sound familiar with the alpine villages.
The route to the waterfall is signposted from the road and follows a fairly steep cobble-stepped path. Prepare to get wet if you decide to stand close for a photo, the exhilarating spray made for a early morning wake up.
Following the visit to this breath-taking waterfall, we followed the path neighbouring the railway track which goes to Myrdal. Arriving at Flam Kyrkje, this beautiful wooden long church, built by master builder Magne Essen in 1670.
Heading back to the road we continued our walk, waving to those on the Flamsbana train as they passed us and we continued to our final spot the Rjoandefossen.
An impressive waterfall which is 241 metres (791 ft) tall and has three vertical falls, of which the tallest is about 140 metres (460 ft). After snapping some photos of Rjoandefossen, we headed back to the port to ready ourselves for the adventure on Flamsbana railway.
The Flam Station is around a 10 minute walk from the cruise terminal located in the centre of the village.
Boarding the train we located our seats ensuring we had the all important window seat. As soon as you depart the station you are immersed into the dramatic beauty of the Norwegian landscape.
An ever-changing backdrop of waterfalls, deep valleys, lush green forests and snow covered mountains, the only problem we encountered was which window to look out. Halfway through the journey you get a 5 minute stop off at Kjosfossen with its legendary waterfall, water thunders down the 225 meters drop creating an awe inspiring and mesmerising view.
Keep your eyes peeled you might be lucky to spot the Red Lady, although men should be careful. This is Huldra from Norse Mythology, an elusive forest spirt who according to local folklore lured men into the woods and seduced them.
Boarding the train hopefully not missing any men
who had been lured away, we continued our
journey and ascent into the snowy villages
surrounding Mydral - our final destination.
A quick 15-minute break was provided at Mydral, giving you time to take in the scenery or purchase a souvenir. The temperature had defiantly dropped compared to Flam and the station still had snow.
Back on the train we retuned on the same route back to Flam, still discovering views we had missed on our outward journey.
The Flam Railway was a day to remember with dramatic scenery as you ascend and descend, we can fully understand why it is one of the worlds most beautiful train journeys.
We finished off the afternoon with a stroll around Flam visiting the local souvenir shops, it was then time to head back to the ship for a well-earned meal.
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Thinking of your next read? How about Olden where soaring white tipped mountains meet the crystal clear fjords.
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