Travellers who are drawn to the natural beauty of Scandinavian landscapes and those who love to ride the rails agree that the Bergen Railway (Bergensbanen in Norwegian) should be high on bucket lists. The 496-kilometre route was completed in 1909 and runs from Oslo to Bergen (and the other direction too, of course). It’s one of the most pleasant journeys in the country, or all of Europe for that matter, with a mix of comfort, safety, and many, many stunning vistas.
The Oslo to Bergen train route also holds the distinction of being the highest mainline railway line in northern Europe, crossing the Hardangervidda plateau at an altitude of over 1,200 metres. As passengers travel between the two cities, they can look out over some of the most beautiful landscapes in Norway. There are five daily departures (four in the winter), including one overnight journey (which has its practical advantages, though you’ll miss out on the views). The journey takes about seven hours, includes 180 tunnels, and makes 22 stops.
Why the train is the best way to travel between Oslo and Bergen
A road trip on the highway connecting the cities is obviously interesting, especially if you are travelling in a camper van, but if you have kids in tow or your time is limited, the best way to cross the country is by train. In around seven hours, you will arrive at your destination. The trains are comfortable and the country’s rail system is easy to navigate as well as famously punctual – something true of all public transportation in the country.
Refuel in the café car
The train’s café car serves hot and cold snacks and more substantial dishes, and there is also wifi, though it can be unstable and often cuts out thanks to all those tunnels. There is a storage area for bikes and luggage, as well as a car with a designated play area for children.
Both the Oslo and Bergen train stations are located in the hearts of their respective cities. You can simply step off the train and start exploring.
The essential stops
The journey offers unforgettable views from the low-lying areas around Oslo before passing forests and lakes and ascending up some of the country’s tallest mountains – the highest point is the Finse station, at 1,222 metres above sea level. As the train then descends and makes its way to Bergen, it passes many fjords, waterfalls, and rivers.
Given the varied landscapes as you leave Oslo, and with 22 stops to choose from, it may feel difficult to decide where to stop en route. Among many options is the Hallingdal Valley, roughly two hours from Oslo, which offers a long list of outdoor activities and Bjorneparken (or Bear Park). Along with its namesake bears, this zoo is home to elk, lynx, and other species that roam free in a vast woodland park. In the town of Gol, you can catch a bus to nearby Hemsedal, which draws skiers in the winter and hikers in the summer. Voss is a picturesque town popular with athletes interested in adventure sports.
Geilo is an essential stop and a perfect way to break up the journey while also providing an opportunity to get to know Norway better. The alpine town draws both skiers and hikers and is the gateway to two of the country’s largest national parks. It is located about four hours from Bergen and two from the legendary train station at Myrdal, where you can board the Flam Line, or Flåmsbana in Norwegian.
There are a number of reasons why Geilo is a must-stop, among them the chance to climb the Prestholtstien Trail, with its roughly 2,500 stone steps covering a distance of approximately a kilometre. Norway’s best ski resort is also located near Geilo. That is not only our opinion – the Vestlia Resort has been awarded the honour many years, and it is once again in the running.
If you are a fan of alpine decor, you may fall hard for the hotel at Vestlia. There is a choice of both standard hotel rooms and larger apartments, ideal if you are travelling with family. The hotel has a warm and inviting atmosphere, and you may want to curl up with a book by a fireplace in the lobby or take a long soak in your tub after a day of scaling Norway’s peaks. The resort’s kitchen is a highlight, with the restaurant serving Norwegian salmon and many other local dishes. The resort is also ideal if you are travelling with children thanks to the many activities it offers. There’s a bowling alley and a game zone where kids can try climbing, cycling, skiing, zip-lining, hiking, fishing, and more.
The practical details
Norway’s landscape is uniquely beautiful with its many rivers, valleys, mountains, snow-covered expanses, small wooden houses, alpine trails, picturesque train stations, and more. Imagine seeing all that through your window. If you are ready to pack your bags, first book your train tickets on the Entur website. Tickets cost around £75 per person.
The Bergen Railway operates year-round. In any season, from summer with its long days to winter when the mountain peaks are capped in snow, it’s an unforgettable journey. Whenever you visit, be prepared for sudden changes in the weather, a reality of life in Norway. Note that there are discounts offered to children, students, and seniors. If you are travelling with dogs or bicycles, there will be additional charges. The official Visit Norway and Visit Bergen websites have further information and helpful trip-planning resources.
This article was originally published on Condé Nast Traveler Spain.