The Round Voyage from Bergen to Kirkenes and back is an iconic voyage, along with other classic trips such as the Orient Express and Route 66. Operating since 1893, every evening a ship leaves Bergen, the gateway to the fjords, to visit no less than 34 ports of call in just 12 days – in each direction! And the increasing popularity of this voyage means that Hurtigruten can now offer a wide choice of UK departure airports.
Highlights naturally come thick and fast. Ålesund, rebuilt in a distinctive art nouveau style after a devastating fire in 1904. Then Trondheim, the first capital city of Norway where a visit to the Nidaros Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece, is highly recommended. You will cross the Arctic Circle before passing through the Lofoten Islands, considered by many to be the most scenic section of the journey, with spectacular views in all directions.
At Tromsø, ‘capital of the Arctic’ and starting point for many expeditions to the Arctic, you can enjoy a refreshing beer from the world’s northernmost brewery (the epithet northernmost can be used frequently and legitimately when describing many of the sights that await on this unique voyage!), but not before visiting the stunning Arctic Cathedral, with its wonderful stained glass capturing the light.
The most popular excursion for British guests is to the North Cape from Honningsvåg, recognised as Europe’s northernmost point. The turning point for the return journey southwards is Kirkenes, so close to the Russian border that the local road signs are in both Norwegian and Russian. Ports previously visited during the night are now seen in the day.
You will have the opportunity to take a husky dog sleigh ride over the frozen landscape, following in the tracks of countless Arctic explorers, or perhaps take a snowmobile excursion. The truly intrepid visitors can even experience ice-bathing. At certain times of year you may be fortunate enough to witness the stunning Aurora Borealis, more commonly known as the Northern Lights, a magical and colourful display that lights up the night sky.
