Norway's Sognefjord in a Day

From Oslo, a scenic train carries travellers over Norway's mountainous spine and into fjord country. The route is known as "Norway in a Nutshell."

Norway's greatest scenic fame comes from its deep saltwater inlets. Sognefjord, the country's longest at 120 miles and deepest at more than a mile, offers the best combination of natural wonder and accessibility.

For a one-day look at the fjords, follow the Nutshell's organised train, ferry, and bus connections. Energetic travellers can complete the whole route in a day; those with more time may stay overnight along the fjord or in Bergen. Sunny July and August are the best months.

The route begins with a train leaving Oslo at about 8 a.m. for Bergen. Barren heaths, glaciers, deep forests, countless lakes, and a few ski resorts create a harsh beauty along the way.

The railroad is an engineering feat. Completed in 1909, it is 300 miles long and peaks at 4,266 feet. In under seven hours, passengers pass through 18 miles of snow sheds, over 300 bridges, and 200 tunnels.

At Myrdal, a 12-mile spur line drops 2,800 feet in 55 minutes to the village of Flaam on Sognefjord. The train even stops for photographs at a picturesque waterfall.

Flaam has several simple hotels. Aurland, a few miles north, is known for producing goat cheese and has as many goats as people. While nearby Bergen is famous for rain, Sognefjord is relatively dry.

From Flaam, travellers can take the train to Berekvam and then hike or bike back down to Flaam. The fjord cruise from Flaam is the most scenic part of the journey. Sightseeing boats leave throughout the day, passing waterfalls and towering black-rock cliffs.

The boat travels up Aurlandsfjord and down Naeroyfjord to Gudvangen, where buses connect to the main train line at Voss. From Voss, travellers continue to Bergen for a short evening visit.

Bergen, Norway's second city and historic capital, offers a wharf area and a funicular to the top of Mount Floyen for city and fjord views. Travellers can spend the night in Bergen or take the overnight train back to Oslo, completing the journey in 24 hours.