The Fjords and Waterfalls - 14 nights, May 2013

Trondheim is one of Norway's oldest cities, founded by the Viking King, Olav Tryggvason in 997 AD, situated at the estuary of the River Nid facing the wide Trondheimsfjord.

Travel towards the busy city centre, past the market square with its statue of the Viking King and the Nidaros Cathedral and Archbishopry. This church, dating from the 12th century, is the finest and largest gothic-style church in Scandinavia. As with so many towns in Norway, disastrous fires struck Trondheim’s wooden buildings and the architect, Cicignon, reconstructed the city centre in the late 17th century. Most of the buildings from this period are still standing. Amongst others you’ll see the largest wooden building in Norway - Stiftsgaarden - used by the Royal family when they visit Trondheim.

From a viewpoint above the city you’ll have some lovely sights of the area before returning to the city via one of the many bridges over the River Nid. Admire the old drawbridge and the many colourful warehouses along it. Out in the fjord lies a former fortification on the islet Munkholmen.



This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. All sightseeing is conducted from the comfort of your coach. There is a photograph stop at Nidaros Cathedral, however you can opt to remain on the coach.

Lysefjord, Norway's most southern major fjord, stretches 25 miles and was formed more than 10,000 years ago during the last ice age. Experience a leisurely cruise along the scenic Lysefjord, as you pass steep mountains with their cascading waterfalls and the occasional dwelling clinging to its rocky terrain.

There will be a limited commentary providing information about the various points of interest including Preikestolen, better known as the Pulpit Rock. The 'Pulpit Rock' is a famous natural rock formation which protrudes vertically from the mountainside. On a clear day, you will be able to see the rock with its flat plateau proudly jutting out above you.

During the tour, a stop will be made for refreshments of tea or coffee and freshly-made waffles.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. Various sized boats will be used for this excursion. There are two flights of stairs between the decks on the boat. Whilst there are sufficient seats for everyone on the boat, we cannot guarantee that you will be able to sit in the area of your choice (either inside or on the open deck). A warm, windproof jacket is recommended. There are steps leading to the refreshment stop. The Pulpit Rock is situated approximately 1,968 feet above sea level and therefore appears smaller when viewed from below. Pre-reservation of this tour is highly recommended due to limited availability.

As you walk around Honningsvåg your guide will provide a fascinating insight into local life in this small and northerly town. Your first stop will be at the small North Cape Museum, which illustrates various aspects of local history, culture and the environment through interesting exhibitions and displays. Next, you’ll continue on to the quaint 19th century neo-Gothic Honningsvåg Church, which is the town’s oldest building.

The highlight of your walk is a visit to the unique Artico Ice Bar, this modern and elegant bar is re-created every year by a group of aspiring artists. The team go to local lakes every winter to source the most exquisite natural ice to build their cool masterpiece. The ice, snow and 23 degrees Fahrenheit temperature adds a bit of winter magic as you enjoy refreshments of two non-alcoholic drinks (one of which will be served in an ice shot glass). The bar has a seating area covered in warm reindeer skins and if you are feeling adventurous you could experience the novelty of sitting in a cosy igloo. As you leave the bar, there will be time to browse its extensive gift shop which contains Arctic goods, Nordic clothing, reindeer skins, decorations, children’s presents etc.

A leisurely stroll back along the harbour will bring you back to the pier.


This excursion will operate on foot. The walk covers approximately one mile over even surfaces therefore comfortable, enclosed footwear is recommended. A warm poncho and gloves are provided at the Ice Bar. Interior visits to the Church cannot be conducted during religious ceremonies.

Driving through the city centre, you’ll head towards Sverresli to enjoy views of the fjord and wood clad hills before reaching Bymarka. This is an area of natural landscapes with contrasting scenery and a haven for the people of Trondheim in both winter and summer months.

Your nature hike will take you through scenic forestland, passing small lakes and open landscape. The highest point is Gråkallen Hill, some 1,700 feet above sea level; from here you can enjoy a spectacular view towards the fjords. On a clear day you can sometimes see in the distance the mountain chain which forms the border between Sweden and Norway.

Following your hike, you’ll rejoin your coach for the return drive to Trondheim.


ACTIVITY EXCURSIONS
You and all those in your party should be aware that, in undertaking activity excursions, you will be involved in a degree of physical exertion and/or activity such as hiking, biking, snorkelling, kayaking, diving etc. By booking the excursion you confirm that you and all those in your party are in good physical and mental condition, with no history of conditions such as seizures, dizziness, fainting, heart condition, respiratory problems or back/neck problems (by way of example only). You should also ensure that no one in your party is taking medicine that carries a warning about impairment of physical or mental abilities. If you are pregnant this type of excursion may not be appropriate for you. It is your responsibility to ensure that you are fit and well enough to take part in the activities booked and you are reminded to take care for your own safety. Because of the risks associated with activity excursions, you may be asked by the excursion provider to sign a document which may affect or limit the excursion provider’s liability. Comfortable flat walking shoes are recommended.

LIABILITY
Cunard will arrange for the excursions to be performed by the relevant excursion provider. Cunard does not provide or supply the excursion services. Cunard will exercise reasonable care and skill in the selection of the excursion provider, but will not in any circumstances have a greater liability than the excursion supplier and Cunard shall not be responsible for the negligent acts/omissions of the excursion supplier. Please note that in relation to all excursions Cunard is not responsible or liable for any loss, damage, or injury sustained by you unless such loss, damage or injury arises out of a breach of legal duty of Cunard.

TRAVEL INSURANCE
Before booking any activity excursions it is essential that you ensure your travel insurance extends to cover the specified activity. It is your responsibility to obtain adequate insurance.

This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There is approximately two hours of walking over uneven ground and many steep inclines, so a good level of fitness is required. Comfortable, flat and enclosed walking shoes are essential. Please dress according to the weather. It is advisable to carry sun protection and a bottle of water. This tour is not suitable for children under eight years old.

As you travel out of Åndalsnes you’ll pass the villages of Isfjorden, known for its many small clothing and woodworking factories, Torvikeidet and Leirheim before reaching the ancient, medieval stave church of Rødven.

The Rødven Stave Church, now the property of the Society for the Preservation of Ancient Norwegian Monuments, dates back to 1300 and is still located on its original site. The wooden stave churches of Norway are the most famous and characteristic achievements of medieval Norwegian architecture. The distinguishing feature of their construction is the inner and outer frame of wooden columns or ‘staves’ supporting the weight of the many steep roofs one above the other. In the 14th century, it is believed that there were more than 1,000 stave churches in Norway. When the country was depopulated by plague most of them fell into decay and later were demolished because they were too small for growing congregations. You’ll have the opportunity to discover the unique architecture and atmosphere of this pretty church, which is one of only 30 surviving stave churches in Norway.

Before heading back to the port, you’ll drive up close to Trollveggen (Troll Wall), with its 3,300 foot vertical and overhanging wall it is Europe's highest perpendicular rock face.


This excursion will operate by coach. There is a walk of 50 yards from the car park to the church. Flash photography is not permitted inside the church.

The Flåm railroad is only 12½ miles in length, and described as one of the most interesting stretches of railroad engineering in the world. Join the train at Flåm Station at sea level and travel to Myrdal Station at an altitude of 2,845 feet above sea level.

The train journey will show you the impressive scenery of the area; the Rjoande Waterfall, with a sheer drop of 459 feet, the peak of Vibmesnosi at 4,163 feet and the spectacular 305 feet Kjosfossen Waterfall.

Once you arrive at the highest level of Myrdal, you will remain on the train back down to Berekvam Station, over half way down the Flåm Railway. Here you will leave the train where your bikes will be waiting.

Enjoy an exhilarating downhill ride back to Flåm, following a narrow gravel and asphalt road along the river with spectacular views of the waterfalls, mountains and valley.


ACTIVITY EXCURSIONS
You and all those in your party should be aware that, in undertaking activity excursions, you will be involved in a degree of physical exertion and/or activity such as hiking, biking, snorkelling, kayaking, diving etc. By booking the excursion you confirm that you and all those in your party are in good physical and mental condition, with no history of conditions such as seizures, dizziness, fainting, heart condition, respiratory problems or back/neck problems (by way of example only). You should also ensure that no one in your party is taking medicine that carries a warning about impairment of physical or mental abilities. If you are pregnant this type of excursion may not be appropriate for you. It is your responsibility to ensure that you are fit and well enough to take part in the activities booked and you are reminded to take care for your own safety. Because of the risks associated with activity excursions, you may be asked by the excursion provider to sign a document which may affect or limit the excursion provider’s liability. Comfortable flat walking shoes are recommended.

LIABILITY
Cunard will arrange for the excursions to be performed by the relevant excursion provider. Cunard does not provide or supply the excursion services. Cunard will exercise reasonable care and skill in the selection of the excursion provider, but will not in any circumstances have a greater liability than the excursion supplier and Cunard shall not be responsible for the negligent acts/omissions of the excursion supplier. Please note that in relation to all excursions Cunard is not responsible or liable for any loss, damage, or injury sustained by you unless such loss, damage or injury arises out of a breach of legal duty of Cunard.

TRAVEL INSURANCE
Before booking any activity excursions it is essential that you ensure your travel insurance extends to cover the specified activity. It is your responsibility to obtain adequate insurance.

This excursion will operate by train and bike. A safety briefing will be given prior to the bike ride and all necessary equipment will be provided. It is compulsory to wear a cycle helmet. Guests are advised to wear enclosed sturdy footwear and to dress according to the weather. It is recommended to carry a bottle of water and sun protection. Your height will be required in advance. Children under 15 are unable to participate. There is a weight restriction of 23 stone.

Following the Dirdal River and valley, you will reach Byrkjedalstunet. The re-constructed cheese factory in Byrkjedalstunet dates back to 1920 and now houses a restaurant and a candle-maker's workshop. Enjoy a tea or coffee and some traditional 'lapper' (thick pancakes) with jam and sour cream. Take some time to visit the colourful candle workshop, to see the wide variety of candles produced here, before browsing the gift shop with its array of Norwegian handicrafts, woollens, souvenirs and candles.

Venture onwards to see the Gloppedalsuren Boulder Field, Norway's largest field of boulders, with some as big as houses. Continue via the flat, fertile farming area of Jaeren and the beaches at Sola before some city sightseeing in Stavanger.


This excursion will operate by coach. There is approximately 15 minutes' total walking involved on this tour, most of which is optional. The lighting at the refreshment venue is quite dim to add to the atmosphere, therefore care should be taken. This tour involves several tunnels.

Honningsvåg is often referred to as the capital of the rugged and dramatic Magerøya Island. Embark on a leisurely drive through the little town, past the airstrip and along the Skipsfjord towards the plateau. A stop will be made at the fishing village of Kamøyvær at the head of the narrow fjord-arm. This pretty village is home to the ‘Gallery East of the Sun’, which exhibits arts, handicrafts and books, all inspired by the island and its ever changing seasons. The artist has her workshop inside the Gallery and will be happy to explain her unusual works of art.

As you continue to the top of the plateau, you’ll be able to see some of the reindeer which roam this area in the summer months. These reindeer belong to the Sami people who bring their livestock out to the coastal islands as soon as the snow disappears. Reaching a height of 984 feet above sea level and providing the weather is clear, you will be able to see the ‘Horn’, a cliff formation protruding from the North Cape cliff in the distance.

Further along is Skarsvåg, the most northerly fishing village in the world, where you’ll stop at the North Cape Christmas and Winter House. This tiny, but cosy cottage contains a craft shop with a wide selection of knitwear, textiles and ceramics, which you may wish to purchase in readiness for December.


This excursion will operate by coach. There are approximately seven steps into the Gallery and Christmas House. Please note that both venues are small so sometimes they can become crowded. Please remember to carry local currency (Norwegian Kroner) for any additional purchases.

Your scenic journey will begin with a drive along the lovely Aurlandsfjord, before heading inland past pretty lakes, waterfalls and rivers, through a series of bends and tunnels into the lush Låvisdal Valley. Absorb the stunning views over the fjord villages of Vassbygda and Aurland before continuing through the beautiful valleys of Stonndalen and Aurland to Østerbø.

Østerbø is a mountain farm region which, in former times, was completely isolated from the outside world during the winter months. It is now a popular spot for mountain hiking. Relax with refreshments of tea or coffee and traditional Norwegian waffles at Østerbø Mountain Lodge whilst enjoying the magnificent mountain panorama.


This excursion will operate by coach. The refreshment venue is wheelchair accessible. The return to Flåm is via the same route.

Begin your panoramic discovery of the ‘Capital of the North’ with a drive towards the centre of town, a charming blend of old and new. Modest wooden houses sit alongside the modern architecture of this university city. You will pass Tromsø Church, one of the largest wooden churches in the north. Continuing around the forest-clad island, which is five times the size of Oslo, reach the 4,002 foot long Sandnessund Bridge, which connects Troms Island with Kvaløya (Whale Island). Here you will find Tromsø’s most modern suburb set against a backdrop of impressive mountain peaks.

Returning to Troms Island, the university will come into view. This is the world’s northernmost university, with students from all over Norway and abroad. The next landmark is the Northern Lights Planetarium.

Just over the Tromsø Sound lies the beautiful Tromsdalen Parish Church, also known as the Arctic Cathedral. During this tour you will pass many homes and gardens, with a great variety of colourful flowers, which you may be surprised to see at this latitude.


This excursion will operate by coach. All sightseeing will be done from the coach with no stops being made. Guests who opt to remain in town at the end of the tour will be responsible for making their own way back to the ship.

A short drive out of Southampton will bring you to the New Forest. The New Forest, originally created by William the Conqueror for deer hunting, is a mixture of open grazing, woodland and heath. The Forest has remained almost untouched for 1,000 years and is famous for its tiny villages with traditional thatched cottages and wild ponies which roam free on the land. Today it is managed by the Forestry Commission and in 2004 was designated a National Park.

Your scenic drive will take you through the heart of the New Forest, with its famous New Forest ponies, past a variety of beautiful landscapes to three of its prettiest villages; Hythe, Beaulieu and Lyndhurst.

The historic marina village of Hythe is located alongside Southampton Water and on a clear day you can see across to where your cruise ship is berthed. The village also boasts the world’s oldest operating pier train.

The picturesque village of Beaulieu dates back to the 13th century and is renowned for its Abbey, Motor Museum and Palace Manor House. Admire the lovely views across Beaulieu River as you pass through this quaint village.

The New Forest capital, Lyndhurst is a bustling village containing tea rooms, pubs, souvenir shops, local stores and ice cream vendors. You will have the chance to visit the New Forest Visitor Centre to view its exhibits, browse the local shops or relax in one of the tea rooms.


Guests who are embarking or disembarking the ship in Southampton should not book a shore excursion for this port.  Southampton excursions are available for guests visiting Southampton as a port call.

This excursion will operate by coach. The sightseeing is conducted from the comfort of your coach with a photograph stop at Hythe and Beaulieu. There will be approximately 45 minutes free time in Lyndhurst.

Enjoy an adventure on board a Rigid Inflatable Boat, through the spectacular Aurlandsfjord to Beitelen and back. In the secure RIB, you will have the best opportunity to experience nature and wildlife at close range.

The Aurlandsfjord and the Naeroyfjord are both branches of the Sognefjord, the longest fjord in the world, and the whole area has extreme, dramatic and beautiful fjord scenery. So, as well as the exciting RIB ride, along the way there will be plenty of stops for you to admire the extraordinary natural and cultural history of the area.


ACTIVITY EXCURSIONS
You and all those in your party should be aware that, in undertaking activity excursions, you will be involved in a degree of physical exertion and/or activity such as hiking, biking, snorkelling, kayaking, diving etc. By booking the excursion you confirm that you and all those in your party are in good physical and mental condition, with no history of conditions such as seizures, dizziness, fainting, heart condition, respiratory problems or back/neck problems (by way of example only). You should also ensure that no one in your party is taking medicine that carries a warning about impairment of physical or mental abilities. If you are pregnant this type of excursion may not be appropriate for you. It is your responsibility to ensure that you are fit and well enough to take part in the activities booked and you are reminded to take care for your own safety. Because of the risks associated with activity excursions, you may be asked by the excursion provider to sign a document which may affect or limit the excursion provider’s liability. Comfortable flat walking shoes are recommended.

LIABILITY
Cunard will arrange for the excursions to be performed by the relevant excursion provider. Cunard does not provide or supply the excursion services. Cunard will exercise reasonable care and skill in the selection of the excursion provider, but will not in any circumstances have a greater liability than the excursion supplier and Cunard shall not be responsible for the negligent acts/omissions of the excursion supplier. Please note that in relation to all excursions Cunard is not responsible or liable for any loss, damage, or injury sustained by you unless such loss, damage or injury arises out of a breach of legal duty of Cunard.

TRAVEL INSURANCE
Before booking any activity excursions it is essential that you ensure your travel insurance extends to cover the specified activity. It is your responsibility to obtain adequate insurance.

This excursion will operate by rigid inflammable boat. Guests with back or neck injuries, or those who are pregnant, should not participate in this tour. Children under the age of 12 years are not permitted to participate. There is no shelter on board the RIB. Compulsory survival suits are provided and flat shoes, preferably with rubber soles, are recommended. Some of the ride can be bumpy, fast and up to 30 knots. In case of poor weather conditions this tour may be cancelled.

Your journey will take you through the beautiful New Forest National Park, where you will have the chance to see the famous New Forest ponies which graze on the wild heathland, before arriving at Exbury Gardens. Created in the 1920’s, Exbury Gardens are a spectacular 200 acre site, world famous for the Rothschild collection of rhododendrons, azaleas, camellias, rare trees and shrubs. So spectacular are the gardens that the Queen of England enjoys private visits every year.

The Gardens have been specially created to reflect the changing colours of nature throughout the different seasons. During the spring the magnolias, camellias, azaleas and wisteria burst into flower, whilst the Daffodil Meadow is a carpet of glorious gold. The spectacular collection of over ten thousand rhododendron specimens is at its best with its display of beautiful colours.

During the tour there will be the opportunity to take a delightful 20 minute ride on a small narrow gauge steam railway to see parts of the Gardens not accessible on foot.

The Gardens contain a quaint tearoom, which serves a delicious English cream tea (own expense), and an extensive gift shop selling an array of gifts and souvenirs.


Guests who are embarking or disembarking the ship in Southampton should not book a shore excursion for this port.  Southampton excursions are available for guests visiting Southampton as a port call.

This excursion will operate by coach, mini steam train and on foot. There is up to three hours of walking, which is at guests' discretion. The railway and main paths of the Gardens are wheelchair accessible. There is a buggy tour available on the day for those with limited mobility (additional expense, payable direct).

Step aboard your boat for a scenic cruise, lasting approximately 1½ hours, along the beautiful fjords. Beginning on the Byford, you’ll travel between the surrounding archipelago of the Bjorøyna, Lerøyna and Tyssøyna islands, under the Askøybridge and along the Lysefjord. After relaxing and soaking up the scenery on board, a coach awaits to take you on a drive through the suburbs and city centre to Bryggen.

Bryggen is a living illustration of the city’s history, with 61 protected Hanseatic buildings. Enjoy a guided walk through the alleyways and colourful, picturesque warehouses lining the street and waterfront. These once housed German merchants belonging to the Hanseatic League who settled in Bergen around 1350.

As you stroll through the narrow passages and along the dark covered balconies, you’ll be transported back through the centuries. Bryggen is not a museum, it is living cultural heritage. Today these buildings, listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, house shops, restaurants, cafés and artists’ workshops.


This excursion will operate by boat and on foot. The guided walk is approximately 30 minutes over level cobbled terrain. There are a few steps and a steep gradient to board the boat.

Leaving Flåm behind, you’ll head through the mountains, passing the village of Gudvangen. Gudvangen is situated at the head of the dazzling Nærøyfjord, another branch of the mighty Sognefjord, and as you continue up the Nærøy Valley you’ll be following the well-known salmon river of the same name.

Pass the beautiful Oppheim Lake and then head through woodland and green farmland to view the spectacular Tvinde Waterfall that cascades down the mountainside. After a optional short stroll to the waterfall, you’ll return to the Stalheim Hotel, perched on a cliff overlooking the Nærøy Valley, for refreshments.

After the stop at the hotel, you’ll drive down the 13 steep curves of the impressive Stalheimskleivane (Norway’s steepest road), with waterfalls on both sides. Reaching the valley floor, you’ll follow the Nærøy-River back passing Gudvangen and then through the tunnels to Flåm.


This excursion will operate by coach. The walk to the Tvinde Waterfall is optional and the amount of water in the waterfall varies depending on whether it is early or late in the summer. This tour involves several tunnels. There is a charge to use the toilets at the Tvinde Waterfall, therefore we recommend you carry local currency (Norwegian Krone).