Fjords and Waterfalls - 7 nights, August 2013

The Old Voss Line is the only preserved railway in Norway where the steam locomotives and teak carriages still run on a main line track. It was originally constructed in 1883 as a narrow gauge line, which formed part of the Bergen to Voss railway. In 1904 the line was upgraded to extend to Oslo and then electrified in 1954. It continued to serve as part of the Bergen to Oslo main line until it closed in 1964 when the Ulriken Tunnel opened.

The railway is now run by volunteers of the local branch of the Norwegian Railway Society. The service operates with a 1913 steam locomotive, which was restored by the society between 1981 and 1993.

Enjoy a nostalgic 45 minute ride on this lovely heritage railway which travels between Garnes and Midttun. The 11 mile journey passes through the Arna Valley towards Haukeland, where the scenery undertakes a change toward a more typical western Norwegian nature.

There will be time at Garnes Old Railway Station to browse the gift shop or explore the museum and railway area.


This excursion will operate by vintage steam train and coach. The journey to the train station is approximately 50 minutes by coach. The walk from the coach to the station is approximately 220 yards and there are three high steps to embark the train. There is no place to store wheelchairs on the train. Guests are reminded that the train is vintage therefore the toilets will be basic and the windows may experience condensation in certain weather. The coach and train journey involves numerous tunnels.

Enjoy a scenic boat trip through the Gandsfjord, which is dotted with several picturesque islands. On arrival at the lovely harbour on the private island of Sør Hidle, there is a short walk to the Flor and Fjære Garden which is set in a protected harbour making it a place of peaceful tranquillity, colourful flowers and great sea views.

You will be given a guided walk of the gardens with one of the knowledgeable garden guides before having free time to explore the exotic gardens at your own leisure. See the world’s most northerly plantation of tropical palm trees, bamboo and banana trees; smell the fruit trees and bountiful flowers all set against the backdrop of majestic mountains and deep fjords.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There is approximately 1½ hours spent at the Gardens. There are gravel pathways and some inclines in the Garden. Comfortable, non-slip walking shoes are recommended. Please note that in May the garden is newly planted.

Your exploration begins in Old Stavanger, a lively area that hosts well-preserved 18th and 19th century wooden houses, mostly built for seafarers, craftsmen and traders. An important rehabilitation project has meant that this is now northern Europe's largest and best-preserved 'wooden house' settlement.

Your stroll through Stavanger continues to the market square at the head of the harbour bay. A colourful scene greets you where fruit and vegetables, flowers and seafood are laid out on sale with the 12th century Stavanger Cathedral forming an impressive backdrop.

Looking towards the harbour is the statue of the former mayor and well-known writer, Alexander Kielland. The pedestrian street leads you to the Valberg Tower, situated on a small hill and overlooking the central part of the city and harbour. It was once used at a watchtower in case fire broke out in the wooden buildings of Stavanger.


This excursion will operate on foot. The terrain in Old Stavanger is a little uphill and over cobblestoned streets. Flat, comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Please note that entrance to the Valberg Tower is not included in the tour. The market may be closed on Sunday calls.

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).

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.

Stavanger and the surrounding areas have for centuries played a leading part in Norway's development. As you approach Hafrsfjord you’ll hear how King Harald Haarfagre defeated the regional princes here in 872, thus founding the Kingdom of Norway. Nearby at Møllebukta you’ll pass the monument of three giant swords which commemorate this battle and symbolise the fight is over.

Your leisurely drive will continue along the coast of south west Norway, where you will pass the attractive 12th century Church of Sola, as it sits on the hill overlooking Sola Bay. Hear about life in Stavanger as you pass the long sandy coastal stretches of Jæren and travel by fertile farmland. As you approach Eiganes, you will travel down the narrow road with its pretty villas and past Ledaal Manor, once the home of the writer Alexander Kielland and today the King’s residence when he visits Stavanger.

Back in Stavanger, you will see the impressive medieval Cathedral, and the characteristic, colourful facades which overlook the harbour. Across the bridges towards Engøy and Buøy, situated in the fjord, there is a fascinating array of architecture – nearly all the houses are built in wood and painted in vivid colours. En route back to the ship, you will pass ‘Old Stavanger’, for a glimpse of its charming, picturesque, wooden houses which date back to the 18th and 19th centuries. This area is considered unique and the city's most important rehabilitation project.


This excursion will operate by coach. All sightseeing is conducted from the comfort of the coach. The itinerary may operate in reverse. The tour will involve some long tunnels.

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.

Travel by coach through the beautiful Olden Valley with its majestic mountains, glacier tongues, waterfalls and the green Olden Lake. On arrival at the Briksdal Inn, you’ll begin your walk up to the Briksdal Glacier.

Briksdal Glacier, located in Jostedalsbreen National Park, is part of the Jostedal Glacier Icefield, which is the largest glacier on the European mainland. This massive glacier flows 4,000 feet down the mountainside into the Briksdal Valley. A 45 minute walk will take you across the river and through pristine scenery until you come face to face with one of Europe’s most spectacular examples of an ancient glacier.

There will be time to photograph the glacier’s many shades of blue and turquoise before walking the same route back. There will be time to browse the souvenir shop before boarding the coach back to Olden.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. The walk to the glacier is approximately 1½ miles, the first part is quite steep however it becomes flatter in places. Please wear comfortable, enclosed walking shoes and carry a bottle of water and a warm jacket. Please heed the warning signs erected near the glacier and do not venture beyond the safety barriers. This tour involves tunnels.

The Seven Sisters and other cascading waterfalls are truly magnificent and a kayak is, without a doubt, the best way to experience Mother Nature’s work in Geirangerfjord. The fjord basin curves between towering mountain peaks, so is virtually free from wind - a beautiful place every day of the year.

Glide along the fjord, surrounded by steep mountain walls, for a 2- 2½ hour guided sea kayak excursion which takes you out to Geirangerfjord’s Preacher’s Pulpit. Here you’ll see the magnificent Seven Sisters Waterfall and, along the way, your guide will tell you stories and the history of Geiranger.


This excursion will operate by kayak and on foot. No kayaking experience is required as the trained guides will teach you all you need to know. Guests should be in good physical condition, not suffer from any back problems or conditions affected by cold water, and must be capable swimmers - you should expect to get wet. Children between 8 and 15 must be accompanied in the kayak by a responsible adult. Children under 8 cannot participate. In the event of inclement weather, spray sheets (that cover the kayak - not a jacket) will be provided. Flat shoes with rubber soles should be worn.

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.

From the port, a short drive will bring you to Ullandshaug Viewpoint for magnificent views of Hafrsfjord and the surrounding area. Hafrsfjord is where the Kingdom of Norway was founded in 872 after the Viking King, Harald Hårfagre, defeated the last of the regional princes and united the 29 small kingdoms under one crown. Nearby at Møllebukta, you’ll stop to see the Three Giant Swords monument which commemorate this battle and symbolise the fight is over.

As Stavanger is considered to be the most important ‘oil city’ in Norway, no visit would be complete without visiting the entertaining state-of-the-art Norwegian Oil Museum. Its unusual architecture has already made it a main landmark in Stavanger. The museum cleverly manages to tell the story of oil and how it is created, discovered and produced, in a very interesting and informative way using audio-visual aids, models, interactive exhibits and an amusing 3D dinosaur movie. Discover how oil is used in our everyday life for more than just fuel and learn the challenges facing the North Sea Divers.

On the return journey, a stop will be made at the quaint old town of Gamle Stavanger (Old Stavanger). You’ll have the option to take a short guided walk along the picturesque narrow cobbled lanes and past the well preserved wooden houses as you listen to tales of the bygone ages.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. The Norwegian Oil Museum is wheelchair accessible. Guests who do not wish to participate in the guided walk of Gamle Stavanger can remain on the coach.

From Olden village centre your journey takes you past the two old churches of Olden, one dating back to 1759 and the other, a quaint red painted church from the 1930’s, which was a gift from an American who settled in the village. Travelling along the shore of the small Floen Lake, you will arrive in Eide, where you will transfer to a boat.

Enjoy a leisurely cruise on the long and narrow Oldevatnet Lake, one of Norway’s most beautiful. Enjoy the mountainous scenery with its numerous waterfalls which surround the lake. Admire the long, white tongue of the Melkevoll Glacier and the arms of the spectacular Jostedalsbreen Glacier, including the Myklebustbreen Glacier. Your cruise will end in Rustøen, where you will re-board your coach for the scenic drive back to Olden.


This excursion will operate by coach and boat. There are a few steps to access the boat, including those to the upper deck. Please carry a warm jacket. This tour involves tunnels. Please be advised that due to the low number of boats available, capacity on this excursions is strictly limited therefore early pre-booking is essential.

Bergen is known as the city between seven mountains, and Mount Ulriken is the highest and most spectacular of these. At 2,109 feet above sea level, the view from the top offers a magnificent panorama of the city, coastal landscape, fjords and mountains.

As you take a leisurely drive through Bergen to the cable car, your guide will point out the interesting landmarks such as the Grieghallen, fish market, Bryggen and the Nordes Peninsula.

At the cable car station you will board your gondola for the seven minute ride to reach the top. As you ascend you will be able to see views of Norway's second largest city stretching out below you. On arrival at the summit of Mount Ulriken, refreshments of coffee or tea and a slice of cake will be served in the stylish new restaurant, whilst you relax and enjoy the panoramic views.


This excursion will operate by cable car and coach. There is a walk of approximately 200 yards over uneven terrain and 20 steps at the cable car station. There is standing room only in the gondolas, and each one will accommodate up to 25 people. The views may be affected by certain weather conditions, however the tour will still operate except when the cable car closes due to strong winds. There are 15 steps to access the toilets in the restaurant. If the ship is berthed at Dokken or Jekteviken Pier, the journey will include a tunnel.

Embark on a drive through the breathtaking scenery of the New Forest to Beaulieu, one of England’s top visitor attractions. On the journey, you will pass by a quaint village and glimpse some of the wild ponies and livestock which the New Forest is famous for.

Beaulieu has many highlights including the National Motor Museum, an Ancient Abbey, Palace Manor House and a variety of gardens including a Victorian, kitchen and wilderness garden.

Within the fascinating National Motor Museum you can see some of the earliest examples of motoring from the 1890s through to legendary world-record breakers, such as Campbell’s jet powered Bluebird which broke the world land speed record in 1964. The museum has a 1930s street scene which shows the shops, vehicles and tradesmen of the period which will bring back memories of a bygone era.

During 2013 you'll be able to witness the fascinating BOND IN MOTION exhibition, which houses the world’s largest collection of original James Bond vehicles. Celebrating 50 years of Bond, with 50 vehicles from the films, this exhibition includes iconic on-screen favourites such as Goldfinger’s Rolls-Royce Phantom III, Zao’s Jaguar XKR loaded with weapons from Die Another Day and Bond’s Aston Martin DBS from Quantum of Solace.

Admire the remains of the lovely 13th century Abbey with its timeless beauty and tranquil atmosphere. One of the buildings now houses a monastic exhibition which illustrates the daily life of the Cistercian Monks.

The grand Palace Manor House has been the stately home of the Montagu family since 1538. With its combination of 14th century Gothic and 19th century Scottish Baronial architecture, the House offers an insight into the past with many fascinating family treasures, portraits and photographs.


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 and on foot. The grounds are spread out over a vast area, however there is a monorail which connects the main attractions. There will be approximately three hours of free time to explore the Beaulieu Estate at your own leisure.

The Geirangerfjord is without doubt one of the most beautiful of the Norwegian fjords. Impressive mountains, numerous waterfalls as well as farms clinging to the steep hillsides give the fjord its unique character. Drive uphill past the tiny octagonal Geiranger Church, and the large Hotel Union, situated 300 feet up the hill-side, to the camping site where you will begin your hike.

Follow the zigzag path up the mountainside through former summer pastures. Reach the spectacular Storsæter Waterfall, which falls nearly 100 feet in a wide curve away from the mountainside, which allows you to stand underneath the falls.

Head downhill towards Westerås Farm, perched on a ledge above Geiranger. This farm was abandoned years back because of the danger of avalanches in winter and early spring, but it is in full activity during the summer months. Enjoy refreshments of tea or coffee and local waffles before returning by coach to Geiranger.


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 on foot. The hike to the falls takes approximately one hour, and is at times steep and strenuous. It is mandatory to wear enclosed footwear suitable for hiking over rough, uneven and wet ground. Please carry bottled water to prevent dehydration.