August 21 – 29 Sat - Sun
Group Size: 7
Starting Point: Bergen
Based: Bergen, Flåm, Lom and Ålesund
Walking: Easy to moderate
Description :
Europe's answer to Alaska ... is how Norway might aptly be described. We are positively addicted to the country, every single tour that we have operated there having proved monumentously memorable.
This exploratory trip to Norway's central region starts in Bergen, where we visit costal wetlands and promontories in search of migrant birds, Otters and other wildlife.
The small village of Flåm, occupying a spectacular setting at the head of Aurlandsfjorden is our second base. Here we may enjoy our first encounters with Bluethroats and Waxwings and even see Elk.
Ongoing travel takes us to Lom, with a detour to visit the outstanding Stave Church of Borgund. We skirt Jotunheimen National Park (Norway's best loved wilderness area). Here we find Golden Eagles, Rough-legged Buzzards, Merlins, Willow Grouse and the endearing Norway Lemming.
Via the tortuous Trollstigen road with its numerous hairpin bends - and 'troll crossing' signs! - we finally head for Ålesund again finding ourselves on the coast, to conclude the holiday wildlife watching from nearby islands and headlands. We anticipate an excellent bird tally, with species such as Gyr Falcon injecting a shot of excitement to the scene. Wildflowers are still in evidence, including Dark-red Helleborine and Grass of Parnassus.
Itinerary
Days 1 & 2 Sat & Sun: Rendezvous London Heathrow for a morning flight to Bergen via Oslo arriving early afternoon. Birdwatching on islands by Bergen.
Days 3 - 6 Mon & Thu: Exploration of the hinterland, based at Flåm and Lom.
Days 7 & 8 Fri & Sat: Arrive Ålesund via Trollstigen to birdwatch coastal headlands and wetlands.
Day 9 Sun: Early afternoon return flight to London Heathrow via Oslo.
Cost: £1585...includes: Accommodation (b&b plus evening meal); ground travel in Norway.
Excludes: Air travel, lunches, bar items etc.
Deposit: £150
Single Room Supplement: £260
Flight cost from London to Bergen: circa £250 including airport tax.
See 'About Us' for statement about flights.
