One of the world's highest
stretches of track joins with breathtaking sights that remain
unseen by other modes of transportation on the Bergen Railway. Through 182 tunnels, across
numerous bridges, and past fjords, mountains, and coniferous
forests, this line connects the port city of Bergen and Norway's
capital, Oslo, by way of 310 miles of hand-laid track. Europe's
highest mountain plateau, Hardangervidda, and the
Langfjellene Mountains are presented in all their glory as
passengers spend 7 hours crossing the country.
Over 60 miles of the route
is marked by complete wilderness - no towns or villages in sight.
Thundering waterfalls and winding rivers are hallmarks of the
course, as are deep fjords. Despite being named after the coastal
city, the rail line also affords travelers the choice to begin
their journey in the country's interior. They may depart from Oslo
or join the rails at any of the 22 stations along the
route.
The Bergen
Railway offers departures four
times a day throughout the year, including in the winter months
when the panoramas are overtaken in a fluffy blanket of snow.
Guests may also choose to travel overnight on this line, though
there are no private cabins, and all the glorious scenes of inland
Norway would be missed. While efficient, what a shame that would be
considering the amount of natural splendor this route
beholds.
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