Bergen Railway

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.