Extreme beauty and extreme conditions merge to create one of the most memorable train rides in all of Europe on the Flåm Railway. For one hour, passengers are transported from Flåm along the shores of Aurlandsfjord to Myrdal on Hardangervidda mountain plateau. The train passes through 20 tunnels, 18 of which were meticulously carved by hand, and winds past waterfalls, through the scenic Flåm Valley and deep into the heart of Norway's wild backcountry.
Beginning in Flåm, the train hugs the picturesque shores of Aurlandsfjord before passing through the town, embraced by tall mountains on both sides. This point in the route is about even with sea level and presents all Flåm Valley's glory. Passengers look upon the Flamselvi River for much of the journey through the valley, and even further out, upon distant snow-capped mountains and lush birch forests. Another scenic delight comes with Rjoandefossen Waterfall, thundering down the mountainside. The Flåm Railway begins its steep climb slowly and steadily, sometimes at gradients of up to 5 1/2 percent.
Travelers can join this highly scenic rail line in every season. During the winter months, four daily departures offer views over the frozen landscapes. The busy season in spring and summer increases the schedule to up to ten departures each day. There is no wrong time of the year to ride the Flåm Railway; each ride presents a new aspect of this stunning region.
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