Tvindefossen Waterfall and arrive at Voss Hostel

Tvindefossen is a stunning 110m waterfall surrounded by lush greenery and towering cliffs.  Several walking paths allow you to experience its majesty up close. Don’t be afraid to get splashed as the myth says that the water is a fountain of youth!

Head to your home for this trip – Voss Hostel – which lies by Lake Vangsvatnet, close to both the Voss town centre and the beautiful nature surrounding it. Voss, regarded as the “adventure capital of Norway”, is located between Bergen and two of Norway’s largest fjords, the Sognefjord and the Hardangerfjord, making it an excellent base for thrilling outdoor pursuits.

Sima Hydropower Plant, Norwegian Nature Center, Voringsfossen and Hardangervidda Plateau

This morning you will learn how Norwegians harness the hydropower in their native landscape on a guided tour of Sima Power Station, one of Europe’s largest hydroelectric power stations. A short film shows how the plant was built, including the creation of mountain-top lakes and channels bored through the rock, as well as the importance of developing sustainable energy sources for the future. You’ll then explore the main turbine hall, located 700m inside the mountain!

Learn about the relationship between nature, climate and environment at the Norwegian Nature Centre, through the use of innovative displays and interactive technology. The highlight of the visit is the dramatic audio-visual experience in the multi-screen, panoramic cinema, which connects students with the extraordinary natural world around them.

Next, your group will head onto the Hardangervidda Plateau, one of Europe’s largest, encompassing nearly 10,000 sq. km of varied Arctic wilderness; and home to the continent’s biggest herd of wild reindeer. The plateau’s diverse ecosystems support a range of wildlife. Vegetation includes mosses, dwarf shrubs and hardy alpine plants. Besides reindeer, you may also encounter arctic foxes, eagles, grouse, owls, cranes and falcons. On a clear day the Hardangerjokulen glacier is visible to the north.

Voringsfossen, located within the Hardangervidda National Park, is Norway’s most famous waterfall, plunging 182m from the plateau. A viewing platform gives fantastic views of the main drop of 145m into the into the Måbødalen valley below. An amazing opportunity for a group photo!

River Rafting, Voss and Lakeside Bonfire

A guided rafting trip will get you within touching distance of Norway’s finest scenery. Your group will learn a new skill, be pushed out of your comfort zone and work together as a team to meander through wild and choppy waters as you face Grade I, II and III rapids.

Having experienced the spectacular scenery that Voss has to offer, you now have free time to explore the vibrant town on foot. Explore the charming streets of Voss and browse through local shops, boutiques, and art galleries. Visit the prominent Vangskyrkja, a stone church dating back to the 13^th century, this historic church is an architectural gem and offers a glimpse into Norway’s medieval religious traditions. Alternatively, the Voss Folk Museum showcases traditional buildings, artifacts, and exhibits that provide insights into the region’s rural life and cultural heritage.

What better way to relax after a busy day than by toasting marshmallows on a bonfire overlooking Lake Vangsvatnet? This is a great opportunity for your group to share their highlights of the trip so far; what has amazed, inspired and surprised them over the last few days.

Bergen

It’s your last day in Norway, but you still have a few hours to explore Bergen before your flight home.  Surrounded by mountains and fjords, Bergen is a picturesque city with a lot of interesting attractions.

Start by heading to the UNESCO World Heritage Site Bryggen, a Hanseatic wharf, which is one of Bergen and Norway’s top attractions. This iconic site is one of the best-known urban settlements and trading areas remaining from the Middle Ages. You will want to take some time to admire the distinctive wooden buildings with their colourful facades. Today, Bryggen is home to a variety of shops, boutiques, galleries, restaurants, and cafes.

Time permitting, you might want to take the funicular to the top of Mount Floyen where you can enjoy panoramic views over pretty Bergen and its surrounding fjords; or visit one of Bergen’s many museums – including the Bergen School Museum, Bergen Leprosy Museum or Store Blå Aquaculture Exhibition.

If you’re feeling peckish, head to the nearby Fish Market where you can find traditional Norwegian dishes and eat like a local. While seafood takes centre stage, the fish market also features stalls selling locally sourced fruits, vegetables, and other regional products. You can also find traditional Norwegian crafts and souvenirs – perfect if you’d like to take a little memento of Norway home with you!