Norwegian Fjords

Discover Southampton’s maritime history at the SeaCity Museum or see impressive works in the city’s art gallery. Jane Austen used to walk Southampton’s city walls and you can too, stopping at the Tudor House Museum along the way. Go all nostalgic over vintage cars at the National Motor Museum at Beaulieu or see King Arthur’s fabled Round Table at nearby Winchester, the ancient capital of England.

Bruges offers the best of both worlds: a European cultural hub and, not far beyond, a seafront paradise. Often called the Venice of the North, the capital of Belgium’s West Flanders province is lined with canals, bridges and historic buildings. One of Europe’s best-preserved medieval towns, Bruges’ historic town centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Belgium cruises give you access to the lively market square and you’ll see the Belfry of Bruges, a popular piece of Middle Ages architecture. Encounter the city’s other personality in Zeebrugge – or ‘Bruges on sea’. This international port and seafront resort is home to cafes, a beach and a marina..

Fresh air and icy beauty are the hallmarks of Olden, known as the Gateway to the Glaciers. Come here to explore the Jostedal Glacier – not only can you take in views of this natural wonder, you can also head to Jostedalsbreen National Park and hike the blue ice yourself. Thanks to Olden’s location at the northern end of Oldedalen Valley, you’ll find an unexpectedly dramatic landscape dotted with valleys, waterfalls and mountains. Explore the town by foot, boat or bike, and head into a gallery to discover why Olden is an emerging centre for contemporary design. Cruise to Norway to check out the Old Olden Church for a unique look into local religious traditions.

Soak up the enchanting natural landscapes in Skjolden, a village at the end of the emerald-green Lustrafjorden. This idyllic town lies at the edge of Sognefjorden, the largest fjord in Norway. Stroll around the tranquil village, home to about 200 people. Admire the rolling farms and the greenery. You’ll see it’s no surprise this was a popular destination with Norwegian artists, who came here for inspiration in the 19th century. Visit the old Urnes Stave Church, a Viking Age church dating back to 1130 and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, 30 kilometres to the south. The narrow road there passes through idyllic villages – its picturesque vistas earn it the name Romantic Route.

Discover Southampton’s maritime history at the SeaCity Museum or see impressive works in the city’s art gallery. Jane Austen used to walk Southampton’s city walls and you can too, stopping at the Tudor House Museum along the way. Go all nostalgic over vintage cars at the National Motor Museum at Beaulieu or see King Arthur’s fabled Round Table at nearby Winchester, the ancient capital of England.