Is this the most scenic train journey in the world?

South Wales Argus

2 days ago

Considered "the world's most beautiful railway" by Tripadvisor's Traveller's Choice 2024 and Lonely Planet, Flåmsbana is a nostalgic trip through the best of Norway's landscape.
We started our journey in the vibrant city of Bergen - the perfect gateway to explore the Fjords in Western Norway.
I've also written a review about my time in that criminally underrated city; you can read all about why you should make Bergen your next city break.
If you're ready to leave the city bustle behind and return to some blissful nature, head over to Bergen's main train station just east of the city centre.
It's about a 10-minute walk from the popular fish market and approximately 15 minutes from the UNESCO World Heritage site of Bryggen.
I'd recommend you start your day early and book in advance - it's a very popular route, so seats fill up quickly.
Our first train, on the Bergen line, took us to the striking mountain station of Myrdal.
We couldn't believe we were seeing snow when it was almost May. (Newsquest) (Image: Newsquest)
I was lucky enough to have secured a window seat - my nose pressed up against the glass as we travelled through the breathtaking scenery of dominating hills and twisting rivers.
The couple of hours flew by in the comfortable carriages as our excitement grew and the snow started to dust the mountain tops.
We made a brief stop at Myrdal station, which was small but scenic. The surrounding mountains were entirely coated in snow, leaving us in disbelief that it was almost May.
The small but scenic Myrdal station. ( Newsquest) (Image: Newsquest) There is a small cafe and toilets in the station, but I'd suggest packing some snacks for you to enjoy on the trip, as it was bustling with people trying to make their connections.
Is the Flåm Railway worth it?
After a brief pause - plenty of time to take snowy pictures - we hopped on the Flåm Railway.
This section of the train ride is where the railway route earns its global acclaim. Originally built to connect Sogn and Fjordane to the rest of the Norwegian rail network, the train line is one of the steepest railways on the planet.
The line has Northern Europe's steepest standard gauge adhesion track, which in short means it doesn't use any gears or cables for traction.
It's considered a masterpiece of engineering, taking a staggering 20 years to construct. The railway features 20 tunnels ( 18 of which were built by hand) and spans 20 km.
I was very happy to have a window seat. (Newsquest) (Image: Newsquest)
So that it can manage the difference in altitude from the mountain plateau down to the Flåm valley, the train actually makes an impressive 180-degree turn inside the mountain.
Just before we arrived in Flåm, we could actually see the valley through an opening on the rock face.
The valley is a fantastic example of the Fjords you will find in Western Norway. It's a continuation of the Aurlandsfjord and concludes with the steep mountainside at the ultimate Instagram spot.
The train stops for five minutes to allow for photos at the Kjofossen waterfall. (Newsquest) (Image: Newsquest)
The Kjofossen waterfall is so spectacular that the train route actually includes a five-minute photo stop in front of it before heading onwards to the end station of the Flåmsbana.
As unbelievable as the train ride was, it's only the start of your journey. Once you hop off, you can start a new adventure exploring the characterful Fjord villages of Flåm or nearby Gudvangen.
The possibilities are endless - a hike to see Brekkefossen waterfall or panoramic views at the Stegastein viewpoint.
Take in the incredible views from the Stegastein viewpoint. ( Newsquest) (Image: Newsquest)
If you want to continue your journey in style, I could not recommend a trip on an electric cruise on the UNESCO Nærøyfjord.
The 20km journey between Flåm and Gudvangen puts you in the heart of nature as you sail past countless waterfalls, valleys and mountainsides.
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If the weather is on your side, I'd suggest making the most of the majestic views on deck as you try and seals or porpoises in the harbour.
You don't want to miss an electric cruise on the UNESCO Nærøyfjord. ( Newsquest) (Image: Newsquest) You can enjoy the train ride and the Fjord cruise, and so much more as part of the Norway in a Nutshell tour.
Prices for this inclusive and convenient package start from NOK 2510 ( £183.37), and you can find out more and start planning your trip via the Fjord Tours website.
Please don't ask me to pick a favourite between my time in Bergen, the spectacular train ride on the Flåm Railway or the peaceful cruise on the UNESCO Nærøyfjord. It would be impossible!
But I will say - A plane, a train and an electric cruise later, I had the most unforgettable trip of my life.