Latest news with #GoldenTrain
Forbes
28-04-2025
- Forbes
On Norway's Golden Train, Every Mountain Tells A Story
The town of Åndalsnes is the starting point of the historic and scenic 'Golden Train' charter service in Norway. As the Golden Train winds its way through Norway's wildest landscapes, passing beneath towering peaks, beside tumbling waterfalls, and along deep glacial valleys, it offers more than just jaw-dropping views. This is a scenic train ride, yes, but also a journey through centuries of Nordic legend and wartime drama. In 1940, as Nazi forces invaded Norway, the country's gold reserves were spirited away along this very route. That heroic escape lives on in the Golden Train's name and narrative today. Operating between the fjord-side town of Åndalsnes and the alpine village of Dombås, the Rauma Line covers just 71 kilometres—but what it lacks in length, it more than makes up for in drama. The route passes iconic landmarks such as the vertigo-inducing Kylling Bridge and the towering Trollveggen cliff, Europe's tallest vertical rock face. But what sets this train apart is not just the scenery outside the window, it's the curated experience on board the special service aimed at both independent travelers and cruise ship visitors to Åndalsnes. While regular passenger trains do run along the Rauma Railway, they're primarily timed to connect with the main Oslo–Trondheim line at Dombås. For international visitors hoping to enjoy a scenic roundtrip journey from Åndalsnes, these services are far from convenient. That's where the Golden Train comes in. This dedicated charter transforms the journey into a seamless three-hour cultural experience. The 'Golden Train' rail route provides historic commentary alongside the scenic views. The route includes slow travel past iconic photo stops such as Kylling Bridge and Trollveggen, onboard storytelling with a focus on folklore and wartime history, and a short break at the alpine outpost of Bjorli before returning to Åndalsnes. Tickets can be purchased independently through the Golden Train website or via selected cruise lines. The train operates most days during the summer season, with additional departures in the spring and autumn on days when cruise ships are docked in Åndalsnes. The name 'Golden Train' is not just a poetic flourish. It pays tribute to one of the most dramatic episodes in Norway's World War II history. In April 1940, as German forces invaded the country, Norwegian officials scrambled to evacuate the nation's gold reserves (about 50 tonnes) to prevent it from falling into Nazi hands. The evacuation plan, codenamed The Heavy Luggage, saw the gold transported north from Oslo by road and rail under immense pressure. One of the most critical legs of this operation ran along the Rauma Railway, where a heavily guarded train carried the treasure through the very same mountains and valleys that today's train traverses. Despite Luftwaffe bombing raids and the chaos of advancing German troops, the train made it to Åndalsnes. From there, the gold continued by truck and ship, ultimately reaching safety in Britain and later North America. This daring mission helped finance the Norwegian government-in-exile and ensured the country retained its financial independence throughout the war. Today, this remarkable story is part of the onboard narrative, connecting the natural beauty of the route with the resilience and resourcefulness that define modern Norwegian history. Though the journey is short, the Rauma Railway packs in some of the most unforgettable scenery in Norway. 'Trollveggen' or 'The Troll's Wall' is an imposing sight at any time of year. Pictured here in March. One of the first jaw-dropping moments comes as the train first enters the Romsdal Valley, where sheer cliffs rise dramatically on either side of the turquoise Rauma River. Shortly afterwards, guests are treated to the route's most iconic landmark: Trollveggen, or the Troll Wall. Soaring more than 1,700 metres above the valley floor, it is Europe's tallest vertical rock face and a magnet for daring climbers. As the train glides beneath its shadow, the sheer scale of the cliff leaves little doubt as to where Norway's troll legends might have taken root. Further along the route, the train slows for Kylling Bridge, an architectural marvel completed in 1924. Its elegant stone arch spans a deep gorge, offering passengers the perfect photo opportunity as the train crawls across. Other scenic highlights include the foaming Vermafossen Waterfall and the tranquil farmlands near Bjorli, where the train pauses before beginning its return. Every twist and turn of the track reveals a new postcard-perfect view. Book tickets for the Golden Train in advance to avoid disappointment. Arriving by cruise? Åndalsnes train station is just a few minutes walk from the cruise ship pier. Booking directly will save you the markup of a cruise ship excursion.
Telegraph
04-02-2025
- Telegraph
Sail on the ultimate Arctic adventure with an epic voyage to Svalbard
Turning into Kongsfjorden in the awesome wilderness of Svalbard, guests on the Hurtigruten ship MS Trollfjord will brush the latitude line of 79 degrees – joining an exclusive band to travel this far north. The destination on this day is Ny-Ålesund, a former coal mine that has blossomed into an Arctic research station. It is where pioneer Roald Amundsen started expeditions to the North Pole. Relics of Ny-Ålesund's industrial past often stand in contrast to Svalbard's dramatic landscapes Credit : Andrea Klaussner Wandering around this hyper-remote community, there are plenty of echoes of its industrial past – as well as the world's most northerly post office. In contrast, the spectacular natural surroundings of Kongsfjorden – King's Fjord – are impeccably untouched. Formidable glaciers girdle stark mountains, flowing down to meet the sea where piratical skuas chase delicate terns. From out on deck you may spy small icebergs, seals, reindeer or an Arctic fox – and if you are very lucky a walrus, beluga whale or the ultimate symbol of Svalbard, the polar bear. While Svalbard is home to dramatic glaciers and stark mountains, its greatest icon is the polar bear Credit : Getty Ny-Ålseund is a port of call on Hurtigruten's mesmerising Svalbard Line, a cruise that also encompasses a great swathe of Norway's incredible coastline. This 15-day adventure, a round-trip from colourful Bergen, is part of Hurtigruten's premium Signature collection. Unlike this famous company's Original Voyages, where the ships double as a vital link between isolated communities, these are more leisurely cruises. An emphasis on exploration is afforded by several hours spent in each port, and a large dedicated Coastal Experience Team on board who can offer additional guidance. The Svalbard Line's 15-day Arctic adventure begins and ends in colourful Bergen Credit : Getty Guests can indulge in some exceptional optional excursions and activities in each destination. How about a spellbinding ride on the Golden Train from Åndalsnes, gliding past tumbling rivers to Europe's highest vertical mountain wall, Trollveggen? The next day you could be island-hopping on a local boat around the Træna archipelago, then getting close-up views of one of the world's most beautiful places, the Lofoten Islands, where traditional red fisherman's cabins are set against dramatic rock backdrops. Between those last two destinations, you'll cross the Arctic Circle with a treasured ceremony on deck – just part of the enlightening experience on board MS Trollfjord. The Hurtigruten MS Trollfjord sails through some of Norway's most beautiful waters Credit : Espen Mills Comfortable cabins and suites, along with panoramic lounges, are complemented by all-inclusive meals and drinks. There are no gimmicks – the accent is on enjoying the passing scenery in the long hours of sparkling daylight, enhanced by expert lectures, musical entertainment and culinary demonstrations. Indeed, the food is a big part of this journey, with fresh regional ingredients carefully prepared by talented chefs, a concept called Norway's Coastal Kitchen. You will actually sail past the fjords and meadows from which much of the ship's produce is sourced. MS Trollfjord has three elegant restaurants and a welcoming bar. Imagine starting an evening with a cocktail inspired by mythical Valhalla, then feasting on carpaccio of clipfish (dried cod) and rosemary-roasted lamb from a daily-changing menu. Bustling Tromsø, boasting a striking modern cathedral as well as classic wooden buildings, is the next port, then there's the chance to drive a quad bike to the breathtaking North Cape settlement atop soaring cliffs. Tromsø is just one of the exciting Arctic port stops on the Svalbard Line Credit : Getty Heading ever northwards into the vast Barents Sea, the rarely-seen Bear Island looms on the horizon. On a sail-past, you'll learn about its rich population of seabirds. Many of those arriving at Svalbard will feel this is the closest they will get to leaving the planet, so remote are the landscapes. Longyearbyen – the other port visited in this archipelago – will therefore come as a surprise. This cosmopolitan town of about 1,000 people boasts two excellent museums, restaurants and appealing little shops. One exciting activity is to take your seat on a wheeled sled behind a team of eager huskies. Longyearbyen is home to charming little shops as well as exciting outdoor activities Credit : Getty On the way back south, there are plenty more memories to be made. At Senja island – dubbed the Caribbean of the North – a safari can be enjoyed among the turquoise waters and white-sand beaches. Perhaps you will opt to discover how the Vikings built their dwellings at Tromsø, or kayak on crystal backwaters during another call at the Lofoten Islands. Just make sure to book these excursions, which come at an additional cost, in advance. With white-sand beaches and glistening landscapes, it's no surprise Senja island is known as the Caribbean of the North Credit : Getty If you're short of time, it's possible to sail half the Svalbard Line route, north or south, flying to or back from Longyearbyen. Whichever option you choose, you'll have experienced a natural beauty that can only be described as otherworldly. Experience authentic Norway With more than 130 years of experience in Norwegian coastal cruising, Hurtigruten Cruises delivers an unparalleled experience with fascinating excursions, breathtaking views, and locally sourced dishes that offer a true taste of Norway. Book your voyage today at and save up to 25 per cent on Original Voyages and up to 15 per cent on Signature Voyages for departures until April 2026. Book by 3 March 2025.
