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Daily Mirror
13-05-2025
- Daily Mirror
10 photos that will inspire your next holiday
A pristine wilderness of clear blue waters, dramatic mountainscapes and majestic waterfalls, the Norwegian Fjords truly are a natural wonder. They're also dotted with charming towns and mountain villages steeped in Viking history. One of the most magical ways to explore them? Undoubtedly on the water, drifting peacefully between far-flung communities, soaking up the scenery and stopping to hike vibrant trails, kayak, or simply breathe in the crisp mountain air. Whether you're exploring the picturesque streets of Stavanger or marvelling at the 600m Langfoss waterfall (from Haugesund), on a P&O Cruises holiday to the Norwegian Fjords, you'll combine immersive experiences with the sleek beauty of its luxurious ship, Iona. It's the perfect destination for first-time cruisers. Still wondering whether a cruise holiday to the Norwegian Fjords is for you? Here are 10 breathtaking images that will leave you longing to set sail... A stroll through Old Stavanger's enchanting cobbled streets and beautifully preserved white wooden buildings invites you to take a step back in time. This small city was founded in 872 AD by Viking king Harald Fairhair, and its rich heritage is on display at every turn. Explore charming shops, local handicrafts, Nordic art galleries and fascinating museums. Towering 604m above the shimmering Lysefjord, the legendary Pulpit Rock (from Stavanger) offers breathtaking views and unmissable photo opportunities. Enjoy a few hours' hike to the top, or soar above by helicopter for a truly awe-inspiring experience. (All shore experiences cost a little extra and can be booked via P&O Cruises.) Ålesund is a picture-perfect port town nestled at the entrance of Geirangerfjord. The town's distinctive architecture, rebuilt after a fire in 1904, is a captivating blend of architectural styles, including mock-Gothic, neo-classical, and Art Nouveau. Also a lively fishing town with an idyllic maritime location, Ålesund promises a colourful and memorable experience. Take an exhilarating ride to the top of Mount Hoven on the Loen Skylift (from Olden). Ascend more than 1,000m in just five minutes as you take in the awe-inspiring landscape. At the summit, find yourself immersed in seemingly endless panoramas encompassing Nordfjord, Lake Lovatnet and the Jostedal Glacier. The journey back to the ship will then take you past Hornindal Lake – at 514m, one of Europe's deepest. Ever travelled by infinity pool? On Iona you can do just that. Indulge in the ultimate on-board experience as you enjoy panoramic views over the fjords and a sophisticated ambience. With four pools and 18 whirlpool spas on board, you've no excuse not to kick back in style and watch the scenery drift by. And for just a little extra, why not treat yourself to a spot of South Beach chic by heading to The Retreat, with its shaded cabanas? On some P&O Cruises holidays to the Norwegian Fjords, you can experience this engineering marvel, which ascends almost 900m over its 19km length. An extraordinary journey with even more incredible views, the dramatic landscape of mountains, cascading waterfalls, farms, villages and isolated mountain lodges in the depths of the valleys make the trip hair-raising in the best possible way. Experience the awesome sight of the 1,910m high Briksdal Glacier (from Olden), which forms part of the biggest glacier on mainland Europe, formed around 2,500 years ago. And the journey there is no less awesome. As you travel through the Briksdalen Valley to the foot of the glacier, huge waterfalls cascade down from above. Sea view and Balcony cabins, with their expansive natural light and gorgeous vistas, provide a constant reminder of the surrounding views. Wake up to the calming sound of the waters and enjoy the ever-changing scenery from the comfort of your own luxurious cabin. Or why not treat yourself and upgrade to a Suite? For a more budget-friendly option there's also a great selection of super-comfy Inside cabins, with a host of homely touches and a daily steward service. Elsewhere on board, Iona is all about bringing the outside in, and nowhere is this more apparent than in the ship's light-filled Grand Atrium – which offers generous views of the surrounding land and seascapes. It also serves as its social hub, with dining venues, bars, shops and more. On some P&O Cruises holidays to the Norwegian Fjords, you can sail through the Unesco World Heritage Site of Geirangerfjord, steeped in Norse mythology, where deep blue waters meet towering mountains and crashing waterfalls. This is the perfect place to enjoy a spot of kayaking in the noticeably calm waters that curve between the majestic mountain peaks rising to 1,700m – among nature's masterpieces. Iona offers an unforgettable culinary journey, with a wide variety of dining options to satisfy every palate. From family-friendly favourites to exquisite dishes inspired by your Nordic travels, you'll find something to tempt you in the many restaurants on board that are included in the price. For a little extra, you can indulge in chic speciality dining. Not to be missed is the six-course tasting menu – featuring the best of Norwegian recipes and produce – by P&O Cruises Local Food Hero Kjartan Skjelde in Epicurean restaurant. When you've eaten to your heart's content, unwind with your favourite tipple in one of the ship's dazzling bars. A P&O Cruises holiday is the perfect way to explore the enchanting Norwegian Fjords. Immerse yourself in the magic of breathtaking landscapes, charming villages and Nordic culture. Enjoy the incredible on-board offerings of Iona, and, for a little extra, discover new adventures with exciting shore experiences. Book now and from just £799 per person* you could be looking forward to a fantastic seven-night cruise holiday, including stop-offs at Stavanger, Ålesund and Olden*. *Early Saver price of £799 per person is based on two adults sharing a PF grade Inside cabin on cruise G612. Prices are subject to availability and may go up or down. Early Saver bookings are made at the relevant cabin grade and a cabin number is allocated by P&O Cruises prior to departure. Dining preferences are not guaranteed. Shuttle buses in ports are an additional cost. Early Saver prices apply to new bookings only. These terms and conditions vary, where relevant, the applicable booking conditions which are otherwise unchanged. For up-to-date prices and full terms and conditions, which you must read before booking, please visit *Please note: stop-offs vary by cruise.
Forbes
26-03-2025
- Forbes
Step Into Norway's Viking Age History In Stavanger
'Sverd i fjell' monument to the Viking Age in Stavanger, Norway. The Viking Age was a defining era for Norway, leaving behind a legacy of exploration, conquest, and craftsmanship that still captures the imagination today. Look no further than several recent hit TV series for proof of how Viking stories—fact and fiction—continue to fascinate global audiences and shape modern perceptions of this dramatic period in Scandinavian history. Founded in 1125 and marking its 900th anniversary in 2025, Stavanger is one of Norway's most historic cities. While best known today for its role in the country's oil and gas industry, the city's roots stretch back much further. Stavanger sits near the site of a legendary Viking battle that helped shape the nation. Such is the influence of this story that even the city's professional soccer club is named Viking, but, until recently, relatively little else was known about the time period in the region. Recent archaeological studies at Stavanger Cathedral have shown evidence that Stavanger was a farming settlement at the beginning of the Viking Age, and grew throughout the period into a center for craft and trade. Today, visitors can explore that history through monuments and immersive experiences that bring the Viking Age to life. A short drive or bus ride from the central district is Sverd i fjell (Swords in the rock), one of the city's most iconic landmarks. A striking monument overlooking the Hafrsfjord, these three giant bronze swords stand embedded in the rock, commemorating the legendary Battle of Hafrsfjord from 872 CE. According to Norwegian history, it was here that King Harald Fairhair united several smaller kingdoms to become the first king of a unified Norway. The swords symbolize peace, unity, and freedom, towering above the fjord as a powerful reminder of the nation's Viking past. Close by, visitors can continue their journey through the past at the Iron Age Farm (Jernaldergården). This reconstructed settlement, based on archaeological findings, offers a hands-on experience of daily life more than 1,500 years ago—before the Viking Age began. Stavanger's Iron Age Farm offers a deeper exploration of Stavanger before the Viking Age began. Visitors can step inside longhouses with open hearths, learn about farming techniques, and gain a deeper appreciation for the lives of the people who laid the foundations of Norway's Viking society. For a more immersive experience, visitors can head downtown to Viking House, a modern attraction that uses the latest virtual reality technology to bring Viking history vividly to life. Wearing an Oculus Rift S headset, guests are transported back more than a thousand years to experience dramatic tales from the Viking Age. Highlights include the rise of Harald Fairhair and a retelling of the Battle of Hafrsfjord, offering valuable context to a visit to the swords monument. It's an engaging way to connect the legend with the landscape. For a deeper understanding of the Viking Age and its lasting impact on the region, visitors can explore the Archaeological Museum at the University of Stavanger. The museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts excavated from Viking burial sites and settlements across Rogaland, including weapons, tools, jewelry, and everyday objects, providing valuable insight into the craftsmanship, trade networks, and social structures of Norse society. The museum also features the 12,400-year-old skeleton of a polar bear. Unearthed on the nearby island of Finnøy, it's one of the most complete Ice Age polar bear finds anywhere in the world. The bear's remains provide a glimpse into the region's prehistoric fauna and climatic conditions. While Stavanger's Viking Age heritage draws many visitors, the city offers plenty more to explore. A stroll through Gamle Stavanger reveals one of Europe's best-preserved collection of wooden houses, with more than 170 white-painted homes lining cobbled streets near the waterfront and cruise port. Once home to fishermen and labourers, the district is now a charming reminder of the city's maritime past, yet still an active residential area. For a deeper understanding of Norway's modern history, the Norwegian Petroleum Museum offers a fascinating look at the oil and gas industry that transformed Stavanger into one of the country's wealthiest cities. Interactive exhibits explain the complex offshore operations that continue to drive the region's economy. Stavanger has also earned a global reputation for street art, thanks in part to the NuArt Festival. Large-scale murals from international artists can be found throughout the city, adding a contemporary edge to the historic surroundings. For those with more time, Flor og Fjære offers a unique escape—an island garden paradise reached by boat, known for its colourful displays and guided tours. Meanwhile, nature lovers can venture out on a cruise along Lysefjord, where dramatic cliffs and waterfalls provide a striking contrast to Stavanger's urban appeal.
