Bergensbanen: World's Most Beautiful Train Journey
- 19 hours ago
- 4 min read
One of the world's most beautiful train journeys, and one of the oldest in Europe. Just under 7 hours through some of the finest scenery Norway has to offer. The route moves past sparkling lakes, deep forests and the quiet Norwegian countryside.
The train then begins its slow climb onto a mountain plateau, pausing at the highest railway station in Northern Europe, Finse. From there, it begins its descent through western Norway, threading past dramatic fjords before rolling into the picturesque harbor town of Bergen. Welcome to the Bergen Railway Line.
This article was made in collaboration with Vy, but opinions are entirely Rail Voyage's.
INSIDE THE ARTICLE
The Journey Oslo to Bergen
If you are one of those who believe the journey can be as much a part of the experience as the destination itself, then Bergen Railway will be your cup of tea.
It’s known as one of the most scenic trains in the world, one of the oldest railways in Europe (dating back to 1883) and home to the highest railway station in Northern Europe. No matter the season, Bergensbanen will take your breath away.
Grab a coffee, and get ready for the most beautiful rail views in Scandinavia.
Chapter 01
The Departure Oslo - Bergen Railway
08.30 at Oslo S. Coffee in hand. The Vy train is already on the platform. We quickly find our seats and get comfortable.
Chapter 02
Sparkling lakes & Norwegian Countryside
The train moves through open farmland. Passes lakes and small villages. Flå, Nesbyen, Gol, Ål. The perfect way to experience the Eastern climate of Norway before climbing the mountains and entering the western sea climate.
Chapter 03
The Plateau
Slowly, the trees begin to thin out. We've entered Hardangervidda, Northern Europe's largest mountain plateau. For a while, there is nothing but stone, the sound of the train, and in most cases, snow. Yes, snow can stay here until June.
Finse, the highest railway station in Northern Europe, sits at 1222 m above sea level. No roads lead to Finse, the station is reachable only by train, bike or on foot.
Chapter 04
The Café on Wheels
Hunger is upon us, and we make our way to the café located in the middle of the train. While the train slowly moves through the tree-free landscapes at 1200 metres height, we enjoy some Norwegian waffles, preferably with jam & sour cream, or brown cheese, perfectly paired with the classic Norwegian chocolate, Kvikk Lunsj.
"For twenty minutes there is no forest, no road, no colour but white and pale stone. Only the sound of the train and the plateau"
Chapter 05
The Descent & Fjords
At Myrdal, Bergen Line meets Flåm Railway, another incredibly scenic train passing waterfalls, moving through lush valleys and stopping by the fjord in Flåm.
The Bergen Line continues west, passing Voss and slowly making it's way down to the fjord, where the mountains and water meet. Stay awake for this part, the scenery hasn't ended but has changed, no less impressive.
Chapter 06
Bergen, The Most Picturesque Town in Norway
We've made it to Bergen, surrounded by seven mountains by the sea in the west. Here every corner feels like a postcard. Take your time to explore the city, and find some of our favourite things to do in Bergen below.
The Details
ROUTE Oslo to Bergen
DISTANCE About 500 km
DURATION Roughly 6.5 hours
COMPANY Vy, a Norwegian rail company
HIGHEST POINT Finse, highest station in
Northern Europe
BEST SEASON Incredible in all seasons.
June-September for
green valleys
Sep-Oct for most beautiful
autumn colours
Nov - April for snow April-May for shifting seasons along the journey
BOOK Reserve seats in summer,
sells out quite fast. Vy.no
TIPS Bring some extra warm
clothes, can be 15 degres less than Oslo Remember there is little
daylight during winter, make
sure you book a mid day train during winter to get the
most of out of the journey.
Where to go next..
The Bergen Railway can easily be combined with the picturesque town of Bergen or the scenic train ride Flåm Railway, with a weekend spent in nature, by the fjord in Flåm.
My favourite things to do in Flåm, Norway
Flåm Railway
Another one of world's most scenic trains, a vintage train passing waterfalls and ends by the fjord in Flåm. Get off Bergensbanen in Myrdal & board it from there.
Fjords
One of the absolute highlights in the area is the fjord, which is partly an UNESCO heritage. Board a boat ride breath in the crisp air, with sounds of waterfalls and birds chirping.
Sauna
There is something about stepping into a 75 degrees room with mountain views. No matter the season. If you dare, you can swim in the water. In May the temperature was 8C.
Highlights from Bergen
Old Town Bryggen
The charming fishing houses in Bergen are truly unique. Bryggen is a must!
Cafés & Eat
Don't miss visiting any of the cosy cafés or small dining places in town.
Architecture
Exploring Bergen's picturesque alleys could easily be a full day activity.
More things to do in Bergen here
Enjoy your slow journey through Norway! The scenic way, by train!
If you want more daily slow travel inspiration with a selection of handpicked stays, places & unique trains, welcome to the Rail Voyage's instagram.
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