FABULOUS FJORDS

Norway's craggy mountains, mirror-like lakes and historic cities make for a perfect summer break

- KERRY WALKER

WHY GO?

Beauty is off the charts in southern Norway, with fjords, lofty mountains, salmon-filled rivers and crash-bang falls that elicit gasps of wonder. Try as you might, no photo can ever do these landscapes justice. But in a country that prizes 'friluftsliv' (outdoor living), nature isn't just there to be admired - it's there to be embraced. Dive deeper and you'll find cultured cities, progressive arts scenes and season-led restaurants that sing of land and sea.

TAKE TO THE WATER

Stavanger and Bergen act as springboards to the fjords, with multiple tours departing from both cities. Fjord Tours (fjordtours.com) runs fully electric cruises across Lysefjord, passing islands, towering cliffs, rainbow-kissed falls and the iconic Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock). Or ramp up the speed on an inflatable boat ride with Fjord Events (fjordevents.no/en). Want to tune into the silence and majesty of the fjords? Kayaking with Fjord Expedition (fjordexpedition.com) allows you to appreciate their mighty scale. Three-hour trips usually involve a beach and a picnic.