The Flamsbana: Explore Norway’s Breathtaking Scenic Train Ride

Summary

1. Introduction
2. Train Route Overview
3. Bergen to Myrdal
4. Myrdal to Flam
5. Flam to Myrdal
6. Myrdal to Bergen

I have expressed my enthusiasm numerous times for the train journey from Bergen to Flam, home to one of Norway’s majestic UNESCO World Heritage Fjords. This journey stands as one of the most remarkable train rides I have experienced, fundamentally reshaping my views on train travel.

Historically, I perceived train rides primarily as a means of transportation in the UK. Although some routes offered splendid views, frequent journeys from Scotland to England diminished their uniqueness in my perspective.

However, my experience aboard the Flamsbana, heading towards the Fjords, completely transformed my understanding of train travel. My expectations were significant, as I had previously researched the route extensively and viewed it on Pinterest many times; still, the experience exceeded all anticipations.

What I anticipated would be a relatively quiet route, where I could simply gaze out the window, turned into an exhilarating adventure as I hurriedly moved from side to side of the train, captivated by one picturesque sight after another, leading me to wonder where all the time had gone upon our arrival in Flam.

2. Train Route Overview

The train route to reach Flam from Bergen is as follows:

BERGEN -> MYRDAL -> FLAM

This route is straightforward. Tickets can be acquired via the official train company website – www.nsb.no/en/ (be sure to select your preferred language). An optional upgrade can be purchased for the Bergen to Myrdal segment, approximately £15/$20 per person, which includes benefits such as complimentary newspapers, tea, coffee, and increased seating space. This upgrade is highly recommended!

Our return journey, undertaken without the upgrade, was comfortable, yet I found myself wishing we had opted for the enhanced experience, even just for the tea.

The path from Flam to Myrdal is equally scenic, with the snow-blanketed Myrdal illustrating the allure of winter sports, as many passengers boarded with skiing equipment.

Naturally, the skiing facilities are situated a bit away from Myrdal itself, but the palpable excitement of skiers at the early hour of 7 am implies significant opportunities for winter enthusiasts.

Once again, fortunate Norwegians have relatively short travel times for weekend skiing! This serves as an additional highlight for both residents and visitors in Bergen. For reference, Myrdal is located high in the mountains, whereas Flam is situated within the valleys at the Fjords’ onset, explaining the snow at Myrdal contrasting with the warm greenery in Flam.

After my long monologue, let us proceed to the photographs documenting my journey from Bergen to Flam!