Scandinavia – the most picturesque part of Europe; drawing its culture and warm hospitality from the Vikings – its early settlers !!! By definition, made up of Norway, Denmark and Sweden, though we will take the liberty of adding Finland to it as well and of course the extensions to Iceland and Greenland are more than worth it !!!

But for today, let us zero in on the Jewel of Scandinavia – Norway – the most beautiful country that probably you will ever visit in your lifetime…the distance from South of Norway to North of Norway is roughly 3000 kms which is the distance between Norway and Italy !!!! So, we are talking about a vast and huge country dotted with quaint fishing villages along the longest coastline of Atlantic Ocean. One needs to witness the magic of Atlantic Ocean firsthand to realize how volatility can still be peaceful !!! The turbulent blue waters of Atlantic Ocean at certain places and the balmy calm lagoon at certain places are a beauty not-to-be-missed in this lifetime !!! E6 (European 6) highway stretched along Norway roughly 2628 km long is the longest road within a single country in Europe except Russia. The northern drive on this road offers an astounding view of the mountains and fjords.

Atlantic Ocean Road !!!

The unmissable part of Norway – an architectural marvel, an ode to human mind and a treat to drive on – definitely deserving to be called as one of the Best man-made marvels of the World !!! Atlantic Ocean Road is part of Norwegian national road 64 (Rv 64). The road’s roller coaster-feel, curvy bridges and phenomenal views have made it a favorite of road trippers and motorcyclists. Atlanterhavsvegen – as it is locally called runs through an archipelago in Eide and Averøy in Møre og Romsdal, Norway. It passes by Hustadvika, an unsheltered part of the Norwegian Sea, connecting the island of Averøy with the mainland and Romsdalshalvøya peninsula. It runs between the villages of Kårvåg on Averøy and Vevang in Eida. It is built on several small islands and skerries, which are connected by several causeways, viaducts and eight bridges—the most prominent being Storseisundet Bridge – which is the highlight of this stretch !!! If you are lucky, then you may catch a glimpse of a beautiful moon while passing on this bridge on a full moon night – something worth planning for well in advance 🙂 If in Norway – this is definitely not to be missed !!!!

Fjords !!!

The lesser said, the better it is. Norwegian Fjords are the most astounding ones in the entire World !!! Either you drive around them, or Cruise on them, the images will remain with you till your last breath !!! Untouched and unparalleled beauty, deep calm turquoise waters, sky-kissing cliffs, and narrow inlets – the thought itself is so invigorating 🙂 Be it the famous Fjord journey to Bergen via Voss, Flam or the other known fjords like Geirangerfjord, Sognefjord, Hardanderfjord or the balance of 1190 fjords that are in Norway – you can never get enough of them. Stunning waterfalls, hiking trails, kayaking, cruises, fishing, and so much more !!! These fjords offer you all and yet keep you yearning for more !!!

Lofoten, Harstad and Tromso !!!

If there is one place probably where you can live your rest of retired life, then it has to be either of these areas 🙂 Lofoten – the most laid back and quaint fishing island just off the coast of Norway offers stay in Fishermen Cabins (Rorbu as they are locally called). When in Lofoten, don’t forget to drive down to Harstad and Nupen (the most romantic place on this earth known for the most beautiful views of Midnight Sun and Northern Lights) !!! Imagine standing with your beloved on the banks of Atlantic Oceans, with cliffs soaring high and you holding hands and staring at nothingness for hours together  – isn’t it the perfect evening you can think of?

Tromso – known as the Venice of Scandinavia – words are less to describe this Northern Capital of Norway. Nightlife and laid back – all encompassed in one place !!! Falling above Arctic Circle, Tromso is known for the best views of Northern Lights and Midnight Sun !!!

Nordkapp and Svalbard

Ever fascinated being on Top of the World – well here is your chance to do just that !!! North Cape – the Northern most point of Europe that is connected to land or Svalbard islands – the Northern most inhabited place on earth known for free roaming Polar Bears are experiences you can never trade for anything !!! Standing at the northern most point in Nordkapp, one can only see Arctic Ocean till the horizon a the distance – turbulent at times, and gentle like breeze on other occasions 🙂 Don’t miss driving to Norkapp through the under-sea tunnel which connects it with mainland and which closes in the winters due to Ice formed in Sea !!!!

Norway, the land which you can keep gushing about, is best explored driving around and stopping by some unsuspecting villages, free-flowing waterfalls, and mingling with locals. Enjoy a beer with them in one of those countryside Inns or simply talk to them about their Viking history – the stories of which will enthrall you. Norway, the country which is ever ready to welcome with its open arms is a Jewel that nature has crafted with patience, precision and love.

Come and experience this magic yourself to have a once-in-a-lifetime experience 🙂

Blue Duck Signs off for now 🙂 Waiting to take you to some other destination very soon 🙂