 |
|
|
The Best Active Vacations
Fishing: The cold, clear waters of Norway's freshwater streams are renowned for their salmon and trout, and the storm-tossed seas off the coast have traditionally provided enough cod and mackerel to satisfy most of the nation's population. Serious anglers sometimes end up losing themselves in the majesty of the scenery. Tips on fishing in and around the Norwegian fjords are provided by the Bergen Sportsfiskere (Bergen Angling Association), Fosswinckelsgate 37, Bergen (tel. 55-32-11-64), and the tourist information offices in Oslo and Bergen. Rural hotels throughout the nation can also give pointers on good spots. For a truly unusual fishing experience, Borton Overseas (tel. 800/843-0602; www.bortonoverseas.com) can arrange treks and accommodations in old-fashioned fishermen's cottages in the isolated Lofoten Islands. The rustic-looking, fully renovated cottages are adjacent to the sea. Rentals are for 3 days and include bed linens, maid service, boat rentals, and fishing equipment. For our favorite fishing hole recommendations, refer to "The Best Fishing."
Hiking: The woods (Marka) around Oslo boast thousands of kilometers of trails, hundreds of which are lit for nighttime use. If you don't want to leave the city, Frogner Park also has many paths. Any Norwegian regional tourist bureau can advise you about hiking. In Bergen, for example, refer to the Bergen Touring Club, whose members have spent years hiking through the western fjord country and can advise about the best trails. For our favorite hikes, refer to "The Best Hikes."
Skiing: This is the undisputed top winter sport in Norway, attracting top-notch skiers and neophytes from around the world. Norway is a pioneer in promoting skiing as a sport for persons with disabilities. Modern facilities comparable to those in Europe's alpine regions dot the landscape. If you're a serious skier, consider the best winter resorts, in Voss, Geilo, and Lillehammer (site of the 1994 Winter Olympics).
Mountain Climbing: Local tourist offices can offer advice. What we like best are guided hikes to the archaeological digs of the 8,000-year-old Stone Age settlements near the Hardangerjøkulen (Hardanger Glacier). The digs are about an hour's drive north of the mountain resort of Geilo. For information, contact the Geilo Tourist Office (tel. 32-09-59-00).
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without
notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before
planning your trip.
|
|
|
