The Best Active Vacations in Norway

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), Damsgaardveien 106, Bergen (tel. 55-34-18-08), 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.

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.

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).