Recently voted the happiest country in the world, Norway has started planning the world’s first tunnel for ships.
High waves, sea currents and subsea topography all combine to cause challenging sailing conditions, according to the Norwegian Coastal Administration (NCA). This has led to the planned development of the Stad Ship Tunnel, which aims to help make journeys smoother and more enjoyable. Measuring 37 metres high and 26.5 metres wide, the route for the tunnel could stretch for more than a mile.
The project is expected to begin in 2019 and forms part of the official Norwegian National Transport Plan (NTP) 2018-2029. The tunnel will prevent the need to pass through the Stadhavet Sea, which is the most exposed, challenging part of Norway’s coastline, and will help passengers to reach the best that Norway has to offer.
Speaking of which, has news of the tunnel tempted you to discover the diverse landscapes and culture of this Scandinavian gem? Here are 4 must-see destinations in Norway:
4 must-see destinations in Norway
Norway is the ideal cruise destination for a multitude of holidaymakers. For those wanting to unwind and detox from modern life, you can escape to the fjords and the likes of Geirangerfjord and Flåm. Culture vultures, meanwhile, can visit Oslo and immerse themselves in the country’s best galleries and museums.
Flåm
If you’re looking for an authentic Norwegian experience then a trip to Flåm will be ideal for you. Named the world’s most incredible train journey by Lonely Planet in 2014, the Flåmsbana will take you from Flåm across the mountains, waterfalls and farms that cling to the slopes of the hills. The neighbouring forest and woodland that surrounds the village open up idyllic hiking trails, as well as one of the most scenic bicycle journeys in the country along the Navvies’ Road.
Geirangerfjord
Mother Nature well and truly spoilt us with Norway and there are few more stunning locations than Geirangerfjord, a UNESCO site bordered by dense woodlands, snow-capped mountains and wonderful waterfalls. After successive ice ages, glaciers carved deep fjords between mountains creating this inspiring natural landscape. Amongst the must-see sights in Geirangerfjord, De Syv Søstre (the Seven Sisters) stands out above the rest, with this waterfall pouring a mist of water over the sheer cliffs, often creating beautiful rainbows. Take a trip to Geirangerfjord to see famous fjords, hike through forests or kayak up rivers.
Oslo
Oslo incorporates the best of both worlds, uniting a metropolitan city with quintessentially Norwegian forests and fjords. One of the fastest-growing cities in Europe, Oslo has become a cosmopolitan hub of museums, art and restaurants - while still retaining the friendly atmosphere of a small town. If it is the culture you crave, then Oslo is the destination for you. Many of the country’s most popular cultural institutions call this city home, including the National Theatre, National Museum of Art, Architecture and Design and the Norwegian Opera & Ballet.
Tromsø
There are many stunning examples of natural beauty in Norway but the northern lights top them all. Steeped in legend, the aurora borealis is one of the great natural wonders of the world. People from far and wide head to the Arctic Circle for a glimpse of these dancing lights. A modern destination, Tromsø is the most northerly city in Norway and the best location from which to catch the lights in the country. Accompanied by a vibrant nightlife scene, bountiful outdoor pursuits and typically Nordic design, Tromsø is a must-visit cruise destination.
