Norway is already famous for some of the most scenic railway routes in the world, and this new five-night, six-day sleeper service, slated for launch in late 2025 or 2026, will weave together many of the best bits into one luxurious whole. Starting in beautiful Bergen on the west coast, the Norient Express will cross the Hardangervidda mountain plateau, the largest national park in Norway, to reach Oslo. From there, it forges north to Trondheim, giving passengers a highlights reel of Norway’s famous fjords, mountains, lakes and glaciers. Keen to learn more? Read on as we delve into the newest addition to Norway’s tracks…
1. Sustainable travel
2. Interiors and amenities
3. Scenic landscapes
4. While we wait…
Sustainable travel
If you didn’t already know, we’re big fans of responsible travel. One of the easiest ways to practice this? By embracing train travel, of course. Not only can you enjoy a slower (and more romantic) pace of travel, but you gain a newfound appreciation for your setting and ultimately feel more connected to the destination. You’re making an environmentally conscious choice and enriching your experience – that’s a win-win in our books. The good news is that the Norient Express delivers on all fronts. Rolling across almost 600 miles of Norway’s legendary landscapes, this luxurious train is powered by electric rather than diesel engines (that’s double the brownie points).
Image by Tamme/stock.adobe.com
Interiors and amenities
While much about the Norient Express remains shrouded in mystery, it’s evident that sustainability commitments extend to its interiors. Travellers are treated to beautiful furnishings crafted from locally sourced natural materials (think plush upholstery and understated elegance). This Scandi sleeper also boasts an observatory carriage, perfect for uninterrupted, panoramic views of your scenic surroundings. You needn’t worry about falling behind on your regular exercise regime, either, as the train is equipped with a gym (yes, really). Bring on workouts with a view.
Scenic landscapes
There’s no shortage of stunning scenery in Norway, and this rail route takes you past some of the best. Beginning in Bergen, Norway’s UNESCO-recognised coastal city, the train chugs along to Oslo, passing a bounty of beautiful sights along the way, including the outdoor adventurer's playground, the Hardangervidda mountain plateau, and the lush, forested valley of Hallingdal. After exploring Norway’s cosmopolitan capital, you’ll trundle north to Trondheim. Passing the likes of lovely Lake Mjosa and the Dovrefjell mountains, keep your eyes peeled for musk ox. Reaching your final destination, take in some of the country’s top historic and cultural spots, including the world’s northernmost medieval cathedral and the cobbled Bakklandet neighbourhood. Depending on the time of year, you might even glimpse a Northern Lights-streaked sky…
Image by Millie Olsen/Unsplash.com
While we wait…
Eager to explore Norway’s majesty by train ahead of the new launch? Luckily, this is a nation full of unforgettable rail rides. First is the Flam Railway – often considered the most scenic – which trundles between Myrdal and Flam. This offers a short but sweet slice of scenery (in a two-hour round trip), but it still packs a punch with views of thundering waterfalls, verdant valleys and mountain vistas. Another rousing (but lesser-known) route is the Rauma Railway, which links Dombas and Andalsnes along the lush Romsdal Valley. This might be another speedy journey, but it’s long enough to admire awe-inspiring sights like the imposing Trollveggen mountain face and cross the 195-high Kylling Bridge (as well as 31 others). Longer routes include the Bergen Railway between Oslo and Bergen (the first section of the Norient Express) and the Nordland line – Norway’s longest line – between Trondheim and Bodo, a beautiful route that crosses the Arctic Circle.
Written by Hannah Whitehall | Header image by Lukasz Janyst/stock.adobe.com
