VY TRAIN TO BERGEN:
Yesterday was no fun as I fell ill. Nothing a day in bed can not fix. A little bummed. Our plans for that day had to be aborted.
On to a new day. We woke up early (0500), readied ourselves and made our way to the airport train station and boarded the Flytoget train to Oslo Central Station. We then bought some sandwiches for our journey. We did splurge and bought VY "Pluss" seats. Nice reserved seats with table, and we get coffee and tea. The coffee is good and strong. We were glad we arrived early as there had been a schedule change and we were leaving 20 min earlier.
The Bergen to Oslo train is among the most popular rail routes in Norway, connecting the two often-visited cities. From Oslo to Bergen is an adventure of its own as the train passes numerous scenic fjords, lakes, traditional Scandinavian villages, and opens incredible picturesque views of the countryside throughout the way. Interestingly, the route is actually considered to be one of the most beautiful ones in entire Europe and in the world. The Bergen Oslo railway journey may seem like a long one at first but the views outside the train window make it one that's worth it.
The Bergen Railway was built in 1909 and runs over the highlands between Oslo and Bergen. These are the two largest cities in Norway. The Bergen Line is Northern Europe’s highest railway line, with Finse being the highest train station at 1,222 metres above sea level.
Facts about the Bergen Line
To/from Oslo–Bergen
Departures per day: 4-6
Duration between Oslo and Bergen: between 6 hours 32 minutes and 7 hours 23 minutes (depending on day- or night train)
Construction period: 1894–1909
Locomotive power: Electric
Length of track: 471,25 km
Highest point on the track: 1 237 meters above sea level
Highest station: Finse (1222 meters above sea level)
Number of tunnels: 182
Longest tunnel: Finse tunnel 10,3 km
If you are thinking about making this journey, book early as during busy times the train will sell out months in advance. Book direct with VY Rail and avoid Rail Ninja. We did think about making this trip in winter but due to avalanches these trips may be canceled.
I must say this rail journey was most enjoyable and very scenic. It is hard to take photos on any moving train.
While WIFI is offered on this train it is not reliable at all.
We arrived at the Bergen Station and walked to our lodging the Clarion Hotel Admiral. This walk was a little over 1K. The cobble walkways can make ones journey a challenge. Just last January we walked from the tram station and our bags slid well on the slush and snow. Checking into the hotel, we chatted with the same clerk who checked us in in January. She now has a new favorite chocolate shop we will have to visit. We do like this location even if the rooms are small but for two nights it will work.
I am guessing the hotel is pretty full as we as we were asked to choose a breakfast time. We choose 0630-0745. The breakfast here is AMAZING and we are really looking forward to tomorrow morning.
Plan for tonight is chill, do laundry, and finish our lunch for dinner.
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