By Sofia Haan
Are you looking to see Norway’s natural beauty from new heights? In the March issue of Viking, we highlight some of the country’s top cable car rides. Here are several that will give you a new perspective as you hitch a ride to the top of Norway’s peaks.
Mount Ulriken, Bergen Norway
Loen Skylift
Located in the picture-perfect Hoven mountains in the inner part of the Nordfjord, Skylift is one of the steepest gondola lifts in the world. It whisks you more than 3,000 feet above sea level to the top of Mount Hoven in just 5 minutes. At the top, enjoy a meal at Hoven Restaurant overlooking Norway’s mountains, lakes, glaciers and fjords.
Ulriken Cable Car
One of the best ways to see Bergen and the surrounding region is from the sky. Ulriken cable car takes you up to the highest of Bergen’s seven mountains. From the top, take the popular hike route between Mount Ulriken and Mount Fløyen to enjoy the beauty of Bergen’s mountains. Nosh on seasonal Nordic cuisine at Skyskraperen restaurant next to the viewing platform.
Fjellheisen
For panoramic views over Tromsø, take a ride on Fjellheisen. Originally built in 1961, the cable car is the city’s most popular tourist destination and can accommodate up to 400 passengers per hour. The 4-minute ride rewards visitors with views of the mountains, fjords and ocean. In the summer, the panorama deck displays the Arctic Midnight Sun, while winter visits offer views of the Northern Lights. Fjellstua Café is open for lunch and dinner.
Narvikfjellet Cable Car
This cable car carries visitors 2,152 feet above sea level to the city of Narvik in northern Norway. It’s part of Narvikfjellet ski resort—one of the country’s most beautiful ski havens. At the top of the mountain, groomed trails await skiers of all ability levels. On a clear day, you may even see as far as Lofoten.
Romsdalen Gondola
Near the alpine town center of Åndalsnes, take this gondola to the top of Nesaksla mountain 2,323 feet above sea level. Traveling up the mountainside from Isfjorden, visitors can enjoy 360-degree views of the town center, lush valleys and the emerald green Rauma river. Take the gondola back down to town or hike back to the harbor and stop by the Rampestreken viewpoint.