Flåm Railway Norway – the most scenic and beautiful train rides in the world

by Wen

Flåm Railway: A Journey Through Norway’s Heart

Nestled deep within Norway’s majestic fjordland, the Flåm Railway (Flåmsbana) is consistently lauded as one of the world’s most scenic and beautiful train journeys. This 20-kilometer stretch, connecting the tiny fjord village of Flåm to the mountain station of Myrdal, isn’t just a mode of transport; it’s an immersive experience that transports passengers through some of the most dramatic and breathtaking landscapes Scandinavia has to offer.

The Flåm Railway is touted by virtually every tourism site as a must-do in Norway, so we made sure to experience it! We enjoyed a round trip from Flåm to Myrdal, with each hour-long leg of the journey revealing stunning views of the valley and its many waterfalls.

Brief stop at Kjosfossen waterfall for breath taking view of waterfalls. We had the opportunity to get off the train and spend some time at the foot of this amazing waterfall. While looking up, some music began and then a woman dressed in red appeared dancing, further up next to the top of the waterfall. It was such a great surprise!

A Masterpiece of Nature and Engineering

The true magic of the Flåm Railway lies in its ability to traverse an incredible spectrum of natural beauty in a relatively short distance. As the train gently pulls away from the shimmering waters of the Aurlandsfjord in Flåm, you are immediately enveloped by steep, verdant valleys, clinging waterfalls, and snow-capped peaks that pierce the sky. The scenery continuously evolves, moving from idyllic pastures dotted with traditional Norwegian farmhouses to rugged, wild terrain that feels untouched by human hand. The engineering prowess required to construct this railway, with its 20 tunnels carved into the mountainsides and a dizzying descent of 866 meters (2,841 feet) at an almost unbelievable gradient, is a marvel in itself, seamlessly blending human ingenuity with the raw power of nature.

An Unforgettable Onboard Experience

The journey is designed for maximum viewing pleasure. The trains are equipped with large windows, allowing unobstructed panoramas of the cascading waterfalls, deep gorges, and charming hamlets passing by. One of the highlights is the stop at Kjosfossen waterfall, where passengers can disembark for a few minutes to witness its thundering power up close, often accompanied by a mystical performance inspired by local folklore. The pace is perfectly measured, slow enough to absorb every detail, yet dynamic enough to feel like a true adventure. Informative commentary, available in multiple languages, enhances the experience, providing insights into the railway’s history, the surrounding geology, and Norwegian culture.

We chose the right hand side which had the more scenic views and for the return journey the waterfall was on the other side.

From the windows the scenery was breathtaking! Lots of little farms dotted about along the way.

Why the Flåm Railway is a World-Class Ride

The Flåm Railway isn’t just a picturesque train ride; it’s an encapsulation of Norway’s wild beauty. It offers a unique perspective on the country’s diverse topography, from the tranquil depths of the fjords to the stark grandeur of the high mountains. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a photography buff, or simply seeking an unforgettable travel experience, this journey delivers on all fronts. It’s an efficient, comfortable, and utterly captivating way to witness some of the planet’s most spectacular scenery, truly living up to its billing as one of the most beautiful train rides in the world.

Fretheim Hotel

After a great trip on the Flam railway the hotel was just a few steps away. Flam was a small town, everything was central to square where the station and marina were located.