Cruise Special: Private Trip To Canyons And Waterfalls With Flåm Railway

Introduction

Our review explores a highly-rated private shore excursion designed for cruise travelers eager to experience Norway’s awe-inspiring landscapes. This tour offers a personalized alternative to standard group trips, combining picturesque drives, scenic train journeys, and marvelous viewpoints—all with the comfort and insight of your own driver-guide.

What stands out most about this experience are the stunning vistas from Stegastein and Stalheim lookouts and the chance to ride the Flaam Railway, often lauded as one of the most beautiful train rides in the world. We also appreciate the flexibility of a private tour, allowing you to avoid the hustle and bustle typically associated with group excursions.

However, it’s worth noting that the price is relatively high at around $900 per person, which might seem steep if you’re on a tight budget. Still, for those seeking a tailored, immersive experience without the crowds, this trip is likely to be a top highlight of your cruise in Norway. It’s ideal for travelers who value authentic scenery, expert guidance, and a flexible schedule.

Key Points

• Private, guided experience focusing on scenic canyons, waterfalls, and viewpoints
• Ride the famous Flam Railway from Myrdal to Flam, enjoying spectacular views
• Visit iconic viewpoints like Stegastein and Stalheim
• Includes transportation, train tickets, bottled water, and a personal guide
• Perfect for travelers who prefer flexibility over large group tours
• Price reflects a premium, personalized experience—consider what value means to you

Why This Tour Stands Out

This shore excursion from Flam offers a more intimate, curated look at some of Norway’s most spectacular sights. Unlike larger bus tours, this private trip ensures you won’t be rushing from site to site with a crowd. Instead, you get a relaxed, immersive experience led by a knowledgeable driver-guide.

The inclusion of the Flam Railway is a major draw. This train ride is often considered one of the most beautiful in the world, taking you through rugged canyons and past waterfalls while climbing from sea level to the mountain station at Myrdal. The opportunity to see Tvindefossen waterfall and gaze over the Aurlandsfjord from Stegastein provides picture-perfect moments.

While the tour’s premium price might give some pause, it largely covers the convenience of hotel or cruise port pickup, private transportation, and tailored attention from a guide who can make your experience more engaging and personalized.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Starting Point: Flam

Your adventure begins in Flam’s central area, the gateway to some of Norway’s most photographed regions. Flam itself offers a charming harbour and access to iconic attractions, making it an ideal departure point.

Stop 1: Stegastein Viewpoint

The first stop is the famous Stegastein Viewpoint, perched above the Aurlandsfjord. Here, you’ll get a panoramic view of the fjord from a platform that extends outward, giving you a breathtaking perspective of this branch of Sognefjord.

Travelers consistently praise this stop for its spectacular scenery. The free admission makes it an excellent value, and the approximately 20-minute visit allows plenty of time to soak in the views and take photos.

Stop 2: Stalheim

Next, you’re taken to Stalheim, another lookout that provides a sweeping vista over the UNESCO-listed Naeroyfjord valley. The views here are particularly dramatic, with steep cliffs and lush greenery that showcase the rugged charm of Norway’s landscape.

This stop also lasts around 20 minutes and is free, making it a quick but memorable snapshot of Norway’s rugged beauty. Travelers highlight the amazing views, which are often described as a highlight of the trip.

Stop 3: Flam – The Railway Experience

The centerpiece of the tour is the ride on the Flam Railway from Flam to Myrdal. This train journey, lasting about an hour, takes you through rugged canyons, past waterfalls, and along steep mountainsides. Passengers frequently comment on its dramatic scenery and the engineering marvel of this mountain railway.

Once in Myrdal, the train ticket is included in the tour price, and you’ll continue your journey by train from Myrdal to Voss, offering more opportunities for photos and appreciating Norway’s natural grandeur.

Note: One of the reviews pointed out that train delays could cut short other parts of the trip, highlighting the importance of timing and flexibility.

Optional Sight: Tvindefossen Waterfall

On the way back or en route, the group may stop at Tvindefossen, a picturesque waterfall often featured in photos of Norway. Many travelers find this spot refreshing and perfect for capturing that quintessential fjord waterfall shot.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour covers all transportation costs—private air-conditioned vehicle, train tickets from Flam to Myrdal, then from Myrdal to Voss—as well as bottled water. The driver-guide not only navigates but also enriches your experience with insights about the area, making it more than just a scenic drive.

However, lunch is not included, so you’ll want to plan ahead if you’re hungry during your day out. The tour duration of about 5 to 6 hours provides a good balance between sightseeing and relaxation.

Authentic Traveler Perspectives

One reviewer mentions that Lorenzo was “quite knowledgeable about the places we visited” and “very helpful,” underscoring the value of a skilled guide. Conversely, another noted the experience felt “a bit stressful” due to time constraints and train delays, reminding visitors that Norway’s weather and schedules can be unpredictable.

Travelers praised the personalized attention and flexibility of this private tour, emphasizing that it’s a good fit for those who appreciate a tailored experience rather than a cookie-cutter excursion.

Price and Value: Is it Worth It?

At $903.85 per person, this trip is certainly a premium experience. When you consider it includes private transportation, guided insights, scenic train rides, and key viewpoints, it begins to justify the cost—especially compared to larger group tours that might charge similar prices for less personalized service.

For travelers who prioritize authenticity, comfort, and expert guidance, this tour offers significant value. It’s particularly appealing if you want to make the most of your limited time in Flam without feeling rushed or lost in a crowd.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private trip is best suited for cruise passengers who value personalized attention, authentic scenery, and a flexible itinerary. It’s ideal for those willing to pay a premium for a more intimate and hassle-free experience. Also, travelers who enjoy scenic train journeys, panoramic views, and photo opportunities will find this tour especially rewarding.

If you’re traveling with family, friends, or as a couple seeking a memorable, tailored adventure, this experience can be a highlight of your Norwegian cruise.

The Sum Up

In the end, this private tour from Flam offers a finely balanced mix of stunning views, engaging train rides, and personalized guidance. The stops at Stegastein and Stalheim provide some of the most spectacular vistas Norway has to offer, while the Flam Railway delivers an unforgettable journey through rugged canyons and lush waterfalls.

While it carries a higher price tag, the convenience of private transport and the opportunity to avoid crowded groups make it well worth considering—especially if you’re eager to savor Norway’s natural beauty at your own pace. It’s an ideal choice for those who want an authentic, comfortable, and memorable way to explore the fjords, waterfalls, and mountain scenery near Flam.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all weather conditions?
Most likely, yes, but as it requires good weather, poor weather could lead to cancellations or rescheduling. The provider offers a full refund or alternative date if canceled due to weather.

What is included in the price?
You get private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, train tickets from Flam to Myrdal and from Myrdal to Voss, bottled water, and a driver-guide.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since this is a private tour, your guide can adapt the schedule to some extent, though most stops are fixed. Confirm details when booking.

How long does the train ride last?
The Flam Railway from Flam to Myrdal lasts about 1 hour, offering scenic views of canyons and waterfalls.

Is there any free time during the tour?
Stops at Stegastein and Stalheim are about 20 minutes each, giving you time to enjoy the views and take photos.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most travelers book around 24 days ahead, as spots fill quickly due to limited availability.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, camera, perhaps some snacks, especially since lunch isn’t included. Check the weather forecast for appropriate gear.

This detailed, well-structured private tour combines the best of Norway’s natural scenery with the comfort of personalized service, making it an excellent choice for cruise travelers wanting to go beyond the typical group excursions.