How to Spend A Day in Flam, Norway (From Cruise Ship)
When I think of Norway, I think of crisp air, incredible landscapes, roaring waterfalls, and endless fjords...and let me tell you, it did not disappoint. Upon arriving in the scenic village of Flam, located right on the end of Aurlandsfjord, it was like stepping into a fairytale. No wonder Norway is ranked as one of the happiest countries according to the World Happiness Index.
Flam has a lot to offer in terms of what to do, but without a doubt the most popular attraction is the Flam Railway. Seriously... just google the village and you'll be bombarded with the damn railway in almost every search. They sure are proud of it. However, the idea of sitting on an overpriced train just didn't thrill me. Been there, done that, and I've learned it's not my cup of tea. Instead, I chose a lesser known option: E-Mobility Flam.
Started in 2016, these quirky, 100% electric cars are guaranteed to make you smile and if you're anything like me, they'll get you singing Chamillionaire's "Ridin' Dirty" in no time. Don't be fooled though, these little talking cars can pick up speed. Yes, I did say talking cars. The built in GPS system also gives you facts about what you're seeing as you're cruising along. (Although, it is a bit tough to hear with the wind blowing in your face).
The company offers a couple different self-driving tours, but we decided to go with the two hour 'eTour Panorama Stegastein' and we were very happy with our choice.
As you're zooming along, your senses will be all over the place: eyes taking in the panoramic views, ears hearing goats "maaa" in the near distance, and nose smelling the fresh, 'just rained' scent. All to end up at the scenic Stegastein viewpoint. So scenic, it belongs in a coffee table book.
We parked our little cars and walked out onto the wooden platform to see the breathtaking Aurlandsfjord from above. You'll probably find yourself muttering "Is this real life?" at least ten times. I know I did.
brb. Let me go grab my paints and a canvas.
Here are a couple tips to keep in mind if you are interested in doing E-mobility Flam:
-Book ahead and for the first time available. We had Stegastein viewpoint to ourselves, but if we had waited only about 30 min to an hour later, it would have been crowded. We saw a lot of tour buses coming up the hill as we were coming down. So, unless you love crowds, avoid them by going first thing.
-The cars are only a short walk from the pier, maybe 15 min. Right past the shops.
-Drive all the way up to the viewpoint first (don't stop for pictures), then on your way back down you can make all the stops you want for photos. Again, avoid the crowds.
-Bundle up and expect wind blown hair. There are no windows. It is an open vehicle, so prepare yo self.
-I would recommend one car per person, unless you have a kid who can squeeze in the back. The price shown online for the tour is per car, not per person, but it is tight for two adults to fit in one car-- especially if you're tall!
-They do have free bathrooms at Stegastein Viewpoint. Loos with the views! (seriously, you get a view of the fjord from the toilet too). It's always a sigh of relief to know a bathroom is available if needed, especially when you're shoving down foreign food. yikes.
Since the e-tour only lasted 2 hours, we still had plenty of time for more adventures in Flam. Next up: hiking to Brekkefossen Waterfall.
Roundtrip from the Flam city center the hike is a little bit over 3 miles. It starts out on a paved path where you'll pass fields full of all sorts of animals making weird noises. Classic. Then, you know you've make it to the beginning of the trailhead when you're looking straight up the hillside to a bunch of rocky stairs. First thought-- what the hell did we get ourselves into?
I definitely wouldn't describe it as an 'easy peasy' hike, I mean it's practically straight up, but it's still do-able for all ages and fitness levels. You just have to pace yourself and take little breaks as needed to catch your breath. No shame. Especially when it is raining and straight up muddy on the trail. Take it sloowwww. One poor lady in front of us slipped and fell three times in the span of the hike. But once you get to the top, you'll forget all about the huffing, puffing, and suffering you went through to get there.
I mean.. this view? the mist of the water splashing on your face? Priceless. 10/10 would recommend.
xoxo,
Em