Geiranger, Norway

 Geiranger (Gay-ranger - and roll the “r”), Norway

.......our first Norwegian Fjord!

Geiranger is the gateway to some of coastal Norway’s most magnificent natural treasures. It took us 4 hours to traverse the fjord and arrive at Geiranger, a small village of 250 people nestled among the towering peaks of Geirangerfjord - a world UNESCO site. We were able to glimpse a couple of waterfalls on our way in - we did not choose to rise early to see them all, knowing we would have a second chance on our way out later in the day.  But, all I can say is WOW! What amazing views.

Originally, Ed was set to do a fishing trip at this stop but the day we boarded we found out that it had been canceled. After some rearranging, Ed decided to take a Rigid Inflatable Boat (RIB) ride through the Fjord, getting close to many of the amazing waterfalls including the Seven Sisters and the Suitor Waterfall. I was already set for a Scenic Bike Ride (pedal assist) - so, yes, we went our separate ways this morning.

Ed’s ride included a flotation suit and life jacket so getting wet was not an issue. He thoroughly enjoyed the ride. The guide was very informative as to some of the houses you see perched on the side of the fjord - one of which had been in the same family for over 400 years, although the house was empty at this point. Today no one lives in these houses as it’s too dangerous due to the potential of falling rocks, plus there’s no electricity. The RIB would race towards a waterfall and then the operator would cut the engine just in time for them to slow and glide towards the falling water. He only ever felt the spray from these magnificent falls. 

I headed for my bike ride, anxious to learn and experience the pedal assist bikes. After an introduction to the bikes, helmet fitting, and adorning our reflective vests, we set off to climb one of the two roads that lead away from the town. Cars, buses, campers, and walkers also share the road, but all are careful and considerate of each other. We rode single file for 10-15 minutes at a time before stopping for a view of the fjord below us - each time from a little bit higher than before.

At one of my stops a wooden/granite chair had been placed there in honor of the Queen of Norway as she is very much involved in the natural resources of Norway and gets out and enjoys the nature as much as possible - as do all Norwegians. The picture shows me sitting in her chair (rubbing my bottom with royalty).

On the way up the hill (and down) we would pass small and larger areas of rushing water/waterfalls - the sound was deafening and the coolness you would feel as you rode past the water was crazy! 

I really enjoyed the Pedal Assist bikes - yes, I pedaled a lot, but never got tired. And the bike would match my pedal with battery assist - so it was amazing to be pedaling up this mountain road without much effort. And going down was crazy - I was braking often. At one point I reached a speed of 30 km - it felt fast. 

We were surprised with a stop on the way down at a small restaurant and treated to waffles, jam, whipped cream and coffee or tea - did not know that was included and it was a wonderful addition to an already amazing excursion.

By the time we arrived back at sea level another cruise ship (Costa line) had arrived. It was a massive, 3000 person ship and pretty much ruined the beautiful view of the fjord. Fortunately I was able to get a good photo of our ship prior to the Costa arriving.

When we sailed away that evening, the rain stayed away and once again, we were able to get an up close and personal view of the many, many waterfalls dotting the steep walls of the fjord.

So far, this is my favorite stop on this cruise although I believe there will be more surprises in store.

See you again…