Grab a warm pastry from the Flåm Bakery before stepping on board this magical railway journey and take the slow ride up the mountain and experience some of the most dramatic scenery Norway has to offer.

Opened in 1940, the Flåm Train’s livery is a classic racing green, with comfortable bench seating, and doors that have sliding windows, so you can breathe in that fabulous mountain air as to traverse steep climbs through tunnels and over bridges making your way up to the mightiest of all the waterfalls, Kjosfossen. Stopping for a few minutes you can disembark the train to take photos and marvel at the sheer power of the water as it cascades down the mountainside through craggy black rocks feeling the spray of the water on your face (make sure you wear waterproofs).

Within minutes of stopping, an eerie song starts to fill the air. There you’ll spot Huldra, who is dancing in a red dress at the top of the waterfall. According to Norse mythology, Huldra is a troll that’s taken the form of a beautiful woman, singing to seduce you.

Once back on the train, you make your way further up the mountain, past deep valleys and bubbling rivers, rocky landscapes and deep forests where you start to see brightly coloured houses dotted amongst the landscape, and small traces of snow along the way.

Travelling there in the summer is a beautiful way to go through the seasons, starting with warm sun at the bottom of the mountain, and stepping out at Myrdal to mountains and houses covered in snow! You can step out for a few minutes at Myrdal and enjoy the fresh mountain air, and see the small village at the train station. If you prefer, you can go for a walk around the village, and get back on the next train, or there are lots of other ways to get back down the mountain!

Coming back down the Mountain!

You can choose to ride back down the Flåm Railway, enjoying the scenery from a different angle. Alternatively, for the more adventurous, there are a variety of exhilarating options.

  • Mountain Biking: Several thrilling downhill mountain bike trails descend from the summit, offering adrenaline-pumping rides through stunning scenery.
  • Zip-lining: Soar through the air like a bird on one of the many zip-lines that offer breathtaking views of the valley below.
  • Hiking: For those who prefer a more leisurely pace, there are numerous hiking trails that wind through the mountains, offering opportunities to explore the unique flora and fauna of the region.

Some stats about the Flåm Railway!

The village of Flåm is home to just 350 people, it’s the starting point of Flåmsbana, the Flåm rail. This scenic railway climbs steadily from its start at about sea level, moving at a gradient of up to 5.5% before reaching its terminus 12 miles later, at an elevation of 2,840 feet—this is one of the steepest railways in the world. The Flåm Railway tackles these gradients with ease, thanks to its ingenious cogwheel system.

Beyond the Train Ride: The Flåm Village

The Flåm Railway experience extends beyond the train journey itself. In the charming village of Flåm, you can indulge in local delicacies, fresh seafood and other traditional Norwegian dishes. There is also a Viking Pub that brews its own beer! With its fabulous high ceilings and carved interior, pop in and sit on the hand carved wooden throne, and you must try the Viking Plank, their fruit flavoured gluten free beers are amazing! You can truly feel like a Viking in this stunning building.

The people of Flåm are known for their warm hospitality. They are passionate about their region and eager to share its unique beauty and culture with visitors.

A Journey to Remember

The Flåm Railway is more than just a mode of transport; it’s an unforgettable adventure. It’s a chance to experience the raw power of nature, to witness breathtaking scenery, and to create memories that will last a lifetime.

Tips for your Flam Railway Adventure:

  • Book your ticket in advance: Especially during peak season, it’s essential to book your tickets in advance to secure your spot on the train, occasionally when a cruise ship arrives into the harbour, you may have to wait a while to get a ticket!
  • Dress warmly: The mountain climate can be unpredictable, so pack layers and be prepared for all types of weather, including rain!
  • Bring your camera: You won’t want to miss capturing the stunning scenery. Don’t forget to bring your power banks or phone charging cables
  • Embrace the adventure: Be open to exploring the various activities available, from hiking and biking to zip-lining.
  • Savor the moment: Take your time, enjoy the journey, and soak up the unique atmosphere of this magical place.

As slow travel and off-the-beaten-path adventures continue to rise as a top travel trend for 2025, taking this journey through the mountain on the Flam Railway is a perfect example of how to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of work life and reconnect with the beauty of nature. As you wind through these beautiful landscapes, you’ll understand why this iconic train ride is not just a mode of transport, but an experience that invites you to savor the memory as much as the enjoying the destination.