On our recent trip to Norway, my family packed an incredible amount into just seven  days—and seven flights! We explored Bergen on foot, rode the Fløibanen funicular to  the top of Mt. Fløyen, and cruised through the stunning Mostraumen Fjord. 

Next we spent a full day driving and photographing the dramatic landscapes of western  Norway before heading north to the remote Lofoten Islands, where playing a round at  Lofoten Links was the highlight of the trip. Although two fishing excursions and a wildlife  safari were canceled due to the weather, we embraced Plan B with a glass bead  workshop and a visit to the local aquarium. It was a good reminder that even when  travel doesn’t go as planned, it can still be filled with memorable experiences. 

Our final stop was Oslo, where we explored the grounds of historic Akershus Fortress  and experienced the city’s energetic atmosphere on the night Norway faced England in  the FIFA World Cup quarterfinals. The excitement and national pride throughout the city  made for an unforgettable evening. 

Of course, no trip is complete without sampling the local cuisine. We tried whale steak,  reindeer, creamy fish soup, and more oysters than we could count. We also traveled by  just about every mode of transportation imaginable—planes, trains, automobiles, and  boats! 

Norway’s dramatic scenery, welcoming people, and adventurous spirit made every one  of the 5,000-plus miles worthwhile. It’s a destination we’ll be talking about for years to  come.