Put a spring in your step in Fjord
Did you know that the sounds, smells and sights of spring produce serotonin in the brain. It creates a unique kind of happiness. We call it SPRINGFULNESS.
Norwegian Springfulness as explained by the Brain Scientist, Bjarne Kristian Aaslie Hansen: "Springfulness occurs when the Norwegian seasons change from cold winter to bright spring. Our brain reacts by producing more neuro transmitters like serotonin and dopamine. To put it simple, the intense changes in nature trigger the brain's feel good hormones. It makes us happier. We become more social. We sleep less and we get out more."
In short, spring is good for both body and soul.
One of the best places to experience Springfulness is of course in Fjord Norway.
Here are 7 reasons why:
1. The fruit trees are in bloom
Hundreds of thousands of trees and billions of flowers. The trees normally blossom in May, a time which is particularly beautiful by the Hardangerfjord and the Sognefjord.
2. The waterfalls have their biggest flow
Many of Norway's most impressive waterfalls are found in Fjord Norway. The melting snow makes them even more impressive in spring.
3 You can relax besides solveggen
Nothing is better than relaxing in a sheltered spot with your favourite drink as the sun caresses your face.
In Norway, every cabin has a wall for lounging in the sun, called solveggen (the "sun wall").
Just follow the locals. Spring is also when the gateway cities to the fjords, like Bergen, Ålesund and Stavanger, come alive again.
4. Snowcapped mountains
Be sure to charge your phone, so you can snap pictures of the view of the snowcapped mountains, towering over the fjords. Hike, bike, or kayak, or catch a ride to the top of a mountain with the Loen Skylift (pictured) or Romsdal Gondola.
5. Spring skiing
Spring offers the most enjoyable skiing, and early spring is the main season for ski touring. Experience some delightful late-season runs at popular ski resorts like Strandafjellet, Myrkdalen, Voss or Folgefonna.
6. Springtime swimming
Rejuvenate your senses with the first refreshing dip of the year! Hot tip: try swimming by a steaming fjord sauna, such as Heit.
7. Less tourists
Escape the crowds. In spring, the fjords are all yours. It's the perfect time to ride the famous Flåm Railway down to the fjord village of Flåm for a fjord cruise, and experience Norway in a nutshell. Visit popular sites such as Geiranger, Preikestolen, and explore the Northwest.
Spring in Fjord Norway can best be experienced from mid-April to early June.