Weekend Destination: Bergen and the Call of the Norwegian Fjords
Bergen

Just a two-hour flight from Paris, Bergen is the perfect destination for a getaway to the heart of Norway's fjords. Nestled between the sea and the mountains, the kingdom's former capital is also the ideal starting point for exploring the great outdoors and getting a real breath of fresh air. From its centuries-old trading port past, the city has preserved the fabulous Bryggen district, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, the small, colorful wooden houses house chic boutiques and traditional restaurants popular with locals and visitors alike. A magical place for a Nordic experience in one of Norway's most beautiful cities.

Our reporter Jessica Pierné in Bergen, Norway

A complete change of scenery!

When the sun takes on a Californian feel, a stroll along the Bryggen quayside is particularly pleasant. We toast on the wooden terraces facing the Baltic Sea in one of Norway's most photogenic spots. The evening continues with a seafood platter featuring the unmissable Norwegian salmon, some shrimp, and herring. Listed as a "Creative City of Gastronomy" by UNESCO since 2015, Bergen is also a true culinary destination.

Bergen and its wooden terraces facing the sea
Bergen at night

A moment of contemplation

For the most beautiful view of Bergen, take the funicular and follow a hiking trail to the viewpoint on Mount Fløyen. At an altitude of 320 meters, the view is magnificent. The resort is also the starting point for superb hikes through the forest.

Bergen from the sky
Bergen offers great hikes through the forest

The historic district of Bryggen

Bergen's oldest district stretches along the river. In the early 14th century, these wooden buildings housed the warehouses and dwellings of the famous Hanseatic merchants. Today, people come here to enjoy Norwegian tapas with sardines or elk meat and savor Bergen soup, made from pressed and marinated fish.

Our reporter Jessica Pierné in the historic district of Bergen
Norwegian tapas

The Fellsiden district

Behind the Bryggen district, there are beautiful wooden houses on the hillside. We climb then descend towards the sea to reach the steep Knøsesmauet alleyway lined with houses from the 17rd and 18thrd century. As you will have understood, it's a real journey through time!

le Fellsiden district

A bath to reduce stress

In the heart of Bergen lies the Nordnes Sjøbad swimming pool, heated to 35°C with direct access to the sea, whose temperature can drop to 4°C in the middle of winter. Norwegians don't hesitate to go from one extreme to the other after a workout to recover faster and reduce mental stress.

The swimming pool at Nordnes Sjøbad

A tribute to Marilyn Monroe

Nestled in the fjords of the west coast, Haugesund has a connection to the American star. His supposed father is said to have lived in this town before emigrating to the United States. Located on the quay, this statue was installed in 1992 for the 30th anniversary of the birth of the American hero.rd anniversary of Marilyn's death.

The statue of Marilyn Monroe in Bergen

ROUTE LOG:

Go :
Paris-Bergen, direct return flight with Air France from 220 euros per person www.airfrance.fr/

Where to stay?
A stone's throw from the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bryggen Quay, the Radisson Blu Royal Hotel It boasts an ideal location for exploring the city's Golden Triangle. Double rooms start at €132 per night for two people.