Today, the ship docks in Eidfjord. One of the longest fjords with the village of Eidfjord is located at the fjord’s end. I arise at 4 AM to watch the ship sail thru the Hardangerfjord and into the Eidfjord. Fascinating to see so many waterfalls, snowy mountain tops, and many small farms, homes and villages along the shores of the fjords. The population of Eidfjord is 950 people which is considered mid-sized – All of Norway is only 5.4 million – 2nd most sparsely populated country besides Iceland.

We chose a tour that would take us into the countryside of Norway. The bus departs on the road along the fjord from Eidfjord, over the suspension bridge into tunnels which even have roundabouts in the middle of the tunnels. Norway loves tunnels – above ground through mountains and under the sea between islands and sides of fjords.

The countryside is small farms, homes, schools, pastures with sheep and goats, and orchards. Did you know – the farmers, paint their homes white their barns red, and their parents home yellow? We make a stop at a waterfall. It’s called the Tvindefossen, about 400 feet high, and acquired a reputation for rejuvenation and revival of sexual potency that made it one of the most important natural tourist attractions. We are told by the tour guide to be careful if we decide to try to drink from it.

Our next stop is at Nali to see the valley located in the Nardyfjord World Heritage area. A Beautiful famous vista! On to the Vikings!

The Viking Village of Gudvagen was built in the past 10 years by a group of people who live in the area and wanted to create a true replica of a Viking village without the ‘movie or TV version’ of Vikings. They did a nice job and the tour people were extremely informative. Lots of Viking history, answers to questions and then we are served a luncheon meal of root vegetable soup, fish, pork, and chicken. There is an axe throwing area and archery practice for anyone interested. The buildings include blacksmith, weaver, jewelry, and a few homes. Fun experience.

The tour Viking man (prior career was teacher) was providing us with all the information on the tour. He wore a microphone to talk to us through radio boxes with a hearing device. This picture made me laugh because the red microphone looks like his nose. He was explaining how they made the longboats and what a strategic advantage they were for the Vikings. No clowning around!

On the way back, we make a quick stop at another waterfall not too far from Eidfjord.

Back through the tunnels and over the bridge to Eidfjord and our ship. We are now ready to be Vikings!