Wednesday, August 7, 2024

Bergen, Norway


Bergen is the second biggest city in Norway - it was once the capital. 

Today we start our cruise. I have to say I’m somewhat ambivalent about this, but we’ll see…


It is peeee-ing down with rain but nevertheless I head out early down to the UNESCO world-protected Bryggen waterfront and get a few photo shots between squalls. 







Bergen has one of the largest collection of wooden houses in Europe, although many of these have been ravaged over time due to fire.


I also ‘lucked’ serendipitously on a laundromat which proves handy later (after breakfast). In fact, that is where we are now. We have been hand-washing to date and this is a good chance to wash thoroughly; it is not busy; and it is too wet to do any sight-seeing.


The boarding time for the ship is 2 pm. In the meantime, I set off for KODE Kunstmuseer - via the fish market down by the port. (MF is organising himself … ).



KODE is the West Norway Museum of Decorative Art, established in 1887.
I was keen to make amends for my discourtesy to Munch in Oslo. In fact, the Munch collection here is apparently even better; it is certainly one of the largest Munch collections in the world. The highlights include several pieces from his Frieze of Life – a series of paintings depicting various aspects of the psyche.

So - the on-board process was like checking in at an airport - screening, passport control, and an individual card for the room which is taken EVERYWHERE including getting you on and off the ship.


We unpacked and did a ship’s tour which was useful so we know where everything is (hopefully!!). There are 8 (EIGHT!) levels.



We are booked tonight into one of the ships restaurants (all gratis) but not until 8:30 pm so we head off the ship to explore the Bergen Fortress nearby and then wander along one of the nearby wharves where the locals are fishing. The sun has come out and it is a beautiful afternoon.


The Bergenhus Festning is one of the oldest and best preserved stone fortifications in Norway; it was built for the King in the 12th century. 




Back on board through security again. (A glass of champagne each time we board - so that’s two now!). Probably welcome drinks.


The Steinway grand piano is being played by a Russian musician. There’s also a cellist and violinist duo.



MF is in 7th heaven here - soooo much food.


Lovely views from our balcony.


Walked 15.5 kms

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1 comment:

  1. AnonymousAugust 10, 2024 at 3:18 AM

    Absolutely gorgeous. Bergen added to my travel wish-list. Thank you. SC.

    ReplyDelete

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