Day 1: Southampton, United Kingdom

Day 2: At Sea

Day 3: Cruising Lysefjord, Norway

The Lysefjord is a stunning example of the Norwegian fjords' spectacular natural beauty. Carved into the landscape by glacier movement in the Ice Age approximately 10,000 years ago, Lysefjord is lined by magnificent mountains and dramatic cliff faces – some soaring over 1,000 metres high into the unpolluted skies above.

In some sections of the fjord the water is as deep as the mountains are high, however at the shallowest point the water depth drops to just 13 metres. This means only small ships such as those in the Fred. Olsen fleet can cruise the Lysefjord.

Sailing along the glassy waters on board a smaller cruise ship is without doubt the best way to take in the fjord's eclectic sights. Lookout for tumbling waterfalls, wonderful wildlife and pretty settlements dotted along the shores; and marvel at the sight of the impressive Lysefjordbrua suspension bridge as so you sail into the fjord.

On a clear day it is possible to see the famous Preikestolen – a huge 604 metre-high flat mountain plateau – and Kjeragbolten, a large rock wedged in one of Mount Kjerag’s crevices. If you’re very lucky you may hear the gunshot-like bang of Kjeragsmellet – an unexplained natural phenomenon that’s particularly prominent in the winter months.

Day 4: Eidfjord, Norway

The picturesque village of Eidfjord, set within the breath-taking Hardangerfjord, is a gateway to some of the region's most spectacular natural features and possibly the most beautiful place in the Norwegian fjords. Located beneath a back-drop of soaring, snow-peaked mountains, engraved with rivers and waterfalls, Eidfjord begs for exploration and presents some of the fjordland's greatest photo opportunities The village’s tranquil feel extends to the lush fields that run for miles, meandering through clusters of wood-slat homes in ice-cream hues.

Two quaint churches, one dated back to 1309, are both worth exploring, while the Troll Train offers a 50-minute guided tour of this stunning region. From the train you can experience Eidfjord’s exquisite scenery and Hæreid, the largest Viking burial site from the Iron Age.

Hiking is very popular in the area, and for those keen sports enthusiasts, kayaking down the dramatic, mountain-flanked fjords is a must-do. Alternatively, visitors can head for the amazing Hardangervidda Nature Centre or the infamous Voringfossen Waterfall, a tumbling natural beauty set deep in the mountains of Måbødalen Valley.

Day 5: Olden, Norway

At its eastern end, the magnificent Nordfjord divides into three arms beneath the glaciers of the Jostedalsbreen, and Olden sits at the beginning of the southernmost of these arms. A charming village, Olden is among green meadows which are ablaze with colourful flowers throughout the summer, and through which babbling brooks meander between pretty houses.

In the centre of the village is the Old Church, built in 1759 on the site of a 14th century stave church: the timber was used for the pew doors and doorposts. Near the church is the Singerheimen, the former home of William Henry Singer Jr, an heir to a steelworks in Pittsburgh, who lived in Olden between 1868-1943 and donated large amounts of his wealth to fund the building of local hospitals and roads here. Singer was also a gifted amateur artist, and some of his paintings the Olden area can be seen in his workshop.

The beautiful Oldedalen Valley extends for 12 miles behind Olden and is an absolute joy to explore. On an adventure into the valley you can marvel at huge, near-vertical cliffs, a string of spectacular waterfalls, and sparkling glaciers, such as the astonishing Briksdal.

Day 6: Haugesund, Norway

Day 7: At Sea

Day 8: Southampton, United Kingdom