OUR ADVENTURE IN OLDEN
One port of call on our recent cruise with Princess Cruises took us to Olden, Norway. We have been here before and it is a lovely little town. However we thought we would do something a little further afield. Having checked out what was available through the cruise company which we thought expensive. So we looked elewhere and found a local company called Olden Adventure.
This is a company local to Olden who run excursions to the Briksdal Glacier, Loen Skylift, Loen Lake and more. Their website has plenty of useful information about trips available. Details include duration, departure times, an outline of what to expect, prices and cancellation policy.
Guided Troll Car Tour in Briksdal
Out of the choices of trips available on the day we were in port, we chose the Guided Troll Car Tour in Briksdal.
The 3.5 hour tour cost 950NOK (approx £73) per adult, there are reductions for children. Included is a scenic tour through the valley, the Troll Car and a walk to the foot of the glacier.
The bus collected us from the quayside adjacent to the ship. On boarding our guide introduced herself and our driver, her sister, both of whom were local. The guide was knowledgeable and happy to impart family stories too.
Journey to the Top
We arrived at `base camp’ as it was referred to and had a short break before getting onto the Troll Cars. This was very well organised with each car containing the driver and up to 7 passengers. Despite the pouring rain each driver made sure that seats were kept dry for us to sit in and once settled, covered our legs with a waterproof sheet.
We set off in a long `train’ over fairly rough terrain and weaved our way up the mountain track.
TOP TIP – if you don’t like heights try to sit in the middle of the row and close your eyes! Take a look below to see for yourself.
Within a few minutes we had arrived the stop where we all got out. Those who wanted to walk the rest of the way to the Glacier itself were able to do so. It isn’t a particularly easy walk but even going part way gets you very close to take some amazing footage.
We had a set time to return to the Troll Cars and our guide walked to the glacier to ensure everyone returned safely and on time.
The drive back to Olden was just as beautiful as on the way to the glacier and we returned to the port at the expected time.
And Finally …
Overall this trip was well worth doing and good value for money. The company appear to work in close conjunction with the cruise lines, so we had no concerns about getting back to the port in good time. Having said that we would always try to book an independent tour that enables plenty of time to get back to the port. This sometimes enables us to stroll into the port itself. In this instance we just took our opportunity to photograph the ship.
We were very happy with the excursion we booked through Olden Adventure and have no hesitation in suggesting the company as an alternative to anyone going to Olden.
