If you've been to Flam, Norway, it was probably a quick visit during a railway trip or group tour. I'd been twice before, without ever taking the time to explore much of Flam outside of the most touristy areas near the port and train station. I made my third visit to Flam with the Azamara Quest, and this time I went deeper with one of Azamara's Cruise Global, Meet Local excursions. I can now say that Flam is more than a stop on a railway. There are people and there is life…and amazing views too!
Most guests from the ship went on the Flam Railway tour and rightfully so - if you haven't been, it is fantastic. Meanwhile, myself and five other intrepid cruisers went on the Cruise Global, Meet Local tour that took us to two local farms.
The first farm was called Li Farm. A lovely woman who was actually born at the farm ran it. We toured around the farm and she basically showed us how she lives and what types of things she does, and she talked about the town itself. The weather wasn’t great, so we went inside and had coffee and snacks. That was my favorite part because it gave us the chance to get to know her a bit and hear about what it’s like to live in such a remote place.
While I fully admit that I won’t be moving to Flam anytime soon, I was fascinated by her story and how the town has changed over the decades she’s lived here. Luckily, she has an awesome dog that follows her everywhere. Just don’t take her seat in the tractor - she gets feisty about stuff like that!
Next we went over to Otternes where it was some of the most picturesque scenery in Flam. This was easily the highlight for me of the tour.
The farm itself was like a 150-year history of Flam and it is still in pretty good shape. It really gives you a feel of what it was like her a century ago. Not too much has changed!
The views from Otternes were outstanding and again, the scenery around the farm was excellent. Almost as excellent as the massive Norwegian meal we had. After the feast, dessert, beer and everything else; I may have to add Norway to my 30 best countries for food list!
The owner of Otternes was a very nice and genuine person and we all enjoyed her hospitality and company and I definitely recommend heading up for a visit if you’re in Flam. Flam is more than a railway after all!
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