What a fantastic drive this was alongside the Rauma River in
Norway, which was still frozen over. Either side are rocky mountains which were
decorated with snow and icicles. These are either waterfalls or frozen ice
melt. Pretty spectacular.
In places on either side of the road were snowy fields
looking like Persil white blankets with a few houses or huts dotted about. The
only real signs of life were the animal tracks in the snow.
The first stop we made was at Trollveggan to gape at
Europe's highest vertical drop (1,000 m.). Does the name of the place ring any
bells? I got it wrong - nothing to do with Grieg's 'Wedding at Troldhaugen' but
all about trolls, those really ugly gnomes. In the shop it was everything to do
with trolls, enough to give me nightmares. Also a cafe and loos for those in
need.
Then it was time to drive on through more spectacular
scenery between the craggy mountains to the ski resort of Bjorli. Not a lot of skiers
but loads of sparkling snow. Enough to made you put on your sun glasses. In the
hotel we were treated to coffee and apple cake. The hour's stop was a bit too
long as we ended up wandering about like lost souls until it was time to
re-board the coach.
We returned to Andalsnes along the same route which is
fantastic because both sides of the route have differences. For example, on the
return journey I was able to see the Kylling Rail Bridge with its 59 metre
drop. Apparently it took about nine years to build in the early 20th century.
I am sure that in the summer this part of Norway is just as
beautiful, especially when the flowers are blooming and cattle are in the
fields. At that time of the year it is popular with walkers and climbers but
for me this was a magical drive through fairyland.
