Right to Roam: A Scenic Hike from Bergen's Fish Market up Mount Fløyen

Bergen is a city with many names. It’s known as the capital of Western Norway and has been called the Gateway to the Fjords. But most importantly, it’s the City of the Seven Mountains. These mountains provide plenty of hiking opportunities and, on this walking tour, I’ll show you one of the most beloved routes up Fløyen, the most popular of the Seven Mountains.

The tour starts in front of the Tourist Information Center next to the famous Fish Market, the most visited fish market in Norway. You’ll learn about the market’s history and hear about Ludvig Holberg, one of Bergen’s greatest playwrights. You’ll walk from the market square to the Fløibanen funicular’s lower station, taking in important buildings like the old meat market and Christi Krybbe skoler, Scandinavia’s oldest functioning elementary school. You’ll then follow an easy path up on the mountainside, surrounded by beautiful natural scenery. As you climb, I’ll tell you what local life here is like, and share a few urban legends, including one about the forest trolls who are said to live on Fløyen. The tour ends at Fløyen Panorama, a viewpoint where you can enjoy stunning city vistas.

Along the way, I’ll show you several places where you can take a break to take in the views and catch your breath. You’ll also have the chance to:

• See Norway’s biggest tree
• Take a trip down the slide built onto the mountain
• Spot a tiny chair sculpture built into the bark of a tree
• Hear about the goats on top of the mountain
• Find out about Norway’s Right to Roam or Right of Access which ensures that everyone can experience nature
• Learn about the history of the funicular, Fløibanen
• Discover the origins of skiing

This tour is perfect for anyone who likes spending time in nature while staying close to the city center. Along the way, I’ll give you suggestions about leisure activities that you can enjoy after completing the tour. By the end of this 90-minute Bergen hike, you’ll have a greater appreciation for the city, its nature and locals’ typically active way of life.