Situated in the Western Fjords, the city of Bergen is a good starting point for exploring the whole area. There are a number of museums and other attractions (including an aquarium) in Bergen, whose busy port serves an increasing number of cruise ships operating in the area. The spectacular fjord region covers the area from Stavanger in the south to Kristiansund in the north, and from the North Sea in the west to the mountain ranges in the east. Many of the fjords are only 100m (330ft) wide in places, with vertical cliffs rising from 100m (330ft) wide in places, with vertical cliffs rising over 1000m (3300ft) on either side. The longest, Sognefjord, runs for over 200km (124 miles) into the interior. Others include the Ryfylke Fjords, Hardanger Fjord, Sunnfjord, Nord Fjord, Geiranger Fjord and Romsdal Fjord. In the mountain region of west Norway, the glaciers often reach right down to the bottom of the adjacent valley. The whole region offers excellent river and lake fishing, as well as hiking, boat and cycling tours. Bergen is the leading cruiseport in Norway. At the present time, there are already 207 cruiseships calls for this season, carrying approximately 130,000 passengers. The port is currently undergoing modifications to increase the capacity, although it can already accommodate up to eight large ships simultaneously. The buildings at Bryggen (the wharf) have a unique architecture and are listed by UNESCO as one of the world’s best examples of a medieval settlement. These buildings contain active workshops – where you can watch painters, weavers and craftsmen produce original items for sale. You will also find modern tax-free shopping opportunities. A trip to Mount Floyen, eight minutes ride from the city centre, with the Funicular, provides an impressive view of Bergen. Alternatively, there is a cable car to Mount Ulriken, the highest of the seven mountains surrounding Bergen for another wonderful view. The Bergen Aquarium, 20 minutes walk from the city centre, has one of the most extensive collections of marine fauna in Europe. Indoor and outdoor pools and tanks house seals, penguins and fish. For the golf enthusiast, a new 18 hole champion golf course lies half an hour by car from Bergen. Finally, visit the many cafes where you will have a taste from familiar fish dishes to fashionable tapas and you can also visit our many restaurants, perhaps you want to go to nightclubs, discotheques – you will find it also in Bergen – the big city with smalltown charm. For further information, please visit www.bergen-havn.no or www.visitBergen.com