Overnight stops at our cabin in Grantsville going and coming back
Planned itineraries include museums, gardens, boat cruises, historical sites, restaurants, shops, hiking, kayaking, baseball games (have tickets for Pittsburg and Cleveland), Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame, and more (?)
Driving from home to Grantsville. Parked the trailer at a neighbor’s place overnight, stayed at our cabin
Day 2- September 16
Good Morning. The Fall colors in Western Maryland have started. After a brief overnight stay at our cabin, we are on the road again today, heading to Mountain Top Campground outside of Pittsburgh PA for a 4 day stay. Looking forward to exploring Pittsburgh. Have tickets for a Pirates-Cubs game tomorrow (Weds) afternoon. A shout out to Carl N Shelly Durst for letting us park the RV at your place overnight. THANKS!
Arrived
Sunset & Dinner
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Day 3- September 17
We had a great day at PNC Park. Beautiful weather, good game, awesome park, delicious food & drink
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After the ballgame we crossed back over the river and enjoyed a ride on the incline. WHAT A VIEW
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Day 4- Thursday 18 September
First up yesterday was a stop in the neighborhood know as Deutschtown, and a visit to the National Avairy. Didn’t know there was one, it was fantastic
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Thursday Lunch at Max’s Allegheny Tavern, reportedly one of the best German restaurants in the USA. The food and drink were fantastic..A MUST if you ever find yourself in Pittsburgh . 👍😊
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Last stop of the day “The Frick”. A wonderful complex featuring the Frick family’s historic home, “Clayton”, the Frick Art Museum, the Car and Carriage Museum, and beautiful gardens. We finished the visit with a stop at the cafe for an afternoon treat
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Finished the day out with dinner back at the campsite, Grilled filet mignon steaks, pomme frites, and pea salad.
Friday is our last day here in Pittsburgh . Heading to the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, followed by strolling through the area know as ”The Strip District” and perhaps lunch at Primanti Bros
Day 5- September 19
Spent the morning at the FABULOUS Phipps Conservatory. An AMAZING Place! Thanks to Kristen Barbour for the recommendation
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After visiting the Phipps we made our way to The Strip District. We wandered along the Terminal, in and out of several shops, eventually having a late lunch at Primanti Bros
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Day 6- September 20
Good Morning..On the road again…Goodbye Pittsburgh (Yinz!). On to Ohio
Some “harrowing” roads to get but arrived (4 o’clock ) intact! Here today & tomorrow. Full day of hiking tomorrow
Day 7- September 21
A day of hiking to the various natural wonders in Hocking Hill State Park
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Day 8- September 22
After a 6 hour drive (UGH!), much of it in heavy rain we have arrived at a campground about 45 min outside of downtown Cleveland. Still raining and the forecast for the week not good (a lot of rain). Well we’re glad we’re not camping in a tent, and we’ll just make the best of it for the week, rain won’t stop us, the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame is inside right? 😊
Day 9 – September 23
Good Morning from Cleveland. A lot of rain last night, but clearing today, and then rain the rest of the week. SOOOO changed our baseball tickets from tomorrow night to tonight. Guardians vs Tigers, both teams vying for the playoffs. 1 & 2 in the American League Central Division. Spending the day in Downtown Cleveland..4th Street, Great Lakes Brewery, West Side Market, etc. Outside stuff today, indoor stuff Weds & Thurs (Rock and Roll HOF, Museums,etc)
First stop- Awesome Visitors Center. Easy garage parking, just $16 for the whole day
Self Guided Walking Tour
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Progressive Field
Guardians vs Tigers (Detroit)
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Day 10- September 24
Day 11- September 25
Last full day in Cleveland before heading home (via overnight stay at our cabin in Grantsville Maryland)
Day 12- September 26
Day 13- September 27
Last leg of the trip
Grantsville- Monday Drive RON
Pittsburgh (4 days Tuesday- Friday)
Tuesday Drive & Set Upu
Wednesday PNC Park Pirates vs Cubs Duquesne Incline
Thursday National Aviary Lunch – Max’s Allegheny Tavern The Frick
Friday Phipps Conservatory The Strip District Lunch- Primanti Bros
Hocking Hills (2 days Sat-Sun)
Saturday – Drive and Set Up
Sunday- Hiking Old Man’s Cave Rock House Ash Cave Cedar Falls
Cleveland (4 days Monday-Thursday)
Monday- Drive and Set Up
Tuesday Visitors Center Walking Tour Historic Downtown Progressive Field- Guardians vs Tigers
Wednesday Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame Lunch- Great Lakes Brew Pub West Side Market
Thursday Natural History Museum Botanical Garden Lunch- Guarino’s
Overnight stay in Fair Haven NJ with Thom and Carol, friends we made/met on the trip to Norway
Dinner in Fair Haven NJ with friends Thom and Carol
21 August
Happy Birthday Steve! 4 hour drive to Connecticut
A stop and stock up at a wonderful bakery. In business since 1901!
Crossing the magnificent Hudson River at Newburgh
Overnight stay in Hartford CT with Steve’s brother David and his wife Maureen
Enjoyed a wonderful dinner at Dave & Maureen’s home in South Windsor CT. They cooked a meal which they recently learned to cook at a Sur La Table cooking class
And Birthday Cake!
22 August
A delicious breakfast before hitting the road. THANK YOU MAUREEN & DAVID🎶On the road again🎶
2 PM- Arrived. Checked In, Unloaded & Unpacked
Tonight’s Entertainment Meeting Dave & Maureen at Tanglewood
23 August
Breakfast..Thank You Costco
Cheers!
Today’s Adventures
This 48-acre architectural masterpiece is, at its heart, a family home. In 1884, Joseph Choate, a prominent New York attorney and U.S. Ambassador to Great Britain, and his wife, Caroline, hired the famous architectural firm of McKim, Mead & White to design a summer retreat. The result was a 44-room shingle-style home, where several generations of the Choate family lived until daughter Mabel Choate bequeathed it to The Trustees in 1958.
Hinterland Hall
Hinterland Hall is an artfully restored historic stone church from 1836 nestled at the foothills of Mt. Greylock in the Berkshires. No longer a church, the “Hall” is available to rent for weddings, rehearsal dinners, musical performances, private dinners and overnight accommodations.
The St. Luke’s Episcopal congregation was established in 1767 on the Bradley family farm and is the oldest Episcopal parish in western Massachusetts. The present church was built in 1836 for $3,600 on land given to the parish in 1785 and is one of two surviving Gothic Revival churches (of four built) in Berkshire County. The tower was struck by lightning in 1856, and its bell dates to 1891. In 1858 the congregation commissioned a 450-pipe, hand-pumped tracker organ constructed from walnut by William Johnson, who was a famed organ maker from Westfield, Massachusetts. Two stained glass windows were installed in 1858 and in 1891, and the famous bell atop the belltower was purchased and delivered by Meneely & Co. Bell Company from West Troy, NY — hoisted into position by horse carriage.
In 1972, the Old Stone Church was listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and soon after underwent a major renovation effort that saved it from deterioration.
Dinner Time
Grilling Ribeye Steaks
24 August
A Morning At The Clark Art Institute
The Sterling and Francine Clark Art Institute, commonly referred to as the Clark, is an art museum and research institution located in Williamstown, Massachusetts, United States. Its collection consists of European and American paintings, sculpture, prints, drawings, photographs, and decorative arts from the fourteenth to the early twentieth century.
Today’s Adventure- A Daytrip to Manchester Vermont
The town was one of several chartered in 1761 by Benning Wentworth, colonial governor of New Hampshire. It was his custom to name new towns after prominent English aristocrats of the day, hoping they might adopt a patronly interest in their namesakes. Wentworth named Manchester for Robert Montagu, 3rd Duke of Manchester. First settled in 1764, the town was laid out in 1784. The land was better suited for grazingthan tillage, so by 1839 about 6,000 sheep roamed the pasturesand hillsides.Manchester is located in north-central Bennington County, lying between the Green Mountains to the east and the Taconic Range to the west.
Non stop flight from Washington Dulles to CopenhagenChecked in and waiting at the gate for a 9:20 boarding and 10:05 departure
Onboard! 😊👍
Day 2- Tuesday, June 10, 2025
Arrive Copenhagen
We arrived in Copenhagen today, a modern European capital with a provincial heart and a wealth of history. Our hotel, the Scandic Copenhagen is fantastic. It sits in the center of Copenhagen, within easy walking distance of the Tivoli Gardens and just across the street from The Lakes, a chain of peaceful waterways popular with pedestrians and bicyclists.
After a long , but uneventful 7 1/2 hr flight we arrived at the Copenhagen Airport. We were met a tour company representative and then taken to the hotel by private van
Upon arrival at the hotel we were met by our tour director and immediately checked in and went to our room, which has a lovely view of the city
After unpacking we ventured out (in the rain), stopping at a ATM to get some Danish Krone, and then eventually making our way to the magnificent city hall and the expansive plaza
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Bicycles and cyclists everywhere. Don’t even think about getting in their way
This evening, at a lovely room in the hotel, we met with our fellow travelers and the Odysseys Unlimited Tour Director ( Davide Fanciulli) at a welcome briefing. 24 people (12 couples from all over the USA. (CA, IL, IN, NJ,SC,VA,WI)
After the briefing we took a 10 minute walk from the hotel to the famous Tivoli Gardens where we had an incredible welcome dinner. Tivoli Gardens was built in the 1840s in the city center and remains one of the city’s liveliest attractions. It is one of the world’s oldest and most visited amusement parks.
Welcome Dinner at the Peacock Restaurant
After dinner we strolled around Tivoli Gardens, stopping to get an Irish Whiskey to ward of the damp and chilly weather
The Dane’s are very eco friendly. The coffee cup was totally recyclable and a monetary refund was given via a automated kiosk
Scenes of our stroll around the gardens
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Day 3- Wednesday June 11 2025
Copenhagen
We started out Day 3 with a spectacular breakfast at the hotel
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After a wonderful breakfast we met in the hotel lobby, where we were issued our “Wispers” listening devices and met our city tour guide (Phillip) for the next 3 days. After introductions we boarded the bus and left for our morning panoramic window tour of the city
The building that can be seen across the harbor, with the sloping roof, is a state of the art power power generation plant that uses waste for fuel. Incredibly the roof is a artificial downhill ski slope (“Copenhill”) that can be used all year long (no snow needed). There is also a hiking trail and the worlds tallest climbing wall
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We continued on along the waterfront past several monuments and stopping at a spectacular fountain and a wonderfully quaint church
We re-embarked back onto the bus and headed for Christiansborg Palace, the seat of the Danish Parliament, the Prime Minister’s office, and the Supreme Court – the only such building in the world housing the three branches of government.
It’s good to be the king
Christiansborg Palace
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Back on the bus again for a short trip to the very long and sheik pedestrian shopping street and a another beautiful fountain.
We walked the length of Stroget street and arrived at Nyhavn, a waterfront area full of multi colored houses lining the canal
Lunch at Nyhavn 17. Not a bad spot/view for lunch
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Back to pounding the pavement.. This time walking to Copenhagen‘s Cathedral
We finished the day with a lovely evening canal trip with a company (Hey Captain) recommended by friends
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Dinner- Take Out In Room “Picnic”
Day 4 – Thursday June 12th 2025
Copenhagen
We started today with a 1 hour bus trip outside of Copenhagen. The drive took us along the shoreline of the Baltic. We passed an amazing array of spectacular houses, beaches, ferries to Sweden, and rowers.
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The drive took us to Elsinore (Helsinger in Danish), site of Kronborg Castle – the infamous setting of Shakespeare’s Hamlet – where we enjoyed a guided tour featuring the Royal Chambers and Ballroom. The castle is dramatically set on a spit of land between Denmark and Sweden.
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After lunch together at a local restaurant, we stopped by the Royal summer residence (Fredensborgs Slott) for a quick photo opportunity, and then on to the Karen Blixen House and Museum in coastal Rungsted.
Known by her pen name Isak Dinesen (under which she wrote Out of Africa), Blixen spent most of her life here, where she was born in 1885. The site itself comprises the house, a museum, bird sanctuary, a park, and her gravesite. The house retains its original furniture and décor.
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We returned to our hotel late this afternoon. We had a tasty dinner on our own tonight at the Tivoli Gardens Food Hall, a short 9 minute walk from the hotel. There was a wide variety of food venders to choose from, and a pleasant setting overlooking the gardens and listening to music from the nearby stage performances
Day 5- Friday June 13th 2025
Copenhagen/Over Night Ferry
We set off today to visit the cozy fishing village of Dragor, with its historic buildings ,cobblestone streets, and lovely harbor
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Lunch today was a picnic catered by our tour director David
We then returned to downtown Copenhagen to visit the 17th-century Rosenborg Castle, where we admired the lavish Crown Jewels, the Throne Chair of Denmark carved from narwhal tusks, and the stately architecture and garden.
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Goodbye Copenhagen
Time to put our wonderful Copenhagen memories in the rear view mirror. This afternoon we boarded the Nordic Pearl ferry for an overnight trip to Oslo
After having our group’s checked baggage suitcases loaded into a container the processing through customs and check in went smoothly. We easily found our room on the 9th deck and moved in
Departure time was 5 o’clock, we embarked at 4 so there was time to head up to deck 11 to get a drink and find a spot to watch the ship leave Denmark and head to Norway
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7 o’clock. The group proceeded to the dining room for a delicious buffet dinner
Sunset comes late (1030) in summer this far north . Tonight the sunset was spectacular
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Day 6- Saturday June 14th 2025
Oslo-Lillehammer-Hundorp
Sunrise was very early and just as spectacular as the previous night’s sunset.
Before disembarking from the ferry we had a very nice breakfast with a wonderful window view
The last legs of the journey to Oslo were full of sights and sounds, and an amazing number of sailboats
Arriving in Oslo we enjoyed identifying landmarks around the harbor (City Hall, Opera House, Fortress). After retrieving our luggage we met our new bus driver (Morton), and boarded our coach for the journey north to ski country – an unspoiled mountain region that is one of Norway’s oldest and best-known sports districts.
We enjoyed lunch along the way at a restaurant frequented by highway truckers
First stop after lunch, the town of Lillehammer, the renowned ski resort that hosted. the 1994 Winter Olympics.
Next we visited the open-air folk museum at Maihaugen, among Norway’s most visited cultural attractions, with some 200 original historic buildings reconstructed on the site. Through the structures, farm implements, and everyday objects and artifacts, Maihaugen recounts daily life here from the Middle Ages to modern times.
Schoolhouse
In the mid-afternoon, we departed for the town of Hundorp, arriving at the hotel in early evening
The hotel was originally a farm dating back to the days of the Vikings. Our room was very cozy, with two windows offering great views of the valley, river, and mountainside
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Loved the sounds of the sheep and their bells just outside our windows
Before dinner we took a tour of the grounds with the curator of the on site pilgrims center. He recounted the history of site starting 50 AD, all the way to present time
Historical SigniDale-Gudbrands Gard was the site of a pivotal event in Norwegian history, documented in Snorri Sturluson’s Heimskringla. This is where King Olav Haraldsson (later Saint Olav) met with Dale-Gudbrand, the local chieftain, and the farmers of the Gudbrand Valley. Conversion to Christianity: King Olav, in his campaign to Christianize Norway, persuaded Dale-Gudbrand and his people to adopt Christianity. The story recounts how King Olav used the sunrise to demonstrate the power of his God, and how an idol of Thor was broken. This event is considered the beginning of the Christianization of the valley.
We finished the day with a incredibly delicious group dinner at the hotel
Day 7- Sunday June 15th 2025
Hundorp-Geiranger
We had another wonderful breakfast at our hotel before hitting the road for today’s amazing journey.
Today we experienced more of Norway’s finest scenery as we traveled from Hundorp to Geiranger along the “roof” of Norway, a land of jagged snowcapped peaks, blue ice, and emerald mountain lakes.
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First stop was in the town of Lom to see a spectacular stave church. We were treated to a extensive description of the church’s history by a local guide
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While taking in the beautiful scenery we enjoying a cappuccino and cinnamon bun at a fantastic bakery, right next to a massive waterfall
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Next we ascended a spectacular mountain road with hairpin bends to the summit of Mount Dalsnibba (with an altitude of over a mile at 4,900 feet) for a bird’s-eye view of Geirangerfjord and the mountains, lakes, and waterfalls beyond.
Courtesy of tour director David, we toasted our arrival at the summit with Aquavit. Skol! And enjoyed a chocolate treat on the descent down the mountain
After negotiating the hairpin turns a second time we stopped at a incredible glacier fed lake still hanging on to some of winters ice and snow
After a full day of travel we reached the popular village of Geiranger in the mid-afternoon and got our first look at Norway’s most dramatic fjord. A UNESCO site, The fjord measures 10 miles long and 960 feet deep and is lined by forested rock walls towering more than 6,000 feet above sea level. Formed over a million years ago during the Ice Age when an ice cap burrowed deep into mountain riverbeds, Norway’s fjords are among the deepest and most striking in the world.
After checking into our wonderful hotel with an breathtaking view from our room, we went for a short hike along the raging river close to the hotel. We dined together with the group tonight at the hotel.
We took our dessert and coffee and sat outside and enjoyed the incredible view. Sunset wasn’t until 11 PM
Day 8- Monday June 16 2025
Geiranger
We started the morning with a river walk from the hotel down to the Geiranger town and harbor front
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This morning’s excursion on Eagle Road to Herdalssetra offered up abundant thrills as we traversed 11 hairpin turns at an altitude of 2,030 feet through mountain passes, stopping for a grand panoramic view of Geirangerfjord and its surroundings along the way.
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Click on image below for video
We stopped for lunch at a historic mountain farm used as an upland pasture for herds of goats, cows, sheep, and horses from the village below.
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On the return back to Geiranger were treated to picturesque scenery, and more bus close encounters. Our bus driver Morton is amazing
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Back at the hotel we enjoyed a reception and had a chance to view the hotel owner’s extensive collection of vintage automobiles before enjoying dinner together tonight.
Click on the link below for a 30 min video from the owner of the hotel
Finished the day with a delicious dessert after another grand dinner
Day 9- Tuesday June 17th 2025
Geiranger-Bergen
Our day started with one last amazing breakfast in Geiranger. We then boarded the bus on a rainy morning for our journey to Bergen.
A full day of scenic overload on our full-day journey from Geiranger to Bergen today. First up a ferry ride across Geirangerfjord then travel via motorcoach past tiny villages, tumbling waterfalls, and steep mountains plunging into the placid fjord waters.
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After leaving the ferry we journey through beautiful Nordic landscapes
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A stop for restrooms and coffee
Later, we crossed stunning Sognefjord, a 125-mile-long waterway (and UNESCO World Heritage site) that reaches halfway across Norway.
A wonderful bowl of asparagus soup for lunch
We arrived in Bergen in early evening, checked into our hotel (Raddison Blu Royal), and enjoyed dinner together at the hotel.
There was a break in the rain we had all day, so after dinner the group decided to take advantage of the clear weather to take the funicular up for the panoramic views
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After coming back down on the funicular we left the group and walked in the famous wharf district
We finished this long day with a well deserved treat
Day 10- Wednesday June 18th 2025
Bergen
Today we had a full day and evening in lovely Bergen. After breakfast we met our tour guide in the hotel lobby. She took us on a walking tour, starting with the old city fortress, followed by Saint Maria church, and then the old warehouse district of Bryggen. Maria Church, the city’s oldest building, dates back to 1100 CE; Bergenhus fortress, origins date to the 13th centurY. This UNESCO World Heritage site boasts colorful houses packed tightly together, where Hanseatic merchants toiled in the 14th and 15th centuries.
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Click on pics below for larger view
The guided tour ended mid morning and we were on our own for the reminder of the day. We stopped by a local bakery for a treat before venturing out. Yum!
First up, the colorful fish market. Despite the rain the market was an active place, full of shoppers
Some of Bergen’s architecture dates to the 12th century, and we passed by some of the town’s most venerable buildings, but not before seeing a familiar site, McDonald’s complete with a walk up (drive through”) window 😊. The fish market offered some interesting local cuisine options
A light rain today, but we made the best of it and toured Bergen undeterred by the weather (which did eventually clear up later in the day)
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Scenes from a rainy Bergen
We decided to use the local “hop on hop off” bus to get a better sense of the overall city, give our feet a break and get out of the rain. The narration in English was very informative
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We hopped off the bus for an early (4 o’clock) dinner at a popular restaurant. We didn’t have a reservation, and were fortunate to get there early. We were seated at the last available table.
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After ordering we enjoyed a local Pilsner while waiting for our food..Reindeer Steak and Lamb Stew
After dinner, more wandering and wonderment
A memorial to Norway’s seafarers
The indoor fish market
We finished the day by getting a 2nd hand knitted Norwegian sweater for Sally (the first was in Geiranger)
Day 11- Thursday June 19th 2025
Bergen-Lofthus
A VERY FULL DAY TODAY…..This morning, we departed Bergen and headed to the village of Lofthus in Norway’s Western Fjord District of snowcapped mountains, pristine fjords, and abundant orchards.
En route we stopped at Steindal Waterfall and watched the water plummet more than 150 feet, and enjoying the unique experience of walking behind the sheets of water cascading down
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More dramatic scenery as we drive to our next stop. Everyone snapping pictures and making their best effort to avoid the bus window reflections
Our next stop late this morning was the floating Hardanger Akvasenter salmon farm; the deep, clean waters of Hardanger make up one of the four major fish farm regions worldwide. This specific farm is set up to showcase salmon farming, to Norwegians and tourists
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A guided tour by very knowledgeable expert, one of 17 people that work at and support the farm which is a private enterprise
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15,000 salmon here!
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What a treat! A lunch featuring several salmon variations , in an incredible setting
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Back on the bus and more beautiful scenery, BUT not until our bus driver Morton tested OK on the mandatory breathalyzer (built into the bus). The bus ignition will not start until the driver does this
As we continued todays journey we passed by several much larger salmon farms
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We’ve passed through MANY tunnels, but this next one was special with a traffic circle IN THE TUNNEL! Followed by a large suspension bridge carrying us over the fjord. Tomorrow we’ll pass through here again
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Click on image below for video
Despite the rain the magnificent landscapes keep rolling by our windows, often VERY close to the edge the road, and frequently slowing to maneuver past oncoming traffic. Our driver was truly masterful!
We arrived in Lofthus and were treated to scenes of hillsides of seemingly non stop orchards of apples, pears, plums, cherries (those with the netting to keep the birds off). Lofthus is the location of our next hotel for tonight and tomorrow .
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Next stop a fruit farm to enjoy a tasting of locally produced, handcrafted hard cider. The Hardangerfjord region of Norway is known for its unique climate ideal for growing fruits. We toured the orchard on the bus with narration by the owner of the orchard which has been in his family for 5 generations
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Inside a lovely tasting room the owner provided an in depth explanation of the cider making processes, while we tasted of two hard ciders and one non-alcoholic version..DELICIOUS 😊
I purchased a bottle of the red (190 Kroners…19$ US)The sun cast soothing long shadows as it started to fall below the mountain peaks. Time to head to the hotel which as very nearbyHotel Ullensvang – 1st Class..AGAIN!
We walked about the hotel grounds before and after dinner. Steve decided to experience swimming in the fjord. Water Temp 11C (52 F)..EXHILARATING! 😊👍Another room with a fantastic view
Once again an amazing array of food to choose from at the dinner buffet
WOW! What a day. Time to rest and recharge our “Batteries” because hard to imagine but tomorrow will be more intense that today
Day 12- Friday June 20th 2025
Lofthus-Flam
Our day started with the sun coming up VERY early and a gorgeous view from our hotel room
After a delightful breakfast the group gathered in the hotel lobby and then loaded into the bus for a day of extreme beauty and diverse transportation. The bus, boat and train excursion is often referred to as “Norway in a nutshell”.
Our driver expertly takes us from Lofthus to Gudvangen where we will catch a ferry. Our path takes us along the shore of the fjord, fruit tree orchards, and quant houses and villages.
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Once again we cross over the Hardanger suspension bridge and go through the tunnel with the round about
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Coming out of the tunnel we are treated to more amazing scenery, the stillness of the waters in the fjord provide incredible reflections. We eventually stop at yet another spectacular waterfall
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Arriving in Gudvangen mid- morning, we picked up a boxed lunch and board our ferry headed to Flåm.
On board for 2 hours, we experience the grandeur of Naeroyfjord, an arm of the Sognefjord, and also view the Aurland fjords in the Flåm Valley.
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We arrived in Flåm midday for a very brief 30 min visit
Next we experienced an incredibly scenic ride aboard the Flåm Railway, an excursion that ascends nearly 2,900 feet through the steep and narrow Flåm Valley. A masterpiece of engineering along precipitous mountainsides, the railway took nearly 20 years to construct – and as we saw, it was well worth the effort. During the 50-minute ride, we sped through 20 tunnels (18 of which were excavated by hand), curve around 21 hairpin bends, marvel at the mighty Kjosfossen Waterfall as it plunges from ledge to ledge, a journey full of breathtaking views. Though the ride is less than an hour, it provided memories to last a lifetime.
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We scrambled from one side of the train to the other each time another beautiful vista appeared.
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Kjosfossen Waterfall
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Legend says the Huldra is a siren who lures men into the woods with her songs and dances
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Once we arrived in Myrdal, we switched trains and travel to Voss where we met our motorcoach, which brought us back to the hotel.
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We arrived in time to enjoy dinner together at the hotel.
Day 13- Saturday June 21st 2025
Lofthus-Oslo
After filling up at the breakfast buffet at the hotel we step outside for one last view of the fjord. Beautiful!
Back on the bus to drive through more incredible scenery along the fjord
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En route to Oslo today, we first visited the fjord village of Eidfjord and tour the much-admired Hardanger Nature Center, which informs guests about the way human beings and nature interact in Norway.
Upon arriving at the Naturesenter we go immediately inside to the theater, where we watch (experience) a fabulous 20 min IMAX 20 movie of the extraordinary vistas of the Hardanger fjord district. The drone filmed footage had us feeling like we’re flying above all this beauty. We were so impressed we bought a copy of the movie to bring home and enjoy and relive the memories
We then spent an hour walking around this lovely place
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Our tour director pointed out the creative way they “mow” the roof…GOATS! 😊
We stopped at a small town for lunch. We decided to go to the market and get some carrot bread (sliced with in store bread slicer), goat cheese, serrano ham, and a hard wild berry cider, and the had a picnic on a bench in a park close to where the bus was parked
Back on the road again, descended through tunnels and traversed hairpin curves as we continued making our way to Oslo.
We stopped again in Fossli for a magnificent view of the mighty and popular Vøringfoss Waterfall, Norway’s most famous, with a vertical drop of nearly 600 feet. The weather was great, the Sun and the mist combined for a wonderful rainbow
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Click on image below for video
Then we began our route across the wild and barren Hardangervidda, Europe’s largest mountain plateau, which provides grazing lands for reindeer herds. We passed the resort town of Geilo, travel through the farm-dotted landscape of Hallingdal Valley, and proceeded along Lake Kroederen. Along the way we get a glimpse of one of several glaciers in the area
This road is a major byway and is kept open in through the winter. To guide the snowplows the edge of the road is marked with 12ft tall poles
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Staying hydrated! The bus had plenty of bottled water and often a “Bottle Brigade” would start up passing bottles of water back from the front of the bus 😊
We arrived in Oslo in early evening, checked in to the Raddison Blu Plaza hotel, conveniently located in the center of the city. The elevators were a technological marvel
We had a great view from our room on the 16th floor
The day before, while on the bus we made dinner reservations for 7:45 at Engebret Cafe. The oldest restaurant in Oslo
The greeter was kind enough to give us outdoor seating for 6. We were joined by two couples from South Carolina who were also on the trip with whom we had struck up a friendship
The weather was PERFECT
Our waiter was a wonderful fellow. Very engaging and helpfulMore reindeer steakTom and a Gin & Tonic
After dinner we strolled through the streets making our way down to the harbor and the impressive Oslo Opera House, which we will tour tomorrow
Unfortunately we had left behind a carrying back on the Flam train. Our tour director worked arrangements to have it brought on a train to Oslo and left at the lost and found. Unfortunately it never arrived in Oslo before we left. Not a big deal, there was nothing of value in the bag
Back at the hotel.Goodnight Oslo
Day 14- Sunday June 22nd 2025
Oslo
We are definitely going to miss the daily routine of having a big breakfast. Look at this an entire section catering to Sally’s dietary needs. Hurray 😊👍
We met our city guide at the hotel, boarded the bus for a short panoramic “”window” bus tour of the city. Our panoramic morning bus tour introduced us to Oslo’s highlights, including the Royal Palace, built in the early 19th century; the imposing Askershus Fortress and Castle, around which Oslo was planned; and Akerbrygge, the redeveloped harbor area.
We then made our first stop Vigeland (Frogner) Park, a large park filled with Gustav Vigeland’s renowned bronze and granite sculptures of human figures
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Click on pics below for larger view
Back on the bus for a quick ride to the Historical Museum, and a special exhibit “VIKINGR” where relics from the Viking age are on display
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Yesterday while we were on the bus making our way to Oslo Sally made reservations for a guided tour of our next stop, the magnificent Oslo Opera House. At this point we left the group and spent the rest of the day adventuring on our own
To save some time, and take a break from walking we took a cab from the museum to the Opera House. Pricey but worth the $$$ today. We arrived about 30 minutes before the start time of the tour, so we took advantage of the cafe in Opera House, got a local brew, and enjoyed the beautiful weather and the view in the outside dining area
Back inside we met up with our guide (retired opera singer) and the English speaking group
The hour tour was wonderful and very informative. In addition to seeing the spectacular performance area, we went “backstage” and were amazed at how much more there was that the general public is not aware of and never sees
Next… A LONG walk to the Oslo City Hall, and it’s beautiful grand hall
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Norway’s Parliament building was a short walk from City Hall. We were hoping to get a look inside, but entry is by tour and the only tour had already happened earlier in the day
Karl Johans gate is a long pedestrian avenue lined with shops and filled with people. We walked along this promenade until we arrived at Oslo’s Cathedral
The cathedral’s beautiful and ornate interior is in contrast to is simple, some might say stark exterior
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After enjoying a short organ recital at the cathedral we found ourselves back at the waterfront, and the Opera House, but this time walked around the roof of this massive structure. All marble!
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Breathtaking views of the city reflected in the glass panels
A public sauna house (floating). People come to the sauna, and after getting heated and sweating they jump in the fjord to cool down
We were there for the summer solstice, every year on 23 June there is a celebration which includes a giant bonfire in the harbor. This year the fuel for the bonfire was a large wooden octopus
Although we didn’t use it much, Oslo has a great public transportation system
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Finished the day with a cocktail (pink gin & tonic) on the 34th floor of our hotel, followed by time in the sauna and the pool
Back in the hotel room..Goodnight Oslo
Day 15- Monday June 23rd 2025
Oslo
While the rest of our group spent the morning in Bygdoy, at the nearby Kon-Tiki Museum, home to Thor Heyerdahl’s famed Kon-Tiki raft and the reed boat RAII, we chose to skip it and focus on further exploring Oslo.
First stop today, the public library. Norwegian Chancellor and businessman Carl Deichman bequeathed his collection of 6,000 books to the citizens of Christiania (now Oslo) in 1785. It was named the world’s best new public library in 2021. It took 4 years to build and opened in June 2020
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Click on image below for video
Next we walked around the outside of the ground floor of the Opera House to peer through the windows at the workshops we saw from the inside yesterday (but weren’t allowed to take pictures)
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The Munch Museum, dedicated to the life and work of Norwegian artist Edvard Munch. The museum contains at least one print of every painting that Munch created throughout his life, and more than half of his original creations.
Self Portraits “The Scream” Perhaps his most famous and well known painting. He created three versions, each of the originals are on display
The 3 originals are displayed in a very dark room. Each picture is stored behind an individual door. One door at a time opens and the picture is viewable for 30 minutes. Then the door closes and the door for the next picture opens
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The BEST view of the Oslo waterfront and surrounding skyline is to be has from the observation deck atop the Munch Museum. SPECTACULAR!
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Lunchtime. We had researched places to eat and this one was highly recommended, it didn’t disappoint. As we walked up we were surprised to see a heavy police presence. Turns out the French President was making a State visit to Norway, the first in 40 years. He was staying in the hotel where the cafe was where we had lunch. The French and Norwegian flags were everywhere, even the public toilets displayed the tri-colors
We started with some sparkling water and a very tasty Gin & Tonic
The sun was shining and we soaked it up with outdoor seating
And the food…Incredible, right there at the top of the list of one of the best meals we had on the whole trip
One more trip to “Dale Of Norway”. Store had a limited selection, but nonetheless beautiful stuff. No purchases today
We stopped into a store that specializes in traditional Norwegian outfits. We chatted with the sales people and found out this type of expensive clothing is bought for very special occasions, wedding, confirmations, formal gatherings
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The city’s nickname Tigerstaden (“The Tiger City”),
Since then Oslo has been known as “The Tiger City”, but these days it’s not necessarily meant as a negative thing. “The Tiger City” can be an excitingand happening place rather than dangerous.
Farewell Dinner
As is the norm for Odyessys trips we finish with a group dinner. We gathered together at a downtown Italian restaurant for a farewell dinner to celebrate a great trip and say our goodbyes. Everyone will move on tomorrow, many continuing on to Stockholm, the rest of us taking the long journey home
Last Group Shot..Waiting for the bus to
Day 16- Tuesday June 24th 2025
Oslo- Depart For USA
The rest of the group had early flights and had to skip breakfast and be on the road at 6 AM..Ugh! Our Oslo to Copenhagen flight didn’t depart until 1:30 in the afternoon, so a private van came and picked us up (just us!) and brought us to the airport
Before checking in with the airline (SAS) we were successful in getting a refund for the value added tax, which was substantial as a result of Sally’s sweater purchases. Check in with the airline & customs went smoothly
Had a 2 1/2 hr layover in Copenhagen. 8 hour flight to Washington Dulles left on time. Thankful for Global Entry thru customs on our arrival. We arrived back home exhausted around 10 pm, but filled with wonderful memories that will last a lifetime.
THANK YOU……ODYSSEYS UNLIMITED, DAVIDE FANCIULLI (TOUR DIRECTOR), MORTON (DRIVER), CITY GUIDES, FELLOW TRAVELERS, AND THE FRIENDLY PEOPLE OF NORWAY AND DENMARK
A 17 day journey across Portugal and Spain. Odysseys Unlimited Tour with a group of 15 travelers
Day 1 Friday 29 Sep
Departed Washington Dulles Airport (10 PM) for Lisbon, Portugal United Airlines Flight 0942
Day 2 Saturday 30 Sep
Lisbon
Arrived Lisbon 1030AM. Met at the airport by Odyssey’s Unlimited representative. Transported to hotel
On time arrival. Bags made it also 👍
Left Wash DC at 10 PM and after arriving in Lisbon at 10 AM, and transferring to the the hotel, we ventured out for a few hours before we had to be back at the hotel for a group orientation and dinner. Used the hotel shuttle to get to the downtown area, swung by to see the Hard Rock Cafe, stopped for our (Steve’s first taste) of the speciality beverage , Gin Jinha, found a lovely pastry shop next to the Sant Justa Elevator lift and had custard pies (2) and a cappuccino. We continued with a visit to several plazas and fountains with manificent tile patterns, an ancient church, numerous narrow side streets with an incredible number of outdoor cafes, and lastly a stop to see the beautiful outside facade of the old train station. Took the shuttle back to the hotel in time to shower and take a short nap before dinner with the other folks (15 total) on the tour with us. A good start..time for bed 🛌💤
Group Orientation. Hotel Dinner
Hotel
Corinthia Hotel Lisbon- FANTASTIC!
Day 3 Sunday 1 Oct
Lisbon
Today started with an INCREDIBLE breakfast.
Heading Out
After a FULL breakfast our group met in the hotel lobby, each of us was issued a “whispers” wireless listening devices (to aid in hearing the Tour guide – Silvia), boarded the bus for a driving tour of much of the city and our first stop at a magnificent former monastery, with an incredible cloister.
This morning’s city tour includes a narrated bus trip through much of the old town city center.
We then visited the majestic Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, a monastery built in 1501 and completed 100 years later. The monastery was built on the ruins of an existing church, and it was here, in 1497, that Vasco da Gama and his crew spent their last night in Portugal in prayer before leaving on their historic journey. Da Gama, along with his four ships and a crew of 170 men, became the first Europeans to sail around Africa’s Cape of Good Hope and find a sea route to India. Today, the monastery houses some of Portugal’s treasures from the discoveries of Vasco de Gama and other explorers..
After visiting the monastery, we were treated by our tour director (Jose) with a sweet treat, authentic custard pies from Pasteis Belem.
After a restroom stop we walked to the water front and the beautiful Monument To The Discoverers, the most photographed monument in Portugal, which stands at the mouth of the Tagus River commemorating Portugal’s seafaring and literary heritage.
Breaking Away From The Group
After the Monument To The Discovers we parted ways with the rest of the group, and headed out on our own, via cab to the National Tile Museum. Colorful, detailed decorative ceramic tiles are EVERYWHERE in Lisbon. This museum was a great way to see and learn more about the tiles, throughout history (many on display were from the 1500-1600 timeframe).
Next up, another cab ride, this time to the vary expansive Plaza de Comerica with its impressive arch and statutes.
Then on to catch the funicular up to an overview park with magnificent sweeping vistas of the city. The experience was enhanced with a Super Bock beer from one of the many vendors in the park (which was established in 1896)
An Incredible Church
Next up, after a quick stop at a shop to purchase a frig magnet and a wonderful coffee cup adorned with images of colorful tiles, we walked on to the amazing Sao Roque Church
A gentle downslope walk through lovely, quaint neighborhoods brought us to a ”must see” place, the “Cafe A Brasileira”. We were quickly escorted to inside seats, and enjoyed some refreshing beverages, including a glass of Venho Verde (Green Wine), a traditional Portugese wine.
Dinner Time
Dinner tonight was at the TimeOut Market, a large indoor market with a very large array of food vendors. We chose the Mushroom Risotto with braised pork (Steve), and grilled sea bass (Sally). Before leaving the market we bought a bottle of Green Wine for consumption later in the trip
The Journey Back To The Hotel
Traveling back to the hotel after dinner we used the Lisbon Metro. We had studied ahead and knew how to purchase a ticket, but found we were using a defective ticket vending machine. After a bit a very nice young couple (originally from Brazil) helped us and we were on our way via the Green and Blue lines, arriving back at the hotel around 6PM
Back at the hotel we finished the day in the hotel pool, and then off to bed, with dreams of heading to our next destinations, Obidos, Nazaré, and Porto
Day 4 Monday 2 Oct
Leaving Lisbon and driving north, we stopped in the small fortified town of Obidos, where we take a walking tour through its medieval streets and squares. The Romans and the Moors had settlements here until Portugal’s first king wrested it from the latter in 1148. Known as the “Wedding Present Town,” Obidos formed part of King Denis’ dowry to his queen, Isabel, on their wedding day in 1282 CE. As we meander through this lovely village full of red-tile roofs and whitewashed walls, it’s easy to see why Portuguese kings continued the tradition of presenting Obidos as a wedding gift for over 500 years.
We continue on to the seaside village of Nazaré, where we have free time for lunch on our own in this town best known for its massive waves. We chose to go to a local super Big-wave surfers from the world over descend upon Nazaré when the conditions are right, and a few riders have caught enormous waves, including Rodrigo Koxa’s 80-footer in 2017 (an official Guinness world record), and Hugo Vau’s reported 115-foot “Big Mama” in early 2018. Legend holds that the Virgin Mary miraculously rescued a knight, Dom Fuas, from a fatal fall here in the 12th century; the chapel he built to commemorate the miracle still stands on the cliffs.
Highway Rest Stop
Early this evening we reach our pousada in lovely Oporto, Portugal’s second largest city, one of Europe’s oldest urban centers, headquarters of the port wine trade, and UNESCO World Heritage site.
Pool Time and Dinner
Day 5 Tuesday 3 Oct
Oporto
Today we tour this city with a rich history dating back to the Phoenicians who established a settlement here in the 8th century BCE; the Romans later founded the town of Portus (“port”) in the 1st century BCE. The city lent support to the explorations of its native son, Henry the Navigator, in the 15th century, and Portugal owes its constitutional government to the Liberal Revolution of 1820 that began here.
Hotel Environs, Arrival & Dinner And Breakfast
Highlights of our city tour include the historic city center; the Baroque Clerigos Church, with its imposing bell tower; and the sophisticated Foz oceanfront district.
Then we enjoy a “six-bridge” cruise on the Douro River, source of the microclimate responsible for the grapes that make the city’s famous port wine and upon whose banks the Romans planted grapevines centuries ago.
Our tour ends with a visit to a port lodge for a tasting of the fortified wine exclusive to the region. Port’s style can be attributed to British merchants, who began adding brandy to Oporto wine to protect the wine during its shipment to England. By the mid-19th century the practice had evolved to fortifying the wine with brandy before it had fully fermented, as doing so yielded a more desirable vintage better suited to aging.
This afternoon we left the group and ventured on our own visiting shops and the Porto Cathedral. Afterwards we took a cab back to the hotel
Time At The Hotel Pool To Relax After A Full Day. And Taking In Sunset and Nighttime Lights
Day 6 Wednesday 4 Oct
Ponteverda and Santiago
Today we journey to Santiago de Compostela, last stop of the celebrated pilgrimage route of the Way of St. James (Camino de Santiago) traveled by thousands of peregrinos (pilgrims) for 1,200 years and now a UNESCO World Heritage site.
According to tradition, the apostle St. James came to the Spanish region of Galicia as a missionary, and after Herod had him beheaded, his followers bore his body back for burial. Upon discovery of his remains in the early 9th century, Galicians constructed a shrine and people began making the pilgrimage to it, taking various routes throughout Europe. The “Codex Calixtinus,” written the 12th century and known as the first European guidebook, provided guidance to pilgrims undertaking this journey; Francis of Assisi, Dante Alighieri, Charlemagne, and El Cid number among the many who have walked this path. Those who can demonstrate they have walked at least 100 kilometers – today determined by stamps in a “pilgrim passport” from wayside stops – earn a compostela or certificate of completion upon arrival in Santiago. The Pilgrims’ Office awards well over 100,000 compostelas to pilgrims from over 100 countries each year.
Rest Stop Break (After 1 1/2 hours of the drive)
Our Current adventure continued with a drive to the ancient city of Santiago de Compostela, with a stop for lunch along the way in Ponteverde. Halfway to Ponteverde we stopped at a small rest area with a view to the estuary and it’s aquaculture beds of seafood
Our Bus Driver Antonio and Tour Guide Jose
Lunch
We then proceeded to our destination, stopping at an overlook, with statues on a hillside depicting the pilgrims first view of the cathedral.
Upon arrival we checked into our hotel (parador), a former monestary, and the oldest hotel in the world (reportedly).
Hotel
Parador de Santiago de Compostela
After unpacking in our room, we wandered the streets, window shopped, had a beer in an outdoor cafe, and made our way back to the hotel at sunset for dinner, and some rest before another big day starting the next morning.
Dinner
Day 7 – Thursday, 5 October
Santiago de Compostela
Presumed repository of the remains of St. James the Apostle, Santiago de Compostela also ranks among Spain’s most beautiful and visited cities.
We discover this important cultural and re educational capital on today’s city tour, featuring the Cathedral housing the silver crypt believed to hold the remains of St. James, and the statue in his honor. The Spanish king commissioned the rebuilding of the Cathedral after the original church’s destruction in 997 CE; construction lasted from 1060 to 1211 and stonemasons added the elaborate Baroque façade between the 16th and 18th centuries. After designated masses, eight men known as tiraboleiros swing the renowned Botafumeiro, a massive censer suspended by a pulley from the ceiling. Reputedly implemented to mitigate the odor of the many pilgrims who slept in the Cathedral in centuries past, the Botafumeiro stands over five feet high, weighs over 175 pounds, and swings in a 213-foot arc.
After designated masses, eight men known as tiraboleiros swing the renowned Botafumeiro, a massive censer suspended by a pulley from the ceiling. Reputedly implemented to mitigate the odor of the many pilgrims who slept in the Cathedral in centuries past, the Botafumeiro stands over five feet high, weighs over 175 pounds, and swings in a 213-foot arc.
Botafumeiro
This afternoon is free for lunch on our own and independent exploration in this eminently walkable World Heritage city. Churches, Alameda Park, the marketplace – possibilities abound and our tour directo
We exit the Cathedral through the magnificent 12th-century Portico de la Gloria (“Port of Glory”) and enter Plaza de Obradoiro, the monumental square surrounded by Santiago’s most important – and impressive – buildings. The plaza’s four sides encircling us display four architectural styles – neoclassical, Baroque, Renaissance, and Gothic – and are said to represent the four primary aspects of civic life: the religious with the Cathedral, the political with the Town Hall, the cultural with the University of Santiago’s rectorate building, and the commercial with the Hotel de los Reis Católicos, our historic parador.
Dinner
A Pleasant Surprise
Day 8 – Friday 6 Oct
León
Leaving Santiago this morning, we travel east to vibrant León, another stop on the Way of St. James pilgrimage route and known for its religious festivals and Easter Week processions.
A Moorish ruler sacked León in the 10th century; the Spanish rebuilt it and it became the seat of Western Europe’s first parliament under King Alfonso IX in the 12th century.
Upon arrival, we embark on our afternoon city tour with a local guide. Our tour guide illuminates the city’s impressive historical and architectural heritage as we visit the 13th-century León Cathedral, one of Spain’s most beautiful churches, with its sculpture-covered façade and impressive stained glass windows; and Casa Botines, a Modernist structure by architect Antoni Gaudí.
Gaudi Bishop Houss
Leon
Hotel
Parador de Leon
Day 9- Saturday 7 October
Santander and Bilbao
Continuing our journey, we stop in the elegant port city and Cantabrian capital of Santander, which sits in one of Spain’s most beautiful bays.
Spanish kings made this city their residence in the early 20th century. Our touring reveals some highlights include Santander’s beaches and the cape of Cabo Mayor with its clifftop vista and iconic lighthouse.
Ocean View Lunch
A tour of Santander
After lunch at a local restaurant, we travel on to Bilbao, the industrial port city on the Bay of Biscay almost magically transformed by the construction of the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao in 1997. Now increasingly known for its burgeoning art scene, which we see for ourselves, the city’s original reputation derived from its centuries-old iron industry
Hotel Melia Balboa
Dinner tonight is on our own; Bilbao is known for its outstanding cuisine
Day 10- Sunday 8 Oct
Bilbao
This morning’s tour begins in Bilbao’s medieval Old City, with a charming mix of narrow cobblestone streets and inviting squares.
We see the Catedral de Santiago (c. 1379), once a stop on the pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compestela; monumental Plaza Nueva; and busy riverside La Ribera market.
Then our local guide takes us on a tour of the Guggenheim and its contemporary art collection. Designed by award- winning architect Frank Gehry, the jaw-dropping structure of limestone, titanium, and glass has drawn acclaim, attention, and visitors to this popular, revitalized city.
Day 11 Monday 9 October
Bilbao/Basque Country
A day-long excursion takes us through countryside historically home to the Basque people of Spain’s Atlantic Coast and western Pyrenees.
Our first stop is at the picturesque islet of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, with its 10th-century hermitage dedicated to St. John the Baptist which we view from a distance perched atop the rocky crags.
We then drive along the coast, passing through the key fishing town of Bermeo and the town of Mundaka, a surfing haven famous for its “left wave.” Here we enjoy magnificent views of the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve of streams and a salt marsh surrounded by sheer cliffs.
Our next stop is a poignant one: Gernika (Guernica), heart of the Basque region and the town razed by Nazi bombing in 1937 during the Spanish Civil War that was immortalized in the namesake painting by Pablo Picasso. Here we visit two cherished symbols of democracy and self-governance for the Basque people – the Assembly House and the storied Tree of Gernika, a descendant of the tree under which representatives from each Biscayan village met to formulate provincial laws.
We continue to a winery to sample the Basque coast’s unique Txakoli wine, grown in vineyards overlooking the sea. Traditionally only made for local consumption, Txakoli began to gain broader recognition in the late 1980s.
Following our tasting, we enjoy a lunch of pintxos, the Navarre region’s signature tapas, at the winery.
Our full day of Basque country touring complete, we return to our hotel and have the remainder of our evening free with dinner on our own
Day 12 Tuesday 10 Oct
Pamplona/Bielsa
We travel today to Bielsa in the Pyrenees region, stopping en route in fabled Pamplona, known for its annual Encierro – better known as the Running of the Bulls. Hemingway’s The Sun Also Rises helped publicize a practice that began in the 16th century of running bulls the half-mile from Pamplona’s corral to its bullfighting ring.
Our tour here features the striking Monument to the Encierro, a bronze sculpture created by Bilbao artist Rafael Huerta to commemorate the bulls and thousands of daring participants – 15 of whom have died since 1910 – that run daily during the annual festival of San Fermin from July 7–14.
For lunch on our own, we have the opportunity to sample the local pintxos – perhaps at multiple establishments as the Pamplonans do.
After lunch, we continue into the Pyrenees over mountain roads to Bielsa and our parador, arriving late afternoon.
Hotel
Parador de Bielsa
Day 13- Wednesday 11 Oct
Bielsa/Chistau Valley
Fresh mountain air and stunning scenery are on tap today as we visit Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
A royal decree established Ordesa, Spain’s oldest national park and one of Europe’s first, in 1918 and the government has since expanded it to include more than 56,000 acres. This dramatic,glacier-carvedlandscapeprovideshabitatfor171birdspeciesand32mammalspecies including the endangered ibex and the lammergeier, a bearded vulture.
Touring by smaller vehicles, we take in the beauty of the limestone Pyrenees mountain chain with its lush valleys dotted with clear blue streams and beech, fir, and pine trees, making stops for photo opportunities.
Later this afternoon is free to hike or simply relax amidst the natural beauty.
Day 14 Thursday 12 October Barcelona
Today we transfer to the fascinating city of Barcelona.
People remain divided over the origins of this coastal city, with one legend saying Hercules founded it 400 years before Rome’s birth and another insisting that Hannibal’s father Hamilcar Barca founded it in the 3rd century BCE.
Now Catalonia’s capital, Spain’s second largest city, and one of Europe’s most popular vacation spots, Barcelona had no beaches prior to the 1992 Olympics, when it relocated the industries that had occupied the seaside and reclaimed more than 21⁄2 miles of beachside.
Our hotel’s location in the heart of this city renowned for its walkability gives us a great starting point forexploration and dining options aplenty; our tour director will happily provide suggestions
The city loves its walkers, too, as we will see, boasting the equivalent of 260 football fields designated as pedestrian zones; roughly 3,500 people stroll down the Portal de l’Ángel, Spain’s most-traversed street, each hour.
Day 15- Friday 13 Oct
Barcelona Day 2
Sunrise Viewed From Hotel Rooftop
Another AMAZING Breakfast
This morning’s city tour features Barri Gòtic (Gothic Quarter), a maze of medieval streets, squares, and mansions; and Las Ramblas, the tree-lined pedestrian mall that attracts locals and visitors alike, day and night.
We pay homage to Barcelona’s native son, flamboyant artist Antonio Gaudí, as we walk through fanciful Parc Guell, one of Barcelona’s most beloved spots; and take a tour inside the landmark Sagrada Familia, the surreal cathedral that was unfinished when the artist died unrecognized and penniless in 1926.
A quick coffee stop before
Following a tapas lunch at a local restaurant, the remainder of the day is free to explore this exciting city as we wish.
Take Out Dinner On The Plaza
Day 16- Saturday 14 Oct
Barcelona
Rooftop View
Today we start with a visit to the curving stone-faced Casa Milà with its rooftop chimney garden made by famous architect Antoni Gaudi.
Tonight we bid !adios! to Spain, and to our fellow travelers at a farewell dinner featuring Spanish paella at a local restaurant
Day 17- Sunday 15 October
Depart for U.S.
We transfer to the airport this morning for our flight to the United States. United Airlines 0991 Departing 11:15 AM Arriving IAD 2 PM
The images are a combination of individual pictures, or pictures in a collage. Some pictures are posted in a gallery, in that case click on an image to expand it, and cycle thru the gallery
Day 1 – Calgary
After an uneventful non stop flight we were met by an Odyssey’s rep, and shuttled to hotel (Hyatt Regency). After checking in we were off on a walk along Stephen Avenue in downtown Calgary, and a beer stop 😊🍻
Introductory Presentation
Kickoff Dinner
Day 2 – Depart Calgary for
Glacier National Park
Early morning (5AM) One last time for the hotel pool, spa, and steam room
Calgary Breakfast
Good Bye Calgary
We leave Calgary by coach this morning for the scenic drive to Glacier National Park in northern Montana. For lunch we stop at a local restaurant along the shores of Waterton Lake, the deepest lake in the Canadian Rockies. Canada’s Waterton Lakes National Park is known as the place where the prairies meet the mountains, and it’s easy to see why, as soaring mountain peaks surround the lake. Waterton adjoins Montana’s Glacier National Park, and the two together were designated as Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park in 1932 to celebrate the enduring peace between the two countries. After time to take in the splendid lake views here, we cross the 49th parallel and enter to the United States. We arrive at our lodge late this afternoon and enjoy an included dinner here tonight.
Hotel lobby – beautiful “canoe” accent in the ceiling and outlined in the carpet below (blue)
Gathering in the hotel lobby with our tour director (Heather) and bus driver (Nathan)
Our bus and driver (Nathan)
Driving across the plains of Alberta
Waterton National Park (Canada)
Lunchtime in the town of Waterton
Back in the USA (Montana)
Chief Mountain
The lodge at St Marys Village.
Our accommodations for
the next two days
Spectacular view from the balcony of our room
All settled into our room, time for some relaxation and a “cold one”
Day 3- Glacier National Park
Today we get our first look at Glacier National Park, a 1,583-square-mile swath of wilderness in Montana’s Rocky Mountains encompassing rugged mountains, thunderous waterfalls, still lakes, and glacial valleys stretching to the Canadian border. From our lodge on the eastern side of the park, we travel into the park and begin with a visit to Many Glacier Hotel and the magnificent views. Then a afternoon cruise on St. Mary Lake for panoramic views of the water and its lovely surroundings. Pine forests cover the shoreline here, rising up to rugged rock bluffs that create a natural amphitheater around the lake. We return to our lodge and have the afternoon at leisure amidst the majesty of America’s 10th national park. Dinner tonight is at our lodge.
Breakfast Buffet
Our Lodging In St Marys Village
Many Glacier
Boat Cruise- St Marys Lake
Hike to lovely Waterfalls
Iron Teepees
A walk to the St Marys Visitors Center
Day 4- Glacier National Park & Whitefish MT
We enjoyed a travel highlight today as we step back in time and board one of Glacier National Park’s legendary sightseeing buses: the Red Jammers, in use here since the 1930s. With roll-back canvas convertible tops, these buses take their name from the sound of the early drivers jamming the manual transmission into low gear to negotiate steep roads. Our ride this morning takes us along the fabled Going- to-the-Sun Road, a twisting, winding mountain pass that offers breathtaking views and hair-raising turns. This 50-mile road crosses the park from east to west, and was the first to be recognized on the National Historic Registers as a Place, Landmark, and Civil Engineering Landmark. After time for lunch on our own, we meet up with our motorcoach at Lake McDonald Lodge, then continue southwest across the Continental Divide. The divide marks the border between the eastern and western portions of North America: all rivers originating east of the divide flow into the Atlantic Ocean, while rivers with headwaters west of the divide flow to the Pacific. After crossing this continental high point, we arrive late this afternoon in the resort town of Whitefish, Montana on the western edge of the park. We enjoy a leisurely dinner tonight at our lodge.
Goodbye Glacier National Park
Day 5 – Whitefish
This morning, we head to the popular ski area of Whitefish Mountain Resort, where we board chairlifts bound for the mountain’s summit. Rising to an elevation of nearly 7,000 feet, the “Big Mountain,” as it is known, hosted the 2001 U.S. Alpine Skiing Championships. After taking time to enjoy the 360 degree mountain views and crisp summit air, we visit the Summit Nature Center to learn more about the mountain and its local environment. We then enjoy lunch on our own before heading to nearby Kalispell for a guided tour of Conrad Mansion, one of the Northwest’s most outstanding examples of luxurious pioneer living. Originally designed and built for Charles E. Conrad – a founder of Kalispell – and his wife Alicia, the building itself remains virtually unchanged since its construction in 1895. Conrad’s descendants owned and occupied this beautiful estate until 1974, when Alicia Conrad McCutcheon Campbell – the Conrads’ youngest daughter – gifted the home and its contents to the city of Kalispell to be maintained in perpetuity as a historic site in memory of her parents. We dine tonight on our own.
Our hotel for 2 nights in Whitefish
Whitefish Mountain
Day 6 – Back To Canada. Transit From Whitefish To Lake Louise
Canadian Border CrossingRest StopLunch TodayHighway Overpasses For WildlifeHeavy rain when we arrived. Postponed lake visit to the next morning
Day 7
Lake Louise
Lake Moraine
Cruise On Lake Minnewanka
Hoo Doos
Vistas While Riding In Banff
Day 8 – Canmore, Bow River Float Trip, Banff Downtown Walkabout
Good Morning – This was the view from our hotel roomAn awesome breakfast setup
Canmore
Float Trip (in the rain, and some thunder!)
Walking about In Banff
Take Out Dinner. Back at the hotel on the deck with fire pits
A beautiful ending to another great day
Day 9 – Athabasca Glacier and Skywalk
An early start and a 3 hour drive along the scenic Ice fields Parkway
Jasper National Park. Athabasca Glacier
Ice Center – Lunch
Up onto the glacier via Ice Explorer Vehicles
Time to head back down
2nd Stop Today – Skywalk
Drive back to Banff
Enroute libations courtesy of our guide Heather
Day 10 – Banff Gondola, Banff Town Walkabout, Farewell Cocktails & Dinner at Rim Rock Hotel
Caught the shuttle from the hotel to the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, and then to the downtown drop off
Coffee (Cappuccino) Break 😊👍
Farewell Cocktails and Dinner
Parting Gifts From Our Odysseys Guide (Heather)
Last Day- Sunrise, Breakfast at the Hotel, Limo To Calgary Airport & Non Stop Flight Home
Steve and Sallys Travels 