OVERVIEW

Enjoy a panoramic Kristiansand sightseeing drive, a cruise in its island-dotted waters and a visit to the über-charming resort town of Lillesand. It’s a multi-conveyance journey guaranteed to please. The first leg carries you past some of Kristiansand’s most famous sights, including rotund Christianholm Fortress and the historic Posebyen neighborhood of narrow streets lined with white wooden houses. A spin though a pair of higher-end residential enclaves brings you to the town of Marvika, where you’ll board the sailing ship SS Christiansand and head to sea. Swinging out into the Skagerrak strait that separates Norway from Denmark, you’ll be treated to panoramic views that make it clear why Kristiansand made such a natural choice for a harbor. Expect to also see rock-rimmed islets where only wildlife live, fishing boats in motion, seabirds on the wing overhead and picturesque hamlets tucked into protective coves. Back on dry land, settle back into coach excursion mode, entering a landscape of deep-blue lakes, fertile valleys and mountain tunnels enroute to immaculate Lillesand. In this carefree town of red and white wooden houses, inviting boutiques and waterfront cafes, you can opt for a guided walk or just savor some delightful free-wandering time.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Enjoy a drive past Kristiansand must-see landmarks and through its most picturesque neighborhoods.
• Board a sailing ship in Marvika to cruise the waters that pass between Norway and Denmark, and between the North Sea and the Baltic.
• Be dazzled by scenery that includes sheltered coves, seabirds in flight, fishing boats and wild islets.
• Rejoin the coach for a drive to Lillesand, an exceptionally colorful and charming waterfront town.
• Take a guided walk here or sample its charms on your own, then return to port through lush forest

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Ride a zipline through the tree canopy on the outskirts of Kristiansand and toast the occasion with a beer tasting and an enlightening walk through downtown. From the top of the zipline at the Høyt & Lavt adventure park, you will gaze out over a wooded landscape that extends nearly all the way to the sea. The scenery will race by much faster once you step off the zipline platform as you will approach adrenaline-pumping speeds of nearly 50 miles an hour. The mood will change dramatically once you reach Homborsund, a casual microbrewery known for its innovative craft beers. After sampling a flight of six vastly different beers served with traditional Norwegian snacks, you will head for the city center. During the leisurely walk that follows, the guide will describe attractions such as the bustling fish market and historical landmarks, which are considerable since Kristiansand was founded in 1641.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Race through the woods on a lengthy zipline at speeds of up to 50 miles per hour.
• Sample a flight of craft beers at a popular microbrewery.
• Walk through downtown with a guide that will describe the intriguing points of interest.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Take an exhilarating ride on a high-powered boat to Ny-Hellesund, where you will discover the historical harbor’s importance through the centuries.

After a short walk along the pier, you will suit up in waterproof gear and board an RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat) that is ideal for cruising the waters off Kristiansund. The vessel is designed to zip through the water at a high speed yet provide a remarkably smooth ride.

As you cruise west along the picturesque coast, you will pass a number of uninhabited islands, spot lighthouses on rocky cliffs and even get a glimpse of the Skagerrak Sea. You can expect the ride to be as exhilarating as the gorgeous scenery all the way to Ny-Hellesund.

Upon reaching the historical harbor, which has been operating since the 1200s, you will begin an informative walking tour. You may hear the legend of Saint Olaf and how he escaped his enemies here. You might also discover how trade once flourished in Ny-Hellesund, as ships loaded with textiles and spices exchanged them for lobsters and timber.

During World War II, the Germans built a fortress overlooking the sea here and some of the bunkers and cannons have been restored. You can explore the strategic hilltop location as you ascend a trail to the peak, where you will enjoy an extraordinarily panoramic view.

On the return to Kristiansund, the RIB will follow a route not sheltered by the islands, making the experience all the more thrilling.

Treat your palate to several distinctly Norwegian flavors by sampling handcrafted beers at a local brewery and then a selection of seafood at Kristiansand’s fish market. After departing from the pier, you will begin your experience on foot, enjoying a guided walking tour through the city’s charming streets. The first stop is Homborsund Brewery, founded by local beer enthusiasts passionate about creating unique, high-quality brews. Set against a picturesque backdrop, the brewery has gained a reputation for producing exceptional craft beers using local ingredients. After an enlightening tour of the brewery, during which you will learn about Homborsund’s beer-making process, you will sample several varieties. A sampling of fresh seafood awaits you back in Kristiansand, where you will visit a popular fish market. The vendors’ offerings may include smoked Norwegian salmon, succulent shrimp and crispy fish cakes, which are traditionally served with a dollop of dill mayonnaise. As you sample the dishes, a local seafood expert will be happy to share insights into the seafood’s preparation, Norway’s sustainable fishing practices, and answer your questions. Norwegians usually smoke their salmon with various types of wood to impart different flavors. Juniper is a favorite and leaves a bold, resinous flavor. And what better way to top off a tasting than with a leisurely walk back to the pier. On the way, your guide will point out more highlights, or you may choose to continue exploring Kristiansand’s lively center at your own pace.

Enjoy a comprehensive look at Kristiansand that takes in the historical landmarks and offers a glimpse into contemporary life through farmers’ markets and other shopping areas.

After departing from the pier, you will drive directly to Vest Agder, an open-air museum on the outskirts of town. Dozens of historical homes have been reconstructed here in a mini-city that depicts what Kristiansand looked like centuries ago. The oldest structure dates to 1585 and reveals the lifestyle and culture at the time.

Returning to the city center in Kristiansand, you will enjoy a glimpse into a different time period by walking through Old Town, a district known as Posebyen. It was one of the few areas spared in the raging fire of 1892.

While meandering through the atmospheric streets, you will surely notice the soaring spire of Kristiansand Domkirke, a neo-Gothic cathedral that is one of the largest in Norway. Inside, don’t miss the beautiful altarpiece that revered Norwegian impressionist Eilif Peterssen painted in 1886.

Christiansholm Fortress is another historical highlight worth noting, as it was built in 1672. To thwart attack, the fortress’ stone rotunda was constructed with walls 16-feet thick and a deep moat that was later filled in.

For a look at contemporary life, you will browse several bustling markets among the locals shopping for items such as fresh produce, seafood and flowers. You will also walk along the popular shopping street Markens and past Kilden Performing Arts Centre before returning to the pier.