Flam, Norway

Situated in the innermost part of the Aurlandsfjord and surrounded by steep soaring mountains, deep valleys and majestic waterfalls, Flam occupies the sort of dramatic setting one envisions when imagining the natural beauty of Norway's fjords. In fact, the word Flam means "little place between steep mountains." It's a short walk from the port to a trip on the Flam Railway, widely known as one of the world's most incredible stretches of railroad. Take a hike through the woods, go fishing in the mountains, enjoy a leisurely bike ride, or just enjoy the local shops and culture, including Otternes Bygdetun, with 27 different buildings dating back to the 1600's.