Flåm Line

Historie

The Flåm Line is a 20.2km long railway line between Myrdal and Flåm in Aurland, Norway. A branch line of the Bergen Line, it runs through the valley of Flåmsdalen and connects the mainline with Sognefjord. The line's elevation difference is 863m; it has ten stations, twenty tunnels and one bridge. The maximum gradient is 5.5 percent . Because of its steep gradient and picturesque nature, the Flåm Line is now almost exclusively a tourist service and has become the third-most visited tourist attraction in Norway.Construction of the line started in 1924, with the line opening in 1940. It allowed the district of Sogn access to Bergen and Oslo via the Bergen Line. Electric traction was taken into use in 1944; at first El 9 locomotives were used, and from 1982 El 11. Until 1991, the train connected with a ferry service from Flåm to Gudvangen. In 1992, freight services were terminated, and due to low ticket prices and high operating costs, the line was nearly closed. In 1998, Flåm Utvikling took over marketing and ticket sale for the line, prices were heavily increased and El 17 locomotives were introduced. The trains remain operated by the Norwegian State Railways, while the line itself is owned and operated by the Norwegian National Rail Administration.

"Spectacular Natural BeautyYou will find the beautiful small town of Flåm nestled deep in a tributary of the world’s longest and deepest fjord, the 204-kilometre-long and 1308-meter deep Sognefjord. Surrounded by steep mountainsides, roaring waterfalls and deep valleys, this area is a paradise for everyone looking for a one-of-a-kind experience with nature.Modern transportation makes today’s Flåm a junction that is easily accessible whether you are travelling by car, boat, train or by bus.Flåm is the perfect starting point for a memorable vacation! In our busy, stressful lives, contact with nature and outdoor experiences are like a salve for the soul. Flåm offers a range of nature activities for adults and children alike."