Flåmbanen

The Flåm Railway, or Flåmsbana as it is known in Norwegian, is a remarkable railway line located in Vestland county, Norway. It runs from the village of Flåm, situated at the inner end of the Aurlandsfjord, a branch of Sognefjord, up to the mountain station of Myrdal, at an elevation of 867 meters above sea level. The line is renowned for its steep gradient, making it one of the steepest standard-gauge railway lines in the world, with an average gradient of 1 in 18 and a maximum gradient of 1 in 14.

Construction of the Flåm Railway began in 1924 and it was opened to traffic in 1942. The challenging terrain required innovative engineering solutions, including numerous tunnels and bridges. Of the 20.2-kilometer route, approximately 80% is located on gradients of 1 in 14 to 1 in 18. The journey takes passengers through spectacular natural scenery, passing waterfalls, steep mountains, and picturesque valleys. Kjosfossen waterfall is a notable stop, where passengers can disembark to admire its grandeur.

The railway serves as a vital link, connecting the Bergen Line at Myrdal with the Sognefjord at Flåm. It is a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the globe who come to experience its engineering marvel and the breathtaking landscapes it traverses. The line is operated by Vy (formerly Norwegian State Railways). The unique journey and the stunning Norwegian fjords make the Flåm Railway a memorable experience for all who travel on it.