Luxury dog-friendly hotels in Bergen, Norway

Back in the 12th and 13th centuries, Bergen was Norway’s capital, until King Håkon V moved to Oslo and took the title with him. But, ultimately, Bergen won out in the beauty stakes. Nestled in a valley surrounded by seven forested hills, and the gateway to the fjords, it’s where people come to explore the city then promptly leave it. But, even against the monster-mountain gorges the fjords cleave prettily through, and nature trails of uncommon majesty, the city’s charms shine. A Christmas card of historic houses line the waterfront, it’s home to the world’s largest cultural collection in Scandinavia, its music legacy is strong, from Grieg to Ole Bull to Kings of Convenience, and its gastronomic clout is mighty, from sweet brown goat’s cheese, lamb reared on the slopes and all the treasures to be trawled. Bergen’s still capital in our opinion.