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The West-East Passage is a trip for the birder who wants to bird, relax and
see some of Norway. Here, we are not looking for long species lists or chasing mega rarities. Here the emphasis is on relaxed birding in some of the most spectacular scenery that can be found in Europe.

Day 1:
After arrival at Bergen Airport we head for Voss. After checking in at our lakeside hotel we will spend some time taking a leisurely walk along the road on the opposite side of the lake. Here we will find rich vegetation holding such species as Icterine Warbler. Corncrakes have been recorded in the surrounding farmland, and though we may not see this shy bird, we could hear them.

Day 2:
Full days birding around Voss. During the course of the day we will visit a small tidal area at Ulvik. The woodlands and marshlands that surround Voss hold a huge selection of species. Over 230 species have been recorded in Voss, so the day should produce a good selection of Scandinavian species.

Day 3:
Morning drive to Geilo via the Sognfjord and the Goats Pass. First we will set course for the mountains for breeding Red-throated Diver, Shore Lark and Lapland Bunting. We will then drop down into the valley and head for the backside of Strandafjorden. Though called a fjord it is actually a lake. The path that we will follow will give us the opportunity to check for waterfowl. Both non breeding Common and Velvet Scoter are often seen. The woodlands hold such species as Tengmalm’s Owl and Black Woodpecker.

Day 4:
After breakfast we have the trips longest drive to the south east of Norway. The scenery will change from the dramatic fjords and mountains of the west to more gentle habitats of the east. The mountains become covered in woodland, the rivers seem more slow flowing rivers and the lakes even more spectacular. There will be stops, amongst others to look for Siberian Jay. After checking in at our hotel we will take an evening excursion to look for and listen to Eurasian Nightjar.

Day 5:
We will start the day at Mølen, with its breeding Thrush Nightingale and Red-backed Shrike. From Mølen it is onto the coastal wetlands at Ilene. This tiny bird reserve is always worth checking. Next stop will be Borrevatnet. This tiny lake is one of the better birding localities in the county. Marsh Warbler can be heard singing from the reeds and there is always a chance of seeing Common Rosefinch. Our last stop before we get to Oslo is Linnesstrand. Like Ilene, this small tidal area can and has produced the unexpected. Overnight stay in Oslo, of an evening you can check out this pulsating city.

Day 6:
Mornings birding at Nordre Øyeren. This is Norway’s largest wetland reserve. Depending on water levels, wader and wildfowl numbers can be good. Non breeding Common Crane can be seen during the summer months and Osprey breeds around the reserve. From here it is a short drive to Oslo Airport Gardemoen for flights home to the UK.