Travel: Feasting through the fjords

Sailing smoothly into Copenhagen, past an array of beautiful Scandinavian islands, my wife and I enjoyed a decadent breakfast on our sun-soaked stateroom balcony.

As first-time cruisers, we had few expectations when setting off on our trip around the Norwegian Fjords and Scottish Highlands. But after only two days at sea, I realised this was a lifestyle we could very quickly adapt to.

On our 14-night cruise aboard the Holland America Line’s ms Rotterdam - visiting Copenhagen, Oslo, Kristiansand, Bergen, Greenock and Kirkwall - we would be treated to wonderful panoramas and excellent cuisine.

Our first stop was Copenhagen, a shopper’s paradise with elegant clothes and trendy furniture outlets lining the streets. But while my wife went in search of a new wardrobe, I decided to explore even more stylish locations.

Nyhavn is a picture postcard setting, with lovely bars, cafes and restaurants fringing the canal. I also took a relaxing stroll around Christiansborg Palace, where I stumbled upon an idyllic secret garden within the grounds.

Indeed, beautiful green areas were a running theme in Copenhagen. The Botanical Gardens, just a few steps from the hustle and bustle of the high street, rewards the visitor with some stunning scenery, while Tivoli Gardens even has a mini theme park.

But even greater sights were in store at our next stop, Oslo. The Norwegian capital has a number of good museums exploring the country’s rich history - particularly the story of the Vikings.

The all-white Norwegian National Opera House is an impressive architectural feat which visitors can, quite literally, walk all over.

The highlight for me, though, was a trip around the scenic fjords of Oslo on a vintage Norwegian sailing ship, feasting on a haul of fresh shrimp for lunch.

Fresh fish was something I’d see a lot more of, especially on a visit to Kristiansand, a small town with traditional wooden houses and a bustling Fiskebasaren (fish market). We took a boat trip through Sogne’s spectacular archipelago region then walked through Ravnedalen Park’s gorgeous forests.

Packed with colourful flowers, greenery, wildlife and lakes, the park provides a romantic setting. We found a charming cafe with a captivating view, and enjoyed a late breakfast of waffles with jam and cream.

Bergen was our final port of call in Norway, famous for its Floibanen Funicular - a cable railway that takes you up Mount Floyen for spectacular views of the delightful town, fjords and mountains.

Bryggen’s quaint wooden shops also caught my eye, while the popular fish market stocked some fresh and tasty lunch options - although I did decline the whale burgers!

Back across the North Sea, Greenock was our next stop. Located on the River Clyde on the steep west coast of Scotland, the town enjoys spectacular views of the mountains.

I visited Loch Lomond and Inveraray Castle. The largest loch in Great Britain, known as the Queen of Scottish Lakes, didn’t disappoint; a shimmering collection of islands, dark blue water and peaks that gave the impression we were back in the fjords again.

For many, the allure of cruising is the opportunity to visit a variety of beautiful places, but spending time on the MS Rotterdam was an experience in itself.

To start the day, guests can choose to eat breakfast in the classy La Fontaine Dining Room or the ‘fill-your-boots’ Lido Restaurant. But I’d advise splashing out on a room with a balcony, because early morning room service is a highly recommendable option on this trip. Tucking into your first meal of the day as the ship slowly glides around the stunning Scandinavian coast is an opportunity not to be missed.

The La Fontaine and Pinnacle Grill both cater for lunch, while The Lido is the dining hub of the vessel. Evening dining on the Rotterdam is a special experience, and the occasional formal night (suits for men, cocktail dresses for the women) adds to the atmosphere.

Meals in the popular La Fontaine are at a consistently high standard, but my favourite dishes were the braised lamb shank and fillet of Beef Wellington. If, like me, you have a sweet tooth, the dessert menus will be enormously appealing - the Warm Date Toffee Pudding and German Chocolate Cake are highly recommended.

I even had the opportunity to turn the tables and try on a chef’s hat. Regular tutorials in the Culinary Arts Center help guests learn how to prepare a number of tasty dishes. BBC cook Valentine Warner from What To Eat Now was the guest chef for my trip, providing a terrific opportunity to grab tips from an expert. MasterChef, here I come!

It wasn’t just the food that impressed me - the sea view hot tubs were a great way to relax and I took the opportunity to pamper myself in the ship’s Greenhouse Spa.

There were also plenty of bars and even a late-night disco, as well evening shows - usually a musical, tenor or magician. The Crow’s Nest, overlooking the front of the ship, with cosy booths and addictive cocktails was a regular haunt.

I can’t deny the Norwegian fjords and the Scottish Highlands are beautiful. My lasting memory though - and what gives the Rotterdam that extra bite, shall we say - is the amazing cuisine and service.

Travel facts - Holland America line

Chris Brady was a guest of Holland America Line on their 14-night Fjords, Highlands and Ireland cruise. Prices start from £1,398pp cruise only, based on August 17 departure. For more details call 0843 374 2300 or visit www.hollandamerica.co.uk