Course description

Spend a year exploring the norwegian fjords and mountains while becoming part of a welcoming community. Learn norwegian through everyday life, outdoor adventures, music and shared experiences.

photo 2026 07 28 16 07 37 - Bergen Folkehøgskole
photo 2026 07 28 16 07 40 - Bergen Folkehøgskole

What you will learn

The Western Norway Expedition

Experience our 13-day Western Norway Expedition, an unforgettable journey through some of Norway`s most breathtaking landscapes. 

Together we will explore towering mountains, peaceful fjords and hidden valleys while experiencing Norwegian outdoor life the way locals do. This is an adventure where you will challenge yourself,discover new places and create lifelong memories with your classmates. 

During the expedition you may:

  • Hike in spectacular mountain landscapes 
  • Paddle a kayak on crystal clear lakes or calm fjords
  • Camp under the stars and learn outdoor living skills
  • Cook meals together over a campfire or camping stove
  • Experience norwegian «friluftsliv»-the tradition of enjoying and respecting nature
  • Visit small villages and discover local culture, music and traditions

Our teachers will guide and support you throughout the journey, making sure everyone feel safe, included and ready for new challenges. The expedition is about working together, building confidence, learning new skills and experiencing the incredible nature that makes Norway unique. 

Course content

Learning a language is easier when you use it every day. Instead of spending all your time in a classroom you will practice norwegian while hiking, travelling, cooking, singing, working on projects and living together with other students. 

Music and art is an important part of life at Bergen Folk High School. You don`t have to be a musician to enjoy it. We use music to create community, build confidence and support language learning. Singing together helps with pronunciation, vocabulary and rythm in a natural and enjoyable way. Music is one of the many ways we learn from each other. 

Living close to the fjord gives us opportunities that few schools have. Throughout the year we`ll spend time on the water, along the coast and in our traditional boathouse. You will learn practical skills, experience norwegian coastal traditions and enjoy some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world

Our location gives us easy access to mountains, forests and the fjords around Bergen. Together we`ll hike, cook outdoors, enjoy campfires and experience the changing seasons. Winter brings opportunities to experience norwegian winter traditions and if conditions allow you can try crosscountry skiing or alpine skiing in beautiful mountains. 

Bergen is Norways`s second largest city and one of the most vibrant cultural destinations. Throughout the school year you`ll experience concerts, festivals, museums and city life together with your fellow students. 

IMG 1137 - Bergen Folkehøgskole
photo 2026 07 28 16 04 44 - Bergen Folkehøgskole

Equipment you will need to bring

  • Sleeping bag
  • Sleeping pad
  • Hiking clothes
  • Hiking boots
  • Woolen long underwear
  • Rain jacket
  • Rain trousers
  • Gloves
  • Hat/cap
  • Rucksack
  • Cup, plate and cutlery
  • Thermos

Teacher Alina Yurkovska

Alina Yurkovska studied Fine Art in Ukraine, where she developed a strong creative and artistic background. After moving to Norway, she spent four years adapting to norwegian culture, learning the language, and discovering the country. She has explored many of Norway’s mountains and beautiful places, and loves sharing her experience, creativity, and passion for nature with others.

Skjermbilde 2026 08 27 142153 - Bergen Folkehøgskole

Dette er hva elevene sier

No data was found

Apply for a place now

Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis and processed in the order they are received. We therefore recommend applying early.

In addition to completing the regular school application, we encourage you to write a short note about your motivation for joining the course. If you have experience in art, design, or architecture, you are welcome to include images of your previous work, such as drawings, cardboard models, or similar projects.

Live Norway - priser

  • Kost og losji
    kr. 96 000,-
  • Felleskostnader
    kr. 12 000,-
  • Fellestur
    kr. 5 500,-
  • Linjepris inkl. studietur
    kr. 31500,-
  • Total:
    kr. 145000-

FAQ

Ofte stilte spørsmål

Perfect if you are looking for a meaningful gap year. If you are curious about Norwegian nature, culture, nature, music, food and outdoor activities and like meeting people from other cultures.

Live Norway is a unique opportunity to experience Norwegian culture and everyday life while learning the language and discovering the country. It combines community, nature, activities, and meaningful experiences throughout the year.

You don`t need to speak Norwegian or have experience with outdoor activities before you arrive. What matters most is that you are curious, open minded and willing to take part in everyday life at the school.

We hope you will:

  • be willing to try new activities and experiences
  • contribute to a positive and inclusive community
  • show respect for different cultures and perspectives
  • take part in school life

You will have the opportunity to:
• Develop outdoor and practical skills
• Explore Norwegian nature, fjords, and mountains
• Discover local culture and everyday life
• Learn Norwegian through activities and real-life experiences
• Use music as a fun and creative way to develop your language skills
• Take part in shared experiences and become part of a welcoming community

Ja. Bærekraft, miljø og bevisst bruk av ressurser er viktige temaer i undervisningen. 

You will work both independently and together with others. We value collaboration while also giving you space to develop your own skills and ideas.

Yes,you will receive close support and individual guidance from our teachers throughout the year.

You need to bring your own equipment with you:
• Sleeping bag
• Hiking and outdoor clothes
• Hiking shoes
• Woollen clothes
• Waterproof jacket and pants
• Backpack

The year can give you a strong foundation for further studies, work, or life in Norway. You will develop your Norwegian language skills, gain practical and outdoor experience, explore your interests, and build confidence through living and learning in a new environment.