Martin Compston’s Norwegian Fling Episode 4, 15 March, 2024, BBC Two

In the latest episode of Martin Compston’s travel series, he and his friend Phil MacHugh embark on a journey through Norway’s breathtaking Unesco fjord landscape. Episode 4 takes them to Viking Valley, where they discover that the legendary Norse warriors had a surprisingly relaxed home life upon returning from their conquests.

As Martin and Phil delve into Viking traditions and history, they realise that these aspects are not limited to Norwegians alone. Viking Valley serves as a melting pot of cultures, with people from all over the world drawn to the allure of the Norse way of life.

Continuing their adventure, the duo travels north towards Ålesund, witnessing how modern Norwegians embrace their ancient heritage. They meet Sigrid-Annette and Ivan, followers of the Åsatru religion, who invite them to participate in a unique blessing for the god Ægir—a ceremony reminiscent of a wedding.

Arriving in Ålesund, which underwent reconstruction after a devastating fire in 1904 destroyed its wooden buildings, Martin and Phil find themselves assisting locals in building an enormous bonfire for midsummer celebrations—an ironic twist given the town’s past.

To conclude this leg of their journey, Martin and Phil venture into the fjords for an awe-inspiring experience—the Romsdalen Gondola. From its vantage point at Europe’s tallest vertical rock face known as Troll Wall, they witness jaw-dropping views across the incredible landscape.

Don’t miss this exciting episode airing on Friday 15 March 2024 at 9:00pm on BBC TWO.