Magical Norwegian-Nordfjordeid! 🇳🇴
… one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen in the world (and I’ve been everywhere) this place was beyond magical muchachos:
tall waterfalls rushing-down lush green mountains, the water embracing the mountains like chocolate sauce coming down an ice cream sundae! And right up above, as you gaze towards the sky - you see amazing glaciers sitting on top of the mountains, their frozen fingers leaving a deep hand mark on the top of the escarpment, as it is looking down towards the cool waters of the fjord down the precipice, into the sea freezing Norwegian fjord.
Welcome to Nordfjordeid 🇳🇴, a little slice of paradise!
Land of Fjords and Vikings, Norway 🇳🇴 did not disappoint! Nordfjordeid here not only had the most amazing fjords, but also one of the deepest lakes in all of Europe. And as we trekked a couple of hours up a steep hill … we could see the contrasting colors of the gleaming white glaciers atop the yellow-green landscape and their minty waterfalls, the whole scene was almost unreal - like a symphony for your eyes!
And with all the work hiking-up the mountain and the string Sun ☀️ shining down on us, I took thick winter jacket and royal blue sports sweater off, layers quickly coming-off - receding just my sport tank top to cool down and also enjoy some sun after the harsh snowy weather of the Arctic’s North Cape and the optional excursion trip I took to Svalbard ✈️! 🐻❄️🐻❄️🐻❄️
This fjord is the epitome of what people think of Norway, we feast our eyes on the glaciers atop the mountains up there - enjoying the glacial views with its little minty blue lakes filling the landscape - we then start coming-down the mountain almost running, laughing and enjoying the thrill of the place!
Then once we are down fjord-side again: we celebrate by doing yoga with my friend -
… and then enjoy the freshest salmon for lunch (a la Seattle), I will never forget this day - my little slice of paradise, here in this Norwegian Fjord muchachos!
Nordfjordeid 🇳🇴
… Just two hours north of Bergen, you'll find a piece of authentic Norway to call your own. The little-visited Fjord Coast, or Fjordkysten, offers photogenic coastline and fishing villages, not to mention thousands of islands, fjords, and beaches. Here you'll also find Nordfjord, home to Jostedalsbreen National Park and the largest glacier in mainland Europe!
As Norway climbs the to-see lists of travelers everywhere, areas you've never heard of with names you can't pronounce are steadily gaining tourist traffic. Even in the Fjordkysten & Nordfjord region, you'll encounter a few crowds in the summer months—though many fewer than in more popular regions. Here, you're best off renting a car and taking to the land yourself. That way, you'll have the ultimate freedom to experience the underbelly of this magical region.
Fantasic Fjordkysten! ❄️
Briksdal glacier, Jostedalsbreen National Park
The gamut of things to do in the Fjordkysten region is wild, so let's start with the wildest of them all: Vikings.
If you're into history, check out the petroglyph fields at Vingen in Bremanger and Ausevika in Flora — they're the largest in Norway. Nope, Vikings did not use the alphabet like we do today. Nearby Millstone Park in Hyllestad is the largest stone quarry from the Viking Age, and while that may not sound too important, keep in mind that stone was essentially Viking gold. It was used for everything from weapons to grinding flour. At the modern-day museum, you can try your hand at grinding flour or carving out soapstone, just like the Vikings did.
If you have the time, take a ferry out to Utvær, a small island that marks the westernmost point in Norway. Here you'll see traces on the rocks where Vikings cut their swords before journeying off westward. Otherwise, check out Florø, the most westerly city in the county. It has awesome views over the cliff-strewn waters, and for a quick boat ride, you can visit the Island of Kinn, home to the fabled Kinnakyrkja (the Kinn Church), dating back to the 1100s. It's one of the oldest in the country.
And then there are the adventures. Though it's definitely more well-known, know that Jostedalsbreen, Europe's largest mainland glacier, sits at the beginnings of the Nordfjord, deep in Fjordkysten territory.
Hornindalsvatnet,
Europe's deepest lake (1,686 ft), isn't too far away, either. Both of these offer epic opportunities for adventure — in terms of glacial views though, note that many consider Briksdalsbreen to be even more stunning.
You can hike around the aforementioned Island of Kinn, and that's just one of many. Check out the sea cliff hikes up Blegja, Store Batalden, or Alden — all will get you fantastic panoramic views of the rocky waters below. For something a bit tamer, many of the roads in and around Hyllestad are nice for walking, and there's not much traffic.
And we haven't even talked about the water yet! The area is great for kayaking and diving, too. Gulen Dive Resort will set you up and do all the hard work for you, but you can also dive around Flora and Bremanger. A handful of WWII shipwrecks dot these waters, so keep an eye out (or just ask around). As for kayaking, check out the "Venice of the North," aka the islands of Solund, Bulandet,and Værlandet. There are plenty of outfitters in the area to get you set up with the right gear here, too.
Nordfjord 🏔
Utvik on the Nordfjord
Kalvag sits on the main entrance to the sixth-largest fjord in Norway, the Nordfjord — which essentially means its surrounded by islands, water, and hills on all sides. In fact, it's on an island itself, technically, though connected to the mainland by Route 616. Set up shop here, and you'll be at the literal portal to Nordfjord adventures (and have unparalleled views of sunrise and sunset).
The town had its heyday back in the 19th century, when its harbor served as a key hub for fishing boats. You'll still get a taste of old-school Norwegian "fishing village" life walking among the traditional fishing huts, but nowadays that taste includes kayaking, hiking, crabbing, art galleries, and touring an active herring factory. Knutholmen — constructed out of old waterfront buildings — is technically a hotel, but there you'll find an awesome sea-to-table restaurant, and the staff can help you organize any excursions into the area.
30 minutes north of Kalvag is one of the area's best beaches: Grotle. If you go in the summertime, odds are the colors it takes on will be more Caribbean than Norwegian. White sand, turquoise waters, the works. West of Grotle is Hornelen, the highest sea cliff in all of Europe. If there isn't snow on top, definitely put it on your list of hikes! Though wait a bit, and it'll be easier: a via ferrata (path with steps and cables) is currently being built.
A bit further north you'll find Måløy, home to the Kråkenes Lighthouse. Odds are it'll be the most beautiful lighthouse you've ever seen. It juts out from the northwestern tip of the island of Vågsøy, and the waves are huge. Sometimes they even lap onto the roof!
From here, head to Loen, where you can take the Skylift up to Mt. Hoven, over 3,300 feet in the air. There's a restaurant and observation platform at the top, but if you're more about nature, there's access to hiking trails in summer and snowshoe/cross-country ski trails in winter. If you're really hankering for some adrenaline, there's a via ferrata up the mountain, photo op upgraded with a suspension bridge.
And in case you're wondering, ferries run all throughout these areas, and frequently. That being said, not so frequently that you shouldn't time your schedule according to theirs. Do so, and you'll save yourself a lot of waiting around and get far more done on your trip!
… more reasons to visit Nordfjord! 🏔
For experiencing the best that Norway has to offer in one fjord, we invite you to visit Nordfjord, the fjord we call home. This fjord is located at the West Coast, between Bergen and Ålesund, off the beaten track and away from Norway’s busiest tourist destinations.
You will certainly find something that suits you on your vacation through this magnificent region. From the coastal area of Bremanger to the glaciers in the inner fjord at Loen, there are countless things to see and do. If you are up for an adventure: hiking, paddling, cycling, climbing or do a scenic road trip, Nordfjord is the place to be. With over 230 marked hiking trails there are countless mountains, meadows, and coastlines to be explored.
Bremanger, where the Nordfjord meets the ocean!
The Nordfjord starts at the coastal area of Bremanger, Norway’s wild coast with spectacular white beaches, sea cliffs, and small islands. This area is home to Hornelen, Europe’s highest sea cliff, standing 860 meters high. If you are looking for a challenge. There are plenty of easier hikes as well, all with panoramic views of the fjord and ocean.
This area is also perfect for kayaking, and we would love to take you on a private kayak adventure. This is a great family activity with children, our guide makes sure that you will have a fun and safe experience. Paddle along the numerous islands, spotting wildlife such as seals and eagles along the way, enjoy a seafood dinner in local restaurants, or hike down to the beaches and go for a refreshing swim.
Experience Norway’s fishermen culture in Kalvåg, a small village along the coast. Walk around the harbor to take in the history. You can also have lunch or dinner around the quaint little restaurants, and then perhaps hike the Hornelen: Europe’s highest sea cliff at 860 meters (2820 ft), located in Bremanger
Tip from the locals is to visit the Ålfotenfjord, a sidearm of the Nordfjord. An unknown pearl but beautifully situated with high steep rock faces and a glacier in the background. Before hiking into the Førdevalley just behind the deerfarm, enjoy an easy walk with great beauty.
Visit the Deerfarm in Ålfoten:
Paradise for hikers and skiers ⛷
Moving inland, the landscape changes to spectacular mountaintops, which can be hiked in summer. Hiking in the fjord landscape means steep climbs up and back down again, but the views are sure to be worth it. Trails around the Nordfjord area are well-marked. Difficulty is not just measured in length of the trail, but also how many meters you climb or descend and not to forget the weather and condition of the path.
Green and blue trails are easy/medium level trails, good for beginners. Red trails require a high fitness level and some sections are very steep. Black trails are for experts, you will cross streams, scramble across sketchy sections, and use your own wit to hike. The hike up Hornelen is considered a red trail (but takes at least 7-9 hours, is rather heavy, and would almost be considered a black trail).
Skiing in Nordfjord
Unleash your inner skier while skiing down in deep powder with a fjord view and let your dreams come true. Try ski touring or snowshoeing on this rugged terrain in the winter and spring months. The best time to visit Nordfjord for ski touring is March to mid May. Since this area is huge and there are no big ski resorts you do not have to stand in line, you will even be happy when you meet others. You do not have to get up early either for the best snow like many other places in the world.
There are several ski areas along the Nordfjord where you can rent equipment for one or several days: the main reason why you should choose the Nordfjord is the variety of ski touring possibilities and terrain. Whether skiing on or off-piste, it is sure to be spectacular. If you are not a very experienced ski mountaineer no problem, hire a local guide who can safely take you up and down the best mountains.
Our founder Rogier has been skiing since he was 3 years old and he moved to Nordfjord because of the unique skiing possibilities. He will be happy to share his passion and knowledge for the best spots with you.
If you are looking for a cultural visit…
Nordfjord has plenty of Viking heritage, including the largest Viking ship ever found, which is 30 meters long (100 ft).
Although the ship was burned for the burial ceremony of a Viking king, a seaworthy replica was made in 2016, which can now be found in the beautiful Sagastad museum!
Along with our Viking heritage, you can also go on farm visits to experience the way of life in the Norwegian countryside, like our historic sheep farm in Davik. Many of these exclusive visits are hard to find online so feel free to ask us for tailor made options for meeting the locals = modern Vikings.
As you travel further in the fjord the landscape continues to change and become more dramatic. At Loen, Nordfjords’ most inland fjord village, you can enjoy a 210 degree panoramic view from atop mount Hoven. Loen skylift takes you 1011 meters (3316 ft) above sea level. There is an extensive network of trails suitable for hiking, snowshoeing, and ski touring. Take in the view of the Nordfjord and the surrounding mountains.
In Stryn there is also an exciting high rope park: a fun activity if you are on vacation with children, and you can go swimming or relax & just enjoy the views!
Experience the fjord from up high, no climbing required!
The Jostedal Glacier ❄️❄️❄️
This glacier is the largest in continental Europe. Go hiking on the glacier with a professional guide or hike a trail to a hidden glacier tongue only the locals know about, the Bødalsbreen. You can also visit the Lodalen, a lake where rockslides caused a 40 meters high tsunami in the early 20th century.
Via Ferrata Loen: Experience the fjord from up high, lots of climbing required! (But no experience is needed)
Mountainbiking in Sandane
If you like mountain biking then a visit to the village of Sandane is a must. There are numerous trails to pick from, with great views over the fjords and surrounding mountains. You will also find a pump track here. Nordfjord Aktiv will be happy to help you with bicycle rental or a guide.
In Sandane you will also find the charming Trivselsskogen, which is a great area for hiking, also for families with children. You can relax at the Sun Plateau and use the barbecues, walk through the Love Forrest, take a break at the day hut Draumekvila or continue all the way up to the view point.
Race down the forest paths on your mountain bike tour or Navigate your kayak through crystal clear water!