Here is a list of 10 must-visit places to discover Norway’s Western Fjords. Norway is a breathtaking country known for its stunning landscapes, dramatic fjords, and rich cultural history. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, history buff, or simply someone who loves spectacular views, you will not be disappointed. In this guide you’ll find information including what to expect, how long to stay, and the best ways to explore each location.
1. Trolltunga
Quite possibly one of my favourite places in this part of Norway was Trolltunga (meaning trolls tongue). I had never seen anything like this before so for me it was absolutely worth the hike. I have written a full detailed blog post about the logistics of tackling this 20-29km hike here.
- What to Expect: Trolltunga is one of Norway’s most iconic rock formations, hanging 700 meters above Lake Ringedalsvatnet. The view from this cliff is nothing short of spectacular.
- Time to Visit: The hike to Trolltunga isn’t too challenging, yet it is a long hike and takes anywhere between 7-12 hours round trip depending on your starting point, rest breaks, photo spots etc. You should dedicate a full day to this adventure and try to start as early as possible. The first shuttle bus leaves at 7am. See my blog above for more information.
- Getting there: Public transportation (buses from Bergen or Odda) are available, but renting a car gives you more flexibility.
2. Vøringfossen Waterfall
Voringfossen is one of Norway’s most famous waterfalls, and for good reason. We arrived to see the cascading falls, dropping 182 metres into the Måbødalen valley. It is absolutely breathtaking. There are 2 parkings, one at the lower part of the falls, and you can also drive to the top and see the falls from the viewing platform.
- Time to Visit: A couple of hours are enough to enjoy the waterfall and its surroundings.
- What to Do: Walk the scenic trails around the area and take advantage of the newly constructed viewing platforms. You can also explore nearby Hardangervidda National Park.
- FREE
- There are public toilets, a cafe and a small souvenir shop.
3. Flåm
Flåm is a quaint village nestled at the end of Aurlandsfjord, known for its beautiful landscapes and as a base for exploring the surrounding fjords. There are a few activities to do in the area too, making flam a great place to stop on your road trip to discover Norway’s western fjords.
- Time to Visit: 1-2 days to explore the village and take the famous train journey.
- What to Do: Don’t miss the Flåmsbana Railway, one of the steepest railways in the world, offering stunning views of waterfalls and mountains.
Other activities in Flam:
- You can take a fjord cruise and explore the fjords from the water.
- Flam Zipline is great fun! You can take the famous train and get off at Vatnahalsen – this is where the zipline starts. You will zip down to Kårdal summer farm and here you can take a bike and cycle 16km downhill back to Flam. If you don’t wish to pay for the bikes, you can opt for walking. I do however recommend that you hire a bike as part of the package as 90% is downhill and it’s a great way to get back! The journey is stunning going through valleys and past waterfalls and rivers. It was one of my favourite day trips – the train, the zipline and a bike ride all in one!
- Swim in the fjord! There is a great pier at Flåm Marina & Apartments. If you ask nicely they will let you use the pier to access the water. You can buy a drink in the cafe after to warm up as the water is artic – but, it’s bucketlist to swim in a fjord!
- From Bergen: Flam Full-Day Cruise to Sognefjord
4. Viking Valley
The Viking Valley is located in Gudvangen and is a reconstructed Viking village where you can learn about Viking history and culture. I don’t know about you, but I loved watching Vikings on Netflix so I was very excited about this stop!
- Time to Visit: You should plan to spend a few hours in the Viking Village. There is a lot to see, and the entry ticket also includes a free tour with a guide. They explain the history and culture of the vikings and show you some demonstrations, it’s very cool.
- What to Do: Participate in Viking activities like archery, axe throwing, and you can try on some of the typical skins they used to survive the freezing winters of Norway.
- The village is easily reachable by car or bus from nearby locations like Flåm or Voss. Parking is available on-site.
- Entry costs approximately 22 euros per adult.
- There are toilets and 2 cafes on site.
Discover Norway’s Western Fjords
5. Gudvangen
Gudvangen is a small village located at the end of Nærøyfjord, known for its Viking heritage and stunning fjord views. In addition to visiting Viking Valley, you can take a fjord cruise on the Nærøyfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The surrounding mountains make for excellent hiking and is easily accesible from Flåm or Voss.
You can take a ferry from Gudvangen to Flam and get the bus back if you don’t want to spend too much time on a cruise.
6. Aurlandsfjord & Stegastein Viewpoint
Aurlandsfjord is a branch of the famous Sognefjord, known for its tranquil waters and dramatic cliffs. You can take a cruise on the fjord, or enjoy the surrounding beauty lakeside. In Aurlandsfjord is the famous Stegastein Viewpoint offering an unparalleled panoramic view over the fjord..
It is a great spot to visit, however, please be aware that the road up to this viewpoint is very narrow and if you can, I HIGHLY recommend going early morning or for sunset. Avoid visiting this spot during the middle of the day as there is a lot of traffic and you must be comfortable reversing back to one of the meeting points. If you have a large car (we had a roadhouse from roadsurfer) I would not drive up here during the day. Tour buses take this route and I don’t know what would happen if you met one on the way!
- Time to Visit: Plan a half-day trip to visit Aurlandsfjord and Stegastein. This is the viewpoint at sunset!
7. Sognefjord
The longest and deepest fjord in Norway, Sognefjord stretches over 200 km and offers some of the most scenic views in the country. The deepest part of the fjord is 1308 metres deep! Sognefjord is a great place to take a fjord cruise, go kayaking, or explore the charming villages along the shore. You can also hike in nearby national parks like Jotunheimen.
We took a cruise which sailed through the fjord, landing at the storybook village, and included a trip to the glacier museum and Bøyabreen Glacier Viewpoint. It was a great day and I would recommend it to anyone.
8. Jostedalsbreen
Jostedalsbreen is the largest glacier in mainland Europe, located in Jostedalsbreen National Park. It’s a haven for nature lovers and adventurers.
- Time to Visit: A full day to hike or explore the area.
- What to Do: Take a guided glacier hike or a walking tour to experience the glacier up close. The park also offers excellent hiking trails with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. You can actually hike on the glacier!!
We did this and it was such a cool (literally) experience! We did unfortunately get terrenital rain so we were soaking wet but it was still worth it. I had never climbed on a glacier before! The ticket includes a guide, and your equipment (spikes, rope and pick) plus the short boat ride from the parking to the start of the hike. There are free public toilets in the parking. - Best Way to Get Around: A car is necessary to access the park and nearby trails. Guided tours from local operators are recommended for glacier hikes!
Discover Norway’s Western Fjords
9. Bøyabreen Glacier Viewpoint
Bøyabreen is a beautiful lake near the Jostedalsbreen Glacier, offering an easily accessible and impressive glacier viewpoint.
- Time to Visit: An hour or two to appreciate the views. There are picnic benches here and if you have time it would be a great place for a pit stop!
- What to Do: Witness the glacier cascading down the mountains and admire the many surrounding waterfalls landing into the lake. This place is honestly incredible! The nearby Norwegian Glacier Museum is also worth a visit.
- Best Way to Get Around: The viewpoint is accessible by car, located along the road to Fjærland. It’s a great stop on a road trip through the region.
10. Vossevangen
Vossevangen, or simply Voss, is a vibrant town known for its extreme sports activities and beautiful natural surroundings.
- Time to Visit: Spend one to two days here.
- What to Do: Voss is the adventure capital of Norway. Try skydiving, paragliding, white-water rafting, or skiing in the winter. For a more relaxed experience, explore Voss’ lakes, waterfalls, and hiking trails. There are many great ones to choose from, including: the challenging Lønahorgi hike (20 km, 6-8 hours) with panoramic views of Voss and surrounding fjords. The family-friendly Hanguren Panorama Trail (5 km, 1-2 hours), easily accessed via the Voss Gondola. For a moderate challenge, the Gråsidetoppen hike (16 km, 5-7 hours) rewards hikers with stunning vistas of the Sognefjord and surrounding mountains. These trails showcase Voss’s diverse landscapes, suitable for both casual walkers and experienced hikers.
- Best Way to Get Around: Voss is well-connected by train from Bergen or Oslo. Once there, the town is easy to explore on foot, but a car is useful if you’re planning to explore nearby nature areas.
There you have it, 10 places to visit when planning to discover Norway’s Western Fjords!
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