The Loen Skylift cable car offers magnificent views of the Nordfjord region of Norway.
Seeking an authentic experience in the Norwegian fjords? The Nordfjord region epitomizes the beauty and cultural richness of the Norwegian fjords, offering everything from breathtaking natural landscapes to immersive cultural experiences.
In the years to come, there’s set to be an increase in the number of cruise ships visiting the Nordfjord. Norway’s upcoming environmental restrictions will see most cruise ships banned from the UNESCO World Heritage listed fjords, so lines are already looking to the Nordfjord as an impressive alternative for their guests.
Whether you’re choosing a Norwegian fjords cruise or planning an independent trip, here are seven reasons to make the Nordfjord region a top priority in your travel plans.
Ride The Loen Skylift
The Loen Skylift provides one of the most spectacular views in Norway, encompassing fjords, mountains, and distant glaciers. The cable car ride offers a breathtaking ascent from the shores of the Nordfjord to the summit of Mount Hoven, soaring more than 3,300 feet above sea level.
At the top, visitors can indulge in various activities, including hiking, dining at the mountaintop restaurant, or simply taking in the views.
The major downside of the trip is the cost. At 595 Norwegian kroner ($55), it’s an expensive attraction. Cruise ship passengers arriving in Olden should also factor in the transport to Loen.
Local tour providers such as Olden Cruise offer combined bus transfer and cable car tickets that, while expensive, cost less than cruise ship excursions.
Drive Along Lake Lovatnet
A journey around Lake Lovatnet is both serene and thrilling with its clear, turquoise waters contrasted by steep mountains. The extremely narrow road traces the water's edge, offering views of lush landscapes and dramatic cliffs.
Lovatnet lake is a beauty spot of the Nordfjord region of Norway.
This drive presents numerous opportunities for stopping at small beaches or starting a kayak trip on the lake’s calm waters.
It also presents an opportunity to learn the tragic history of this beauty spot. In 1905 and again in 1936, devastating rockslides from fell into the lake from the surrounding mountains, causing massive tsunamis that wiped out nearby farms and took many lives.
These events have left lasting scars both on the mountainous landscape and the communities around Lovatnet.
See The Briksdal Glacier
Even though they are diminishing at pace, Norway’s glaciers are an awe-inspiring sight of the power of nature. A tour to see the Briksdal glacier is a popular day activity from Olden, especially for cruise ship visitors.
Briksdal is an arm of the larger Jostedalsbreen Glacier, which remains the largest glacier on continental Europe despite its shrinking size. The Briksdal arm descends from more than 6,000 feet above sea level, stretching over a horizontal distance of 1.25 miles towards its glacial lake.
Over thousands of years, it sculpted the Briksdalen valley, characterized by smooth rock surfaces covered in lush vegetation. This stunning landscape, celebrated as one of Norway’s most beautiful, has attracted tourists for over a century.
Briksdal glacier has receded a lot in recent years, but still attracts a lot of visitors.
With views of cascading waterfalls and sharp peaks, the raw beauty of the walk to the glacier is just as memorable as the ice itself.
Shuttle buses are available from both Stryn and Olden to the Briksdal lodge, from where the walk to the glacier begins. Electric buggies known as ‘troll cars’ are available to shorten the walk, but these are popular and should be booked in advance.
Discover Viking Boatbuilding
The Myklebust Ship, discovered in 1874 in Nordfjordeid, is the largest Viking ship ever found in the country. Excavated from a burial mound, it is central to the exhibitions at the Sagastad Viking Center.
Although initially overshadowed by more intact discoveries like the Gokstad and Oseberg ships, the Myklebust Ship's remains, mostly ashes and rivets from its ceremonial burning, hint at its grandeur and the high status of its occupant, likely a Viking king.
The ship, approximately 100 feet long, has been meticulously reconstructed, showcasing traditional Viking craftsmanship and now features as a key exhibit at Sagastad, where it can also be boarded by visitors. On special occasions, the ship will be launched into the fjord.
Meet Norwegian Fjord Horses
The Norwegian Fjord Horse is one of the world’s oldest and purest horse breeds. Native to Norway, these sturdy, mild-mannered horses are known for their distinctive dun color and mane.
Various farms around the Nordfjord region offer horse riding experiences, where visitors can ride through the picturesque landscapes, guided by experienced handlers.
Native to Norway, the Norwegian Fjord Horse can be found along the Nordfjord.
Start at the Norwegian Fjord Horse Center in Nordfjordeid, where stallion shows have been held since the 19th century.
Experience The Wild West Cape
The exposed coastline around the mouth of the Nordfjord offers a dramatic view of the North Atlantic from the westernmost point of mainland Norway.
Known for its rugged terrain and panoramic views, the West Cape and its surroundings provide ideal settings for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers.
The stark beauty and often wild weather provide a thrilling experience that encapsulates the untamed spirit of the region while contrasting with the relative peace of the fjords farther inland.
Admire The Churches Of Olden
For passengers arriving in Olden on a cruise ship, the village is little more than a place to board the bus to the Briksdal glacier or Loen Skylift. Yet Olden offers an authentic look at a typical Norwegian fjord village, including not just one, but two old churches.
Olden Old Church, built in 1759, and the newer Olden Church, constructed in 1934, reflect the rich religious heritage in the fjord region. Both wooden structures are distinguished by their simplistic yet striking architecture.
Surrounded by lush greenery and set against dramatic mountain backdrops, these churches provide a peaceful escape and are worth a visit once you’ve enjoyed the more dramatic highlights of the region.
