7 norwegian fjords you must visit

1. Nærøyfjord — a stunningly beautiful UNESCO-listed fjord

Nærøyfjord is a sight to behold at any time of year. Whether you see it in its winter blanket of frost and snow, with its emerald-coloured glacier meltwater in spring or its green, flower-speckled hillsides in summer, or in its brightly coloured autumnal splendour.

Nærøyfjord is a UNESCO World Heritage site. National Geographic magazine voted the fjord "The best unspoiled travel destination in the world" already in 2004. When choosing 50 most awe-inspiring natural wonders in 2017, CNN said: “If you only have time to visit two fjords in your lifetime, make it the Geirangerfjord and Naeroyfjord in southwest Norway”

The two fjords shared tenth place in competition with other famous natural wonders worldwide. Other amazing places on the list included Preikestolen at Lysefjord, Stromboli volcano, the Salar de Uyuni salt flat in Bolivia and the Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania.

The beautiful, narrow Nærøyfjord is 17 kilometers long. The fjord is a branch of the Aurlandsfjord. Nærøyfjord ends at the little village of Gudvangen, located at the very tip of the fjord. On the tour, you will experience both cascading waterfalls, idyllic villages and many more sights that will linger long in your memory.

Fjord cruises depart twice daily in winter and has five daily departures in summer from Flåm and Gudvangen. If you want to get closer to the nature and culture surrounding the fjord, we recommend a fjord safari by RIB-boat. From Flåm, you can also go on a guided tours, like fjord cruise combined with RIB-boat safari and hiking.

When in Flåm you should also try the Flåm Railway – one of the world's most spectacular train journeys runs from Flåm to Myrdal. You can also get a package with both fjord cruise and the Flåm Railway in one ticket.

2. Geirangerfjord — Norway at its most beautiful

Like Nærøyfjord, you will also find Geirangerfjord on UNESCO’s World Heritage List. Few places have featured in as many photographs as this 15 kilometer long fjord. Geirangerfjord is actually one of Norway's most famous and popular destinations, both for norwegians and visitors from abroad.

A fjord cruise at the Geirangerfjord will get you close to waterfalls and imposing mountains from the comfort of your boat. On the trip, you will get to experience the Knivsflåfoss waterfalls, better known as the "Seven Sisters". The name of the waterfalls originates from the water cascading down the mountainside, which is reminiscent of the hair of seven women.

On the other side of the fjord, you will find the waterfall known as "Friaren", or the suitor in english. The name of this waterfall comes from a legend about a suitor who repeatedly proposed to the Seven Sisters, but was rejected every time.

Amongst the many fascinating features of Geirangerfjord are the small farms that cling to the steep hillsides. The farms may be abandoned now, but you can still see them today from the fjord cruise. You can even walk to one of the farms, Skageflå, from the centre of Geiranger.

3. Hjørundfjord between norwegian alps

The majestic Sunnmøre Alps are cleaved in two by the Hjørundfjord. This fjord cuts deep into the mountain massif with its many jagged peaks.

The Hjørundfjord is 33 kilometres long and surrounded by unspoiled nature and small villages on both sides. Some places are only connected to the outside world by boat.

In this wild and untamed landscape, hikers and skiers have found their mecca.

You can put together your perfect holiday based around Hjørundfjord as your destination. The alps offer hiking, climbing and skiing for the active.

Join a fjord cruise at the Hjørundfjord. You can start in the beautiful art nouveau town of Ålesund.

At the end of the fjord, in Øye, you can stay at the historic Hotel Union Øye. Take it easy and savour the atmosphere, romanticism and excellent food and drink at the legendary hotel. Use Øye as your base for Mountain hiking in the area.

From Øye, you can return to Ålesund on the same fjord cruise or take the bus across the mountains to the next fjord: the UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord.

TIP! You can easily take in Hjørundfjord and Geirangerfjord in a single trip.

4. Sognefjord — the king of the Norwegian fjords

Norway's longest fjord extends all the way to Jotunheimen National Park, which boasts no fewer than 24 of Norway's 25 highest peaks.

The mighty Sognefjord has a jumble of fjord branches spreading outwards into beautiful landscapes packed with wild nature and rich cultural heritage. You are never far away from unforgettable hikes, exciting glacier walks, fishing trips or other exciting activities and unique experiences for the whole family.

The Sognefjord is no less than 204 kilometres long. At it's deepest, the fjord extends 1300 metres down to the seabed, which also makes it Norway’s deepest fjord. Majestic mountains towering over 1,700 metres surround the beautiful blue water of the Sognefjord.

Fjord branches such as the Aurlandsfjord and Nærøyfjord, on UNESCO’s World Heritage List, all radiate out from the Sognefjord.

5. Rombaken - Arctic landscape and war history in Narvik

Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Rombaken Fjord offers a truly unforgettable experience.

Rombaken Fjord is a stunning natural wonder, nestled amidst towering mountains in Northern Norway. Its dramatic landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and rich history make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Explore the diverse hiking trails that wind through the surrounding mountains. From gentle strolls to challenging hikes, there's something for everyone.

Immerse yourself in the region's history by visiting the remnants of World War II battles of Narvik and cultural heritage sites.

Keep an eye out for eagles, seals, and other fascinating creatures that call the fjord home.

6. The romantic Hardangerfjord

The Hardangerfjord is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. It's the third longest fjord in the world, stretching 179 kilometers inland.

The fjord is surrounded by dramatic mountains, lush green valleys, and cascading waterfalls. In the spring, the region is ablaze with the pink and white blossoms of fruit trees, creating a breathtaking spectacle. The Hardangerfjord is famous for its production of apples, pears, and cherries.

Some of the highlights of the Hardangerfjord region include:

• Vøringsfossen: One of Norway's most impressive waterfalls, plunging 182 meters into a deep gorge.
• Trolltunga: A dramatic rock formation that juts out over a deep valley, offering stunning panoramic views.
• Folgefonna glacier: A vast glacier that covers a significant portion of the Hardanger plateau.
• Charming villages: Explore the picturesque villages along the fjord, such as Rosendal, Ullensvang, and Eidfjord, with their historic buildings and warm hospitality.

The Hardangerfjord region offers a wide range of activities for visitors, including hiking, fishing, kayaking, and boat tours. It's a perfect destination for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone seeking a tranquil and scenic getaway.

Travel the mighty Hardangerfjord from a exciting new angle on board Vision of The Fjords. The vessel is designed to maximise the tourist experience during any kind of weather, with large windows and walkways inspired by the winding trails of steep mountain terrain. Passengers are encouraged to go out on the top deck and enjoy a very different experience compared to traditional passenger vessels. Inside you will find Nordic inspired interior design offering a high level of comfort.

"Cider from Hardanger" is a protected geographical designation in line with Calvados or Champagne. In Hardanger there is 19 different cider producers with their own unique cider based on their apples and local history. Hardanger has a lot to offer the traveller also seeking authentic cultural and historical experiences with "Agatunet" being one of the oldest cluster farms in Europe, dating back to 1220. The farms in Hardanger has been central producing fruit for generations.