Savvy travelers like to explore unique and inspiring destinations around the world, and on the top of their lists are the fjords of Norway. These majestic natural wonders are narrow, deep bodies of water that are typically surrounded by tall mountains. They are formed by the movement of glaciers, and in Norway’s case by the movement of glaciers during the Ice Age, over 2.5 million years ago.
Norway’s unique geological features aren’t found in every part of the world, but you will also discover them in Canada, New Zealand, Greenland, Alaska and a few more lucky spots. However, a drive up Norway’s western coast gives almost endless jaw-dropping views of gorges, rivers, mountains, and fjords. Here are some of the best fjords in Norway to put on your must-see list.
This most famous of Norway’s fjords is also an UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it’s the fjord of all fjords. With mysterious and mystical deep blue waters, walls of mountains, snow covered peaks, and wild waterfalls. Boats coursing through Geirangerfjord offer the wonder of its scenery up close, and visitors can hike, kayak and enjoy sightseeing from various angles as well as experiences that they will remember for a lifetime.
Even though the highly popular and visited mountains near here are regarded as a national treasure, the fjord itself is something of a secret and is often left out of all other tourist routes. This means you can travel past steep rock walls, green meadows, and isolated mountain farms, all offering a window into the past. You get an up-close view of small communities that have rebuilt themselves over and over again, after avalanches and landslides. All of this at your own pace, far from the rush of mass tourism.
Those who are willing to make the trek inside the Arctic Circle will find immense beauty in the scenic views of Lyngenfjord. On top of the beauty of the numerous rivers and steep mountains, visitors can also see the Northern Lights here, or experience the midnight sun during the summertime. Beyond this, if you decide to stay above the Arctic Circle you can enjoy unique adventure activities like reindeer and husky sledding, glacial hiking, ice climbing, bungee jumping, or skiing.
Trondheimsfjord is named for the city of Trondheim, a historical city which acted formerly as the country’ capital. This city dates back to the 11th century, and to this day whenever new monarchs take the country’s seat, they are blessed in Trondheim. The town is known for beautiful colorful architecture and ancient waterways in the old quarter, and the fjord itself can be seen from the city.
Enjoy beautiful views of this fjord during the spring season when blossoming fruit trees frame the stark blues and greens of the landscape with pastel hues. A nearby national park, Hardangervidda, is great for hiking and waterfall viewing. This fjord is relatively close to the city of Bergen, where you can experience the best of Norwegian culture. Also nearby is a well known Norwegian landmark, the Trolltunga, a cliff that juts out over the fjord, which is perfect place to snap a memorable photo during your trip. (Note: During popular travel months there will be crowds of tourists lining up to get their snapshots too.)
