West Norwegian Fjords Geirangerfjord and N R Yfjord

Discovering the Enchanting West Norwegian Fjords: Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord

Welcome to a breathtaking journey through the heart of Western Norway! Today, we’re diving into the mesmerizing world of two UNESCO World Heritage Sites - the Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord. These fjords, with their towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and serene villages, offer an unforgettable experience for any traveler seeking natural beauty and cultural immersion.

Geirangerfjord: The Crown Jewel of the Fjords

Location: Aarmal, Møre og Romsdal county, Western Norway

Must-Visit Spots:

  1. The Seven Sisters Waterfall (De Syv Systrane): This stunning waterfall, along with its smaller sister, the Suitor, offers a spectacular view from the Eagle Road (Eagle’s Path).
  2. Flydalsjuvet Viewpoint: The best spot to capture panoramic views of Geirangerfjord and the surrounding mountains.
  3. Herkjan waterfall: A lesser-known but equally beautiful waterfall hidden in a small valley.
  4. Geiranger Village: Don’t miss the charming village with its historic buildings, souvenir shops, and restaurants.

Nærøyfjord: The Perfect Hidden Gem

Location: Sognefjord, Sogn og Fjordane county, Western Norway

Must-Visit Spots:

  1. Flåm Village: Known for its picturesque beauty and the starting point of several fjord cruises and rail journeys.
  2. Stegastein Viewpoint: A modern platform offering breathtaking views over the fjord and surrounding mountains.
  3. Nærøyfjorden’s tiny villages: Visit Gudvangen, Kjolden, or Bakkaflåm for a glimpse into traditional Norwegian life.
  4. Austdalsbreen Glacier: Take a hike to this accessible glacier for an unforgettable experience.

Where to Eat

  1. Geiranger Fish Restaurant: Try the freshly caught seafood dishes with a fjord view.
  2. Flåmsbakken Restaurant: Savor traditional Norwegian food in this cozy eatery at Flåm base station.
  3. Gudvangen Fjordstova: Indulge in local specialties such as reindeer meat and cloudberry pie.

Where to Stay

  1. Hotel Union Øye: A historic hotel overlooking the Geirangerfjord with stunning views, great food, and comfortable rooms.
  2. Flåmsbrygga Hotel: Located in Flåm, this modern hotel offers a wide range of activities like kayaking and fjord safaris.
  3. Nærøyfjord Hotell: A charming family-owned hotel with beautiful views over the Nærøyfjord.

Activities & Tips

  1. Fjord Cruises: Take a boat tour to explore these stunning fjords in depth. Both Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord offer several daily cruises during summer.
  2. Flåm Railway (Flåmsbana): This spectacular train journey from Myrdal to Flåm showcases the beautiful Norwegian landscapes.
  3. Kayaking: Explore the fjords at your own pace by kayak, offering a unique perspective on these natural wonders.
  4. Hiking: Discover hidden trails and waterfalls with guided or self-guided hikes through the fjord regions.
  5. Local Culture & History: Visit museums, art galleries, and historic sites to learn about the rich cultural heritage of Western Norway.