Attractions and Places To See around Fjords de l’Ouest de la Norvège – Geirangerfjord et Nærøyfjord - Top 20

The region is famous for its dramatic waterfalls. In Geirangerfjord, don't miss the iconic "Seven Sisters" (De syv søstrene), "The Suitor" (Friaren), and "The Bridal Veil" (Brudesløret). You can also walk behind Storseter Falls, and experience Storfossen Waterfall up close via a path with over 300 steps in Geiranger village. In Nærøyfjord, numerous spectacular waterfalls plunge down steep mountainsides, particularly impressive during snowmelt in May and June, including Sagfossen with its 575-meter drop.

For breathtaking panoramic views, consider visiting Dalsnibba (Geiranger Skywalk), located 1500 meters above the fjord. Flydalsjuvet offers an excellent view down to Geiranger town and the fjord, with a unique photo opportunity. Ørnesvingen (The Eagle's Bend) provides a viewing platform on a hairpin turn, often with views of the Seven Sisters waterfall.

Nærøyfjord is renowned as one of the narrowest fjords in the world, with mountains rising over 1,700 meters high directly from the water. This creates an incredibly dramatic and intimate experience. While Geirangerfjord is also stunning with its grand scale and famous waterfalls, Nærøyfjord's extreme narrowness and sheer cliffs offer a distinct, almost claustrophobic beauty.

Both fjords offer a wide range of outdoor activities. You can enjoy fjord cruises, kayaking, and RIB boat tours to experience the water up close. Hiking is very popular, with trails like the Fosseråsa national hiking trail (passing behind Storsæter waterfall) in Geirangerfjord, and the Rimstigen climb or trails to Bakkanosi mountain in Nærøyfjord. For more specific routes, explore the hiking guide, running trails guide, or MTB trails guide for the region.

Yes, the region offers several cultural and historical insights. In Geirangerfjord, you can hike to abandoned fjord farms like Skageflå and Knivsflå, which cling to the steep mountainsides. The Norwegian Fjord Centre in Geiranger provides interactive exhibitions on the landscape's formation. In Nærøyfjord, visit Gudvangen village, home to the Viking Village Njardarheimr, where you can experience authentic Viking life. The charming village of Undredal on the Aurlandsfjord is known for its traditional architecture and small stave church.

Many attractions are suitable for families. In Geiranger, the path up to Storfossen Waterfall is manageable and exciting. The Geiranger Village itself is a central hub with facilities. Fjord cruises are a fantastic way for all ages to see the scenery. In Nærøyfjord, the Viking Village Njardarheimr in Gudvangen offers an engaging historical experience for children and adults alike.

The best time to visit is typically during the late spring (May-June) and summer (July-August). In late spring, the snowmelt makes the waterfalls particularly powerful and spectacular. Summer offers the warmest weather and longest daylight hours, ideal for outdoor activities and fjord cruises. Some services and roads may be closed outside of the main tourist season.

Yes, you can! Storseter Falls in Geirangerfjord offers the unique opportunity to walk behind the cascading water. It's a truly impressive experience, though the path can be slippery, so caution and sure footing are advised.

Yes, hiking to the abandoned fjord farms like Skageflå and Knivsflå in Geirangerfjord provides incredible views and a glimpse into traditional fjord life. These hikes can be challenging but are very rewarding. Skageflå is often accessed by boat from Geiranger, followed by a steep ascent.

The most popular way to explore the fjords from the water is by taking a fjord cruise, which often runs between Hellesylt and Geiranger, or Gudvangen and Flåm. For a more intimate experience, consider kayaking or stand-up paddling (SUP) directly on the fjord. For an adrenaline rush and close-up views, RIB boat tours are also available.

Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking natural beauty, especially the powerful waterfalls and dramatic fjord landscapes. Many highlight the unique experience of walking behind Storseter Falls and the impressive path alongside Storfossen Waterfall. The tranquility and stunning views from various viewpoints are also frequently mentioned as highlights.