Key facts about Stryn and Nordfjord

Nature

The mountains plunge from altitudes of a few thousand metres, straight down into the fjord and the ocean, and creates amazing waterfalls. The innermost part of Stryn and Nordfjord has glittering glaciers  straddling narrow valleys and Europe's deepest lake, Hornindalsvatnet.

The fjord is wider in Mid-Nordfjord. Here, there are rolling hills and a milder climate. Further out towards the sea you will feel the ocean air filling your lungs. You can wander on smooth rocky shores or soft sandy beaches. Out at the ocean's edge, the West Cape Plateau towers above the feared waters of the Stadhavet Sea.

Jostedalsbreen National Park covers an area of 1,310 square kilometres. Jostedalsbreen Glacier (487 square kilometres) is the biggest on mainland Europe. The landscape ranges from lush valleys to alpine mountains and an Arctic climate. The core of the national park consists of an untouched landscape that can only be reached by foot. You can learn more about the nature in and around the national park at Jostedalsbreen National Park Centre.

History and culture

People have lived in Stryn and Nordfjord since the Stone Age, and many exciting archaeological finds have been made. You are welcome to explore Stryn and Nordfjord's history by visiting the region's museums, visitor centres and other historical attractions, such as the Selje Monastery, which dates from the 10th century.

Stryn and Nordfjord's cultural heritage, with its long-standing folk music and arts and crafts traditions, is well preserved. Food and traditional costumes are also an important part of the area's cultural heritage.

Facts

• Stryn and Nordfjord's total area: 4,295 square kilometres
• Population: 32,965
• West Cape (486 metres above sea level) is the westernmost point on the Norwegian mainland
• Jostedalsbreen Glacier (487 square kilometres) is the biggest on mainland Europe
• Lake Hornindalsvatnet (514 metres deep) is Europe's deepest lake
• Nordfjord is 110 kilometres long 
•  Skåla (1,848 metres above sea level) is Norway's highest mountain with its "foot in the sea"