Waterfalls cascade down the mountainsides, peaks pierce the sky, and fjords glitter in the distance. The Scenic Route Gaularfjellet takes you through some of Norway's most breathtaking nature between the Sognefjord and Førde or Jølster in Sunnfjord.
Norwegian Scenic Route Gaularfjellet
Follow the waterfalls from the mountains to the fjord
While the Sognefjord and the Geirangerfjord receive a lot of visitors, Gaularfjellet winds quietly and proudly through Western Norway's spectacular landscapes, almost entirely under the radar.
The route runs between Balestrand in the Sognefjord and Moskog or Sande near Førde, covering roughly 130 kilometres along county roads 55, 613 and 610. The driving time is around 2.5-3 hours without stops.
If you are driving from Oslo, getting to Balestrand takes about 6 hours. Alternatively, you can drive from Bergen to the starting point in Balestrand, which typically takes around 3.5 hours, or Moskog in about 3 hours.
A great starting point is Balestrand, one of the most unique and picturesque villages along the Sognefjord. It's also a great place to stay for a couple of days.
St. Olaf's Church, the English church, was built as an imitation of a stave church.
The village has been welcoming artists and travellers for over 150 years. Check in to the charming Kviknes Hotel, which has been open since 1877 and is still run by the same family.
Take a walk down the waterfront to enjoy the unique and artistic wooden houses, and pop in to Ciderhuset Balestrand to learn more about their award-winning cider.
Things to do
Places to stay
A good 30 minute drive from Balestrand, the road hugs the fjord arms of Sværafjorden and Vetlefjorden before climbing up the mountainside via nine hairpin bends.
At 700 metres above sea level, Utsikten – a striking viewpoint designed by Code Arkitektur – offers a sweeping panoramic view back down over the valley and fjord. Bring a packed lunch and stay a while.
Just 6 km from Utsikten, Torsnesstølen is both a rest area and a trailhead for Fossestien, a 21 km hiking path which passes 14 waterfalls and seven lakes.
Another eight minutes down the road, Likholefossen is Gaula at its most powerful – a thundering waterfall with a steel bridge suspended directly across it. Walk out to the middle and feel the whole structure vibrate. No photograph does it justice.
Places to stop by
Some sights worth seeing along the road.
At Eldalsosen the route splits! Head southwest towards Sande, or northeast towards Moskog.
About 10 km from Likholefossen, follow the Gaula downstream past Hestad Chapel (1805), beautifully set on a narrow strip between two lakes.
Continue a little further down the road to have a look at Eikelandsfossen waterfall.
This leg of the route ends at the quiet village of Sande.
Driving the Moskog leg of this route allows you to take a short detour to the picturesque Astruptunet, the former home of the famous painter Nikolai Astrup, in Jølster.
Although this route ends in Moskog, it's worth stopping by Førde, which is only 15 minutes away, to do some cultural sightseeing.
Things to do in Førde
Nice to know before you go
The mountain section of the Norwegian Scenic Route Gaularfjellet, between Mel and Mjell, is closed in winter. Previous closing dates have been as early as 20 November, with reopening as early as 27 March, but this may vary.
Always check road conditions before you set off. After reopening in spring, the road may still be closed at night or during bad weather.
If you're arriving by bicycle, start the trip from Moskog to make the climbs up towards Rørvikfjellet and the summit of Gaularfjellet less strenuous. An alternative starting point is Sande. Be aware that the descent from Utsikten down to the fjord is steep.
If you're driving a motorhome or caravan, emptying chemical toilets is not permitted at the restrooms along the road. The facilities are not designed for such use. The nearest emptying stations are in Balestrand and Førde.
Source: Norwegian Scenic Routes
Norwegian Scenic Routes
Explore the most beautiful drives in Norway! Find out what to experience along the Norwegian Scenic Routes, including lesser-known gems, accommodation, and wonderful detours.
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