Go viking in the fjords

During the Viking season, that lasts from October to April, it’s like the fjords in Norway get an entirely different character. See how the shifting weather affects the structure of the landscapes and changes our mood. The crystal-clear fjords are enveloped in mist, and the mountain peaks are covered with snow. The shorelines often remain bare and the fjords free of ice, due to the temperate waters of the Gulf Stream. Summer visitors have left and well-known attractions have returned to their laid-back, tranquil pace. Just feel how the silence and the mystical, almost fairy tale-like atmosphere sneaks into your soul.

Visiting Fjord Norway at this time of year will awaken all your senses. The striking landscapes make a natural playground for fun activities in the snow, such as skiing, snowshoeing and winter fishing. Big cities and small villages offer several restaurants and eateries that serve local specialities based on seasonal ingredients. Throughout the whole region, there are opportunities to learn more about the culture and history of the people from Fjord Norway – descendants of the Vikings.

Enjoy the space and serenity at your own pace and set out on adventures into the unknown. As we would say: Go Viking in the fjords.

Explore some of the highlights

Bergen, Ålesund, and Stavanger are ideal starting points when you want to explore Fjord Norway. Because they are the largest cities in the region, they are well-connected with the rest of Europe through direct flights. A short ride by train, boat, or bus is all it takes to go from urban life to quiet countryside or prime wilderness.

Weather conditions can cause roads and mountain passes to close during heavy snow and strong wind. When visiting Fjord Norway at this time of year, we therefore highly recommend that you use public transportation.

Starting point: Bergen

Duration: 2–7 days

Combine bustling city life and peaceful nature in Bergen – the city between the seven mountains. Take the train from Bergen to the charming fjord village of Flåm, which is surrounded by steep mountains and frozen waterfalls. Join a fjord cruise, a rib safari, or a guided snowshoe tour. The Flåm railway – named the world’s most incredible train journey by Lonely Planet – is an attraction in itself.

Myrkdalen ski resort, situated less than a two-hour drive from Bergen, offers a wide range of courses, terrain parks, and off-piste slopes.

With Bergen as your base, you also have the opportunity to go on an adventure-filled trip to the picturesque Hardangerfjord. If you are up for a challenge, you can join a guided snowshoeing tour to Trolltunga (from mid-February to May), one of Norway’s most famous rock formations. At Hotel Ullensvang you can relax in a sauna with panorama views of the fjord landscape.

Starting point: Ålesund

Duration: 2–7 days

The art nouveau town of Ålesund is the perfect starting point to explore the snow-capped summits of the Hjørundfjord and the Sunnmøre Alps, a paradise for downhill and ski touring enthusiasts. Only 50 kilometres from Ålesund lies Stranda Ski Resort, famous for its powder conditions, long runs, and the possibility to ski from the top of the mountain and down to the fjord. It is also possible to take a gondola to the top of the mountain to enjoy a panoramic view of the fjord landscape. If you are new to ski touring, Stranda is a great place to join a guided tour. Experienced ski tourers should also go with a local guide to minimize the avalanche risk.

Ålesund is also an ideal base if you want to experience the UNESCO listed Geirangerfjord. During the Viking season, the Geirangerfjord area offers plenty of fun activities, including fjord cruises and safaris, as well as guided snowshoeing and snow rafting trips.

Ålesund is the closest international port if you want to visit the Loen Skylift, a modern cable car situated in the inner part of Nordfjord about two and a half hours by bus from Ålesund. The cable car will take you from the fjord to the peak of Mount Hoven 1,011 metres above sea level in five minutes. At the top, you can enjoy a scenic view of a frozen fjord landscape, either from the restaurant table or whilst tobogganing or cross-country skiing (equipment for rent). As a great way to finish off an active day, you can visit the swimming facility at Hotel Alexandra, which offers both a spa and in- and outdoor swimming pools.

Starting point: Stavanger

Duration: 2–7 days

About 200 kilometres south of Bergen is the Stavanger region, known for its natural attractions, culinary scene, and old wooden houses.

Join a guided walk to see some of the amazing street art created by some of the world´s best artists during the annual Nuart Street Art festival in the lively city of Stavanger. Explore the fascinating Oil Museum and enjoy a concert with the renowned Stavanger Symphony Orchestra before you book a table at one of the best restaurants in the fjord region, like Michelin star Sabi Omakase and RE-NAA.

Stavanger is surrounded by great natural experiences. The long, white beaches facing the North Sea is ideal for both a refreshing stroll and for surfing – all year round. You should not miss a winter cruise on the famous Lysefjord or join a guided walk or snowshoeing excursion to the mountain plateau Preikestolen (The Pulpit Rock), named the world’s most breathtaking viewing platform by Lonely Planet. You can also combine a cruise with a hike. 

At this time of year, you can often enjoy the natural beauty blanketed in snow, as well as crowd-free trails and views.