Facts about the fjords
What are the fjords? When can I visit the fjords? Are the fjords open in winter? Here is everything you need to know about the Norwegian fjords, and some fun facts!
What are the fjords, and how were they made?
A fjord is an inlet of the sea, usually long and narrow and surrounded by high cliffs or steep mountains. The fjords usually have U-shaped valleys and can be very deep, but are often more shallow at the mouth, where the fjord meets the sea. A fjord can have a numerous side arms, or branches. Some of Norway's most famous fjords are in fact branches!
The fjords were made by massive glaciation that extended below sea level. And over a period of 2.5 million years, the U-shaped valleys were carved out of the ground during a succession of glacial cycles. Or in other words, the fjords were shaped by the glaciers.
Did you know: The word fjord stems from the Norse fjorðr, meaning to go, pass or cross over.
How deep are the fjords?
Fjords can be quite deep, but this varies. Norway's deepest fjord is the Sognefjorden in Western Norway, with a depth of 1,303 meters.
How long are the fjords?
The length of the fjords also varies. In addition to being Norway's deepest fjord, Sognefjorden is also Norway's longest fjord. It stretches 205 kilometres from Solund in the west to Skjolden at the foot of the Jotunheimen, Jostedalsbreen, and Breheimen national parks.
Hardangerfjorden in Hardanger is the second-longest fjord at 180 kilometres long.
Source: Store norske leksikon
Which fjords to visit
With more than 1,000 fjords, the Norwegian coast is one of the areas in the world with the most fjords.
Northern Norway has the most fjords. Apart from the well-known Trollfjord and Lyngenfjord in Northern Norway, many of Norway's most famous fjords are located in Western Norway. Here, you can visit the Geirangerfjord, the Nærøyfjord (a branch of the Aurlandsfjord), the Hardangerfjord, the Lysefjord, the Nordfjord and the Sognefjord – to mention some.
It's also possible to combine a visit to the fjords with a city break. This includes Norway's capital, where you can explore the Oslofjord.
Pro tip: If you want to explore the fjords without the crowds, seek out some of the lesser known ones – they can be just as stunning!
Why are Norwegian fjords unique?
Actually, there are not many places in the world with fjords, and Norway is known as the home of the most iconic and dramatic ones!
In fact, the Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord, in Fjord Norway, are both UNESCO sites. The fjords are the only UNESCO sites in Norway based solely on natural criteria. Both fjords are highlighted as prime examples of the unique fjord landscape and described by the organisation as having "exceptional natural beauty".
The fjords were listed by UNESCO in 2005.
When is the best time to visit the fjords?
Most of the fjords are accessible all-year round, also in winter! Thanks to the warm Gulf Stream and air caused by the Coriolis effect, the Norwegian fjords enjoy a relatively mild climate and remain virtually ice-free.
Visiting the fjords off-season = Enjoying the fjords without the crowds!
Looking for a unique winter adventure? Check out a winter journey from Bergen to Flåm, winter adventures in the Geirangerfjord, and winter cruises to Lysefjorden, outside Stavanger.
Each season offers a different experience in the fjords:
Spring, April-May: Melting snows feeds the waterfalls, making them extra spectacular. Fewer tourist compared to summer. Blossoming fruit trees in May, especially in Hardanger.
Summer, June-August: Peak tourist season. Often the best weather. All tourist infrastructure is open, but must be booked in advance.
Autumn, September-October: Beautiful autumn colours. Fewer tourists. Still possible to enjoy fjord cruises, but there may be fewer departures.
Winter, November-March: Dramatic, snowy landscape and tranquil atmosphere. Unique winter fjord cruises. Be aware that some activities and accommodations may be closed. Check in advance.
Can I travel to the fjords by train, bus or boat?
It's possible to reach many Norwegian fjords by safe and comfortable public transport. Local buses and ferries (or a combination of both) are often great transportation options. You can also take the train to excellent starting points. Find route suggestions and timetables with the travel planner Entur.
Can I drive to the fjords?
You can also go by car and explore the fjords on your own. Bear in mind that regional roads in remote areas may be very winding and narrow, so drive carefully, especially if you are driving a motorhome or caravan. Remember to plan ahead and do not underestimate distances and driving times in Norway.
Note that some roads, including mountain passes, leading to the fjords may be closed during winter due to bad weather, so always make sure to check your route in advance.
How to reach the fjords from Oslo, Bergen and other cities
Cities like Oslo, Bergen, Ålesund, and Stavanger are great gateways to the fjords.
From Oslo or Bergen you can take the Bergen Railway to Myrdal, then continue on the famous Flåmsbana from Myrdal to Flåm. A popular day cruise is Gudvangen-Flåm in the Nærøyfjord, where you can travel all electric.
Book train tickets with VY or book a Norway in a Nutshell trip for the full experience.
Bergen is also a great starting point for your journey to the Hardangerfjord.
From Oslo or Trondheim, take the Dovrebanen line to Dombås and continue on the incredible Raumabanen line to Ånsdalsnes. Åndalsnes, by the Romsdalsfjord, is also a great gateway to both Hjørundfjorden and Geirangerfjorden.
From Stavanger, you can embark on cruise to the Lysefjord and see the famous Preikstolen from below.
Another popular choice is a day trip to Trollfjorden in Northern Norway, where several providers offer trips from Svolvær.
What kind of fjord cruises are available?
Hurtigruten calls at 34 ports along the coast and is an excellent way to experience and have a taste of the fjords. Both Hurtigruten and Havila Voyages sails between Bergen and Kirkenes.
You can take fjord day trips from many cities, including Bergen, Flåm, Ålesund, Balestrand, Stavanger, Geiranger, Oslo, Svolvær, and more.
International cruise ships also visit Norwegian fjords.
Fjord accommodation
There are many excellent historic fjord hotels that are a destination in themselves, and where you can get a taste of Norway in the past. Each hotel is unique, and rank from cosy, romantic hotels to some of Norway's most exclusive hotels.
You can also stay in campsites close to many famous fjords. Remember to only camp in designated areas!
A budget-friendly alternative, perfect for groups, is to book a flat or rent a cabin. Buy lovely local food and make delicious dishes yourself.
Or maybe you want to spend the night in a fisherman's cabin right by the waterfront?
Do I need to book accommodation and fjord cruises in advance?
If you are planning on visiting Norway's most famous fjords in summer, it's always a good idea to book accommodation, camping and fjord cruises in advance, as these places fill up quickly during the peak season.
There are usually more available options during autumn, winter, and early spring.
Do people live in the fjord regions?
Yes, there are people living by the fjords! And people have been for a very long time. A combination of access to fish in the fjords and great farmland are among the reasons why people settled by the fjords.
Make the locals smile by being a good guest! Don't take photos of people without asking permission first, and buy local products and services to support the local community.
Get the inside scoop on life among the iconic fjords.
Are there any outdoor activities by the fjords?
Yes, you can absolutely enjoy activities by the fjords, and even on the fjords too! Experience the fjords from iconic hiking viewpoints, go kayaking, book a fjord cruise, bike along the fjords, visit the many fjord villages, and take a dip in a fjord in combination with a fjord sauna!
And remember: A skilled guide can take you on adventures you’ll never forget.
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