Norway in a Nutshell VS. Glacier Tour: What's Best for You?

When exploring Norway, the Glacier Tour and Norway in a Nutshell stand out as premier choices, each offering a distinct way to experience the country's majestic landscapes.

Norway in a Nutshell VS. Glacier Tour: What's Best for You?

Detailed Comparison:

• Glacier Tour: This tour specializes in small-group excursions to a variety of landscapes over the western Norwegian mountains, fjords and glaciers, allowing for a personal and informative exploration. It focuses on the natural beauty and significance of landscape and Norwegian culture. Glacier Tours operates its buses and boats which are scheduled after an ideal experience

• Norway in a Nutshell: Encompasses an equally wide variety of landscapes through rail, bus, and boat travel. It's known for its diverse scenic views, including mountains, fjords, and valleys, offering a comprehensive snapshot of Norway’s geographical diversity. Norway in a nutshell uses public transport with trains, busses and boats dependent on the public transport schedules which is within coordination of the tours

Advantages of Each:

• Glacier Tour: Offers a more intimate and focused experience, ideal for those interested in glaciers and environmental education. The small group size enhances the personal feel of the excursion.

• Norway in a Nutshell: Perfect for travellers looking to experience a broad overview of Norwegian landscapes. The combination of travel modes provides varied perspectives of Norway's natural beauty.

Conclusion: Both tours offer unique experiences. The Glacier Tour, with its focus on glaciers and small-group settings, offers a deep dive into one of Norway's most awe-inspiring natural phenomena. While we have a soft spot for our own tour, the choice ultimately depends on your personal interests and the type of adventure you seek in Norway. Need more inspiration? Visit Norway’s 5 spectacular trips around Fjord Norway by rail, bus and boat

How to Dress for the Fjords in Norway: Your Ultimate Guide

Exploring the majestic fjords of Norway is an unforgettable adventure that beckons with the promise of breathtaking landscapes, serene waters, and the raw beauty of nature. However, the key to enjoying this remarkable experience fully lies in how well you dress for the occasion. Norway's weather can be unpredictable, with conditions varying significantly, even within a single day. This guide provides essential tips on how to dress for the fjords, ensuring comfort, safety, and an unbridled enjoyment of everything the Norwegian wilderness has to offer, also we have some useful tips a little lower down on some Norwegian fashion brands we recommend.

Sometime the Fjords might be rainy or sunny, some times both. Come prepared

Understanding Norway's Fjord Weather

The weather in Norway's fjord regions can change swiftly, presenting everything from sunny skies to rain and cooler temperatures in just a few hours. Summer (June to August) offers the warmest temperatures, ranging from 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F), while spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) see cooler temperatures and a mix of sunny and rainy days. Winter (November to March) is cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, especially in areas surrounding the fjords. See the weather forecast of Vik at the Sognejford

Layering: The Golden Rule

The cornerstone of dressing for the fjords is layering. This approach allows you to adapt to the day's changing weather conditions, ensuring you're always comfortable.

Base Layer: Moisture Management

Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, such as merino wool or synthetic fabrics, to keep you dry from sweat. Avoid cotton, as it retains moisture, which can lead to discomfort and chills.

Mid Layer: Insulation

Your mid-layer should insulate and retain body heat. Fleece or lightweight down jackets are perfect, offering warmth without the bulk.

Outer Layer: Protection Against the Elements

A waterproof and windproof jacket is essential to shield you from rain and wind. Look for breathable materials to prevent overheating and ensure comfort during physical activities like hiking.

Footwear: Sturdy and Waterproof

The terrain around the fjords can be rugged and uneven. Choose waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support and a grippy sole for safety on wet and rocky paths.

Accessories: The Finishing Touches during winter and early spring

Hats and Gloves

A warm hat and gloves are crucial, especially outside the summer months. They provide extra warmth during cooler mornings or when out on the water, where temperatures can feel significantly lower.

Scarf or Neck Gaiter

A scarf or neck gaiter adds versatility, offering additional warmth when needed and protection from the sun and wind.

Sunglasses and Sunscreen

Even in cooler temperatures, the sun's rays can be strong, especially when reflecting off the water. Protect your eyes with UV-protective sunglasses and your skin with sunscreen.

Packing for the Unpredictable

Always bring a daypack with extra layers and essentials like water, snacks, a map, and a first-aid kit. The weather can change quickly, and being prepared ensures a safe and enjoyable adventure.

Dressing for Special Activities

If you plan on kayaking, fishing, or engaging in other specialized activities, consider specific gear such as waterproof pants, gloves, and hats designed for these pursuits. Comfort and protection are key to enjoying these experiences to the fullest.

Norwegian Shoes: Alfa Sko

Alfa Sko excels in outdoor footwear, offering boots that blend waterproof technology and comfort, perfect for navigating Norway's challenging terrains. Their use of GORE-TEX ensures your feet stay dry and comfortable, making them an excellent choice for your fjord adventure.

Norwegian Base Layer in Wool: Janus and Dale of Norway

Janus provides high-quality Merino wool base layers, essential for warmth and moisture management. Similarly, Dale of Norway is celebrated for its beautifully designed woolen wear that combines tradition with modern functionality. Both brands ensure your base layer is warm, breathable, and ready for the outdoors.

Norwegian Thin Down Jacket: Bergans of Norway

Bergans of Norway is synonymous with outdoor resilience and style. Their down jackets are lightweight yet warm, ideal for layering or stand-alone use in milder weather. Bergans’ commitment to sustainability makes their jackets a smart choice for environmentally conscious adventurers.

Norwegian Outer Rain Jacket: BRGN

For protection against the rain, BRGN offers technical waterproof fashionwear that doesn’t compromise on style. Based in Bergen, known for its wet climate, BRGN has mastered the art of creating rain jackets that are both stylish and functional, ensuring you stay dry and fashionable in the most unpredictable weather.

Choosing gear from Alfa Sko, Janus, Dale of Norway, Bergans of Norway, and BRGN by Lunde & Gaundal means you’re well-prepared for the Norwegian outdoors. These brands represent the pinnacle of Norwegian design and functionality, ensuring your fjord experience is comfortable, warm, and stylish.

Conclusion: Ready for Adventure

Dressing appropriately for the fjords means you can immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of Norway's natural wonders, regardless of the weather. By following the principles of layering and preparing for the elements, you're all set to explore the fjords with confidence and comfort. Norway's landscapes are waiting to reveal their secrets to those ready for the adventure. With this guide, you're well-equipped to embark on a journey that promises to be as comfortable as it is breathtaking.

Fjord Cruises: all you need to know

Discover the Majestic Fjord Cruises of Norway: A Journey Through Nature's Masterpiece

Norway's fjords are a testament to the planet's breathtaking natural beauty, offering a serene escape into landscapes where waterfalls cascade down cliffs, and emerald waters mirror the sky. Embarking on a fjord cruise in Norway is not just a trip; it's an immersive experience into the heart of nature's masterpiece. This article guides you through the essentials of selecting a fjord cruise in Norway, ensuring your journey is nothing short of unforgettable.

Why Choose a Fjord Cruise in Norway?

Natural Beauty: The fjords of Norway, such as the majestic Geirangerfjord and the serene Nærøyfjord, are not just sights to behold; they are experiences that etch themselves into your memory. These UNESCO World Heritage sites offer vistas of unspoiled beauty, where you can witness the harmonious coexistence of human innovation and nature's splendour.

Cultural Experience: Beyond the natural wonders, a fjord cruise offers a deep dive into Norway's rich cultural heritage. From ancient Viking history to the vibrant traditions of coastal communities, each stop presents an opportunity to connect with the enduring spirit of Norway.

Variety of Cruises: Whether you're seeking a tranquil day trip or an adventurous expedition, Norway's fjords cater to all. Day cruises offer a snapshot of the fjords' majesty, while overnight voyages provide a comprehensive exploration of remote inlets, with the northern lights or the midnight sun as your backdrop.

Best Fjord Cruises for Your Adventure

Day Cruises: Ideal for those short on time, day cruises like the one to Sognefjord, Norway's longest and deepest fjord, offer a glimpse into the fjords' grandeur, including access to attractions like the Flåm Railway.

Overnight and Multi-Day Cruises: For a deeper connection with the fjords, consider an overnight journey. These cruises offer luxurious accommodations and the chance to wake up to the sight of cascading waterfalls and towering cliffs each morning.

Specialty Cruises: Tailored for adventure seekers, speciality cruises focus on activities such as kayaking among the fjords or hiking to breathtaking viewpoints like Pulpit Rock.

Planning Your Fjord Cruise

Best Time to Visit: The ideal time for a fjord cruise is between May and September when the weather is mild, and the days are long. However, for those wishing to witness the northern lights, the winter months offer a magical experience.

Booking Tips: Booking your cruise early can secure the best rates and ensure availability on your preferred dates. Consider the size and style of the vessel to match your comfort preferences and the intimacy of your experience.

What to Pack: Prepare for variable weather by packing layers, including waterproof clothing. Don't forget your camera to capture the awe-inspiring landscapes and wildlife you'll encounter.

Enhancing Your Cruise Experience

Shore Excursions: Enrich your journey with shore excursions that offer insights into local history, cuisine, and wildlife. Each stop is an opportunity to engage with the local culture and explore the natural wonders up close.

Sustainable Tourism: As stewards of these pristine environments, we encourage travelers to embrace sustainable practices, such as minimizing waste and supporting eco-friendly tour operators.

Safety and Regulations: Your safety is paramount. Adhering to safety briefings and respecting local regulations will ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all.

Conclusion

A fjord cruise in Norway transcends the conventional vacation, offering a blend of adventure, tranquility, and cultural immersion. It's a journey that invites you to discover the profound beauty of the natural world, connect with ancient traditions, and return with stories of the unforgettable vistas and warm hospitality that define Norway. Start planning your fjord cruise today and prepare for an adventure that will captivate your heart and soul.

Join our Fjord Cruise

Are you ready to embark on the journey of a lifetime? Explore our curated selection of fjord cruises in Norway and find your perfect escape into the heart of nature's most beautiful creations. Your adventure awaits!

SUSTAINABILITY

Stave Church

The stunning village of Vikoyri, Vik is home to the richly decorated stave church “Hopperstad Stavkirke”. Hopperstad was built in 1130 and is, together with Urnes, the oldest stave church in existence.

A stave church is a medieval wooden Christian church building once common in north-western Europe. The name Stave derives from the building's structure of post and lintel construction, a type of timber framing where the load-bearing ore-pine posts are called stafr in Old Norse (stav in modern Norwegian).

During its long life, Hopperstad Stave Church has suffered periods of neglect but thankfully experienced a wonderful revival in the 1880s. With the exception of the nave and the chancel, most of the church's interior had been removed. In 1881, the architect Peter Andreas Blix offered his services free of charge. The stave church was restored using other churches as models. The external gallery and ridge turret are clearly inspired by Borgund Stave Church.

Cheese tasting in Vik

In the historic village of Vik, on the Sognefjord, you can learn about and try the local speciality cheese; Gamalost.  Literally meaning ‘Old Cheese’ this is the only place in the whole of Norway where it is still made.

Gamalost originates in Viking times and today expert cheesemakers are continuing a tradition of over 1000 years. Made from only skimmed cows milk, it is known for its health-promoting characteristics - containing more than 50 percent protein and just 1 percent fat. It also contains chitosan, a substance that has many beneficial properties, including lowering cholesterol.

The Vikings, who fueled themselves for their expeditions in part by eating Gamalost, also considered the cheese an aphrodisiac!

Gamalost was once a staple of the Norwegian diet, in large part because it could be stored for long periods of time without refrigeration. Although the tradition of making Gamalost is an old one, the name of the cheese comes not from its long history but from the length of the aging process.

If you want to learn more about Gamalost (and maybe even brave a taste), we will organise a trip for you - with a visit to the café at the TINE dairy, just a block or so up the hill from the passenger boat dock in Vik.

Gamalost even has its own festival, which takes place in Vik over several days in late May or early June.

Find out more about this ancient Viking cheese here

Private RIB Tours

Wind through your hair. Fjord below your feet.

If you are looking for a private tour with an extra kick - book a private RIB trip - one of the best ways to experience the most inaccessible parts of the Sognefjord.

For an exclusive experience in the most secluded arm of the Sognefjord, we recommend the Finnabotn Tour. Many are also interested in seeing the UNESCO World Heritage Site Nærøyfjord.  You can book your Balestrand Adventure RIB trip through us, here at Glacier Tour.

If you’d like to combine your RIB tour with land-based activities, we recommend combining a tour of the Fjærlandsfjord with lunch at Fjærland fjordstove (lunch not included). Or combine a tour of the Nærøyfjord with a visit to Vikingvalley or the a guided tour of the village Undredal.

For the especially curious, we offer a trip to the village Ortnevik, including to a homemade Stave Church, chainsaw art park, and land-based halibut farm. Then we swing by our favorite spot, Finnabotn, just for good measure. If you’re short on time, we recommend the private version of our popular Fjord Sightseeing Tour.

There are two boats available, each with space for 12 guests. For groups requiring two boats, there is a 10% discount on the second boat. More boats can be arranged if your group is larger - just let us know what you need in advance.

Note that we can pick up and drop off in locations other than Balestrand as well, for example: Vik,  Fjærland, Sogndal, and Flåm.

We also offer a no-frills transport service, without scenic stops or detours. We can take you to or pick you up from most locations on the Sognefjord. To Vik,  Fjærland, Sogndal, and Flåm we offer quick online booking. For other destinations, just let us know.

 KJELL IS ALL OF THIS POSSIBLE?

The RIB experience Includes

• Guided stops at major attractions

• Life Jacket

• Insulated Suit

• Goggles

• Safety Briefing

Further info

• There are small compartments under the seats for cameras and other personal belongings

• There are lockers for luggage, clothes and valuables in the Tourist Information Office

Bring Along: Warm layers, Camera

Conditions: Full refunds are given if cancellation is made more than 72 hours before start time.

Cidery tour

If you are thirsty for new flavors and insights behind the ciders of Norway, you'll gain a new understanding of fruit growing and cider production after just 90 minutes on this Cider tasting trip with Glaciertour.no. And you'll expand your world of taste by sampling 5 distinct ciders in a glass house overlooking the Sognefjord.

Your experience begins in the organic orchard on the banks of the Sognefjord, the oldest fruit-growing region in Norway. From here you will learn the basics of growing apples and the local traditions, from the 1100s to today. Then we step into the Cider House, where we taste our way through five ciders, and learn that apples are more than just apples. You will get acquainted with the whole spectrum of tastes: sweet dessert apples, acidic cooking apples, and bitter cider apples.

And you’ll taste that cider is more than just cider, sampling your way through five unique styles, from light and easy “veranda cider” to heavy tannin-infused cider, best drunk alongside bold and savory dishes.

Get in touch to book your cidery experience today.

Hiking

There is nothing like a good hike to clear the mind and give a new perspective. Did you know that Norwegians become much friendlier at about 700 meters above sea level?

The mountain Raudmelen is our backyard in Balestrand; in the afternoon you’ll find neighbors and colleagues taking a short energizing hike after work, and in the wintertime we ski from home to the summit and back.

The mountain hike is with Balestrand Adventure, and  begins in the village centre and from there you will walk through the village on a local road to Balestrand’s primary school. From there you enter the forest and start your ascent. Then you follow a well-maintained, sometimes steep dirt path through a birch forest, with planks and stones over bogs. As the forest opens up you will enjoy wide-open views over several fjord arms.

The trail towards  the summit is steep but comfortable, much of it on stone steps made by Sherpas from Nepal. At the summit there is a small public hut where you can get out of the weather.

We can organise everything for you!

Fishing

Fishing in the Fjords is a spectacular and unique experience, open to all.  We can arrange for a private deep-sea fishing trip that will change how you think about the ocean.

Balestrand Adventure are the experts; they have been fishing in Balestrand for years, on the deepest section of the world’s deepest fjord—as deep as the mountains are high. If you stare out over the fjord, you might wonder: What landscapes lie hidden beneath the surface? What strange creatures live in this world? Drop your line and you may meet one of them!

You can choose where you’d like to be picked up and you then set out for a good spot for fishing mackerel, which you will use as bait. After about an hour, when you’ve caught enough, you’ll learn how to use a tandem tackle baited with our fresh mackerel. You’ll let your line run out and out and out and out—between 200 and 500 meters below the surface.

At this depth, there is no light, and no plants. Sound travels slower. It’s an underwater desert. The only light comes from your flashing bait, illuminating a fresh, bleeding mackerel. It’s irresistible to the bulging, light-hungry eyes of the fish down there. If a one takes the bait, you’ll have to do some real work to get it to the surface (or ask for the help of the experts).

As they break the surface to the warm light of the Sognefjord, they’ll hear whoops and hollers of happy fishermen (that’s you).

Make your booking below!

This activity lasts for three hours, is for anyone over the age of 4 and with any level of fitness.

Kayaking - Balestrand

There’s a difference between looking at fjords and mountains, and feeling them with your whole body.

When you visit somewhere, you often feel like you are there just as an observer, like there’s a glass wall between you and the place. Kayaking is the best way we know of to break that wall.

You’ll feel like you’ve met the Sognefjord after your tour is over. You’ll remember the smell of salt air mixed with seaweed, the splashes of fish, and maybe the grunts of a harbor porpoise.

Your kayaking experience will be with the experts at Balestrand Adventure and starts at the historic Balestrand quayside, where you’ll get a safety briefing and learn about the equipment you will be using for the day. You will paddle in the shallow, sheltered Esefjord, and along the Balestrand shoreline. You’ll hear stories about life in the village, and we’ll make a stop at a little beach for a stretch and some local Balholm juice.

You’ll see the last remnants of the glacier Bjørnabreen, which scraped out the Esefjord long ago. You’ll notice the details of the fruit orchards and ornate wooden facades of the old wooden villas. When you step back on land, you’ll feel refreshed and invigorated, and maybe a little humble. At least, that’s how we always feel.

For more experienced paddlers, kayaks can be rented. For new paddlers, beginner kayak courses are available.

This activity is three hours long, for those over 12 years of age and at any level of fitness.

The Haugabreen Glacier Walk

For the adventurous (and fit) we highly recommend the full day hike at Haugabreen Glacier in Jølster, guided by Fjaerland Guiding.

We set off from Stardalen for a full day trip to the glacier where you can walk on the glacier itself.  You will need to have some experience with trail hiking and be physically fit enough for the one hour hike to reach the glacier where we then typically spend 2-3 hours on the glacier itself. We can choose different routes on the ice, depending on ice and snow conditions on the day.

This activity is demanding and participants need to be reasonably fit to do it*.  It is an all day activity(up to 7 hours) available to those traveling between July to September (and over 12 years of age).

*Medium to hard (medium for people who are used to hiking in mountain terrain, and hard for people who are not used to hiking in mountain terrain).

You will need to bring the following equipment and clothing with you:

• Good solid mountain boots

• Clothing for a day in the mountains:  insulating underwear/wool, wind/waterproof clothing

• Thin gloves/mittens

• Sunglasess/sunscreen

• Thermos with warm beverage and lunch

• A small backpack (20-40 l)

If you would like to enquire further and book the Glacier walk please contact us on glaciertour@email.no. call XXXX

Kayaking - Fjærland

If you enjoy getting a little closer to the water and being in a boat of your own, why not hire a kayak for a fun, relaxed experience right among the calm and beautiful Fjærlandsfjorden. Paddling here is great, whatever the weather is like or whatever previous paddling experience you have (or do not have), getting out on the Fjærlandsfjord  is a must-do activity.

Starting at the kayak base in Mundal you will be met by a Fjaerland Guiding official guide who will take good care of you and share all sorts of interesting information about Fjærland and the surroundings. The views to both Bøyabreen Glacier and Flatbreen Glacier are stunning, so  remember to bring a camera to capture the incredible scenery that you only get from the cockpit of a kayak!

Kayaking is something for everyone. You can paddle in a single or double sea kayak for 2 or 4 hours.  Just contact us(link to email) at Glacier Tour today and we will organise everything for you.

We urge clients to check their insurance and make sure it covers the planned activities. Participation on our programmes is at your own risk, and Fjærland Guiding can not be held responsible for unfortunate accidents.

 Once you sign up for our programmes we expect that you have read and accepted these terms.

Biking

If you would like an alternative way of exploring the charming Norwegian Book Town of Mundal in Fjærland, you can hire a bike! Bike hire is easy - you can simply ask us to organise hire for you or you can find them for rent at Bøyum Camping, close to the Norwegian Glacier Museum.

Both good for you and good for the environment, heading off on two wheels will give you a different perspective of this quintessential Fjord-side village, originally only accessible by water.  Park up your bike and browse the bookshops that occupy various buildings such as the ferry port, tourist info, cafe and a couple of cowsheds.  Enjoy!

Glacier Guided Tour

Norwegian Glacier Museum and Bøyabreen Glacier

While in Fjærland you can visit the Norwegian Glacier Museum - an interactive experience and award winning museum, which offers something for the whole family. If you choose to book the Glacier Tour from Voss, the entry ticket is included in the price.

If you are interested in glaciers and the climate this is the leading centre in Norway, answering key questions like ‘Why is glacier ice blue?’, ‘Why is the fjord green?’ and ‘How were the fjords formed?’. You can even perform your own experiments with 1000 year old ice from the nearby glacier Supphellebreen.

You can also enjoy a unique and staggering panoramic film about Jostedalsbreen National Park, and experience the climate exhibition which takes you on a journey through Earths’ climatic history.

From the Museum, the tour continues by bus up to Bøyabreen glacier - a branch of Jostedalsbreen glacier. Here you can spend some extra time taking photos and see up close how the glacier impacts the landscape. For safety reasons it is not possible to walk on the glacier, but you will be able to see the glacier from up close

Visit the magical Norwegian Book town

Where the Sognefjord meets the Jostedalsbreen Glacier, you’ll find Fjærland with its almost 300 inhabitants and Norway’s official Book Town (Bokbyen)!

Book Town Fjærland in Norway

Here in this remote village of Mundal the people have turned abandoned buildings into bookstores. There are more than 10 second-hand bookshops in enchanting waterfront wooden houses, former ferry waiting rooms, stables, local banks and a post office, below towering mountains and magnificent glaciers. Bokbyen (the Book Town) is now home to a collection of over 150,000 used books. Indeed, there are more books and pine trees here than people – and the people are warm and welcoming!

Ten years before the booktown became the reading hub it is today, you could only get to Fjærland by boat. The first road to the valley was built in 1986, and now there are bus routes to get in from the north or the south. In 1995, Mundal officially became the first “booktown” in Norway.

This remote small village of Mundal in Fjærland turns abandoned buildings into bookstores