Fjords of Norway

One of the main natural attractions of Norway are its fjords, which are winding and narrow sea bays, which have rocky coasts and cut deep into the land. They were formed in the era of the glacial period after a sudden and abrupt movement that occurred in the tectonic plates of our planet.

Tours to the fjords of Norway - general information

Thousands of tourists specially combine a trip to Norway with travel and rest on the fjords. In this country is the largest number of sea bays, stunning with its picturesque beauty. Surrounded by their mountain ranges and many small villages that attract their color.

The depth of the fjords in Norway can reach 1308 m (Sognefjord). In other sea bays of the country, this value on average keeps the mark of 500-700 m. It depends on the mode of formation, the surrounding mountains and the features of the landscape.

Answering the question about where the fjords are in Norway, it is worth saying that they are scattered all over the country. Visits of some bays can be combined among themselves, and for others it is necessary to take away the whole day or even a few.

During the tour of the fjords of Norway, tourists can go fishing or traveling by ferry. Catching sea animals here will bring real pleasure not only to experienced hunters, but also to beginners. Cruise on the ship will allow holidaymakers to see picturesque coasts and feel almost Vikings.

Popular sea bays of the country

The most beautiful fjords of Norway are in the region of Bergen. The best and most interesting among all Norwegian are:

  1. Hardangerfjorden . It occupies the third place on the planet in size. The bay is replete with a lot of colorful fruit trees, so it is also called the Garden of Norway. Here you can swim in kayaks and boats, ride a bike along specially designed routes, visit beautiful waterfalls (eg, Wöringfossen ) and glacial natural formations ( Troll's tongue , Folgefonna ).
  2. The Sognefjorde . It is the longest fjord in Norway and in Europe. On its coastline there are ancient wooden churches (such as the temple in Urnes ), the village of Vikings ( Gudvangen ), the white cave and the valley Aurland (Grand Canyon), which has a diverse rich world and stunning landscapes. Here in the picturesque places, through the cascading waterfalls and snow-capped mountains is the Flom railway .
  3. The Nordfjorden is one of the famous fjords in Norway, famous for its stunning scenery and historical sites. Bay occupies the 6th place in the country in length. Travelers are offered to go rafting or fishing, go water skiing or climb mountains, explore the nearest islands and forests, and in winter - go down from the hills on skis.
  4. Lysefjord (Lysefjord). It is famous for the giant cliff of Preicestolum up to 604 m high, which is called the "Preacher's Chapel". At its top is the homonymous House, where visitors are invited to relax and have a bite to eat. More than 300 thousand tourists come to the landmark every year. Near the bay are historical sites, built in the 6th century BC, and reconstructed ancient settlements. Still here you can go by land or water routes.
  5. Geirangerfjorden in Norway. It is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is the most visited sea bay in the country, which is famous for its majestic mountains, deep blue waters and picturesque waterfalls (for example, the Seven Sisters ). Here, travelers can go rafting, kayaking, horseback riding or fishing.
  6. Oslo-fjord (Oslofjorden) Norway. On its territory there are more than 1000 small islets, and on the coast are well-known cities all over the world. For example, in Drammen was born a famous biathlete named Bjoerndalen, and Halden is mentioned in the anthem of the state.
  7. Nerejfjord (Nærøyfjord). It is known as the narrowest sea bay in Norway, its width varies from 300 to 1000 m. There are various settlements on the coast that complement the unique landscape: the water surface is as if sandwiched between mountain ranges.
  8. The West Fjord (Vestfjord). It is often referred to as an open bay and even to an estuary. In the local waters there is a cod that has been caught since the Middle Ages. Famous for this bay was due to local killer whales, attracting tourists from all over the world.
  9. Porsangerfjorden . It occupies the fourth place in Norway in its length, its length is 120 km. The bay originates near the famous village of Lakselv. Here, tourists can go fishing or visit the Stabbursdalen National Park, famous for its virgin nature.
  10. Trondheim Fjord (Trondheimsfjorden). It has a unique climate and original nature. Here, throughout the year, almost never falls snow. In the local waters an exceptional ecosystem was formed, more than 90 species of marine fish live in the bay. On the coast is the large city ​​of Trondheim .
  11. Sturfjorden (Storfjorden). Its name translates as "big": the bay has a length of about 110 km and is divided into 2 parts, thereby forming two new fjords.

When is it better to go to the fjords of Norway?

The sea bays of the country are stunningly beautiful at any time of the year. Most tourists come here in the summer, when the warmest weather, trees bloom and fragrant plants. In winter, many of Norway's fjords are covered with ice, so most entertainment and excursions will not be available. Also at this time, often blowing cold winds and frosts.

How to get to the fjords of Norway?

If you look at the map of Norway, the fjords are mainly located in the northern and western parts of the country. It is most convenient for them to come with an organized excursion , which can be bought in almost every city. Usually such a trip includes excursions to several sea bays nearby.

If you want to see the fjords of Norway on your own, then go by car. Such an excursion allows tourists to visit various bays, stop on the coast for a few days, breaking a camping , or to engage in active recreation .