The fjords of Norway, particularly in the west end of the country, are most plentiful here than anywhere else on earth, according to Norway Tourism (link, check name). Ice, stone and rock during ice ages carved out the natural wonders, when glaciers retreated and sea water filled the valleys. Following is a look at some of the fjords of Western Norway, and what they have to offer visitors.
The Pulpit Rock at Lysefjord
The Lysefjord, about 400 kilometres southwest of Oslo, is home to Preikestolen (The Pulpit Rock), probably the most well-known tourist attraction in Ryfylke. The Pulpit Rock stretches 604 metres over the Lysefjord, which is nothing to sneeze at itself, at 40 kilometres in length.
A trail leading to Pulpit Rock begins at Pulpit Rock cabin, which is near the main road, Rv 13. The 350-metre long trail, uneven in spots, meanders past picnic areas and places in which to stop and cool off in pools of water, so having a bathing suit or a Speedo packed could be beneficial.
Adventurers wishing to climb the trail to Pulpit Rock should remember to wear proper footwear, such as hiking boots, warm clothes and may want to bring along some snacks. Fjord cruises, for those who wish to remain closer to sea level, also take sightseers past Pulpit Rock, and a car ferry from places such as Lauvvik, Forsand and Stavanger.
Another hikers’ destination at Lysefjord is Kjerag. Kjerag is a peak that stretches 1,084 metres above the fjord, and is accessible by a path that leads up to its plateau. For an adrenaline-pumping experience, some hikers may choose to venture onto the Kjeragbolten, a round rock wedged in a mountain crevice. They may have to share the rock with thrill seekers who are base jumping.
The UNESCO World Heritage Listed Nærøyfjord
The Nærøyfjord, at 17 kilometres long and about 350 kilometres north of Norway’s capital, Oslo, is an arm of the Sognefjord. Mountains surround the narrow Nærøyfjord, which is included on UNESCO’s World Heritage List. Visitors to Nærøyfjord can partake in a fjord cruise or may cycle Rallarvegen (the Navvies’ Road).
The Sognefjord is Norway's Longest Fjord
The Sognefjord’s claim to fame is the fact is its Norway’s longest fjord and the second longest in the world, at 205 kilometres. Cycling the Rallarvegen (the Navvies’ Road) or cruising the fjord’s waters are popular activities at the nature site. Several tour operators offer trips to the fjord, located some 350 kilometres northwest of Oslo.
The Hardangerfjorden is the World's Third-Longest Fjord
The Hardangerfjorden, at 179 kilometres, is the second longest fjord in Norway and the third longest in the world. Besides cruising the fjord, lying about 330 kilometres northwest of Oslo, visitors can go skiing at Folgefonna or hiking on Hardangervidda, one of Europe’s largest mountain plateaus.
Waterfalls at the Geirangerfjord
The Geirangerfjord, about a seven to eight-hour drive from Oslo, ranks on UNESCO’s World Heritage List, which has likely helped it become one of the country’s most-visited fjords. At 15 kilometres, the Geirangerfjord is home to two waterfalls: De syv søstrene and Brudesløret (the Bridal Veil). The Geirangerfjord hosts of various activities, as well. Visitors can partake in rafting, canoe trips, fjord cruises, and even fishing. Summer skiing is available at nearby Stryn.
Norwegian fjords, particularly those in the west of Norway that are not too far from the capital of Oslo, are plentiful, and offer visitors more than just pretty pictures for their photo albums. Activities such as hiking, fishing, rafting, canoeing, fjord cruises and even summer skiing help travellers embrace the spirit these majestic natural environments.
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