In 2005, the Geirangerfjord, as part of the West Norwegian Fjords, was inscribed on UNESCO’s list.The fjord landscape, and the unique climatic and geological conditions in the area, make it one of the most beautiful and distinctive fjord areas on the planet.You can also find the ruins of old farms and mountain pasture farms that have great cultural value.Large parts of the Geirangerfjord and surrounding area make up a landscape protection area, and Norway has undertaken to protect and preserve the world heritage area for coming generations.
Discover the iconic UNESCO world heritage area Geiranger on foot or by boat, or how about a snazzy little electric Twizy car?Book a fjord cruise or a guided hike, kayaking trip or RIB boat trip, to make the most of your time in this village which has been welcoming tourists since 1869 when the first tourist ship sailed up the fjord.The hospitable locals started already back then driving royalty and other tourists to viewpoints in horses and carts, and later started transporting them in lovely open-roof cars.There were actually more cars in Geiranger per inhabitant 100 years ago than in New York, and some of these cars are still there.
A visit to the Norwegian Fjord Centre gives you an insight into what life was like in the area back then and now.Remember that the Ørnevegen road from Eidsdal is open all year round, and is charming in every season, from the verdant green spring to the white winter fjord landscape.
Spectacular viewpoints
Geiranger is home to some of the most spectacular viewpoints in Western Norway.You pass the Ørnesvingen viewpoint on your way to or from Geiranger if you take the road to or from Eidsdal.The winding roads are an experience in themselves, but remember to stop at the viewpoint and admire the view.You can drive the other way towards Stryn from the centre of town.You pass Fyldalsjuvet viewpoint before you get to the top where you can take a detour to Dalsnibba viewpoint.This section of the road is closed in winter. The road to Geiranger is part of Norwegian Scenic Route Geiranger-Trollstigen.
Experience nature on foot in Geiranger
With some Geiranger Sjokolade chocolate in your rucksack and a good sandwich made with award-winning local cheese and some raspberry juice, you’re well equipped to set off on a voyage of discovery to mountain farms like Skageflå, or maybe you’d like to walk behind the cascading Storseterfossen waterfall.Fosseråsa is the first certified national hiking trail in Norway, and offers very varied nature, proximity to a river and lovely waterfalls.Don’t miss the chance to go on a waterfall hike from the Norwegian Fjord Centre that takes you back down to the fjord.
See waterfalls and the fjord by boat
You’ve probably heard of the famous waterfalls Dei sju systrene (the seven sisters), Friaren (the suitor) and Brudesløret (the bridal veil).These waterfalls are most impressive from the fjord, either on a car ferry between Geiranger and Hellesylt or in a RIB boat or kayak.Geiranger Fjordservice also organises sightseeing cruises.
How to get to Geiranger
The road to Eidsdal is open all year and you can get here by car, bus or boat.Note that the services differ slightly in summer and winter, so it’s a good idea to plan your trip in advance.
The closest airport is Ålesund Airport Vigra (approx.2 1/2 hours away by car).
Buses and ferries: Check timetables at www.frammr.no
You can also get here by boat all year from Ålesund with Geiranger Fjordservice, and with the Hurtigruten coastal express and Havila Voyages during summer.
Car ferry: A car ferry operates year-round between Geiranger and Hellesylt, except for a short break in December and January. Remember to book a spot in advance during summer.
Contact the tourist information offices in Geiranger or Ålesund for more information.
