Sogn og Fjordane Travel Guide

Discover the natural beauty and rich culture of Sogn og Fjordane in Norway with our comprehensive travel guide, featuring top places to visit, hiking routes, food and drink scene, and more.


Introduction to Sogn og Fjordane

Located in Western Norway, Sogn og Fjordane is a region known for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. The region comprises fjords, mountains, glaciers, and numerous lakes and rivers. Visitors can discover the history of the region in small towns and villages that dot the region. Sogn og Fjordane is also an adventurer’s paradise, offering hiking and biking trails, skiing, and fishing.

List of Places to Visit in Sogn og Fjordane

If you’re planning to visit Sogn og Fjordane, there are numerous places that you shouldn’t miss, including:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Jostedalsbreen National Park
  • The Norwegian Glacier Museum
  • Breheimsenteret Glacier Center
  • Sunnfjord Museum
  • The Vesterålske Kunstindustrimuseum

Natural Attractions of Sogn og Fjordane: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Geirangerfjord
  • Sognefjord
  • Fjærland Glacier National Park
  • Jotunheimen National Park
  • Runde Island

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sogn og fjordane

Sogn og Fjordane is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with many great hiking and biking trails. Here are some of the best routes:

  • The Besseggen Ridge Walk in Jotunheimen National Park
  • The Aurlandsdalen Valley Trail
  • The Fossestien Waterfall Trail in Flåm
  • Rallarvegen - the service road for the Bergen railway line
  • Nærøyfjord: a UNESCO-protected fjord

Best Things to Do in Sogn og Fjordane: Activities and Tours

  • Kayaking on the fjords
  • Skiing in Stryn
  • Whale watching in Fjærland
  • Mountain biking on the Trollstigen
  • Rafting on the Sjoa River

Week-Long Itinerary for Sogn og Fjordane

Day 1: Arrive in Bergen and catch the coastal express to Florø. Gamlehamna will be your first point of interest here to view the historic reconstructed boathouses.

Day 2: Drive to Naeroyfjord from Sogndal to experience the natural wonders. Visit Gudvangen on the way back and enjoy outdoor activities such as kayaking and hiking.

Day 3: Take a boat tour to the Jostedalsbreen Glacier. The glacier is the largest in mainland Europe.

Day 4: Spend the day exploring the outdoor activities in Stryn, including hiking, biking, and skiing.

Day 5: Visit Alesund to explore its Art Nouveau architecture and learn about its history.

Day 6: Check out Flåm, home to the Flåm Railway, and explore the Fjærland Glacier National Park.

Day 7: Take a trip to Runde Island, home to one of Europe’s largest bird cliffs.

Food and Drink Scene of Sogn og Fjordane

Foodies visiting Sogn og Fjordane won’t be disappointed. You’ll find plenty of fresh seafood, traditional Norwegian dishes, and local specialties.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fårikål - Lamb and cabbage stew
  • Rakfisk - Fermented fish
  • Skjenning - Dried and salted fish

Local Beverages

  • Akevitt - A traditional Norwegian spirit
  • Aquavit - A flavoured spirit from Norway

Where to Stay in Sogn og Fjordane: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are plenty of accommodation options in Sogn og Fjordane, from hotels to cozy guesthouses. Here are some of the best options:

  • Kviknes Hotel in Balestrand
  • Best Western Lægreid Hotel in Sogndal
  • Fjærland Fjordstove Hotel in Fjærland

What to Buy in Sogn og Fjordane: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Soaps and candles made from local beeswax (from Byrkjelo)
  • Traditional Norwegian woolen sweaters
  • Handmade wooden bowls

Local Culture and Customs of Sogn og Fjordane

Sogn og Fjordane has a rich cultural heritage, with many traditional customs still being practiced. Visitors can experience local festivals and events throughout the year, such as the Flåm Festival and Sognefjord in a Nutshell.

Best Time to Visit Sogn og Fjordane

The best time to visit Sogn og Fjordane is from May to September when the weather is warmer, and most of the outdoor activities are accessible.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sogn og Fjordane

Do:

  • Respect nature and wildlife
  • Try local cuisine and beverages
  • Take part in local festivals and events

Don’t:

  • Litter in the nature
  • Disturb the wildlife
  • Ignore safety warnings when engaging in outdoor activities

Safety and Health

Safety in Sogn og Fjordane

Sogn og Fjordane is generally safe, but visitors should be aware of the risks of outdoor activities and follow safety guidelines.

Health in Sogn og Fjordane

There are no major health risks in Sogn og Fjordane. However, visitors should take normal precautions, including carrying adequate medical insurance.

Getting to Sogn og Fjordane: Transportation Options and Logistics

Visitors can get to Sogn og Fjordane by air, train, or car. The region is well connected to other parts of Norway and Europe, making it an easily accessible destination.

Airports Near Sogn og Fjordane

  • Bergen Airport, Flesland
  • Ålesund Airport, Vigra
  • Florø Airport

Bus Stations Near Sogn og Fjordane

  • Sogndal Bus Terminal
  • Florø Bus Terminal
  • Førde Bus Terminal

Other Options

The coastal express Hurtigruten is a popular way to reach the region. It connects the coastal towns of Norway, including Florø and Bergen.

How to Get Around in Sogn og Fjordane

The best way to explore Sogn og Fjordane is by car. There are plenty of car rental options at the airports and major towns. Alternatively, visitors can take local buses or book guided tours.

Where to Go Next from Sogn og Fjordane: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Bergen - A charming city with a rich history and culture
  • Alesund - A beautiful town known for its Art Nouveau architecture
  • Gudvangen - A picturesque village located on the Nærøyfjord

Conclusion

Sogn og Fjordane offers visitors a unique combination of natural beauty and fascinating culture. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures or want to immerse yourself in local customs, you’ll find plenty to discover in this beautiful region of Norway.

Sogn og Fjordane region in Norway Sogn og Fjordane region in Norway Blue: Nordfjord; fuchsia: Sunnfjord; yellow: Outer Sognefjord; green:Inner Sognefjord Blue: Nordfjord; fuchsia: Sunnfjord; yellow: Outer Sognefjord; green:Inner Sognefjord Vik, a village by the Sognefjord. Vik, a village by the Sognefjord. Sogn og Fjordane is deer land. Sogn og Fjordane is deer land. Via Ferrate above Loen village, Loen lake in the background. Mid-May and still snow on the summits. Via Ferrate above Loen village, Loen lake in the background. Mid-May and still snow on the summits. Nordfjord near Olden and Loen Nordfjord near Olden and Loen Loen Skylift 1000 meters straight up from the fjord Loen Skylift 1000 meters straight up from the fjord "Clear Night in June", painting by Nikolai Astrup Selje Abbey ruins at the Atlantic Selje Abbey ruins at the Atlantic West cape panorama at Stad penninsula West cape panorama at Stad penninsula


    Førde
    Olden and Loen
    Sandane
    Skei
    Sognefjorden