Sandane Travel Guide

Discover the beauty of Sandane, Norway with this comprehensive travel guide that includes a list of places to visit, hiking/biking routes, best things to do, where to stay, what to buy, and more.


Introduction to Sandane

Sandane is a charming town located in the county of Sogn og Fjordane in Western Norway. Despite its small size, it is known for being an excellent destination for outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, and skiing. It is a place where visitors can experience the stunning natural beauty of Norway and immerse themselves in its unique culture.

List of Places to Visit in Sandane

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Sandane has a rich history and culture, and there are several museums and historical places that visitors can explore. These include:

  • Gloppen Hotell - This historic hotel was built in 1866 and is one of the oldest hotels in Norway. It has been completely restored and is now a museum that showcases the history of the hotel and the region.

  • Gloppefjord Kystlag - This is a maritime museum that features exhibits about the history of fishing and boat building in the area.

  • Eikaas Galleriet - This art gallery showcases the works of Norwegian artist, Ludvig Eikaas. The gallery is located in a beautiful building with stunning views of the fjord.

Natural Attractions of Sandane: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Sandane is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. It offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, skiing, and more. Visitors can also experience the stunning natural beauty of the area by exploring its many scenic views and attractions. Some of the must-visit natural attractions of Sandane include:

  • Jostedalsbreen National Park - This is the largest glacier in mainland Europe and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can explore the glacier on guided tours or hiking trails.

  • Hoddevik Beach - This is a stunning beach with clear blue waters and white sand. It is a popular spot for surfing and other water activities.

  • Loen Skylift - This is a cable car that takes visitors up to the top of Mount Hoven, offering stunning views of the fjord and the surrounding mountains.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sandane

Sandane is home to some of the most beautiful hiking and biking routes in Norway. Visitors can explore the countryside and get a closer look at the stunning natural beauty of the region. Some of the best hiking and biking routes in Sandane include:

  • Jostedalsbreen Glacier Trail - This is a 6.5km hike that takes visitors to the glacier’s edge. It is an excellent opportunity to experience the beauty of the glacier up close.

  • Våtedalen Nature Reserve - This is a beautiful nature reserve that offers several hiking trails. It is home to several rare plant species and has stunning views of the fjord.

  • Sandane-Stårheim-Kvamskogen - This is a popular biking route that takes visitors through the beautiful countryside of Sandane. It offers stunning views of the fjord and surrounding mountains.

Best Things to Do in Sandane: Activities and Tours

Sandane offers a wide range of activities and tours for visitors to enjoy. Some of the best things to do in Sandane include:

  • Fjord Fishing - Visitors can experience the thrill of fishing in the fjords, catching fish such as cod, halibut, and salmon.

  • Skiing - Sandane is a popular ski destination in the winter months, with several ski resorts offering excellent opportunities for skiing and snowboarding.

  • Glacier Tours - Visitors can explore the Jostedalsbreen Glacier on guided tours, learning about its history and formation.

Week-Long Itinerary for Sandane

Sandane offers plenty of attractions and activities to keep visitors busy for a week. With that in mind, here is a sample itinerary for a week-long visit to Sandane:

Day 1: Explore Sandane’s historical attractions, including Gloppen Hotell and Gloppefjord Kystlag.

Day 2: Hike the Jostedalsbreen Glacier Trail and explore the glacier’s edge.

Day 3: Take the Loen Skylift and enjoy stunning views of the region.

Day 4: Visit Eikaas Galleriet and explore the works of Ludvig Eikaas.

Day 5: Enjoy a day of skiing or snowboarding at one of Sandane’s ski resorts.

Day 6: Take a fjord fishing tour and catch some fresh fish for dinner.

Day 7: Explore Våtedalen Nature Reserve and take in the stunning views of the fjord and surrounding mountains.

Food and Drink Scene of Sandane

Sandane has a vibrant food and drink scene, offering visitors a chance to taste local cuisine and beverages.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Rømmegrøt - This is a traditional Norwegian dish made with sour cream, butter, and flour, and is often served with a side of cured meats.

  • Rakfisk - This is a traditional Norwegian dish made with fermented fish. It has a strong flavor and is often served with boiled potatoes and sour cream.

  • Kjøttkaker - These are meatballs made with pork and beef, often served with mashed potatoes and lingonberry sauce.

Local Beverages

  • Akevitt - This is a traditional Scandinavian liquor that is made from potatoes and flavored with herbs and spices.

  • Sour Beer - This is a popular type of beer in Norway, which is brewed with local ingredients, including wild berries and herbs.

Where to Stay in Sandane: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Sandane offers a range of accommodation options for visitors, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Some of the best places to stay in Sandane include:

  • Scandic Gloppen - This hotel is located in the heart of Sandane and offers stunning views of the fjord.

  • Sandane Camping - This is a popular campground that offers cabins, tents, and RV sites.

  • Heimly Pensjonat - This guesthouse is located in a beautiful building with stunning views of the fjord. It offers a range of rooms, including single and double rooms.

What to Buy in Sandane: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Sandane has plenty of souvenirs and local products to bring home. Some of the best things to buy in Sandane include:

  • Lefse - This is a traditional Norwegian flatbread that is often served with butter and brown sugar.

  • Knitwear - Norway is known for its high-quality knitwear, and Sandane is no exception. Visitors can find a range of knitwear products, including sweaters and hats.

  • Cheese - Sandane is home to several excellent cheese makers, and visitors can find a range of local cheeses to try and buy.

Local Culture and Customs of Sandane

Norwegian culture is known for its focus on nature and the outdoors. Visitors to Sandane can experience this culture first-hand by taking part in outdoor activities and exploring the region’s natural attractions.

Best Time to Visit Sandane

The best time to visit Sandane depends on the activities you have planned. If you plan to ski, the winter months are the best time to visit. For hiking and other outdoor activities, the summer months offer the best weather and longer daylight hours.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sandane

Do:

  • Do take part in outdoor activities and explore the natural beauty of the region.

  • Do take time to learn about Norwegian culture and history.

Don’t:

  • Don’t drink in public places or get drunk in public.

  • Don’t wear your shoes inside someone’s home.

Safety and Health

Safety in Sandane

Sandane is a safe destination for visitors. However, it is always a good idea to take basic safety precautions, such as locking your doors and not leaving valuables unattended.

Health in Sandane

Sandane has a good healthcare system, and visitors can access medical care if needed. It is recommended to have travel insurance to cover any unexpected medical costs.

Getting to Sandane: Transportation Options and Logistics

Visitors can reach Sandane by car, bus, or plane.

Airports Near Sandane

Sandane Airport, Anda is the closest airport to Sandane, with regular flights to Oslo and Bergen.

Bus Stations Near Sandane

Sandane Bus Station offers regular connections to cities and towns throughout Norway.

Other Options

Visitors can also travel to Sandane by car, taking advantage of Norway’s excellent network of roads.

How to Get Around in Sandane

Visitors can explore Sandane and the surrounding areas on foot, bike, or car. Public transportation is also available.

Where to Go Next from Sandane: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are several nearby destinations and excursions that visitors can take from Sandane, including:

  • Briksdalsbreen Glacier - This is a beautiful glacier located near the town of Olden, about an hour’s drive from Sandane.

  • Geirangerfjord - This stunning fjord is located in the nearby town of Geiranger and is a popular destination for cruises and scenic drives.

Conclusion

Sandane is a beautiful destination that offers visitors a chance to experience the stunning natural beauty of Norway while immersing themselves in its unique culture. With its range of attractions, activities, and accommodations, Sandane is an excellent place to visit for an authentic Norwegian experience.