Skei Travel Guide

Skei is a picturesque and historically rich town nestled in Western Norway. This comprehensive guide will take you through the must-visit places, hiking trails, food and drink scene, local culture and customs, and much more!


Introduction to Skei

Skei is a picturesque and historically rich town nestled in Western Norway and surrounded by snow-capped mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and dense forests. Its proximity to the Jostedalsbreen glacier makes it an ideal base for glacier hiking and exploring other natural wonders of Norway.

List of Places to Visit in Skei

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Breheimsenteret Glacier Center: This museum is dedicated to showcasing glaciers and their impact on nature and the environment. You can learn about the Jostedalsbreen glacier’s history, formation, and its impact on the region’s landscape.

  • Sognefjellshytta Mountain Lodge: Sognefjellshytta Mountain Lodge is a cozy cabin perched on the edge of a mountain with a great view of the valley below. It was established in 1892 and offers visitors a glimpse into the region’s history.

  • Kaupanger Stave Church: This is a beautiful stave church with intricate wood carvings that date back to the 12th century. It has great historical and cultural importance and is a marvel of medieval architecture.

Natural Attractions of Skei: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Jostedalsbreen Glacier: This is the largest glacier in continental Europe, and it’s a stunning natural wonder of Norway and a must-visit attraction in Skei. The glacier is surrounded by several peaks, including Lodalskåpa, Loen Skylift, and Hornindalsrokken.

  • Kjenndalsbreen Glacier: Located in the Jostedal Glacier National Park, this glacier is the most accessible glacier and a great spot to see the vast landscape around Skei.

  • Sognefjorden: This is the largest fjord in Norway, extending over 200 kilometers inland. To fully appreciate the fjord, take a boat trip or go on a scenic drive to see the majestic waterfalls and landscapes.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Skei

Hiking Trails

  • Nigardsbreen Glacier Walk: This is a popular hiking trail that takes you through Jostedal Glacier National Park to see the Nigardsbreen glacier and its stunning blue ice formations.

  • Breheimen National Park: This park offers some of the most beautiful trails in Norway. The trails are well marked and offer visitors an opportunity to explore the region’s natural beauty.

  • Gamle Strynefjellsvegen: This is a historic road that has lots of hiking trails that showcase the stunning views of the fjords, mountains, and valleys of the region.

Biking Trails

  • Round the Fjords Cycle Route: This bike route takes you around the beautiful Sognefjorden, offering stunning views of the fjord and mountains. The route is a moderate 10-day ride and is perfect for experienced bikers.

  • Epic Trails of the Sunnmøre Alps: This is a challenging bike route that takes you through the beautiful Sunnmøre Alps and offers unforgettable views of the stunning natural landscape.

Best Things to Do in Skei: Activities and Tours

  • Boat Trips: Boat trips are a popular activity in Skei. You can take boat tours to see the stunning natural landscape, glaciers, fjords, and waterfalls.

  • Glacier Hiking: Glacier hiking is a must-do activity in Skei. There are several guided tours that take you on a hike through the glaciers and offer a unique perspective on the natural beauty of the region.

  • Fjord Safari: This is a great activity to spot seals, porpoises, and eagles in their natural habitats. You’ll also see stunning views of the fjord and its surroundings.

Week-Long Itinerary for Skei

Day 1: Explore Breheimsenteret Glacier Center and take the Nigardsbreen Glacier walk. Day 2: Take a boat tour of Sognefjorden and explore the fjord’s surroundings. Day 3: Visit the Kaupanger Stave Church and go on a hike through the Breheimen National Park. Day 4: Take a scenic drive along the historic Gamle Strynefjellsvegen road. Day 5: Go on a fjord safari and spot seals, porpoises, and eagles in their natural habitats. Day 6: Take a bike ride on the Round the Fjords Cycle Route. Day 7: Explore the town’s food and drink scene and enjoy some of the local specialties.

Food and Drink Scene of Skei

Must-Try Dishes

  • Kumle: This is a traditional dish of mashed potatoes and flour, boiled or baked and served with salted meat or fried bacon.

  • Fish Soup: Fish soup is a popular dish in Norway, and Skei is no exception. The soup is made with fresh fish, vegetables, and cream.

  • Brennsnut: These are deep-fried doughnuts, served with a sprinkle of sugar.

Local Beverages

  • Aquavit: This is a traditional Norwegian spirit. It is made from potatoes and flavored with caraway, dill, and other herbs.

  • Beer: Norway produces several local beers, including Lervig and Nøgne Ø, which are popular in Skei.

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

  • Skei Hotel: This is a beautiful hotel with excellent facilities, including a spa, gym, tennis courts, and swimming pool. It is located in the heart of the town and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

  • Jostedal Hotel: This is a cozy hotel located close to the Jostedalsbreen Glacier National monument. It offers comfortable rooms, excellent food, and guided tours to the Glacier.

  • Bøyum Camping: If you’re looking for a more affordable option, Bøyum camping is a great choice. The camping grounds are beautiful, and they also offer cabin rentals.

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

  • Skei Knitting Wool: This is a soft wool yarn made from Norwegian sheep and is perfect for knitting hats, mittens, and sweaters.

  • Handmade souvenirs: There are many local artisans in Skei who sell handmade souvenirs. Some popular items include wooden spoons, bowls, and figurines.

Local Culture and Customs of Skei

The region has a deep cultural and historical heritage that is still preserved through its festivals, food, and architecture. The locals are friendly, and you’ll find they are proud of their cultural heritage.

Best Time to Visit Skei

The best time to visit Skei is from May to September. The weather is mild and pleasant, making it perfect for outdoor activities and exploring its natural beauty. October to April is also a good time to visit if you’re interested in winter sports.

Do’s and Don’ts of Skei

Do:

  • Try the local delicacies like Kumle and Brennsnut.
  • Be courteous to the locals.
  • Visit the Breheimsenteret Glacier Center.
  • Dress in layers as the weather can change abruptly.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter.
  • Don’t take any natural resources or wildlife from the area.
  • Don’t be disrespectful of the local culture and customs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Skei

Skei is generally a safe town, but it’s always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions. Be careful when hiking or camping in the mountains, and always check the weather forecast before going on any outdoor adventures.

Health in Skei

Norway has a good healthcare system, and Skei has several hospitals and clinics in case of medical emergencies. It is also important to carry an appropriate amount of medication if you have any pre-existing health conditions.

Getting to Skei: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Skei

The nearest airports to Skei are Sogndal Airport, Førde Airport, and Ålesund Airport.

Bus Stations Near Skei

You can take a bus from Oslo to Skei. There are also several local buses that operate within the region.

Other Options

You can also rent a car, and it’s a great way to explore the region’s natural beauty and attractions.

How to Get Around in Skei

The town is small and easy to explore on foot. However, it’s best to rent a car or bike to explore the surrounding areas and attractions.

Where to Go Next from Skei: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Balestrand: This small village on the Sognefjord is known for its incredible art nouveau architecture and stunning scenery.

  • Flåm: This village is known for its picturesque scenery, including waterfalls, fjords, and mountains. It’s also a great base to explore the fjords by boat.

Conclusion

Skei is a stunning destination that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, history, and culture. The town’s hospitality, food, and drink scene, and outdoor adventures are excellent reasons to visit this must-see destination. Whether it’s hiking in the mountains, exploring the glaciers, or enjoying the beautiful scenery, Skei has something to offer everyone.

Jølstervatnet lake. Jølstervatnet lake. Kjøsnesfjorden branch Kjøsnesfjorden branch Jølstra river Jølstra river ''Night of the Marsh Mairgold'', painting by Nikolai Astrup ''Night of the Marsh Mairgold'', painting by Nikolai Astrup