How to Explore Naeroyfjord and Sognefjord?

My Norway on a Nutshell trip was an absolute delight! From traditional wooden cottages to Viking sculptures, I’d seen it all – until I laid my eyes on the world’s longest and narrowest fjords. The Naeroyfjord and Sognefjord were the products of thousands of years’ worth of weathering and erosion, and I was ecstatic to be standing in front of one of the longest fjords in the world, and the second-longest in Norway! It’s no surprise that Norway reigns supreme in terms of breathtaking views – I’m so glad I got to experience it.

The Sognefjord is a majestic continuation of the Naeroyfjord, a place where tales of seagulls and natural beauty intertwine. You could say that the Naeroyfjord and Sognefjord embody the very essence of Norway’s exuberant spirit, and I feel beyond blessed to have been able to experience this part of the globe!

Naeroyfjord and Sognefjord

As I ventured through the picturesque landscape on my journey from Gudvangen village to Flam, via Solund, Hyllestad, Vik, Balestrand, Sogndal, and Aurland, I was amazed to discover that Naeroyfjord and Sognefjord were only appointed UNESCO World Heritage Sites as recently as 2005. Little did I know that the mesmerizing Fjord was named after one of Sogn’s southern districts; my heart was pounding with excitement as I took in the stunning sights!

As our cruise slowly approached the majestic Sognefjord, where glaciers meet the Norwegian Mountains, I was in awe of its beauty and grandeur. National Geographic magazine had already declared it the world’s most iconic location, but nothing could have prepared me for the sheer spectacle of it! For the next four hours, I was surrounded by the grey-line mountains with their snow-like tinges, awed by the sheer beauty of the mother of all fjords.

After gorging myself on the seagulls’ leftovers, I headed to the riverfront meadows to kick back and watch the goats graze. I couldn’t help but be in awe of Nærøyfjord, so I decided to pick the brains of a local and get the scoop on the fjord’s name history.

Sailing along the 17-km-long, 820-ft-wide deep sea inlet of the Fjord, I couldn’t help but wonder if its namesake, the Norse god of the seafarer, had bestowed its blessings upon me. Towering mountains and a flock of friendly seagulls encircled me, refusing to leave my side as I ventured through the steep ridges. It certainly felt as if the seafarer’s god had smiled upon me.

How to Explore?

Exploring Naeroyfjord and Sognefjord from Gudvangen hamlet is easy-peasy when you plan your vacation! Taking a 2-hour and 15-minute cruise down the river Nærøydalselvi to the iconic Flam Railway Station is just the start of your journey. For a more immersive experience, why not take a kayaking, skiing, or hiking route for a closer look at the Fjord? Now that’s what I call a real Norwegian adventure!

This time, I decided to take the scenic route and hopped on a bus from Bergen. I then made my way to Gudvangen where I took a boat, sailing along some of Norway’s most stunning coastline. Then, the adventure truly began when I got to ride Flamsbana, a train with some of the world’s most spectacular views. It was an unforgettable experience!

Norway in a Nutshell tour will cost you between 1600-1750 NOK (roughly 14,800 INR in Indian currency). But if you want to make the most of your experience, why not go for the 3-day journey for 3420 NOK? You’ll be taken to places that are off-the-beaten paths, only accessible to the locals. To get to Gudvangen from Bergen, I recommend taking Skyss 925 Bus which will cost you only NOK 100 (INR 900) and take you 2.5 hours to reach your destination. So, if you’re game, hop on board and enjoy the ride!

Spread the love

 

 

 

 Tweet