The cries of monkeys on both shores never cease, yet the light boat has already passed through thousands of mountains
Norwegians regard fjords as their soul, believing that fjords symbolize the character of the Norwegian people. Fjords bring not only a visual impact but, more precisely, a spiritual shock. Only after admiring the endless winding fjords along Norway’s west coast and the fjord landscapes shaped by countless glacial relics can one truly feel the breathtaking charm of this magical country.
The word "Fjord" originates from Norway and has since been widely adopted internationally. This ancient Viking term evolved from the phrases "der man ferder over" (the place you travel over) and "ferje" (ferry, ferry crossing).
Norway’s stunning fjords were formed during the Ice Age, carved by massive glaciers below sea level. Over more than 2.5 million years, a series of glacial cycles sculpted the land into U-shaped valleys. In other words, fjords are created by glaciers.
In western Norway, narrow fjords cut straight into the mountains, waterfalls rush down the slopes, glaciers remain year-round, and spectacular architecture and local delicacies make a trip to Norway full of joy and allure.
Since humans first set foot in Norway, the fjords have remained largely unchanged. Here, seals breed and thrive, whales swim freely in the fjords, eagles soar in the sky, and fish swim near the surface.
We can imagine Norway’s fjords as main roads, with side roads and narrow alleys beside them, like an enlarged version of Venice’s canals.
Come to Northern Europe, come to Norway, and if you don’t explore the fjords, you won’t understand this profound impact.
1️⃣ Sognefjord
“The beauty of Sognefjord lies in the competition of peaks, the blue water and sky, and the thousands of waterfalls.” The terrain on both sides of the fjord is steep and rugged, with few places to land. Occasionally, some quaint houses dot the mountainsides, wild yet full of vitality.
Sognefjord is Norway’s longest and deepest fjord, stretching from the coast north of Bergen to the towering Jotunheimen National Park and the glacier-studded Jostedalsbreen National Park. Sognefjord is 204 kilometers long and over 1,300 meters deep, with mountain peaks on both sides rising above 1,700 meters.
Here you can find the Flåm Railway, considered a masterpiece of railways worldwide, and sightseeing ferries to Gudvangen, all of which can take you to explore the mysteries of Sognefjord. If you’re lucky, you might even see wild seals while on a boat trip. Public transportation is available year-round, and using the Norway Travel Pass is very convenient.
2️⃣ Geirangerfjord
Located west of Ålesund, Geirangerfjord is 16 kilometers long, with majestic and beautiful mountains on both sides. The natural sheer cliffs mostly rise above 1,000 meters, with spectacular waterfalls, pastures, and towering peaks along the way. The most breathtaking sight is the “Troll Staircase” overlooking the Romsdal Valley. The fjord area is filled with stunning mountain and water scenery, with reflections in the lake that are truly awe-inspiring, clearing the mind like a dream come true!
3️⃣ Lysefjord
Lysefjord is located in southern Norway and is 42 kilometers long. The entrance to Lysefjord is Stavanger on Norway’s west coast. The river winds between steep cliffs and towering mountains. Massive rocks stand on both sides, including the 600-meter-high cliff Preikestolen, which is a must-see. Standing atop the giant rock feels like floating in the air, strongly sensing the powerful vitality of nature.
Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) is the symbol of fjord tourism in Norway. At 604 meters high, Pulpit Rock is a cliff that juts straight into the fjord and is a symbol of bravery. Standing on Pulpit Rock and looking down at Lysefjord in the valley below, the scenery is truly beyond magnificent. Rolling mountains, winding fjords, and boats floating in the fjord create an unforgettable view.
Kaytrip-European Bus Tour1