Driving the Land of Fjords

Southern Norway


Things to know


Driving

Look up some road signs before you hop in the car. (One way, do not enter, and no parking) Never speed and speed limits and begins signs read a but about. Roads are extremely narrow at times, so eyes always on the roads and watch for sheep.


Cell

You’ll be fine for the most part working off wifi. We also always download the area in google maps offline and it still gives directions.


Food

Look up and save some dishes and basic food words. Most areas speak English, but we went to some areas where they did not and had to guess what butter was.


Markets

Look for Rema 1000s and Kiwis for the more traditional western markets. 711s will always be more expensive. 

Where to stay


Most lodging is small and individually owned. Use this as a chance to explore, meet locals, and connect with the country on an intimate level


Lodging

Utne Hotel visit here

One of the most wonderful experiences we had. Stay included dinner and stay in this 300 year old hotel. A place to truly experience Norway, spend time with locals, eat fine foods and take in the culture.


Aga Sideri visit here

Be sure to visit our friends at Aga Sideri up the road for locally made ciders.


Campsites

"Campsites" in Norway are some of the cleanest, most modern, and most beautiful sites you will find in the world. They are locally owned and most operate off of an honors system. Most have bathrooms, full showers, wifi, kitchens, and other amenities. Remember to be respectful and quiet.


Sandy Camping visit here


Cabins

As you drive, you will see there are thousands of quaint low electricity cabins all throughout Norway. Includes cot and access to facilities.


Camping

You can camp on public land that is 150 metres away from private property, cultivated land, occupied buildings or private campsites. You shouldn't stay more than one night in any single place. Campers must abide by the “leave no trace” rule.






What to do


Explore some of the smaller towns and cities, you will not regret it. Check all trail statuses and risks and be respectful of trail upkeep as always.


Trails

View our selected Trails on All Trails



Bakkanosi Hard

Vossestrand, Vestland, Norway

Length: 10.7 mi•Est. 6h 24m


Hornelen Hard

Skatestraumen, Vestland, Norway

Length: 7.4 mi•Est. 6h 3m

Watch for snow covered crevasses


Trollstigen - Trolltinden Hard

Reinheimen National Park

Length: 3.2 mi•Est. 2h 20m


Saksa - Volda Hard

Norangsfjorden, Møre og Romsdal, Norway

Length: 4.8 mi•Est. 4h 45m


Snow Safety Guide and Essentials


Bergen

This historic city is a must see. Culture, coffee, castles, food- Bergen has it all.


Flam

Bakkanosi hike is what we did. Its pretty intense at the end but amazing view, but takes quite a while. This is where the famous train is located. If you are driving, don't skip the worst longest tunnel!


Alesund 

Quiet fishing town. There is a lookout at the top of the city Aksla Viewpoint, Alesund. Dive or hike up there. Has the “photo” spot up there to capture the colorful houses. You can also hike up to where you see the Viking sculpture. Great place to have lunch as there are picnic tables.


Geirangerfjord

Beautiful, if you can, try and wait until the ships leave to take photos and see the full view, but its a cool little town. 

Gear We Had


USB Camping Lamp

Norway Map

Hiking Backpacks with Frame on Amazon

Headlamps

Down Jacket graded for 30 degrees F

Water Resistant Shell

Wool Socks

Waterproof Boots - Womens on Amazon

Thermals by 32Degrees

Carhartt Hats on Amazon

Thermal Sleeping Pads on Amazon

Sleeping Bags

Nemo 2 Person Tent at REI

Adapters on Amazon

Camera Rain Cover on Amazon


Transportation

Norse Atlantic Airways (JFK-OSLO)

Hybrid Kia Xceed 2 Wheel Drive Car via Avis