Fjords are one of the most spectacular natural sights you can witness.
They are striking inlets of ocean water that flow around jaw-dropping cliffs. Fjords form as glaciers retreat, allowing the ocean to fill in the vacated gorge and there are over 1100 fjords in Norway.
They’re synonymous with Norway and the Vikings after providing refuge for Viking ships for hundreds of years: the sharp angles of their geography mean that they provide refuge from rough seas and weather. In the present day, they make for a special experience to take in during your travels.
And you can take a cruise from Southampton to sail the fjords and see this spectacular landscape by boat. Below, we explore the best fjords to explore.
Bergen
Bergen is the capital of fjord Norway and makes for an excellent starting point for your trip.
Indeed, Norway’s second-largest city is surrounded by seven mountains and between the two biggest fjords in Norway, the Hardangerfjord and the Sognefjord, making it the perfect base to set out on excursions.
Beyond its superb location, Bergen offers other treats too. With stunning scenery, winding cobbled streets, a world-famous fish market and traditional charm, Bergen is a beautiful place to stay.
Geirangerfjord
The Geirangerfjord is often considered to be one of the most iconic fjords in Norway. It stretches for over 100 kilometres inland from Alesund on the west coast.
The UNESCO-listed fjord boasts 800-metre-high cliffs as well as many sublime waterfalls to wow you. When you stay, make sure you take the time to absorb the stunning views and spend time in the charming village of Geiranger.
Hardangerfjord
Hardangerfjord is Norway’s most famous fjord. And for good reason: it stretches 179km from the Atlantic Ocean all the way along the Hardangervidda plateau.
It contains the world-famous Trolltunga rock formation, and it also boasts some of the most spellbinding hikes in the world.
Sognefjord
Sognefjord is often known as “the home of the giants.” Featuring over 250 mountains over 2000m high, Sognefjord offers some spectacular aerial sights.
If you’re looking for a strenuous experience, you can climb to the top of the incredible Galdhopiggen, or if you’re looking for something more relaxing, there’s always the green, tranquil meadows by the picturesque Lom.
And of course, Jotunheimen National Park offers one of the most amazing natural escapes in Europe – you’ll feel like you’ve entered the wilderness.
If you’re looking to travel and take in some outstanding natural beauty, look no further than the fjords. And by picking any of the fjords above and planning your trip carefully, you should be all set for the experience of a lifetime.
