15 Best Things to Do in Olden, Norway 🇳🇴 for an Unforgettable Visit

4Nestled at the end of the stunning Nordfjord in western Norway, Olden welcomes visitors with breathtaking mountain views and peaceful village charm. This small paradise offers amazing adventures for everyone, from relaxing walks to exciting glacier visits.

I’ve explored Olden’s hidden treasures and discovered why this destination captures the hearts of travelers from around the world. Join me as I share the 10 best experiences in Olden that will make your Norwegian journey truly unforgettable.

🏠 Where to Stay in Olden

• 💎 Luxury Hotel: Olden Fjordhotel, Olden
• 🏨 4-Star: Oldevatn Camping, Olden
• 🛏️ 3-Star: Two-Bedroom Holiday home in Olden 3, Olden
• 💸 Cheap: Olden Camping, Olden
• 🏢 Apartment: Panorama Fjord Olden, Olden
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For Families: Nesset Fjordcamping, Olden
• 🏩 For Couples: Singerheimen - Experience the 20s, Olden

💁 Best Guided Tours

• Olden Shore Excursion: the Amazing Briksdal Glacier from € 85 (⭐4.8/5)
• Olden: Fjord e-bike tour from € 65 (⭐4.9/5)
• Olden: Easy Kayaking for Beginners on the Fjord from € 75 (⭐4.7/5)
• Olden Private Shore Excursion Briksdal Glacier and SkyLift Loen from € 195 (⭐5.0/5)

Best Things To Do in Olden, Norway

1. Briksdal Glacier

Adventures. The journey to Briksdal Glacier is an experience I’ll never forget. I boarded a shuttle bus at Olden port, winding past emerald Olden Lake. The 45-minute ride offered perfect views of Nordfjord and the lush Briksdal valley. The air felt crisp and the scenery was breathtaking.

Getting There. You can reach Briksdal Glacier by shuttle bus, public bus, or open-top tour bus. The shuttle bus costs NOK 550 (about $50/€46) for adults and NOK 275 (about $25/€23) for children. The public bus is a budget-friendly option at NOK 32 each way (about $3/€3). Troll Cars are available for the final stretch, perfect if you want to save energy for exploring.

The Hike. The walk from Briksdal Inn to the glacier is about 3 km. The first part is steep, but the rest is easier. I saw the glacier’s blue ice up close. If you prefer, the Troll Car takes you most of the way, with a short walk left to the glacier lake.

Facilities. At the base, there’s a souvenir shop with local crafts, a café for Norwegian cakes, and free toilets. I grabbed a coffee and enjoyed the mountain views before heading back. The area is family-friendly, and the Troll Car is a hit with kids.

Tips. Dress in layers and bring rain gear—weather changes fast. Book Troll Cars in advance, especially from May to October. If you want a quieter visit, try the public bus or hike early. The glacier is part of Jostedalsbreen National Park, so keep your camera ready for wildlife and dramatic scenery.

⭐ Best Tours

• From Olden: Briksdal Glacier Guided Hiking Shore Excursion – Join a guided hiking adventure to Briksdal Glacier, including expert commentary and stunning views, perfect for active travelers looking to explore Olden’s natural wonders.
• Alesund City Walk – Discover the charm of Alesund on a guided city walk, exploring its unique architecture and vibrant local culture with a knowledgeable guide.

2. Loen Skylift

Spectacular Views. The Loen Skylift is one of the steepest cable cars in the world, whisking you from fjord to sky in just 5 minutes. I was amazed at how quickly we ascended 1,011 meters to the top of Mount Hoven. The perfect views of Nordfjord, surrounding mountains, and glaciers are absolutely breathtaking.

Getting There. Located just 6 kilometers from Olden port, you can easily reach the Skylift by shuttle bus that runs every 30 minutes. The return ticket costs NOK 920 (about $85/€78) for adults and NOK 460 (about $42/€39) for children aged 6-15. Children under 6 ride for free. If you visit before May 1st, you’ll enjoy reduced prices of NOK 820 for adults and NOK 410 for children.

At the Summit. Once at the top, I explored several activities:

• Hiking trails with varying difficulty levels
• Hoven Restaurant with 210-degree panoramic views
• Photography spots overlooking Lake Lovatnet and Jostedalsbreen Glacier
• Mountain biking routes (seasonal)
• Snow activities in winter

Tips. The weather at the mountain top can change rapidly, so I recommend bringing an extra layer even on warm days. The cable car runs continuously during operating hours, so there’s no need to book a specific time slot. However, if you’re visiting during peak season (June-August), arriving early in the morning helps avoid crowds.

⭐ Best Activities

• Olden: Loen Skylift Return Trip with Minibus – Experience the breathtaking ascent to Mount Hoven with a round-trip minibus and Loen Skylift ticket, offering perfect views over the Nordfjord and surrounding peaks.

3. Lake Lovatnet

Emerald Waters. Lake Lovatnet captivated me with its striking emerald-green waters, created by glacier meltwater. Surrounded by towering mountains and cascading waterfalls, this 20-kilometer-long lake offers one of Norway’s most picturesque settings. The tranquility here is something special.

Cruise Experience. I took a leisurely cruise on the lake, which lasted about 3 hours round-trip. The boat journey costs NOK 550 (about $50/€46) for adults and includes a stop at Kjenndalstova mountain lodge. The cruise provides fascinating commentary about the lake’s tragic history involving rockslides from Raven’s Mountain.

Activities at the Lake:

• Photography of reflective waters and mountain scenery
• Swimming (for the brave – water is very cold!)
• Picnicking along the shoreline
• Fishing (with permit)
• Kayak rentals available at the dock

Historical Significance. Our guide shared the sobering history of Lake Lovatnet, where rockslides in 1905 and 1936 created massive waves that destroyed villages. This gave me a new appreciation for the power of nature and the resilience of local communities.

Tips. The best light for photography is in the morning when the lake is often perfectly still. Bring a camera with a polarizing filter to capture the true color of the water. The cruise to Kjenndalstova includes traditional Norwegian waffles with coffee or tea, which was a delightful treat after admiring the scenery.

⭐ Best Activities

• Guided E-Bike Tour in Olden – Explore the scenic landscapes around Olden on an easy-to-ride e-bike, guided by a local expert who shares stories and highlights along the way.

4. Olden Old Church

Historical Treasure. Olden gamle kyrkje dates back to the 13th century, though the current cruciform structure was built in 1759. I was struck by its simple white wooden exterior and the peaceful atmosphere surrounding it. This church represents centuries of local history and Norwegian religious traditions.

Architectural Details. The church is the only existing cruciform church in Nordfjord and features:

• Traditional white wooden construction
• Beautiful stained glass windows
• Historical religious paintings and statues
• Intricate woodwork throughout
• Capacity for about 250 people

Visiting Information. The church is located at the north end of the Oldedalen valley. While no longer used as the main parish church, it remains open to visitors and is used for special occasions. There’s no entrance fee, but donations for maintenance are appreciated.

Inside the Church. Walking through the doors, I was impressed by:

• The simple yet elegant altar
• Historical church artifacts
• Wooden pews that have seated generations of locals
• Excellent acoustics (sometimes used for concerts)
• Informational displays about church history

Photography Tips. The church makes for stunning photos, especially with mountains in the background. Morning light casts a warm glow on the white exterior. Remember this is still a place of worship, so be respectful when taking photos inside.

5. RIB Boat Tour on the Fjord

Adrenaline Rush. The RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat) tour on Nordfjord was one of my most exhilarating experiences in Olden. Zooming across the fjord’s emerald waters while surrounded by towering mountains gave me a unique perspective of this magnificent landscape. The combination of speed and scenery is unforgettable.

Tour Details. The RIB safari lasts about 70 minutes on the water, plus preparation time. Adult tickets cost NOK 1,195 (about $110/€100), while children aged 5-15 pay NOK 795 (about $73/€67). The tour includes all necessary safety equipment and a “taste of the fjords” – local delicacies sampled during a brief stop.

What to Expect:

• Professional guides with local knowledge
• Potential wildlife sightings (sea eagles, seals)
• Photo opportunities from water level
• Informative commentary about the fjord’s formation and history
• Splash zone experience (you might get wet!)

Practical Information. Tours depart from the west side of the quay building, just 10 meters from the cruise gate. The meeting point is clearly marked with “RIB Safari Nordfjordeid.” Maximum capacity is 12 guests per boat, so booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season.

My Experience. The guides provided waterproof flotation suits that kept me warm and dry despite the splashing water. The boat slowed down at particularly scenic spots, allowing for photos and detailed explanations of the landscape. The “taste of the fjords” included local cheeses and smoked salmon, which was a delicious bonus.

⭐ Best Activities

• Olden: Nordfjord RIB Boat Tour with Live Commentary – Feel the thrill of a high-speed RIB boat journey on the Nordfjord, with live commentary and up-close views of dramatic mountains.

6. Hiking to Huaren Viewpoint

Panoramic Reward. The hike to Huaren Viewpoint offers one of the most spectacular panoramas in the region. I climbed nearly 400 meters above sea level to reach the summit of Auflem Mountain, where breathtaking views of Nordfjord and the villages of Olden and Loen awaited. The natural beauty visible from this vantage point is truly worth the effort.

Trail Information. This moderately challenging hike takes approximately 90 minutes up and 60 minutes down. The trail begins near the port of Olden and winds through varied terrain including forests, meadows, and rocky sections. No entrance fee is required as this is a public trail.

What You’ll See:

• Stunning fjord views from multiple angles
• Bird’s-eye perspective of Olden village
• Loen and surrounding mountains
• Nordfjord stretching into the distance
• Local flora and potential wildlife
• Cruise ships docked at Olden (if visiting during cruise season)

Preparation Tips. I recommend wearing sturdy hiking shoes as some sections of the trail are uneven. Bring water, snacks, and a camera for the summit. Weather can change quickly, so packing a light rain jacket is wise even on sunny days. Trekking poles are helpful for the steeper sections, especially during descent.

7. Olden New Church

Architectural Beauty. Olden New Church (Olden nye kyrkje) stands as a charming landmark in the village center. Built in the early 20th century, this white wooden church with its distinctive steeple became the main parish church in 1934, replacing the Old Church. I was impressed by its elegant simplicity and prominent position in the community.

Church Features. The church maintains traditional Norwegian architectural elements while offering modern functionality:

• Classic white wooden exterior
• Tall, pointed steeple visible throughout the village
• Beautiful stained glass windows
• Wooden interior with excellent acoustics
• Active parish church for the local community

Visitor Experience:

• Peaceful atmosphere for quiet reflection
• Historical information displays
• Traditional church architecture
• Local gathering place
• Beautiful photography opportunity with mountain backdrop
• Welcoming congregation if you visit during service times

Cultural Significance. The church represents an important part of local identity and community life. Unlike the Old Church, which now functions primarily as a historical site, the New Church continues to serve as an active place of worship for Olden residents.

Photography Tips. The church photographs beautifully against the mountain backdrop. Morning light tends to illuminate the white exterior nicely. If you’re interested in seeing the interior, check for open hours or visit briefly before or after service times, being respectful of worshippers.

8. Open-Top Bus Tour

Scenic Overview. The Open-Top Bus Tour provided me with a perfect introduction to Olden’s spectacular landscapes. Departing directly from the cruise terminal, this tour travels 12 kilometers along emerald-green Olden Lake, surrounded by towering mountains and pristine nature. It’s an excellent option if you’re short on time or prefer not to hike.

Tour Details. The journey takes approximately 1-1.5 hours round trip and includes a 10-minute photo stop at a glacier viewpoint. Tickets cost around €20 (about NOK 220) per person, with discounts sometimes available for children. No advance booking is necessary—you can purchase tickets directly at the port.

What You’ll See:

• Emerald-green Olden Lake
• Dramatic mountain landscapes
• Traditional Norwegian architecture
• Glacier views in the distance
• Local farms and countryside
• Historical points of interest

Practical Information. The buses have a covered section on the upper deck in case of rain. Commentary is provided in English and sometimes other languages, depending on the tour guide. Buses are equipped with blankets on cooler days, though I still recommend bringing a light jacket as it can be breezy on the open top.

My Experience. I particularly enjoyed the freedom to take photos without window reflections. The 10-minute photo stop offered a perfect opportunity to capture the distant glacier views. Our guide shared fascinating stories about local history, including avalanches that have shaped the valley and the traditional farming lifestyle of the region.

9. Via Ferrata Loen

Vertical Adventure. The Via Ferrata Loen offers an exhilarating climbing experience using fixed cables, ladders, and bridges. I challenged myself on this “iron path” that ascends the mountain face near Loen Skylift. The combination of physical activity and spectacular views created an unforgettable adventure that pushed me outside my comfort zone.

Route Options. There are several routes available for different skill levels:

• Gjølmunne (Beginner) – 2-3 hours
• Via Ferrata Loen (Intermediate) – 3-4 hours
• Ragnarok (Advanced) – 4-5 hours

What’s Included:

• Professional guide and safety instruction
• All necessary climbing equipment (harness, helmet, carabiners)
• Training session before the climb
• Incredible views throughout the experience
• Sense of accomplishment!
• Option to combine with Loen Skylift for descent

Requirements. Participants must be reasonably fit and not afraid of heights. Minimum age is typically 12 years (varies by route), and weight restrictions apply (40-120kg). Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy hiking shoes. The activity runs from May to October, weather permitting.

10. Mount Skåla Hike

Epic Challenge. Mount Skåla offers Norway’s highest ascent from sea level to summit in a single hike. I tackled this legendary trail that rises 1,848 meters from Loen to the top, where a stone tower awaits. This is a serious full-day adventure that rewards determined hikers with some of Norway’s most spectacular panoramic views.

Trail Information. This challenging hike requires good fitness and preparation:

• Distance: 16 km round trip
• Elevation gain: 1,848 meters
• Duration: 8-10 hours total (5-6 hours up, 3-4 hours down)
• Season: July to September (snow-free period)
• Difficulty: Hard/Expert

What You’ll Experience:

• Changing ecosystems as you ascend
• Stunning views of Nordfjord that improve with every step
• Lake Skålavatnet at approximately 1,200 meters
• Historic stone tower at the summit (built 1891)
• Potential for snow fields even in summer
• Sense of achievement completing Norway’s highest sea-to-summit hike
• Spectacular photography opportunities

Essential Preparation. I packed plenty of water, high-energy food, extra warm clothing, rain gear, and a headlamp in case of delayed return. Starting early (7-8 AM) is crucial to ensure completing the hike in daylight. The weather can change rapidly at higher elevations, so checking the forecast is essential.

Things to Do in Olden with Kids

1. Family Kayak Tours

Gentle Adventure. Kayaking on Nordfjord with children was surprisingly accessible and became a highlight of our family trip. Olden Active offers specially designed family kayak tours that use stable tandem kayaks, making this activity perfect even for beginners. My kids loved being so close to the water while surrounded by mountains.

Tour Options. Two family-friendly kayaking experiences are available:

• “Explore Kayaking”: 2.5 hours total (1.5 hours on water) – NOK 550 per person
• “The Fjord Paddle”: 3.5 hours total (2.5 hours on water) – NOK 750 per person

What’s Included:

• All necessary equipment (kayak, paddle, life vest, spray skirt)
• Professional guide with local knowledge
• Safety instruction and paddling techniques
• Cultural and historical information about the area
• Stable tandem kayaks (parent-child pairing works well)
• Unforgettable fjord experience

Practical Information. Tours meet at Mölla Guesthouse in Olden, and participants should arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled departure. Children must be at least 10 years old and able to swim. The guide-to-participant ratio ensures safety, with a maximum of 40 participants per tour.

Our Family Experience. My 12-year-old daughter shared a tandem kayak with me, while my husband paddled with our 10-year-old son. The guides were excellent with children, making safety instructions fun and engaging. The stable kayaks quickly put everyone at ease, and we were soon gliding across the fjord’s emerald waters. The shorter “Explore Kayaking” option was perfect for our family, providing enough time on the water without testing the children’s patience.

⭐ Best Tours

• Explore the Fjord in Olden – Discover the beauty of Olden’s waterways and landscapes by boat, guided by locals who share the area’s history and natural highlights.
• Olden Experience: Beginner-Friendly Fjord Kayaking – Try beginner-friendly kayaking on the calm waters near Olden, with all equipment provided and guidance from experienced instructors.
• Olden: Guided Beginner-Friendly Fjord Kayaking (Local Company) – Enjoy a safe and scenic kayaking tour suitable for all ages, led by a local company that knows the best spots for views and wildlife.

2. Farm Animal Encounters at Brynestad Farm

Rural Charm. Brynestad Farm offered my family an authentic glimpse into Norwegian rural life. Located in the heart of Olden’s countryside, this working farm welcomes visitors to interact with friendly animals and learn about sustainable farming practices that have been passed down through generations. My kids were delighted by the hands-on animal experiences.

Farm Activities. The farm offers several family-friendly experiences:

• Guided farm tours (45-60 minutes)
• Animal feeding sessions
• Traditional Norwegian farm snacks
• Learning about sustainable farming
• Beautiful photo opportunities with mountain backdrops

Animals You’ll Meet:

• Friendly Norwegian sheep
• Goats that love attention
• Farm cats and kittens
• Chickens and roosters
• Rabbits that children can hold
• Sometimes horses (seasonal)

Practical Information. The farm is located at Brynestad vegen 44, about a 10-minute drive from Olden center. It’s accessible by car, with free parking available, or by a 30-minute walk from Olden. No reservation is needed for small groups, but calling ahead (+4791143423) is recommended for larger groups.

Our Family Experience. My children were thrilled to bottle-feed baby goats and collect eggs from the chicken coop. The farmer showed incredible patience with the kids, answering their endless questions about farm life. We sampled traditional Norwegian farm snacks, including homemade cheese and freshly baked bread with local jam. The authentic experience provided a perfect balance to our more adventurous activities in Olden.

3. Sightseeing Land Train

Charming Transportation. The Olden Land Train was an instant hit with my kids. This adorable wheeled “train” offers a fun and easy way to explore Olden without tiring little legs. The open-air carriages provide excellent views while the gentle pace is perfect for families with children of all ages.

Tour Details. The Land Train tour lasts approximately 70 minutes and includes commentary about local history and points of interest. Tickets cost around NOK 185 (about $17/€15) for adults and NOK 95 (about $9/€8) for children, making it an affordable family activity.

What You’ll See:

• Olden village center
• Local historical buildings
• Beautiful viewpoints of the fjord
• Traditional Norwegian houses
• Scenic countryside
• Colorful gardens (seasonal)

Family-Friendly Features:

• Easy boarding for all ages and abilities
• Covered seating available if weather changes
• Slow pace perfect for photography
• No need for advance booking
• Entertaining commentary suitable for children
• Freedom to wave at locals (my kids loved this!)

Our Family Experience. The Land Train was the perfect activity after a morning of more strenuous adventures. My children were enchanted by the novelty of the “train” and enjoyed the gentle journey through the village and surrounding countryside. The driver made special efforts to engage the children, pointing out interesting sights at their eye level and occasionally making train whistle sounds that had them giggling with delight. The 70-minute duration was just right—long enough to see the highlights without testing young attention spans.

Free Things to Do in Olden

1. Fjord

Natural Wonder. Exploring the shores of Nordfjord costs absolutely nothing yet offers some of the most spectacular scenery in Norway. I spent hours walking along the fjord’s edge, mesmerized by the crystal-clear emerald waters reflecting the surrounding mountains. This peaceful activity allowed me to experience the essence of Norway’s natural beauty without spending a krone.

Accessible Viewpoints. Several free fjord access points are available:

• Olden village waterfront (5-minute walk from cruise port)
• Public beach area near the tourist information center
• Hiking paths along the fjord’s edge
• Multiple photography platforms and benches

What to Look For:

• Changing light patterns on the water throughout the day
• Mountain reflections on calm mornings
• Local fishing boats and occasional wildlife
• Cruise ships arriving or departing
• Interesting driftwood and shoreline formations
• The unique emerald color created by glacier minerals

2. Village Center and Shops

Local Charm. Wandering through Olden’s village center costs nothing and offers a delightful glimpse into authentic Norwegian life. I enjoyed exploring the compact center with its traditional buildings, colorful gardens, and friendly atmosphere. Window shopping and people-watching provided a relaxing counterpoint to more adventurous activities.

What to Explore. The village center offers several free attractions:

• Traditional Norwegian architecture
• Local church exterior
• Charming residential streets
• Window shopping at souvenir stores
• Tourist information center (free maps and advice)
• Public art and decorative elements

Shopping Highlights (Free to Browse):

• Local handicrafts and souvenirs
• Norwegian sweaters and woolens
• Outdoor clothing shops
• Local food products
• Photography and art depicting the region
• Tourist information center with free brochures

Cultural Observations. Even without spending money, I gained insights into local life by observing:

• Traditional architectural details
• Carefully tended gardens and window boxes
• Local residents going about daily activities
• Norwegian design aesthetics
• Community bulletin boards with local events
• Fishing equipment and boats

My Experience. I spent a pleasant afternoon strolling through the village streets, admiring the well-kept houses with their colorful gardens. The locals were friendly, often nodding hello as I passed. I discovered a small public park with benches overlooking the fjord—perfect for resting and soaking in the atmosphere. The tourist information center provided free maps that helped me identify interesting buildings and viewpoints I might have otherwise missed.

Seasonal Activities in Olden

Christmas in Olden

Winter Wonderland. Christmas in Olden transforms this fjord village into a magical snow-covered paradise. I experienced the unique Norwegian Christmas traditions firsthand, from the twinkling lights reflecting on snow to the cozy indoor celebrations that make the dark winter days feel warm and festive.

Traditional Celebrations. Olden embraces Norwegian Christmas customs:

• Christmas market at the village center (weekends in December)
• Traditional decorations throughout the village
• St. Lucia Day celebrations with candle processions (December 13)
• New Year’s fireworks over the fjord (December 31)

Winter Activities:

• Cross-country skiing on groomed trails
• Snowshoeing in the valley
• Ice fishing on frozen lakes
• Sledding on gentle slopes
• Northern Lights viewing (on clear nights)
• Winter photography opportunities

Summer Festivals and Events

Lively Celebrations. Summer brings Olden to life with festivals and events that showcase Norwegian culture and the stunning natural surroundings. I joined locals in celebrating the midnight sun and the vibrant energy of the season through music, food, and outdoor activities.

Key Summer Events. Olden and nearby areas host several annual celebrations:

• Midsummer Festival (Sankthans) – June 23
• Olden Music Festival – Mid-July
• Nordfjord Folk Music Festival – Early August
• Stryn Summer Ski Festival – June
• Local Farmers Markets – Saturdays in July and August

My Experience. I was fortunate to attend the Midsummer Festival, where locals gathered around a massive bonfire by the fjord. The celebration continued well into the night, with the sky never fully darkening due to the midnight sun. Musicians played traditional instruments while people of all ages joined in folk dances. The atmosphere was incredibly welcoming, with locals eager to teach visitors about their customs and traditions.

Spring Blooms in Valley Parks

Nature Awakens. Spring transforms Olden from winter white to vibrant green, with colorful blooms creating a spectacular contrast against the still-snowy mountain peaks. I witnessed this magical season of renewal when waterfalls reach their peak flow from melting snow and the valley explodes with wildflowers and fruit blossoms.

Spring Highlights. The season offers unique natural displays:

• Fruit tree blossoms throughout the valley (May)
• Wildflower meadows in full bloom (late May-June)
• Bird migration and nesting season
• First cruise ships of the season arriving
• Farmers preparing fields and gardens

Autumn Foliage Walks

Spectacular Colors. Autumn paints Olden in a breathtaking palette of reds, oranges, and golds set against the deep blue fjord. I discovered that fall might be Olden’s most photogenic season, with fewer tourists and perfect hiking weather. The mountains and valleys transform into a canvas of vibrant colors that reflect beautifully in the still waters.

Best Autumn Experiences. Fall offers unique seasonal highlights:

• Peak foliage colors (late September to mid-October)
• Clear, crisp air for mountain views
• Harvest activities at local farms
• Mushroom and berry foraging
• Peaceful hiking trails with few other visitors
• Perfect reflections in calm fjord waters

Photography Opportunities:

• Morning mist rising from the fjord
• Colorful leaves against blue sky and water
• Harvest scenes at local farms
• Fallen leaves creating natural carpets
• Mountain reflections in calm waters
• Dramatic light as days grow shorter

Day Trip from Olden

1. Kjenndalsbreen Glacier via Loen Lake Cruise

Glacier Adventure. Combining a scenic boat cruise on Lake Lovatnet with a visit to Kjenndalsbreen Glacier created one of my most memorable day trips from Olden. This excursion offered multiple highlights in a single journey—emerald waters, towering mountains, and a magnificent glacier arm extending from Europe’s largest ice sheet.

Journey Components. This day trip includes several elements:

• Transfer from Olden to Loen (6 km)
• Scenic cruise on Lake Lovatnet
• Stop at Kjenndalstova mountain lodge for refreshments
• Transportation to Kjenndal Glacier viewpoint
• Return journey with photo stops

What You’ll Experience:

• The crystal-green waters of Lake Lovatnet
• Stories about the tragic Ravnefjell mountain slides
• Traditional Norwegian refreshments at a mountain lodge
• Close views of Kjenndalsbreen Glacier
• Jostedalsbreen National Park landscapes
• Expert commentary from knowledgeable local guides
• Multiple perfect photo opportunities

Practical Information. The full excursion takes approximately 4-5 hours and costs around NOK 950 (about $87/€80) per adult. Tours operate from May to September, weather permitting. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for the short walk to the glacier viewpoint.

Top Experience. The boat journey on Lake Lovatnet was peaceful and scenic, with the captain pointing out historical sites and natural features. At Kjenndalstova, I enjoyed delicious homemade waffles with strawberry jam and brown cheese—a perfect Norwegian treat. The glacier itself was awe-inspiring, with its blue ice visible even from a distance. Our guide explained how the glacier has retreated in recent decades, adding an educational element to the spectacular views.

2. Visit Stryn Village

Charming Destination. Stryn village offered a perfect day trip from Olden, located just 30 minutes away by car or bus. This larger settlement provides additional shopping, dining, and cultural experiences while maintaining the authentic Norwegian charm that characterizes the region. I discovered it was an excellent complement to Olden’s natural attractions.

Stryn Highlights. The village offers several points of interest:

• Stryn town center with shops and cafés
• Jostedalsbreen National Park Centre
• Stryn Summer Ski Center (June-July)
• Old Stryn Mountain Road (Gamle Strynefjellsvegen)
• Local museums and cultural sites
• Expanded shopping opportunities

Getting There:

• Public bus from Olden (30 minutes, NOK 50)
• Taxi (approximately NOK 400 one-way)
• Rental car (most flexible option)
• Organized tours from cruise ships (seasonal)

FAQ

What are popular things to do on a Norway trip in Olden?

Olden offers scenic walks, exploring the valley to Laukifossen waterfall, and learning about the Jostedal glacier at the visitor center. You’ll also find unique experiences like historic horse and carriage rides and Loen Active outdoor adventures.

What is special about Olden and its surroundings?

Olden is a gateway to the Norwegian fjords and part of the glacier region, offering a mix of peaceful village life and dramatic landscapes. Its surroundings include the valley to Laukifossen and the tranquil Floen lake.

What is the best way to explore around Olden?

A great way to explore is by joining local tours or using public transport for trips to Loen and Stryn. Walking and cycling paths let you enjoy the small village atmosphere and see the Nordfjord from different angles.

Is there a way to connect with Norwegian nature here?

Olden is perfect for connecting with Norwegian nature, with options like kayaking, cycling, and gentle strolls around the village. The area’s natural beauty and peaceful setting make it easy to relax and enjoy the outdoors.