Geiranger sits in the most spectacular location at the head of Geirangerfjord and surrounded by mountains. Geirangerfjord is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its sheer cliffs falling straight down into the water, with several spectacular waterfalls. It is one of the longest and deepest fjords in the world, and considered an “archetypical fjord landscape and among the most scenically outstanding anywhere,” by UNESCO. It is another popular stop for the cruise ships, cruising the fjords of Norway. We visited Geiranger for two nights as part of our road trip through Norway. Here we share our experiences and the best things to do in Geiranger.
THINGS TO DO IN GEIRANGER
1. FJORD SAFARI RIB-BOAT
Get up close and personal with the Geirangerfjord on this adrenaline filled RIB-boat tour. The RIB-boats take you along the Geirangerfjord at speed. You’ll get to see the many waterfalls and hear all about the people who lived along the fjord in the isolated farms. This is a fun, one hour trip, which children will enjoy.
Top tips for the fjord safari RIB-boat:
- Book your tickets in advance particularly if there’s a cruise boat in town.
- Try to book early in the day or later in the afternoon.
- Weatherproof suits, googles and buoyancy aids are all provided. These do a good job of keeping you warm and dry.
- Children must be 4 years old and 120cm to ride the RIB-boats.
2. E-BIKING UP THE MANY HAIRPIN BENDS ON EAGLE’S ROAD
This is something we did on the spur of the moment and we’re so glad we did! Rent electric bikes (or e-bikes for short) and climb up the many hairpin bends on Eagle’s Road for great views over the Geirangerfjord. This was a first for us as we’d never e-biked before. Electric bikes are perfect for the hills of Norway as the battery powers you up the hills. Don’t be fooled though, you still need to pedal, but it makes it so much easier!
Ørnevegen or Eagle’s Road, is the name given to the steepest stretch of road up the mountain side from Geiranger towards Eidsdal. The road swings through 11 hairpin bends up from the Geirangerfjord, to the highest point, 620 metres above sea level, at Korsmyra. The views throughout the climb are spectacular and well worth the effort (although considerably less effort on an e-bike!)
We rented electric bikes for two hours and climbed the Eagle Road and cycled around part of the lake. Children must be competent cyclists and comfortable cycling on roads before attempting e-biking.
3. ENJOY THE VIEW AT DALSNIBBA VIEWPOINT
Europe’s highest fjord view from a road and perhaps the most stunning of the many views of Geiarngerfjord. The spectacular platform, Geiranger Skywalk, has an amazing view over the fjord below. The toll road, Nibbevegen, takes you from Djupvasshytta, to the viewpoint at Dalsnibba which is at approx 1500 metres above sea level. The fee to drive Norway’s highest road is 140 NOK (correct at time of writing).
As we were road tripping around Norway we had a car to access the Dalsnibba viewpoint. In fact we stopped here on our way into Geiranger. Bus trips up to the viewpoint are also available from the village, running three times a day during the summer season.
4. FLYDALSJUVET VIEWPOINT
Flydalsjuvet is another spectacular viewpoint that offers impressive views and excellent photo opportunities of Geiranger and the fjord. The viewpoint is easily reached, about 4 kilometres from the centre of Geiranger, heading towards Grotli.
5. TAKE A SCENIC FERRY CRUISE
Take a one hour ferry cruise from Geiranger to Hellesylt. The cruise takes you along the famous Geirangerfjord with its sheer mountain cliffs, emerald green water and many waterfalls. Along the way you’ll see the abandoned farms and small holdings of those that used to live and farm along this impressive fjord. This ferry cruise is worth taking for the views alone.
There is an audio tour, which is available in many languages. Refreshments are also available on board.
6. KAYAK ON THE FJORD
Experience Geirangerfjord from a kayak. Head out to the Seven Sisters Waterfall along the fjord. It certainly gives you a different perspective of this mighty fjord with its sheer cliffs.
WHERE WE STAYED
Geiranger is another popular place to stay in Norway and there is limited accommodation in the village. Again it is essential that you book well in advance, particularly if you’re travelling during the peak summer holidays.
We stayed at the Geiranger Hotel in wonderful rooms overlooking the fjord. The views from the rooms are amazing. How’s this for a view first thing in the morning?
The cruise boats dock right in front of the hotel so you get a birds eye view of all the comings and goings during the day. The boats depart in the evening and leave Geiranger to those that are staying in the village. Serenity returns at this time of day!
This hotel is the perfect place to stay in Geiranger, overlooking the waterside, right in the heart of the village.
FOR MORE ON NORWAY:
Top 10 Things To Do In Stavanger
Top Tips for Saving Money on a Trip to Norway
Have you been to Gerainger in Norway? What are your recommendations for things to do in Gerainger?
12 Comments.
We found the same in the little fjord town of Flåm, once the cruise ships depart, it’s a completely different place. I adore Norway and how many opportunities to be active in stunning, stunning landscapes. I would love to kayak through those cold clear waters. So beautiful! #FearlessFamTrav
Flam was definitely a different place once the tour boats departed. It was lovely in the evenings and early mornings when it was just a little village in a beautiful location.
Geiranger looks absolutely stunning. I’ve always wanted to visit Norway. #fearlessfamtrav
Norway is an amazingly beautiful country…and Geiranger should definitely be on any itinerary of the country.
Norway is such a beautiful country! I’ve never been to Geiranger, but I think my family would like the e-bike ride and the ferry ride!! thanks for sharing! #fearlessfamtrav
The E-biking was a first for us and we loved it. Norway is indeed a beautiful country with so many outdoor opportunities.
Oh man I so want to go to Norway! So many amazing adventure activities you guys did. Taking the ebikes up the mountain would be so fun:) #fearlessfamtrav
You guys would just love Norway. Perfect for you.
Wow, what amazing views! Looks like such a beautiful place and something for everyone – whether you want to relax or go on an adventure! #fearlessfamtrav
You’re absolutely right Keri. It’s a beautiful spot.
I’m so envious of your time in Norway and it gets worse every time I read another post. Geiranger sounds like a great part of the country to visit and some of those views are amazing! #fearlessfamtrav
Norway is a gorgeous place. Perfect for those that love the outdoors.