Should I Visit Olden Norway?
Should I Take A Cruise to Olden, Norway?
Absolutely! I believe this was one of the prettiest area’s as we came into port. As the ship slowly enters into the fjord; you will see waterfalls cascading down the mountain.
The round mountain tops look like the tops of lollipops – smooth and rounded. As you sit staring out at the beauty of the area, one could envision themself as part of a fairy tale.
Should I Take an Excursion?
Taking a cruise is always a great way to get the quick view of an area. Normally you have a few hours to explore the area before you move on to the next port.
However, there are shore excursions available by the cruise line to help you see as much as possible.
If you book a private tour, always note that the cruise ships will not wait for you if you are late returning.
Give yourself plenty of time for vehicle issues, traffic delays etc.
Where Does the Ship Dock?
If you are lucky enough to be the bigger ship in town that day – then you will more than likely dock in town. Lucky you! You may have a 10 minute walk into the town.
If not, your ship may tender. If you are a tendering ship you may find yourself about 4 miles outside of the downtown section of Olden. Our ship tendered into the area by the Loen Skylift.
Can You Walk From the Tender Area to Olden?
While you can walk the approximate 4 miles from the tendering area near the Loen Skylift to Olden.
I would not recommend it.
(Take my advice, I did it and wish I had not!)
The roads to get from Loen Sky lift area and the town of Olden are not very conducive to walking, there is no sidewalk, and some areas are narrowing.
You do have to go around the tunnel, as you are not allowed to walk through the tunnels. There is a path around the tunnel.
This walk took about 1.5 hours and a lot of stress due to the amount of vehicles passing on the narrow roads.
What Is There to Do In Olden Norway?
Briksdal Glacier Hike
Highly Recommend
The Briskdal Glacier is one of the arms of the Jostedalsbreen Glacier. Once you arrive at the entry point for the Briskdal glacier; the hike will take about 45 minutes.
From the Briskdal Mountain Lodge you have an option to ride in troll cars. You can prebook your troll car which is highly recommended.
There is a cost to ride in the troll cars. –
Totally Worth it! See my Youtube on the walk to the glacier.
If you decide not to take the troll car, the walk is a nice walk. The path is easy to follow. I would highly recommend hiking boots to allow for good traction as you are going up hill. The distance is about 2.5 km.
There are so many places you will want to stop and take pictures.
On one part of the hike there is an optional area to get a great photo – this is where the downpour of the falls coming out from the glacier area. I definitely recommend rain protection especially for you camera.
Once you reach the glacier you can continue to hike and go to the lake that is just below the glacier area.
Getting to the Glacier
If you are not doing an excursion you can take the public transportation with is about a 40 minute ride and only cost a few dollars.
Loen Sky Lift
The Loen Skylift cost about $60 and was worth it – even on a very cloudy morning.
You only get 1 roundtrip ticket, and it is for 1 time use, so it is probably better later in the day once the clouds burn off if you have a cloudy morning.
Note: The lines will get very long the later in the day that you go.
There is a zipline at the top of the Skylift – cost is approx. $60 and the ride is a short one probably worth it for the once in a lifetime experience.
Checkout our Youtube video of the very foggy ride down the Gondola
Bike Rentals
Bike rentals are available within walking distance of the cruise port.
Hiking
I feel like it would not be a post about Norway if I did not mention – yes, there are multiple hiking trails are available.
The best hiking trails in the area are going to be accessed from the top of the gondola.
Where to Stay?
There were several campgrounds in the area and a few hotels.
Nordfjord Kayaking
This tour is approximately 2 hours and you will be kayaking near the shoreline of the Fjord. You will be able to see waterfalls, glaciers and mountainsides.
Helicopter Sightseeing
Offered from the cruise line you can book a helicopter sightseeing tour to view the Jostedal Glacier. The Jostedal Glacier is the largest glacier in Europe.
Shopping
There were small local shops in the town of Olden, a great place to pick up some souvenirs.
Where To Stay if Hiking?
Cabins are available throughout the mountains and hiking areas. You can get an annual membership and stay in the cabins for a small fee – check out the DNT website posted below. Most of the cabins will have fireplace, bed and bathroom. Check out the DNT website for more information: https://english.dnt.no/faq/
Final Tips
Norway is typically a once in a lifetime cruise for most travelers. Therefore, don’t miss out –
Book Excursions Early
If you are able to do more than one excursion in port – go for it!
Maximize your experience – Find sailings that offer the maximum amount of time in a port of call.
Be Prepared to Pay higher dollars for Excursions.
If you cannot afford to pay for excursions – that is OK, there is plenty to see by walking these cruise ports.
Don’t let finances stop you from making this a destination.
Hopefully You Have All the Info you need to Know for your Cruise to Olden Norway!
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