Norway Travel Guide

Planning on visiting Norway? Then you’re in the right place!

In this guide, I've gathered my best tips on places you shouldn't miss if you're visiting the Vestlandet region in Norway.

View from Rakssetra.

If you're heading to the mountains from the south, chances are high that you'll pass through Gudbrandsdalen. This route offers many beautiful views, and it’s definitely worth making some stops along the way. Places that may be worth visiting include Lom, Billingen lookout point, Bismo and Breiddalsvatnet.

Billingen.

Olden

With its central location between the fjords, Olden is a fantastic starting point if you want to explore the area surrounding the Jostedalsbreen glacier. Olden itself is a very charming village as well, offering many great photo opportunities.

One thing that makes Olden unique is that cruise ships regularly visit its port. This creates a very unique atmosphere, and if you enjoy capturing time-lapse videos, this is a perfect subject!

View from the outskirts of Olden.

Oldedalen

South of Olden lies the scenic valley of Oldedalen. Here you'll find the two lakes Floen and Oldevatnet, as well as the famous glacier view from Briksdalsbre. Along the way, there are many parking- and picnic spots, which in my opinion offer some of the best views.

Oldevatnet in Oldedalen.

Worth knowing is that tour buses travel between Olden and Briksdalsbre on days when the ships arrive. Since the roads are partly narrow, visiting the valley during sunrise/sunset is ideal to avoid the largest crowds. However, if you have the opportunity to visit Oldedalen on a day free from cruise ships, it can be pleasant even during daytime.

Lake Floen in Oldedalen.

Lodalen

You've most likely seen Lodalen several times on social media. In my opinion, this is the "Instagram spot" that best lives up to its expectations! When you arrive at lake Lovatnet you'll find Lovatnet camping, which is a great place to park your car and enjoy the views.

A few hundred meters further lies the iconic cabins of Breng seter. If you have a drone, this is a golden opportunity to use it! The views from ground level are certainly beautiful, but they are even more stunning from above.

To avoid crowds and get good lighting, it's ideal to visit this location at sunrise.

Breng seter at Lovatnet.

Rakssetra

Right next to Loen lies Rakssetra, which is a perfect destination if you want to take a moderately long hike. From the parking lot, you’re left with an hour long hike before reaching the viewpoint. From here, you'll have a magnificent view overlooking Loen, Olden, and Oldedalen.

Rakssetra.

Bergheimsvatnet, Byrkjelo

In the valley west of Oldedalen lies Bergheimsvatnet with its stunning view of the Eggenipa mountain. This gem is absolutely worth visiting if you want a unique subject for your photos.

View of the Eggenipa mountain from Bergheimsvatnet.

If you go to Byrkjelo from Olden, you'll pass through Innvik and Utvik. These charming villages are definitely worth exploring if you have the time for it. On the way, you'll also pass by Skjørbakkane viewpoint, which offers a beautiful view of the Innvik fjord.

Spectacular mountains surrounding Innvik.

Stryn

Stryn is one of the larger towns in the area, which in addition to good photo and hiking opportunities, also has many shops and restaurants.

Nedstryn Church.

Hjelle

East of Stryn lies Hjelle, located at the end of Oppstrynsvatnet. This is a really cozy village, offering both beautiful natural views and older architecture. If you continue a little further east, you'll reach the Hjelledalen viewpoint, where you can get a stunning view of the valley.

Hjelle.

Hellesylt

When following the roads north of Stryn, you'll eventually reach Hellesylt. In the heart of the village lies the mighty Hellesyltfossen. From Hellesylt, there are also boat connections to Geiranger through Geirangerfjorden. However, since Hellesylt is not as well-known as Geiranger, you can expect fewer tourists here. Near Hellesylt is also the Ljøen viewpoint, which offers a unique view of the Geiranger fjord.

Hellesyltfossen in Hellesylt.

Stavbergsetra

This little gem can be found close to Hellesylt, and offers completely different kinds of views. The barren mountains contribute to creating an atmosphere unlike the other valleys.

Stavbergsetra.

Hornindal Bridge

Between Stryn and Hellesylt, you'll find the stunning Hornindal Bridge. This unique place definitely deserves a stop on the way.

Hornindal Bridge.

Panoramavegen (Panorama Road)

If you head west from Stryn, you can follow the so-called Panorama Road all the way to Nordfjordeid. Along the way, you'll drive alongside truly picturesque views. If you're keen on getting even closer to nature on your way back to Stryn, take the road through Kalvatn. These roads are partly very narrow, but they're in good condition and offer stunning views.

Scenic country roads next to the Panorama Road.

I hope you’ve found these travel tips interesting! If you have any questions or feedback for future newsletters - feel free to shoot me an email or DM!

All the best,

Kevin