Hiking Above the Fjords: An Unforgettable Day in Geiranger, Norway
Cruising into the Geirangerfjord feels like entering a dream. As our ship glided silently between towering cliffs and past slender waterfalls, we knew we were approaching something truly special. Norway’s Geirangerfjord is not just a postcard-perfect destination—it’s a place that humbles you with its scale and silence. No wonder it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Once ashore in the tiny village of Geiranger, we joined a guided hiking excursion that promised both adventure and unforgettable views. And it delivered.
Our journey began with a short drive past Geiranger’s charming octagonal church, perched on a hillside like something out of a fairy tale. At the hamlet of Hole, the real hike began.
The trail started gently but soon turned into a narrow, uneven mountain path with challenging climbs and rewarding views. Surrounded by fresh alpine air, patches of wildflowers, and sweeping views of the fjord below, we made our way up toward the Storseterfossen—a waterfall with a surprise: if the water flow allows, you can actually walk behind the cascade. It’s a unique and exhilarating moment—standing just inches from thundering water, watching it fall like a silver curtain in front of you.
A thousand words will not leave so deep an impression as one deed.
After this highlight, we continued uphill to the Westerås Farm, where warm waffles and coffee were waiting. With goats grazing nearby and our ship shimmering far below, this rustic stop gave us a moment to rest and reflect. The view? Indescribable.
The return to Geiranger brought us to yet another gem: the Waterfall Walk—a modern path built in 2014 with 305 steps leading down along the roaring Geirangerelva river. Each turn revealed new angles of the waterfall, perfect for photos and soaking in the power of nature. Once at the bottom, a tender boat took us back to the ship.
This hike is not for beginners—it’s steep, sometimes slippery, and requires sturdy shoes and good fitness. But if you’re up for the challenge, you’ll be rewarded with one of the most scenic hikes you can do in Norway.
Practical Tips for Visiting Geiranger
Best Time to Visit
Late spring to early autumn (May to September) is ideal. June and July offer lush greenery and longer days, but August and early September are quieter.
Budget Accommodation
Geirangerfjorden Feriesenter – Affordable cabins with kitchenettes right by the fjord.
Hole Hytter – Basic but well-located cabins near the hiking trailhead.
Camping – Geiranger Camping offers a great fjord-side location for tents or camper vans.
Food
Eating out in Norway can be pricey, but these places offer good value:
Café Olé – A cozy café with sandwiches, cakes, and coffee.
Westerås Restaurant – If you’re on the hike, it’s worth staying a bit longer for a proper local meal with a view.
Buy groceries at the local Joker supermarket and prepare your own food if you’re staying in self-catering cabins.
Getting Around
Geiranger is small and walkable, but some hikes and viewpoints require a short drive or shuttle. In summer, a hop-on-hop-off bus connects the main attractions.
Hiking Gear
Wear proper hiking shoes – paths can be rocky and slippery.
Bring layers – even in summer, weather changes quickly.
Don’t forget a refillable water bottle, camera, and rain jacket just in case.
Whether you’re hiking up to a hidden waterfall or simply soaking in the views from a café, Geiranger delivers moments you’ll never forget. It’s not just a destination—it’s a reminder of how powerful, raw, and beautiful nature can be.
