Olden Norway is a small village with an outsized landscape. Set at the end of the Nordfjord, it is surrounded by steep mountains, bright-green valleys, waterfalls and glacier-covered peaks. The village is an excellent base for exploring the famous Briksdal Glacier, taking a boat or kayak onto the fjord, and enjoying some of western Norway’s most accessible scenery. This Olden travel guide covers the best things to do in Olden, how to get around, when to visit and how to plan a rewarding stay.
Why visit Olden?
Olden lies at the mouth of the Oldedalen valley, where the Nordfjord branches into narrower waterways and mountain valleys. The setting changes quickly as you leave the village. One moment you are beside calm fjord water, and a short drive later you are looking at glacial rivers, forested slopes and rugged peaks.
The area works well for both a short stop and a longer holiday. Cruise passengers can see several highlights in one day, while travellers staying for two or three nights have time for hikes, scenic drives and slower experiences such as a fjord-side lunch or an evening walk. Olden is also a convenient gateway to the Jostedalsbreen area, home to the largest glacier in mainland Europe.
Despite its popularity in summer, Olden still feels like a small community rather than a traditional resort town. Expect a limited selection of shops and restaurants, especially outside the main season. The reward is easy access to dramatic nature without spending hours travelling between attractions.
Best things to do in Olden
Visit Briksdal Glacier
Briksdal Glacier is the most famous attraction near Olden and a central part of any Olden travel guide. The glacier arm drops from the Jostedalsbreen ice cap into the Briksdalen valley, creating a striking contrast between white ice, dark rock and green vegetation.
The road to the trailhead follows the valley past rushing streams and waterfalls. From the parking area, the walking route to the glacier viewpoint is around three kilometres each way, although the exact conditions and access can change with the season. The path is generally manageable for many visitors, but it includes some uphill sections and can be wet. Wear shoes with good grip and allow time to stop for photographs.
Open-sided vehicles, often called troll cars, operate on the route during the busier months. These can reduce the walking distance and are useful for visitors with limited mobility or a tight schedule. They do not usually take you directly onto the glacier. For safety, never walk onto the ice without a qualified glacier guide.
The glacier has changed considerably over time, and its edge is not always visible from the same viewpoint. Treat signs and barriers seriously, since meltwater channels, falling ice and unstable ground can be dangerous. Check local information before setting out.
See the waterfalls of Oldedalen
Oldedalen is one of the most rewarding places for waterfall viewing around Olden. The valley road passes several cascades, including the powerful Volefossen and smaller unnamed falls that appear after rain or during the spring snowmelt. Water drops from high mountain slopes into the valley, often making the drive feel like a continuous natural attraction.
Take your time on the road and use marked parking areas rather than stopping in passing places. Some waterfalls are best viewed from a distance, while others are close to the roadside. Late spring and early summer often bring the strongest flow, but autumn rain can also make the falls impressive.
Walk around Loen Lake
Lake Lovatnet, near Loen, is known for its turquoise water and dramatic mountain surroundings. The road along the lake is a scenic outing from Olden, with viewpoints and places to pause beside the water. The colour can vary depending on light, weather and glacial sediment, so do not worry if it looks greener or darker than photographs.
A full journey around the lake takes planning, but even a shorter drive gives you a strong sense of the landscape. You can combine the visit with a trip to Kjenndalsstova or a nearby valley walk, depending on road conditions and how much time you have. Keep an eye on local signs, as some routes may be seasonal.
Ride the Loen Skylift
The Loen Skylift climbs from the Nordfjord shore to Mount Hoven, offering wide views across Nordfjord, Lake Lovatnet and the surrounding mountains. The cable car is a good option when you want a mountain experience without committing to a long ascent.
At the top, several walking routes range from short viewpoint walks to longer hikes. Weather can be very different at the summit than in the village, so bring an extra layer even on a warm day. Cloud can also arrive quickly and obscure the view. If the forecast is unsettled, consider keeping your plans flexible and checking the live conditions before travelling.
Explore the fjord by boat or kayak
The Nordfjord is best appreciated from the water. A boat trip gives you a different perspective on the village, farms and mountains, while a guided kayak tour offers a quieter way to explore sheltered sections of the fjord. Excursions vary by season, weather and departure point, so book ahead during the summer months.
If you are new to kayaking, choose a guided trip and ask about the distance, equipment and minimum age. Fjord water can be cold even in summer, and wind conditions can change quickly. A boat tour is often the simplest choice for families or travellers who want to enjoy the scenery without a physically demanding activity.
Take a scenic drive through Nordfjord
Olden is an excellent base for exploring Nordfjord by car. Roads lead toward Loen, Stryn, the Nordfjordeid area and several mountain valleys. Each direction offers a different landscape, from fjord villages and cultivated farmland to high plateaus, lakes and snowfields.
One popular outing combines Olden with Loen and Stryn. Another heads into Oldedalen toward Briksdal Glacier. If you have more time, look into routes involving scenic mountain roads, but confirm opening dates first. High mountain passes can remain closed into late spring and may close again during autumn storms.
Driving in western Norway requires patience. Roads can be narrow, tunnels are common and traffic may slow behind buses, campervans or cyclists. Use passing places correctly, avoid stopping in the middle of the road and allow more time than a map estimate suggests.
Hiking near Olden
There are walks for different fitness levels in and around Olden. Short valley paths provide access to rivers, forests and viewpoints, while steeper trails lead toward mountain lakes and ridges. Local tourist offices, accommodation providers and trail apps can help you choose a route that matches the weather and your experience.
For a relatively easy outing, look for paths around Olden and the nearby villages. These are useful when you want fresh air without spending a whole day on the trail. Hikes near Loen can be more demanding, particularly those connected with Mount Hoven and higher viewpoints.
Before starting a hike, check the forecast, daylight and trail conditions. Carry water, food, a waterproof layer and a charged phone, but do not rely on mobile coverage in every valley. Mountain weather changes quickly, and a route that looks simple on a sunny afternoon may be much more difficult in rain or fog.
- Wear footwear with firm soles, especially on wet or uneven paths.
- Tell someone where you are going if you choose a less-travelled route.
- Stay on marked trails and keep away from glacier edges and fast-moving rivers.
- Turn around early if visibility, energy or conditions deteriorate.
When is the best time to visit Olden?
Summer
June through August is the easiest period for most visitors. Many tours, cafés, transport services and attractions operate more frequently, and the days are long. This is also the busiest period, particularly when cruise ships are in port. Popular attractions can feel crowded during the middle of the day, so start early or visit later in the afternoon when possible.
Summer weather is changeable. A bright morning can turn into a wet afternoon, and temperatures at higher elevations are usually cooler than at the fjord. Pack waterproof clothing and layers rather than relying on a single warm-weather outfit.
Spring and autumn
May and September can be appealing for travellers who prefer fewer visitors. Waterfalls are often strong in late spring, while autumn brings colourful foliage and softer light. However, some tours and mountain roads operate on reduced schedules, and snow can affect higher routes.
Always check opening hours and transport details before travelling in the shoulder seasons. A quiet visit can be wonderful, but it requires more independent planning.
Winter
Winter transforms the valleys with snow and limited daylight. Some attractions may be closed, and access to glacier areas or mountain roads can be restricted. The season suits travellers interested in quiet landscapes, winter photography or nearby snow activities rather than a full programme of summer excursions.
How to get to Olden and get around
Most international visitors reach Olden through western Norway’s transport network. Bergen is a common starting point, although the journey by road is long and scenic. Ålesund is another possible base, depending on your route. Stryn is the nearest larger transport hub, with connections that can make bus travel more practical.
There is no railway station in Olden. Buses connect the village with parts of Nordfjord and other towns, but services may be less frequent outside summer. Check current timetables rather than relying on a generic journey planner, particularly if you need to connect with a boat, flight or cruise departure.
A rental car gives you the greatest flexibility for Briksdal Glacier, Oldedalen and the surrounding valleys. If you are visiting without a car, choose accommodation close to the village centre and book excursions that include transport. Taxis may be available, but supply can be limited during busy periods.
Cruise visitors should confirm the ship’s arrival and departure times carefully. The port area and village are close to many services, but the most scenic attractions require extra travel. Book organised shore excursions or arrange transport in advance if Briksdal Glacier is a priority.
Where to stay in Olden
Staying in Olden is convenient if you want quick access to the fjord, local shops and excursions. Accommodation ranges from hotels and guesthouses to cabins and campsites. A cabin or apartment can suit families and longer stays, while a hotel may be simpler for a one-night visit.
Loen is another good base, especially if you want to use the Loen Skylift or explore Lake Lovatnet. Stryn offers more shops and services and can be useful if Olden accommodation is fully booked. Wherever you stay, check parking arrangements and whether breakfast or evening meals are available.
Food, practical costs and local etiquette
Restaurants and cafés around Olden focus on straightforward Norwegian meals, baked goods, coffee and seasonal ingredients. Opening hours can be limited, so do not assume every place serves dinner late. If you are staying in a cabin, buying groceries in advance can make your trip easier, especially on Sundays or outside the main season.
Norway is an expensive destination by European standards. Transport, organised activities and restaurant meals can add up quickly. Compare tour options, pack snacks for day trips and make use of self-catering facilities when available. Some attractions have parking or entrance charges, and glacier transport is usually separate from other excursions.
Norwegian outdoor culture places a strong emphasis on respecting nature. Take all rubbish with you, avoid disturbing wildlife and keep noise low near homes and farms. Leave gates as you find them, use toilets where provided and follow local signs around water, cliffs and glaciers.
A simple two-day Olden itinerary
Day one: Oldedalen and Briksdal Glacier
Begin with the drive through Oldedalen and continue toward the Briksdal Glacier trailhead. Walk as far as conditions and energy allow, or use a troll car if available and suitable for your plans. Stop at viewpoints along the valley on the return journey. In the evening, enjoy a quiet walk by the fjord or have dinner in Olden.
Day two: Loen, the fjord and a local hike
Travel to Loen and take the Loen Skylift if the weather offers clear views. Choose a short walk at Mount Hoven or return to the valley for a gentler route. Later, explore Lake Lovatnet or join a fjord excursion, depending on the timetable. If rain arrives, use the day for a scenic drive through Nordfjord and stop at viewpoints between the showers.
For a one-day visit, prioritise either Briksdal Glacier or the Loen area rather than trying to fit everything in. Travel times, weather and queues can make an ambitious itinerary stressful. Olden is at its best when you leave room for unexpected viewpoints and changing light.
Frequently asked questions
Is Olden worth visiting?
Yes. Olden is worth visiting for its combination of fjord scenery, waterfalls, glacier access and manageable day trips. It is particularly convenient for travellers who want dramatic landscapes without a long mountain trek to reach them.
How long should you spend in Olden?
One full day is enough to see a major highlight such as Briksdal Glacier, but two or three days allow time for the fjord, Loen Skylift, waterfalls and a scenic drive. Longer stays suit travellers who want to hike or explore Nordfjord at a slower pace.
Can you visit Briksdal Glacier without a car?
It may be possible during the main season through a bus, organised excursion or pre-booked transfer, but services vary. Check current timetables before travelling. A car is more flexible, although a guided excursion can be convenient for cruise passengers and visitors on a short schedule.
What should you pack for Olden?
Bring waterproof outerwear, warm layers, comfortable walking shoes and sun protection. A small daypack, water bottle and snacks are useful for hikes and scenic drives. If you plan to kayak or take a glacier tour, check the operator’s equipment list before departure.
Is Olden suitable for a cruise day trip?
Yes, but plan carefully. The village is easy to explore on foot, while Briksdal Glacier and Loen require transport and enough time to return to the ship. Reserve popular excursions in advance and keep a generous time buffer for road traffic or changing weather.