Western Norway is where classic images of the country come to life. This is a region of long, deep aquamarine fjords carved through rugged mountains; ribbon-like waterfalls that plunge from incredible heights; and colorful villages, towns, and cities that add to the storybook scene. Visitors to Western Norway are certain to feel the lure of adventure with opportunities for hiking, kayaking, fishing, and biking at every turn. While most famous for its natural landscapes, the region is also home to culture-rich cities filled with things to do.
Summer is the ideal time to visit Western Norway. During June, July, and August, you’ll experience the best of Norway’s notoriously fickle weather, as well as extended daylight hours that allow for more time outdoors hiking and biking. The warmer months are also best for getting out onto the water on a kayaking tour or fjord cruise.
An extensive and efficient public transportation network makes it a breeze to get around Western Norway by bus and ferry. Train services are limited but offer a few scenic routes. One of the highlights of the region is riding the Flåm Railway from the end of Aurlandsfjord up to the high mountains at Myrdal. However, having your own wheels offers the flexibility of not being tied to timetables—and this is a region where you’ll want to take it slow.
Norway is notoriously expensive but you can save some money by taking advantage of the nation’s allemannsretten (“everyman’s right”) law. The law allows everyone the right to roam, meaning you can hike or set up camp almost anywhere as long as you leave no trace and follow guidelines. For example, your camp must be at least 500 feet (150 meters) away from the nearest inhabited house or cabin.
