When I moved to Norway, I thought I knew what to expect: breathtaking fjords, towering mountains, and a culture deeply tied to nature. But nothing could have prepared me for Nordfjord. Nestled between the icy expanse of Europe’s largest mainland glacier, Jostedalsbreen, and the dramatic coastline of Norway’s westernmost Atlantic cliffs, Nordfjord is a place where history and nature collide in ways that feel almost mythical.
A Land Forged by Nature and Vikings
Nordfjord’s dramatic geography whispers tales of ancient times. As a foreigner living in Norway, I’ve often marveled at how the land shapes the people, and here, that connection is even more profound. The Viking spirit, both fierce and adventurous, feels alive in the crisp air and the roar of the fjord’s waters.
The area around Nordfjord has been inhabited for thousands of years. Archaeological evidence suggests that people have lived in this region since the Stone Age, engaging in hunting, fishing, and early forms of agriculture. Today, much like yesterday, people travel for various reasons: for work, adventure, and sometimes in search of new lands and better opportunities. The Vikings are perhaps the precursors of modern travel; their pursuits of intention, freedom, honor, and glory resonate within me and in my daily desire to explore. Their knowledge of navigation and open-sea travel has evolved over the centuries, and the experiences of others’ journeys have created a blueprint, an itinerary to follow in planning further excursions.
One of the most striking symbols of this era is the Myklebust Viking Ship, discovered in Nordfjordeid, a small town in the heart of this fjord. Its traditional wooden houses are among the best preserved in Vestland.
Once the largest Viking ship ever found, it was built not just for travel but as a testament to the strength and honor of a king. At the Sagastad Viking Center, I stood in awe of the reconstructed vessel, imagining the craftsmanship and courage that propelled it across the seas. The ship has been crafted by the skilled artisans of Bjørkedalen, renowned for their expertise in woodworking and boatbuilding passed down through generations. They employed traditional tools and techniques that have been utilized for centuries.
The center itself is a marvel, designed to echo the circular layout of Viking burial mounds, and serves as both a museum and a community hub for music, crafts, and storytelling.
Nordfjordeid, the heart of Nordfjord, is steeped in history. Here, I learned about King Audbjørn, a Viking ruler whose story is intertwined with Norway’s unification under Harald Fairhair. Audbjørn’s cremation grave, one of the last of its kind before Christianity outlawed such practices, reflects the Viking belief in Valhalla—a belief so tangible you can almost feel it in the air.
At the Nordfjord Folkemuseum in Sandane, I stepped back in time. This open-air museum, with its meticulously preserved 17th- to 20th-century houses, revealed the resilience of past generations. Standing in these cramped, fire-warmed homes, I felt a deep respect for the communities who thrived in such challenging conditions.
Nature in Nordfjord is as much a part of its identity as its Viking heritage. Riding the Loen Skylift to Mt. Hoven, I ascended over 1,000 meters in just five minutes. From the top, the view was nothing short of spectacular: the fjord stretching below, the glacier glistening in the distance, and the mountains standing as silent sentinels. For the brave, the Via Ferrata offers a thrilling climbing experience along the mountain’s south face, complete with a zip line for an adrenaline-filled descent.
Nordfjord’s Cultural and Culinary Riches
Beyond its natural and historical treasures, Nordfjord is a hub of cultural activity. I was surprised to find that Nordfjordeid boasts Norway’s second Opera House, a testament to the region’s dedication to the arts. Locals take great pride in this venue, which hosts an impressive program of music and performances year-round.
A highlight of my trip was meeting the Norwegian Fjord Horse, a breed as striking as the landscape it inhabits. These sturdy, gentle creatures are a living link to the region’s agrarian roots, and riding one through Nordfjordeid was an unforgettable experience.
Of course, no journey is complete without savoring local flavors. Nordfjord’s culinary traditions are a celebration of its natural bounty. In Stryn, I visited Lodgen, a charming guesthouse run by passionate hosts who provide accommodations and a range of activities to suit every interest, from mountain hikes and kayaking to tailor-made excursions offering breathtaking views of the fjord and the glacier. They also treated me to a delightful dinner featuring local charcuterie, homemade cakes, and cider.
A Place to Return to, Time and Again
What struck me most about Nordfjord was the seamless harmony between its past and present. The people here honor their Viking ancestry and natural surroundings with a deep sense of responsibility, ensuring these treasures are preserved for generations to come. From sustainable tourism initiatives to community-driven projects, Nordfjord leads by example in welcoming conscious travelers.
As I left this magical region, the images of its fjords, mountains, and stories stayed with me. Nordfjord is more than a destination—it’s a journey through time, a celebration of resilience, and a testament to the enduring bond between people and nature.
The full articles on Nordfjord have been published by Ethical Norway, a Norwegian tour operator specializing in tailor-made, sustainable journeys throughout the country:
https://www.ethicalnorway.com/the-viking-saga-royal-nordfjord
https://www.ethicalnorway.com/how-to-experience-the-authentic-nordfjord
Discover the beauty of Nordfjord by exploring the thoughtfully designed itinerary created by Ethical Norway: https://www.ethicalnorway.com/product/journey-majestic-nordfjord/