Winter magic in the Norwegian fjords

Welcome to our digital event “Fjord Norway in Winter”

The fjords are one of Norway's greatest attractions and truly offer an extraordinary natural experience. For many, they are at the top of the so-called bucket list—places you absolutely must see. There’s something for everyone here: whether it’s relaxing fjord cruises, thrilling RIB boat tours, hikes with spectacular views, quiet moments in nature, gliding silently down the slopes on skis, visiting museums, or enjoying cozy cafés and excellent restaurants—Fjord Norway has something to suit every taste.

At our upcoming online sales event, Fjord Norway in Winter, various providers from the fields of transport, accommodation, activities, and the DMO of the fjord region will introduce themselves. They are excited to share the winter side of their homeland with you. Because the fjords are not just a highlight in the summer—it's in winter that their special magic truly unfolds. During this season, there are hardly any lines at the attractions, and the fjords present themselves either calm and flat, surrounded by snow-covered mountains, or in rough, untamed weather, making you look forward to a crackling fireplace where you can warm up and relax afterward.

© Rune Hagen

Snow-Covered Adventures. 
What exactly is a fjord?

Fjords combine drama and ancient history, rugged landscapes and gentleness, indestructibility and eternal greenery. Seemingly endless waterfalls cascade down steep mountains, with remote farms nestled against the hillsides. In the fjords, you might even encounter seals, porpoises, and even orcas.

A fjord is a narrow, elongated arm of the sea that extends deep into the mainland and is surrounded by land on three sides. Massive glaciers once flowed towards the Atlantic, carving deep valleys with steep walls into the ground. After the ice ages ended, the sea level rose, flooding the glacial trough valleys. The result is the famous fjords. The term "fjord" is an old Norwegian word that has become internationally recognized. It comes from the Old Norse fjǫrðr, which roughly means "to go," "to pass," or "to cross to the other side." The word "ferry" also originates from this term, and there are many of them in Fjord Norway, as they are needed to cross from one side of the fjord to the other.

Fjord Norway is home to both the second and third-longest fjords in the world: the Sognefjord (204 km) and the Hardangerfjord (179 km). In 2005, the untouched fjord landscapes of Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord were declared UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Other spectacular fjords include the Lysefjord, Hardangerfjord, Sognefjord, and Hjørundfjord.

Nature and Culture

In addition to the breathtaking landscapes, Fjord Norway offers a variety of cultural experiences. The well-known cities of Bergen, Stavanger, Haugesund, Ålesund, Kristiansund, Molde, and Florø lose none of their charm in winter. Restaurants, cafés, museums, and experience centers are generally open year-round. Although winter hours are often shorter, many fjord cruises, such as those on the Nærøyfjord or Lysefjord, are available year-round.

Hot sauna, cold fjord: You can admire the fjords from afar or experience them up close. Throughout Fjord Norway, you can find saunas where you can combine relaxation, fjord views, and a refreshing dip in the fjord. After a hike or ski tour through the fjord landscape, a sauna visit is a perfect reward. The combination of an icy cold bath and a hot sauna is truly invigorating.

However, one thing should be noted: As the saying goes in Norway, there’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing. Since the weather can change quickly even in winter, it’s important to dress appropriately. On booked tours, providers often offer suitable equipment and clothing that can be ordered. The spectacular Preikestolen in the Ryfylke region can also be hiked in winter. Necessary gear, like snowshoes and boots, can be booked through the tour guide.

Accessibility

The fjords are accessible year-round. In addition to year-round ferry connections from Germany or Denmark with Color Line or Fjord Line, direct flights offer a convenient way to travel to Fjord Norway. The airports are also well-connected with major European hubs like Oslo, Copenhagen, or Amsterdam, making connecting flights possible.

Many people wonder if it's possible to explore the fjord region by car, rental car, or bus during the winter. The answer is: yes, it is quite possible to travel through the fjord region by car, rental car, or even by bus in winter! Some mountain passes may close due to snowfall, but these can be bypassed with a bit of extra time. Traveling by train or express boat are other convenient and spectacular ways to explore the region.

What would you like to discover in Fjord Norway this winter?
Register for free to join the exclusive digital event and meet providers from the region. Look forward to an inspiring event where you can connect directly with experts and excite your clients with unique winter adventures!

Register here »

Header: © Simon Sjökvist