Hiking in the world heritage area
Experience the spectacular and unique natural and cultural landscape in the area around Aurland and Flåm. The sight of steep mountains, narrow fjords, mighty waterfalls, and lush valleys gives you an experience you will never forget. Below, we have listed some popular hikes in the area!
aurlandsdalen valley
Experience the best of the Norwegian natural and cultural landscape. The hike through the spectacular Aurlandsdalen Valley, often called Norway's Grand Canyon, will take your breath away.
The entire Aurlandsdalen hike, from Geiteryggen to Vassbygdi, is about 40 km long. The most popular and spectacular part of the trip stretches from Østerbø to Vassbygdi, about 20 km. The path takes you past valleys and gorges, down steep slopes, surrounded by high and jagged rock formations. You pass the old mountain farms Nesbø, Sinjarheim and Almen that are reminiscent of a bygone era. Make sure to stop at Vetlahelvete – the strange stone cauldron that surrounds a pond.
Brekkefossen Waterfall
Easily accessible with beautiful views of Flåm and the Aurlandsfjord!
On the hiking trip to Brekkefossen waterfall you will have a grand view of the fjord and into the valley. Start the walk from Flåm town centre on asphalt road up the valley alongside the Flåm river. After 1,5 km easy walk, continue up the mountain side to the Brekke Waterfall platform. The rocky and steep trail quickly gains elevation and soon the small city of Flåm is visible through the trees. After about 30 minutes uphill hiking, the trail opens up on a grassy ledge, offering beautiful views of the area.
Flåm valley
Start your adventure with the famous Flåm Railway. The train ride takes you 20 km up through the Flåm Valley, from sea level to 867m amsl. At Myrdal you start the hike and may enjoy the views and the numerous waterfalls as you follow the river back down the valley. We recommend stopping at Rallarrrosa goat-farm (open from mid-June to mid Sept). Here you can buy delicious local produce from the milk-maids and meet the goats. If you`re feeling adventurous, include the Flåm Zipline as part of your hike!
Alternative starting point can be Vatnahalsen or Blomheller, or you can make the hike shorter by taking the train from Berekvam to Flåm (half way down the valley).
Prest (Røyrgrind cairn)
Panorama view of the Aurlandsfjord!
The hike starts near the famous Stegastein Viewpoint and follows a well trodden track that leads up the north edge of the mountain towards Mt. Prest. The hike is steep uphill, with considerably steep drops on the fjord side of the track. At around 1000m height, there is a steeper section where the track narrows to a path with loose stones. After passing this, you begin to be rewarded with even better views of the fjord. Also, the cairn at 1363mas. is visable above you. The path is wider and easier on the final stretch to the cairn. This part of the mountain is called Røyrgrind and this is where many choose to complete the hike. The cairn is an impressive size, and there is a little box with a notebook where you can leave a record of your visit. Breathe in the fresh mountain air, enjoy a Norwegian hiking treat and take your fjord view selfie before making your way back down the same way.
Rimstigen
Panorama view of the UNESCO listed Nærøyfjord!
Rimstigen is an old trail that was used by farmers living along the Nærøyfjord when the only way to connect to nearby villages and cities was over the mountains. Rimstigen is the steepest trail in the area with a climb of 720 meters in just over 2km of trail. The hike is challenging and steep uphill, with high drops on the fjord side of the track. Enjoy fantastic views as you get to the top of Rimstigen, breath in the fresh air and make sure to take some pictures before returning the same way.
Hovdungo
View of the Aurlandfjord!
Follow the trail from Vikesland (460masl) to the old mountain farm Hovdungo. Hovdungo is situated 780 metres above the beautiful Aurlandsfjord, and you get to enjoy spectacular views of the fjord – and mountain landscape. The hike is medium challenging, however some parts of the trail is very steep. On top you get awarded with one of the best fjord views in the area, before making your way back on the same trail.