Sognefjorden - Norway’s King of the Fjords

Day 1: Bergen
Day 2: Discover Bergen. Travel to Vik by boat (3h, 30 min)
Day 3: Vik - Arnafjord - Vik, 32 mi. (52 km)
Day 4: Vik - Balestrand, 15 mi. (24 km)
Day 5: Balestrand - Menes - Balestrand, 37 mi. (59 km)
Day 6: Balestrand - Leikanger - Sogndal - Solvorn/Hafslo, 24 mi. (39 km)
Day 7: Solvorn/Hafslo - Skjolden - Sogndal, 24 mi. (38 km) 
Day 8: Departure

Daily distances can easily be extended and extra overnights booked in any of the overnight towns during your itinerary.

Day 1: Bergen
You will have time to explore Bergen as you will overnight here. We recommend that you add an extra night or nights before or after the biking tour to have more time in Bergen and the surrounding area.

This vibrant and historic city is Norway's second-largest and has much to offer. It is the gateway to the Fjords of Norway, a UNESCO World Heritage City and a European City of Culture. The Hanseatic Museum provides wonderful insight into the daily life of German merchants living and working here during the Hanseatic era. Norway's best-preserved fortress, the Bergenhus is located quite close. The oldest structure on-site, Håkon's Hall, dates to 1250 and was a royal residence during the Middle Ages. 

Suggestions: You can take the cable car to the top of the famous Mount Fløyen and enjoy a bird's eye view 1049 feet above the city. Enjoy the lively fish market beside Bryggen, the old town, where you find fresh fish and seafood and several restaurants serving a large selection of local dishes. You can visit the Bergen Aquarium, stroll the Nordnes Parc and the city center.  

If you would like to explore Bergen by bike tomorrow before departing for Vik, you can book your rental here. Please note: this is NOT included in your tour price.

Sample accommodations:
Standard: Hotel Holberg
Upgrade: Hotel Havnekontoret (supplement)

Day 2: Discover Bergen. Travel to Vik by fast boat (3 1/2 hrs) 
After breakfast, you have the day to discover Bergen. If you have booked a rental bike, you will find the necessary route information for a 15 km ride in your road book. There is much to do and see and it is advised you do some research before you arrive and have your plan ready!

The famous pastel-colored wooden houses in the old town are a perfect start to your day. It is a beautiful entrance to one of Northern Europe’s oldest port cities.

The port for your afternoon departure is close to your hotel. You will first need to retrieve your luggage from the hotel and proceed to the port.

Boat departure is at 4:30 pm, and estimated arrival in Vik is at 8:10 pm.  You pass the western islands before entering the stunning Sognefjorden Glacier waters. Snow-covered majestic mountains are mirrored in the pristine waters and waterfalls cascade into the fjord. Your hotel in Vik is less than 100 meters from the quay.

Meals: Breakfast & dinner

Sample accommodation:
Blix Hotel: Located in the heart of tiny Vik, surrounded by cultural treasures, majestic mountains, and the fjord. Blix Hotel is simple and family-owned and you will find small-town hospitality awaiting you. It is not possible to upgrade here as there are no other hotel options.

Day 3: Vik - Arnafjord - Vik, 32 mi. (52 km) | Elevation: 127m
Today, you will be met by our local representative for your rental bike handoff, welcome meeting, and tour explanation. You then begin at Hotel Blix in Vik and pedal along Sognefjorden and Arnafjorden. You will bike close to the fjord the whole day surrounded by high mountains and thundering waterfalls. You ride back the same way as you came.
There is one tunnel (at 16,5 km) so you need your light. You will cycle through Eitrestrondi nature reserve which is known to have several unique plants. You will have several possibilities to go for a swim. The road ends in the small hamlet of Arnafjord, where you can enjoy your picnic lunch on the quai. Back in Vik, be sure to stop in the dairy café Ostebaren to taste the local delicacy "old cheese" made only in Vikl at the last remaining traditional dairy outlet in Norway.

Meals: Breakfast & dinner

Sample accommodation: Blix Hotel

Day 4: Vik - Vangsnes - Dragsvik - Balestrand, 15 mi. (24 km) | Elevation 63m
Embarking on the Cultural Route in Vik, the picturesque journey unfolds, guiding you through enchanting historical sites and offering a taste of the renowned Vik cheese. Progressing to Vangsnes, you'll encounter the monumental statue of "Fritjof" before ferrying across the fjord to Dragsvik. A scenic 10-kilometer bike ride from Dragsvik leads you to Balestrand, a destination revered as a European tourist hotspot since the 18th century.

Balestrand, with its captivating fjord landscape, attracted affluent individuals, artists, and visitors from various corners of the world. 

While in Balestrand, we recommend exploring the fjord by cycling along King Bele's Road and Villa Road. Here, numerous artists erected their summer residences in the dragon style, a popular architectural trend from the same period. Many of these homes stand today as well-preserved examples, creating a unique and unparalleled architectural environment, boasting the largest concentration of dragon-style houses in Scandinavia and the entire national context.

You stay at Kvikne's Hotel (1877) with its imposing façade facing the fjord.  It is an excellent example of the Swiss style which was an extremely popular building style in this period. Guests can opt for accommodations in the contemporary section or the historic building (with a supplementary fee). Regardless of your choice, the venue emanates a captivating old-world charm, boasting a rich ambiance enhanced by an impressive array of artworks and antiques that define its distinctive style. Consider upgrading to the historic wing for an even more enriching experience. It is suggested to cycle along the fjord on what is now called King Bele's Road. Several artists built their summer residences in the dragon style, another popular architectural style from the same period. Many of these houses are well preserved today. 

Meals: Breakfast & dinner

Sample accommodation:
Kviknes Hotel (standard room/modern building)
Kvinknes Hotel (upgrade to historic building)

Day 5: Balestrand - Dragsvik - Menes - Balestrand 37 mi. (59 km) | Elevation: 53m
Ride to Esefjord and two other small "arms"  of Sognefjord, ending in tiny Menes with a population of only eight! The first stop is Esefjorden where you can admire the famous mountains that inspired so many artists. Just before Dragsvik, you can visit the Arboretum which covers an area of about five acres, stretching from the road to the fjord. Today there are about 150 different varieties of trees and bushes from the entire world. The collection is not presented systematically according to family or genus, as is often the case in other Botanical Gardens and Arboreta, but after the geographical connection, such as Europe, Caucasus, Himalayas, China, Korea, Japan, etc. Make time for a refreshment and a bath at the nice recreation area by the fjord. You continue riding quiet roads, beside the fjord, the majesty of the mountains as your backdrop.  Picturesque farms and hamlets dot the way. You have wide and wonderful views over the fjord with different mountains and valleys coming into view as you go along. For the last 5 km, you bike on a lovely little branch road to Menes.  A picnic lunch soaking in the panoramic view is the perfect break before you cycle back to Balestrand.

Sample accommodation:
Kviknes Hotel

Day 6: Balestrand - Leikanger - Sogndal - Solvorn/Hafslo, 28 or 40 mi. (44 or 64 km) | Elevation: 224m
Today you enter the inner part of Sognefjorden and take the ferry from Balestrand to Leikanger at 11:50. It is also possible to bike directly from Balestrand, cycling the Esefjorden again to Dragsvik, and then take the ferry to Hella. From Hella to Leikanger it is an additional 12 km.

Sogn is the oldest fruit-growing area in Norway and if you visit in spring, all the fruit trees are in blossom, from August they will be laden with red apples and purple plums. You will have to share the road with cars except for the last part entering Sogndal. Norwegian motorists are very accustomed to and respectful of cyclists.

As you pass through Sogndal, you follow a bike path by the fjord to your next destination in either Solvorn or nearby Hafslo depending on availability. 

Meals: Breakfast & dinner

Sample accommodation:
Hotel Walaker (located in Solvorn): The best hotel along the entire fjord!

If this hotel is fully booked then guests may be accommodated at:
BesteBakken Boutique Hotel (located in Haflso): this unique hotel is an experience in and of itself. Once a small family farm, now completely restored and renovated, the establishment is located on a hilltop overlooking the lake. Each of the 15 rooms is different and eclectic, retaining the farmhouse feel but with a modern twist. The culinary experience is based on fresh local food and is a highlight of a stay here.

Day 7: Solvorn/Hafslo - Skjolden - Sogndal, 22 mi. (35 km) | Elevation: 226 m
After breakfast, you cycle the same bike path as yesterday to Galden before descending to Solvorn. This idyllic small village with small, white wooden houses was built when the fjord was the most important source of communication. Here the fjord is deep enough so larger boats could come to dock. Solvorn has a small grocery store and the hotel has a nice art gallery. You will want to spend a little time here before you take the small ferry that leaves every hour from 10:00. The cost is NOK 50 (payable on arrival) and the crossing takes around 20 minutes. Upon arrival in Urnes, you should cycle up the 700 meters to Urnes stave church, a Unesco site. The stave churches are Norway’s most important contribution to European cultural heritage. You will have a great view of Solvorn from the church.

Leaving Urnes on the small roads along Lusterfjorden, the innermost arm of the Sognefjord. About halfway you pass the impressive 218-meter high Feigumfossen waterfall. A 40-minute hike will allow you to get up close and personal, or you can admire the view of it from the road and have a swim in the fjord – or both! There is a small café by the fjord, but if it is closed, it is a lovely spot for a picnic.  The last stage to Skjolden has two tunnels and you will need your light. Arriving in Skjolden, at the far end of the Sognefjord, you can have a drink on the terrace of the hotel, in the café, or enjoy a swim on the public beach. You are picked up at the agreed time unless you want to cycle back to your hotel (+ 39 km ).

Note: You need good shoes if you want to walk up to the waterfall, the ground can be very wet and slippery.

Meals: Breakfast

Sample accommodation:
Hofslund Hotel

Day 8: Departure from Sogndal to Bergen or Oslo
There are a couple of options for this last official day for your onward travel. 

Return to Bergen

By ferry from Sogndal to Bergen:

Ferries depart from Sogndal at 7:05 am Monday through Saturday. If you are departing from Sogndal on a Sunday due to booking an extra night,  the ferry departs at 10:40 am. Travel time is 4 hours 20 minutes.

By ferry from Leikanger to Bergen

The ferry departs Leikanger at 4:30 pm. You will first take a bus from Sogndal to Leikanger (20 minutes). An extra night in Bergen upon arrival will be required.

By ferry from Leikanger to Flåm, scenic train to Myrdal, and then onward to Bergen

The ferry from Leikanger to Flåm departs at 12:20 (travel time is 1 hr. 20 min).  You will first take a bus from Sogndal to Leikanger. Flåm railway scenic train ride from Flåm to Myrdal (1 hour),  then train from Myrdal to Bergan (1 hour and 50 min). You can book an extra night in Bergen.

By bus from Sogndal to Bergen

There are buses that depart from Sogndal for Bergen.

Return to Oslo

By bus from Sogndal to Oslo

There are buses that depart from Sogndal directly to Oslo. Travel time is just under 7 hours.

Transfer to Leikanger, fast ferry to Flåm, scenic Flåm railway to Myrdal, and then by train to Oslo.

Travel time is approximately 7 1/2 hours.

Day 1: Bergen
Day 2: Discover Bergen. Travel to Vik by boat (3h, 30 min)
Day 3: Vik - Arnafjord - Vik, 32 mi. (52 km)
Day 4: Vik - Balestrand, 41mi. (66 km)
Day 5: Balestrand - boat to Fjærland, 24 mi. (38 km)
Day 6: Fjærland - Sogndalsdalen - Solvorn, 24 mi. (38 km)
Day 7: Solvorn - Skjolden, 54 mi. (34 km)
Day 8: Departure

Day 1: Bergen
Embark on a journey to explore Bergen, a renowned harbor on Norway's west coast that stands as one of North Europe's oldest port cities, with its roots as a thriving trade center dating back to before the 12th century. Bergen, Norway's second-largest city, exudes vibrancy and historical charm, offering a plethora of attractions. Notably, Bryggen, with its iconic wharf adorned by wooden buildings, narrates the city's rich history.

Ascend to the summit of the famous Mount Fløyen for a panoramic view, perched 1,049 feet above the city. Returning to the city center, immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of the fish market adjacent to Bryggen, a hub for fresh seafood. Take part in a guided walk through the city's captivating streets before retiring for the night in the heart of this alluring urban center.

Accommodation: Hotel Havnekontoret 

Day 2: Discover Bergen. Travel to Vik by boat (3h, 30 min)
Your coastal boat journey departs Strandkaien in Bergen at 4:30 and leads through Norway's western islands before entering the awe-inspiring Sognefjorden, where glacier-fed waters reflect the splendor of snow-covered majestic mountains. Along the fjord, marvel at quaint communities nestled against the backdrop of cascading waterfalls of various sizes.

Upon arrival in Vik, indulge in a delicious dinner at the hotel to cap off the day's explorations.

Meals: Breakfast & dinner
Accommodation: Blix Hotel

Day 3: Vik - Arnafjord - Vik, 32 mi. (52 km)
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before setting off on your bike along serene, winding back roads toward the tranquil hamlet of Arnafjord. Enveloped by towering mountains and breathtaking waterfalls, the journey takes you through the preserved Eitrestrondi Natural Park, celebrated for its unique vegetation.

As you pedal through this picturesque landscape, consider a leisurely stop at the small grocery store in Framfjorden, where tables await for a relaxing break. Along the route, discover a public area with a quaint beach, perfect for a refreshing swim. Veering off the main road for a few kilometers provides an opportunity to approach and marvel at the imposing Botnafossen waterfall.

Upon reaching the culmination of your route at the quay in Arnafjord, relish a packed lunch by the fjord before retracing your path, cycling back to Vik.

Meals: Breakfast, packed lunch, & dinner
Accommodation: Blix Hotel

First on your agenda is Vangsnes to visit the iconic statue of "Fritjof" before taking a ferry ride across the fjord to Dragsvik. As you cycle from Dragsvik, the enchanting paths along two small, scenic arms of the Sognefjord will unfold, revealing a distinct landscape at every turn. Upon reaching Menes, you can relish the tranquility and savor your packed lunch amidst the natural surroundings before retracing your route toward Balestrand.

Capturing the picturesque scenery on your way back to Balestrand, take a moment to pause for pictures in Esefjorden, a fjord celebrated and immortalized by countless artists since the 1800s. The final 5 kilometers of your journey lead you to Balestrand, a destination recognized as a popular European tourist spot since the 18th century. Wealthy individuals, distinguished personalities, and artists were drawn to the distinctive fjord landscape that defines this area.

Your accommodation for the night is Kvikne's Hotel (established in 1877), showcasing an imposing facade overlooking the fjord—an exemplary representation of the widely acclaimed Swiss style, popular during its construction period. For a memorable cycling experience, we recommend traversing the fjord along what is now known as King Bele's Road. This route is adorned with summer residences in the dragon style, another architectural gem from the same era. Many of these well-preserved houses contribute to a unique and nationally significant architectural environment, marking Scandinavia's largest concentration of dragon-style residences.

Meals: Breakfast, packed lunch, & dinner
Accommodation: Kviknes Hotel

Day 5: Balestrand - boat to Fjærland, 24 mi. (38 km)
You will board the boat from Balestrand at 12:10, sailing to Fjærland. Fjærlandsfjord, a stunning and majestic fjord, boasts glacier-capped mountain peaks and a vivid green/turquoise hue, a result of melted ice from the glaciers. This boat journey is a remarkable experience, guiding you from the unique charm of Balestrand through the picturesque fjord arm towards one of the extensions of the Jostedalsbreen Glacier.

Explore the Glacier Museum, delving into the intricacies of glaciers and how humans have learned to coexist with this ever-changing natural wonder. The museum offers an immersive film presentation on a 180-degree viewing screen, providing a virtual glacier experience.

Cycling through the valley toward the Supphelle glacier, you then return to Fjærland and your hotel. Feel free to add extra kilometers to your cycling adventure, or perhaps you'd prefer to unwind and book a session in the sauna for some extra relaxation

Meals: Breakfast, packed lunch, & dinner
Accommodation: Fjærland Fjorstove

Day 6: Fjærland - Sogndalsdalen - Solvorn, 24 mi. (38 km)
A brief transfer through the tunnels after Fjærland begins the day. You then pedal along the historic road in the picturesque Sogndalsdalen valley, descending to Sogndal, our regional center. Take a break for lunch in the charming surroundings of Sogndal. Continue your cycling adventure along Barsnesfjord to Hafslo and then down to Solvorn. During your stay, you'll be accommodated at the Walaker Hotel, a captivating family-owned establishment that has been passed down through generations. Positioned at the heart of what National Geographic deems the world's premier tourist destination, this charming family hotel stands as an attraction in itself. With a lineage dating back to 1690, the Walaker Hotel is not only the oldest family-run hotel in Norway but also boasts an impressive history spanning over 320 years.

Meals: Breakfast & dinner
Accommodation: Walkaker Hotel

Day 7: Solvorn - Skjolden, 54 mi. (34 km)
You will board the small ferry departing from Solvorn at 10:00. The brief 20-minute crossing brings you to Urnes, where you will cycle uphill for 700 meters to reach the UNESCO-protected Urnes stave church. This historical church, an essential part of Norway's cultural heritage, offers a stunning view of Solvorn from its scenic fjord-side location.

As you continue your journey from Urnes, navigate the quiet roads along Lusterfjorden, the innermost arm of Sognefjord, celebrated as the finest. Following "The Romantic Road," you will encounter the impressive Feigum waterfall, plunging 218 meters from the mountain. Take the chance for a natural shower or a swim, appreciating the spectacle or enjoying the view from the road. Pause for lunch at a cozy fjord-side café before cycling the last stretch to Skjolden.

Upon reaching Skjolden, positioned at the far end of the Sognefjord, you can relax with a drink on the hotel terrace or take a dip at the local beach. Just 3 km from Skjolden lies the former residence of Wittgenstein, and you are welcome to explore his cabin.

Wrap up your day with a delightful dinner and a comfortable overnight stay at Skjolden Hotell in Skjolden.

Meals: Breakfast & dinner
Accommodation: Skolden Hotel

Day 8: Departure from Skjolden
Breakfast in the hotel before transfer to Sogndal or Leikanger for departure. It is recommended to add Flåm Railway and go back to Bergen or Oslo by train.

Return to Bergen

By ferry from Sogndal to Bergen:

Ferries depart from Sogndal at 7:05 am Monday through Saturday. If you are departing from Sogndal on a Sunday due to booking an extra night,  the ferry departs at 10:40 am. Travel time is 4 hours 20 minutes.

By ferry from Leikanger to Bergen

The ferry departs Leikanger at 4:30 pm.  An extra night in Bergen upon arrival will be required.

By ferry from Leikanger to Flåm, scenic train to Myrdal, and then onward to Bergen

The ferry from Leikanger to Flåm departs at 12:20 (travel time is 1 hr. 20 min).  Flåm railway scenic train ride from Flåm to Myrdal (1 hour),  then train from Myrdal to Bergan (1 hour and 50 min). You can book an extra night in Bergen.

By bus from Sogndal to Bergen

There are buses that depart from Sogndal for Bergen.

Return to Oslo

By bus from Sogndal to Oslo

There are buses that depart from Sogndal directly to Oslo. Travel time is just under 7 hours.

Transfer to Leikanger, fast ferry to Flåm, scenic Flåm railway to Myrdal, and then by train to Bergen.

Travel time is approximately 7 1/2 hours.

The Nærøyfjord and Flåm railway
The narrow and spectacular Nærøyfjord and Aurlandfjord, arms of the Sognefjorden, are surrounded by steep mountains with snow-covered tops that stretch up to 1600 meters above sea level. Waterfalls cascade down the mountains and picturesque villages dot the landscape. UNESCO has included the Nærøyfjord in its famous World Heritage List. The fjords have also been awarded first place in the prestigious list of the National Geographic Traveler magazine. 

For the self-guided cyclists, you will first take a bus from Sogndal to Leikanger. The guided cyclists can be transferred to Leikanger. You will then take the fast ferry from Leikanger at 12:20. From Leikanger you then take the famous scenic Flåm train to Myrdal. This stretch of rail has been named one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world and is one of the leading tourist attractions in Norway. Over one hour, the train takes you from sea level at the Sognefjord in Flåm to the Myrdal mountain station, situated at 867 meters above sea level. Myrdal is also a station on the Bergen Line, meaning the Flåm Railway connects with trains running between Bergen and Oslo, allowing you to return to Bergen by train. You will need an extra night in Bergen upon your arrival if you are participating in this amazing train ride.

This is a very popular train ride so it is important to book in advance. We can provide any details you may need.

Cider Cruise from Sogndal
You can take the FjordX boat to the local cider farm. This unique journey explores the Sognefjord, in collaboration with FjordX, which combines adventure with comfort and delicious flavors. Be enchanted by countless beautiful views that will take your breath away, while you experience the Sognefjord in a way you've never done before. You can read all about this and book here. Please note that you will need another night in Sogndal at the end of your tour to participate in this excursion.