The deep blue UNESCO-protected Geirangerfjord is surrounded by majestic, snow-covered mountain peaks, wild waterfalls and lush, green vegetation

You would have to be exceptionally blasé if you failed to be impressed by this astounding creation of Mother Nature, emphasised by the will of man to maintain a foothold on the steep mountain sides and glean a living here. Impressive waterfalls cast cascades of thundering water from almost vertical mountain sides among them the famous falls, De syv søstrene (“the Seven Sisters”), Friaren (“the Suitor”) and Brudesløret (“the Bridal Veil”), and tease the cliffs with feather‐light sheer veils of mist whose mission is to create a never‐ending display of changing rainbows to fill you with delight and wonder.

 

For nature lovers, the Geirangerfjord has plenty to offer. Experience the fjords and the waterfalls from one of the many available sightseeing trips, go hiking in stunning surroundings or experience the fjords from a new perspective in a kayak. Other popular activities in the area include fishing, rafting and cycling.

 

Snaking its way up steep mountain sides, passing waterfalls, edged with stone railings, narrow, sometimes nerve‐racking but always extremely fascinating, Trollstigen mountain road is an absolute “must see” attraction, and an alternative route for getting to the Geirangefjorden area.

 

The road opened in 1936 and is a testimony to superb engineering and construction skills using the simplest of tools from the hard thirties. The area’s unique natural surroundings were created during a succession of ice ages, when glaciers carved out deep fjords and shaped the high mountains – and it is not a coincidence that the Geirangerfjord today often appears on lists of the most spectacular places in the world.

 

One more thing: The healthy look of the inhabitants of Geiranger comes not only from the fresh air – local food made with fresh ingredients plays a vital part. Restaurants and eateries take pride in creating food with a local twist and the taste match the scenic view from your window table. The many small-scale manufacturers of food and drink include Geiranger Brewery partly located in a boat house and Hellesylt Boutique & Bar with liquorice-flavoured meringues on the unusual menu. The food lovers of Geirangefjord will give you a fresh view on nature right on your plate.

 

Image Credits:  Gjerdefossen Waterfall, Geiranger

Credit: Per Eide/visitnorway.com

Photographer: Per Eide