Lost in the Majesty of Olden Valley, Norway

If you’re ready to take in picture-perfect views, fill your lungs with crisp mountain air, and explore Norway’s stunning landscapes, then keep reading. I’m about to spill all the details on how you can experience Olden Valley for yourself.  

  Having roamed its breathtaking trails and Instagrammed more shots than I like to admit, I can safely say Olden Valley is one of those places that stays with you long after you’ve left. If you’re planning your escape to this Norwegian gem, here’severything you need to know.  

Where Exactly Is Olden Valley?  

First things first—where is this slice of heaven? Olden Valley is located in the western part of Norway, in the Sogn og Fjordane region. It’s smack dab in glacier country, near the Jostedalsbreen National Park, home to Europe’s largest glacier.  

The village of Olden serves as the gateway to the valley. It’s small, charming, and surrounded by some of the most dramatic landscapes you’ll ever see. If you’re cruising through Norway, Olden is a popular stop for many travelers exploring the fjords. (P.S. Don’t miss the cruise port—it’s got views to kill.)  

How to Experience Olden Valley  

Now that you’ve arrived, how do you soak it all in? The truth is, there’s no wrong way to explore Olden Valley—it’simpossibly beautiful whether you’re hiking a trail or sipping coffee at a local café. But here are a few must-dos to maximize your trip.  

Take a Drive Through the Valley  

Want a front-row seat to some of the valley’s best scenery? Drive through the Olden Valley road. This scenic route winds past glacial lakes, tumbling waterfalls, and lush forests. Along the way, you’ll pass farms that look like storybook illustrations.  

Pro Tip: Stop every chance you get. There are plenty of small pull-offs where you can snap that perfect postcard-worthy shot.  

Visit Briksdal Glacier  

This one’s a no-brainer. The Briksdal Glacier (or Briksdalsbreen) is easily one of the highlights of the area. You can take a short hike to the glacier, which is surrounded by roaring waterfalls and rocky landscapes that feel otherworldly.  

For those who aren’t super into hiking, don’t worry—a comfy troll car (essentially an electric buggy) can shuttle you most of the way.  

Cruise on Olden Lake  

Olden Lake, also known as Loen Lake, is the crown jewel of Olden Valley. The insane turquoise water literally glows on a sunny day. Whether you’re sipping wine on a cruise boat or renting a kayak for solo exploration, the lake is pure magic.  

Kayaking was definitely my favorite way to enjoy the lake. It’s so calm and peaceful that you feel like you’re paddling through a painting. Plus, you get views of the valley that you couldn’t see from the shore.  

Hike to Skylift-Loen  

If heights don’t scare you, head to Loen Skylift, one of the steepest cable cars in the world. It shoots you 3,300 feet up to the top of Mount Hoven. From there? Jaw-dropping panoramic views of the fjords and Olden Valley.  

Once at the top, you’ve got options. There are hiking trails for all levels, or you can just chill with a coffee and enjoy the view.  

What’s so Special About Olden Valley?  

Here’s the truth—Olden Valley isn’t just about its looks (though it’s ridiculously photogenic). There’s something inherently peaceful about this place.  

The air feels cleaner, time moves slower, and every corner invites you to pause and take a deep breath. Whether it’s the mirror-like stillness of the lake or the friendly locals eager to share stories about the area, Olden Valley taps into that feeling of wonder you rarely find in everyday life.  

And the history? Olden Valley has heaps of it, from ancient Viking sites to the charming Old Evangelical Lutheran Church, dating back to 1859.  

Olden Lake: Norway’s Most Instagrammable Lake  

Can we talk about the star of the show for a second? Because Olden Lake seriously deserves its own shoutout. This lake isn’t just another pretty face in Norway (though it’s incredibly good-looking). It’s one of the most photogenic lakes in the world.  

The color of the water is unreal—a vibrant shade of turquoise that changes depending on how the light hits it. Locals say it’s thanks to glacial meltwater bringing in fine silt, which refracts sunlight.  

Pro Tip: The lake is equally captivating in all seasons. Spring brings wildflowers, summer makes the water sparkle, autumn sprinkles the landscape with golden hues, and winter turns it into a snow-dusted masterpiece.