Viking Valley in Gudvangen

Viking Valley in Gudvangen is as close as you’ll get to living like a Norse warrior—minus the actual pillaging (they frown on that these days). Right the heart of Norway’s jaw-dropping fjord landscape, this place is equal parts history, adventure, and ridiculous Instagram-worthy views. This is kind of a bucket-list destination you didn’t know you were missing.

Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your trip, with a sprinkle of my personal favorites.

Where Is Gudvangen?

Gudvangen sounds like a mythical place—and it kinda is—but it’s also very real. Tucked into the western part of Norway, it’s located at the very end of Nærøyfjord, which proudly holds UNESCO World Heritage status. Think towering cliffs, endless waterfalls, and a tiny village so beautiful it looks like someone designed it for a fairytale movie set.

Pro tip: Gudvangen is small but mighty. It’s ideal for a peaceful getaway and the perfect base for exploring fjordland.

Top Things to Do in Gudvangen

Here’s your must-do checklist for Gudvangen adventures. You’re welcome.

• Explore Njardarheimr Viking Village and live like a modern-day Norse warrior.
• Stay at the Fjord Hotel for the ultimate Viking experience with fjord-side views.
• Kayak through Nærøyfjord and feel like you’ve melted into nature.
• Cruise the iconic Nærøyfjord for a view you’ll never forget (or stop talking about).
• Pop over to Flåm and ride the legendary railway.

Stay Like a Viking at The Fjord Hotel

If castles are for knights, then the Fjord Hotel in Gudvangen is for modern-day Vikings (and their favorite travel companions). This isn’t your ordinary hotel—it’s got Viking-inspired rooms that’ll make you feel like Ragnar Lothbrok himself picked them out.

Picture rustic wood finishes, cozy Nordic vibes, and views of the fjord that honestly feel illegal, they’re so good. Wake up to the sight of mountain peaks straight from Tolkien’s fantasy, and if YOU don’t feel like a conqueror sipping your morning coffee, I can’t help you.

Tip from the trenches? The Viking-themed rooms are super popular, so book early if you have your eye on them.

The Viking Village in Gudvangen

Alright, the Viking Village. Where do I even start? This isn’t some cheesy theme park, OK? It’s the real deal. Njardarheimr, the Viking Village, is a fully immersive, living museum where you can walk among Viking reenactors who are so convincing, you’ll forget it’s 2024.

Here, you’ll learn to wield a sword, hear ancient Norse tales, and maybe even try on some authentic Viking attire. (Spoiler alert: You’ll look epic, and yes, everyone will want to borrow your photos later.)

Oh, but the food—the smoked salmon and fresh baked bread are straight-up unbeatable. Trust me, nothing tastes better than a meal prepared Viking-style in the middle of Gudvangen’s untouched beauty.

How to Get to Gudvangen

Good news for my fellow travelers—getting to Gudvangen is surprisingly easy.

• Driving: Rent a car and soak up Norway’s famous scenic routes. It’s about a 2.5-hour drive from Bergen or 5 hours from Oslo. (Norwegians aren’t kidding when they say the drive is half the fun.)
• Bus: If driving’s not your thing, hop on one of the regular buses from Voss or Flåm.
• Ferry: Coming from Flåm? Take the ferry straight to Gudvangen for a dramatic entrance along Nærøyfjord.

Either way, the views on the way to Gudvangen are almost as good as the village itself. (Almost.)

From Gudvangen to Flåm

While you’re in Gudvangen, you have to carve out time for a quick trip to Flåm—it’s basically the “big sibling” of fjordland gems. Whether you drive, take a ferry, or jump on a bus, it’s only about 15 minutes away.

Once you’re there, don’t miss out on the Flåm Railway. It’s one of the most beautiful train rides in the world (and, yes, I cried a little. But in a good way).

Nærøyfjord Cruise from Gudvangen

Want to see Nærøyfjord in all its glory? Take a cruise. Departing right from Gudvangen, these tours are the easiest way to soak up the iconic fjord views without breaking a sweat.

If you’re lucky, you might spot seals, eagles, or the occasional porpoise swimming alongside the boat. No guarantees, but hey, worth keeping your camera ready.

Cruises range from quick 2-hour trips to longer, more immersive journeys, so you can pick what suits your Viking adventuring mood

Oh, and don’t forget to just wander Gudvangen itself. Take in the serenity, meet friendly locals, and snap a million photos of EVERYTHING.

Kayaking Through Nærøyfjord

If you’re up for an adventure—I mean, you are in Viking Land, after all—then kayaking through Nærøyfjord is your move. It’s not just a fjord; it’s one of the narrowest and most dramatic fjords in the world. And yeah, paddling your way through its crystal-clear waters surrounded by towering cliffs? Game-changer.

Try a guided tour—they’ll give you everything you need and throw in some entertaining Viking stories for free. Pro tip for kayaking rookies like me? Don’t stress. It’s surprisingly chill, and the views are distracting enough to make you forget about sore arms.