If you’re craving a day immersed in Norway’s natural grandeur, the Briksdal Glacier and Loen from Nordfjordeid tour offers a fantastic blend of glacier sights, mountain lakes, and charming villages. Priced at $131 per person, this private adventure lasts approximately 7 hours, making it a well-paced opportunity to see some of Norway’s most iconic landscapes without the crowds. Led by a friendly guide, the experience combines scenic drives, easy hikes, and plenty of photo stops—perfect if you want to escape the typical tourist trail and enjoy the outdoors at your own pace.
What really sets this tour apart is its flexibility and focus on authentic scenery. We loved the way the tour offers many stops, allowing us to linger and truly appreciate the views—whether it was snapping shots at Olden Lake, wandering on the Innfjorden coast, or enjoying the Laukifossen waterfall. Plus, the inclusion of Troll cars to reach the glacier’s top adds a whimsical touch and makes the glacier visit more accessible, especially if you’re concerned about strenuous hikes.
A possible consideration is the weather, as with any outdoor nature tour in Norway. The tour requires good weather to operate smoothly, and if conditions are poor, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Also, since it’s a private tour, it’s best suited for those who want a personalized experience—perfect for couples, small families, or friends seeking a tailored day in nature.
This tour suits travelers looking for a well-rounded, scenic day that balances comfort with adventure. If you enjoy stunning vistas, authentic local environments, and the chance to learn about Norway’s glaciers and lakes without rushing, this tour could be your ideal choice.
Key Points
- Flexible itinerary with multiple scenic stops.
- Private transportation ensures comfort and personalized attention.
- Includes a Troll car experience to reach the glacier’s top.
- Visits iconic sites like Briksdal Glacier, Loen Lake, and Olden Lake.
- Accessible and family-friendly, with options for comfortable viewing.
- Good value for a full day of scenic exploration with a local guide.
A Deep Dive into the Briksdal Glacier and Loen Tour
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What’s Included and How It Adds Value
For $131, the tour offers quite a bit. The price covers private transportation, admission tickets to the glacier, and a lunch—either a picnic or local treat—giving you a chance to experience regional flavors. You won’t have to worry about additional costs for the main sights, which makes it straightforward to budget.
The Itinerary: From Glaciers to Water Reflections
Stop 1: Briksdal Glacier (Briksdalbreen)
The highlight for many is the Briksdal Glacier, one of Norway’s largest and most accessible glaciers. The journey there involves a fun Troll car ride, which adds a playful element to the visit. Once at the top, you’ll have about 2 hours to walk around, take photos, and appreciate the enormous ice formation. The glacier’s size and the surrounding scenery make it an unforgettable sight—imagine towering ice cliffs, the sound of cracking ice, and the crisp mountain air.
The Troll car experience is especially appreciated, as it makes reaching the glacier easier and more comfortable, especially for those who might not want a strenuous hike. As Claudia_R noted in her review, it’s “one of the best tours ever taken,” emphasizing the friendly, flexible approach that the guide offers.
Stop 2: Loen
Next, the tour takes you to Loen, a small village famous for its stunning lake, shaped by the glaciers. The drive around the Loen Lake offers views of glacier-melt waters with vibrant colors—a stark contrast to the icy heights. You’ll have about 1 hour and 30 minutes here, which is enough to soak in the scenery, take photos, or perhaps grab a quick coffee while enjoying the mountain backdrop.
The water’s changing hues, colored by the glaciers, create a truly unique palette that you won’t find just anywhere. We loved the way the lakes reflect the surrounding mountains, offering picture-perfect moments.
Stop 3: Stryn
A short drive lands you in Stryn, a charming town ringed by mountains. It’s a good spot for souvenir shopping or grabbing a local lunch. The town’s relaxed vibe, combined with its scenic setting, makes for a pleasant break. You’ll have 1.5 hours here to explore or just sit and enjoy the mountain views.
Stop 4: Innfjorden
Driving along the Innfjorden coast, you’ll find plenty of spots to stop and take photos of water reflections—calm waters mirror the towering peaks and glaciers above, creating a painterly scene. This short stop (about 15 minutes) offers a peaceful moment to appreciate the water’s serenity.
Stop 5: Laukifossen
Your final stop is at Laukifossen, a waterfall where the mountain river’s power is on full display. A walk to the waterfall allows you to take in the mountain’s raw beauty and maybe try fly-fishing at the nearby spots. This 30-minute stop provides a refreshing end to the day’s adventure.
The Experience of Traveling Norway’s Scenic Roads
The nature of this tour—driving along local roads—means you’ll get a glimpse into Norwegian farm life and mountain living. These roads are often winding and narrow, but our guide’s skillful driving kept the journey smooth. The small group size makes the whole trip feel intimate and allows for spontaneous stops and questions.
Authenticity and Comfort
The tour’s private nature means you won’t be part of a large crowd. We found that this personal touch made the experience more relaxed and meaningful. When Claudia says it was “friendly, highly informative, and very fun,” she captures the essence of what makes this trip special: a genuine connection to the landscape, guided by someone who knows the area well.
The Practicalities: Timing, Price, and Suitability
The 7-hour duration is well-balanced—long enough to see much but not so long that it becomes exhausting. The included lunch, either picnic or local, adds to the value, letting you enjoy regional flavors without additional planning.
The price, considering the transportation, glacier tickets, and personalized attention, offers good value for a private tour in a beautiful setting. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to avoid large tour groups and prefer a flexible, tailored experience—perfect for couples or small groups.
The Weather and Flexibility
Since the tour depends on good weather, it’s wise to keep an eye on the forecast. If the weather turns poor, the tour provider offers the option to reschedule or get a full refund, which adds peace of mind.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This tour is ideal for travelers who love stunning scenery and want a personalized experience. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate comfort and flexibility, and prefer to avoid the crowds while still seeing Norway’s most iconic glaciers and lakes. Nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and small groups seeking an authentic mountain adventure will find this tour a perfect fit.
It’s also great for families or couples—especially those who enjoy a mix of scenic drives, light walks, and photo opportunities. If you’re looking for a straightforward, well-organized way to see some of Norway’s most breathtaking landscapes without the hassle of self-driving, this tour delivers.
FAQ
What is included in the tour?
The tour includes private transportation, admission tickets to Briksdal Glacier, and a provided lunch—either picnic or regional food—making it straightforward and hassle-free.
How long does the tour last?
It runs approximately 7 hours, giving ample time for each stop and some flexibility for spontaneous breaks or extra photos.
Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Generally yes, especially since the Troll car makes reaching the glacier more comfortable. However, very young children should be considered based on their tolerance for outdoor activity and weather conditions.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, with a full refund. If canceled less than 24 hours before, the refund will not be issued.
Are there any additional costs?
Apart from what’s included, you might want to budget for personal souvenirs or extra snacks. Alcoholic beverages are not included.
What should I wear?
Dress in layers, as the weather can change quickly in Norway’s mountains. Waterproof clothing and sturdy shoes are recommended, especially for glacier and waterfall stops.
Is the tour private?
Yes, only your group will participate, providing a more intimate and personalized experience.
Does the tour operate in bad weather?
The tour requires good weather to operate smoothly. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
To sum it up, this Briksdal Glacier and Loen tour offers a beautifully curated taste of Norway’s outdoor wonders, blending accessible glacier experiences with lakes, waterfalls, and mountain towns. It’s a perfect choice for travelers wanting a flexible, scenic, and comfortably-paced day in Norway’s stunning landscapes. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a photographer, or simply in search of a memorable adventure, this tour provides a rich and authentic taste of the fjord region’s natural beauty.