Olden’s rugged landscapes, sparkling fjords, and towering mountains make it a standout stop for travelers craving authentic Norwegian scenery. What truly sets this village apart are the range of hands-on experiences accessible without requiring expert skills—whether it’s paddling a kayak, exploring by electric bike, or taking in the awe-inspiring glaciers. Among these options, the Olden: Experience Beginner-friendly Fjord Kayaking really stands out because of its friendly approach and stunning scenery, perfect for first-timers or those simply looking for a peaceful paddle.
While Olden offers a variety of ways to see its wild beauty, these tours cover everything from gentle kayaking, exhilarating RIB boat rides, scenic bike adventures, to impressive glacier hikes. Each one promises a different way to connect with Norway’s natural splendor—whether you prefer being on water, two wheels, or trekking through ice and snow.
Quick Overview
In this guide, you’ll find six of the best tours in Olden, carefully selected for their uniqueness, value, and ability to provide memorable experiences. We’ve included options suited for all sorts of travelers—from easygoing explorers to those seeking more active adventures. To help you decide, we’ll explore each one’s highlights, logistics, and what makes them special, with links to book directly.
1. Olden: Experience Beginner-friendly Fjord Kayaking
At number 1 on our list, the Beginner-friendly Fjord Kayaking offers a gentle introduction to Norway’s iconic fjords. For around $98, you get a two-hour paddle starting directly from the cruise port—no transfers needed. The kayaks are specially chosen for stability and ease, making it an excellent choice for newcomers or families with children.
What makes this tour really appealing is its emphasis on a relaxed, no-pressure experience. Your guide, Peder, is praised for his friendly, informative approach, sharing insights into the local wildlife and landscape as you glide past towering cliffs and spotting sea eagles or seals. The small group size and stable equipment create a worry-free environment, even for absolute beginners. Several reviews highlight how much fun visitors had, with one noting that the guide’s knowledge added a lot to the trip. It’s perfect for those wanting a taste of kayaking without prior experience and are eager to see the fjords from a different perspective. Bottom line: this is a calm, scenic paddle that’s hard to beat for gentle adventure and stunning views.
2. Olden: Nordfjord RIB Boat Tour
For a quick burst of excitement, the Nordfjord RIB Boat Tour offers a one-hour thrill ride on one of Norway’s most beautiful fjords. Priced at $116, this tour provides a fast-paced way to soak up the scenery, start to finish, next to the cruise dock.
Expect a lively ride across the water with spectacular views of waterfalls cascading down jagged cliffs and the chance to see wildlife like sea eagles and seals. The 55-minute boat cruise is designed for people who want to experience the fjord’s raw power and natural beauty firsthand. The boat’s speed allows you to cover more ground quickly, making it ideal for those with limited time but eager for a memorable splash of adventure. Reviews point to the joy of feeling the wind and splashes, with many praising the scenic highlights and proximity to wildlife. It’s a good pick if you want a short, energetic outing that delivers stunning landscape shots.
Bottom line: a fun, quick way to get your adrenaline and your Instagram shot in one go.
3. Olden: Guided e-bike tour
Next on our list is the Guided e-bike tour, a fantastic way to combine activity with sightseeing. For around $100, you’ll hop on an electric bike and traverse Olden’s surrounding landscape with a knowledgeable local guide. The tour lasts about two hours and includes stops at scenic viewpoints and points of interest like lakes, waterfalls, and side roads less traveled.
What makes this experience stand out is the ease of the e-bike—no sweat required—and the depth of local insights shared by your guide, who grew up in Olden. Riders rave about the bikes’ quality and how the ride is both relaxing and informative. Many reviews mention the friendly guide, Alyssa, and the photos of the stunning scenery along the route. It’s perfect for travelers who want to explore more terrain than a walking tour allows, yet without the intensity of a strenuous ride. Whether you’re a casual cyclist or a seasoned rider, this tour offers a comfortable, scenic adventure that introduces you to the fjord landscape in a personal way.
Bottom line: an easy, engaging way to see the countryside and learn about local life.
4. From Olden: Briksdal Glacier Guided Hiking Shore Excursion
Number 4 on our list is the Briksdal Glacier Guided Hiking Shore Excursion, which combines scenic bus travel with a rewarding glacier hike. For $137, you’ll journey through impressive mountain scenery, waterfalls, and lakes before reaching the glacier itself. The tour includes a 2.5-hour hike to a viewpoint, with options for a buggy ride if you prefer not to walk the last stretch.
What makes this tour special is its balance of comfort and adventure. Your guide shares insights along the route, making it informative and engaging. The scenery is breathtaking—photos look like postcards—and the glacier’s proximity offers a tangible sense of scale. Many travelers comment on the well-organized logistics and the fact that the guide is attentive, especially to those with varying paces. If you’re after an active day that doesn’t just show you pretty views but involves some physical effort, this is a top pick.
Bottom line: ideal for hikers and nature lovers wanting to see one of Norway’s stunning glaciers up close.
5. Olden: Guided beginner friendly fjord kayaking.Local company
For those seeking a truly local experience, the Guided beginner-friendly fjord kayaking is run by Oldenactive.com, a locally owned company. Priced at $97, it offers a 2.5-hour guided paddle right at the cruise terminal, using drysuits and a dedicated rescue boat for safety.
This tour stands out because of its small-group approach, friendly local guides, and focus on safe, accessible kayaking. The double kayaks are very stable, making it easy for beginners to enjoy the ride, and the guide shares detailed info about the fjord’s natural environment. Reviewers emphasize the professionalism, with one calling the guide “phenomenal,” and others enjoying the spectacular views and the chance to learn about local wildlife. With flexible cancellation policies (full refund if the cruise ship doesn’t arrive), it’s a low-stress option for first-timers or those who want a relaxed, authentic experience.
Bottom line: a safe, friendly, and authentic kayaking trip perfect for beginners and families.
6. From Hellesylt: Electric Car Experience to Norangsdalen
Rounding out our list is a full-day adventure—the Electric Car Experience to Norangsdalen. For a one-day price, you get to drive through one of Europe’s most stunning valleys, with views of towering peaks, lakes, and waterfalls. This self-guided journey allows you to explore at your own pace, stopping at scenic viewpoints, historic farmhouses, and the Union Øye Hotel.
The highlight is the pure freedom of this experience—the car is electric, quiet, and easy to handle, making it accessible even for less experienced drivers. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer a flexible, independent day out with plenty of photo opportunities. Reviews mention the dramatic scenery and the joy of discovering hidden corners of the valley. It’s suited for those who want more control over their sightseeing and enjoy scenic drives with spectacular views.
Bottom line: an excellent choice for independent explorers who want to soak in Norway’s natural beauty at their own pace.
How to Choose
Picking the right tour depends on your interests, fitness level, and how much time you want to spend. If you’re new to outdoor adventures, the Beginner-friendly Fjord Kayaking or the Guided e-bike tour are excellent starting points. For a quick thrill, the RIB boat packs excitement into just an hour. Want to explore a glacier? The Briksdal Glacier hike balances scenic bus rides with active trekking. If you prefer independence, the electric car offers a flexible way to see the valleys.
Timing is key—most tours operate in good weather from late spring through early fall. Booking early is advisable, especially for popular activities like glacier hikes or the guided kayaking, to secure your preferred time slot.
Final Thoughts
Olden offers a wonderful variety of tours that let you experience its stunning landscapes in different ways. For a calm introduction to the fjords, the Beginner-friendly Kayaking is hard to beat. If you’re after an adventurous thrill, the RIB boat ride delivers. For active explorers, the e-bike tour and glacier hike are excellent choices.
No matter which you choose, Olden’s beauty makes a strong case for booking early. These tours will help you take home stories of Norway’s rugged wilderness—be sure to pick one that matches your pace and interests for a memorable visit.