Aurland: Fjords, Waterfalls and Culture

Aurland offers a variety of reasons to discover its landscape and culture: fjords, waterfalls, cycling and fishing each offer a different focus. The Aurlandsfjord is part of the Sognefjord, which is designated as a national salmon fjord. At the Nærøyfjord, steep cliffs, waterfalls and free-flowing rivers shape the scenery. Your planned activities can be a helpful starting point when choosing a holiday rental: consider which of these themes you would like to make a particular focus of your stay.

A Fjord Landscape of Striking Contrasts

The Nærøyfjord is characterised by narrow, steep cliffs and numerous waterfalls. Free-flowing rivers run through deciduous and coniferous forests to glacier lakes and rugged mountains. This sequence of rock, water and forest gives the landscape its distinctive character. Nature lovers will find specific features here that can be considered separately: the narrow cliffs, the waterfalls and the rivers winding through wooded areas.

The Aurlandsfjord’s classification is also noteworthy: it is part of the Sognefjord, which is designated as a national salmon fjord. The designation refers to the Sognefjord. This makes it possible to understand the connection between the two fjords without treating their names or the designation as interchangeable.

Waterfalls, Cycling and Fishing

Kjosfossen is a 225-metre-high waterfall along the Flåm Railway. There is a specially constructed stop where passengers can get off; the stopping procedure may vary. The waterfall and the railway therefore form a shared experience, with the landscape and train journey at its centre. If you plan to stop here, bear in mind that arrangements on site may vary.

The Rallarvegen, which ends in Flåm, offers a different perspective on the region. The route combines cycling with impressive natural scenery and fascinating cultural history. Cycling conditions vary by season, so plan your trip to suit the season. Kjosfossen and the Rallarvegen appeal to different interests: the waterfall along the railway is the focus of a Flåm Railway trip, while the Rallarvegen combines cycling with nature and cultural history.

Fishing can also be a highlight of your stay, with the fjord and river offering separate opportunities. Fishing in the fjord in Aurland is free year-round. Potential catches include sea trout, cod, haddock and whiting. Check the applicable fishing regulations and the possible availability of fish species before your trip. The Aurlandselvi offers opportunities for sport fishing in Aurland. This activity should be considered separately from the information about free fishing in the fjord.

Culture and Practical Information

Sognedomen is an old stone church dating from the 11th century. Its age and building material provide a tangible historical connection to the region’s cultural heritage. It offers a different way to experience Aurland alongside its nature and activities: those interested in history and architecture can make room for this aspect in their plans, along with fjord landscapes, cycling or fishing.

The bus is also useful for getting between Aurlandsvangen and Vassbygdi: it travels through Aurlandsvangen and continues to Vassbygdi. The village is a traditional farming village and the starting and ending point of the hiking route through Aurlandsdalen. If you include the bus in your day’s plans, check the timetable in advance; schedules and capacity may change seasonally. This lets you consider the bus journey and hiking route as separate parts of your plans without assuming a starting point for the bus service.

The holiday rental that suits your plans depends on which themes you want to focus on: fjord landscapes, waterfalls and the railway, cycling, fishing or culture. These interests provide a practical basis for your search and help you tailor your stay to your own preferences.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Aurland, Flåm, Gudvangen, Stålheim, Aurlandsvangen, Finse, Undredal, Bremanger.

For the broader travel overview: Sogn Og Fjordane.