Top Things to do in Sogn og Fjordane
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The 9 Best Historic Sites in Sogn og Fjordane, Western Norway
Rich in mountains, islands, glaciers, farmlands and fjords, Sogn og Fjordane is best known for Sognefjord, the longest in Norway and the second-longest in the world. One of its arms, Nærøyfjord, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as is the 12th-century Urnes Stave Church near Lustrafjorden, an excellent example of traditional Scandinavian wooden architecture. Jostedalsbreen, the largest glacier on mainland Europe, is home to a national park with several museums and visitor centers.
Restaurants in Sogn og Fjordane
1. Vingen Rock-carving Site
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
Deep in Vingepollen, a narrow fjord arm surrounded by steep mountains, is Vingen, one of Northern Europe's largest and most distinctive rock-carving sites.
2. Urnes Stave Church
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 165 reviews
Norway's oldest stave church (1130) and part of UNESCO's world heritage list since 1979. We are open from 2nd May to 30th September every year (exept 17th May, which is the Norwegian Constitution Day).
Reviewed By traveltheworld012 - Rochester, United States
Urnes is possibly the oldest and most outstanding representative of the stave churches. The church expresses in wood how structures of Romanesque architecture were designed. By the use of cylindrical columns with cubic capitals and semi-circular arches. The wood carving and sculpted decor of excellent quality on the outside includes strap-work panels and elements of Viking tradition from the 11th century which constitute the origin of the "Urnes style” also found in other parts of Scandinavia and North-Western Europe. The carvings on the northern wall are a decoration of interlaced, fighting animals. Similar carvings cover the western gable triangle of the nave and the eastern gable of the choir. The carvings are important both as outstanding artistic artifacts, and as a link between the pre-Christian Nordic culture and the Christianity of the medieval ages. Many of the Viking styled carvings originated from the the Celts in Ireland. The Urnes Stave Church has been sort of renovated over the centuries where they cut and repaired portions of the interior. One of the large main columns inside had been cut off to create a private area for the pastor. The result was that the church started to lean a bit. They then had to add squared timbers inside to stabilize the structure but it still leans a bit. It is well worthwhile to take the tour which allows you to go inside as well as learning about the transitions and changes made and the meanings of the carvings. To get to this church requires greater effort as it is not just on the side of a highway like many other stave churches. One could certainly drive from Skjolden the 30+ km but beware it is a rough road. The alternative is to go to Solvorn and take the ferry across to Ornes, then walk up the hill maybe 3/4 mile to the church. I do not advise taking a car on the ferry if you are just going to visit the church. Parking is limited at Ornes and you will have to walk a portion of it anyway. All vehicles have to be backed onto the ferry and it only holds eight. There is also a visitor center across from the church with a gift shop and more historical exhibits.
3. Olden
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 360 reviews
Reviewed By ca2nova
Olden was our most scenic stop on a recent cruise. Sailing up Nordfjord is stunning with the mountains and beautifully coloured water. The village of Olden is cute with a bit of shopping for those inclined as well as a nice place to walk around. The old church in the middle of town is worth popping in to see the interior. We chose an excursion up to see Briksdal Glacier - an excellent choice. It included a scenic bus ride followed by a stimulating hike with beautiful views along the way.
4. Hagevik Tondefabrikk
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2 reviews
5. Otternes Bygdetun
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 63 reviews
On the hills surrounded by powerful mountains, and with a spectacular view of the fjord, you will find Otternes Farm. The farm consisting of 27 buildings, each with its own function, was probably cleared for cultivation before the Black Death. In addition the old cultural landscape with hills, wells, stairs and stone structure is intact. Experience old handcraft techniques and food made in traditional style. Open: 1000-1700 daily. Guided tours at: 10.00 + 12.00 +14.00 + 16.00.
Reviewed By Lonelobster - Vancouver, Canada
We were here in mid August and were th only ones. You can walk here from Flam. We were driving and it is 1 or 2 minutes off the main road between Flam & Aurland. Spectacular views down to the fjord. We got to explore the old buildings without crowds.
6. Fridtjovsparken
7. Lillingstonheimen
REKREA Using the Lillingstonheim manor house dating from 1808 as a base, Rekrea will tailor-make group holidays and activities. Experienced group leaders cater for a wide range of activities including salmon fishing, sea fishing, kayaking, canoeing, mountain climbing, hiking, rowing and sailing, cookery courses etc. Contact us for quotes for weekend or week stays.
8. Gulatinget
Gulatinget var det største lagtinget i Norge fra 900 til 1300 A.D. Tinget var lovgjevande, utøvande og dømmande makt, der lovomradet femna heile kysten, samt Hallingdal, Setesdal og Valdres. Pa Flolid 4 km aust for Eivindvik finn du Tusenarsstaden som er ein vakker park, lagt pa den staden tinget etter kjeldene vart flytta til. Her kan du oppleve Bard Breivik sine monumentale kunstinstallasjoner.
