Skjolden offers a rare chance to explore some of Norway’s most stunning landscapes right from a quiet, less crowded base. Unlike busier tourist hubs, Skjolden’s charm lies in its peaceful setting and access to incredible natural sights. We particularly love the Olden Shore Excursion: the Amazing Briksdal Glacier, for its scenic hike and breathtaking glacier views—it’s a straightforward but awe-inspiring way to see the glacier arm of the Jostedal Glacier. Plus, the drive through mountains, waterfalls, and alpine scenery makes every step worth it.
Skjolden is perfect for a broad range of tours, including glacier hikes, private fjord cruises, biking adventures, and adrenaline-pumping via ferrata climbs. Each experience offers its own unique perspective on Norway’s dramatic landscapes. Below, we’ve compiled the 13 best tours to help you choose the right one for your interests, fitness level, and time constraints.
1. Olden Shore Excursion: the Amazing Briksdal Glacier
At number 1, this 4-hour shore excursion from Olden takes you to one of Norway’s most iconic glaciers. The trip begins with a scenic drive through Olden’s valleys, passing Olden Lake, before a short walk to the Briksdal Glacier, which is part of the larger Jostedal Glacier. The hike lasts about 1 hour to 1 hour 45 minutes, culminating at a viewpoint where you can admire the glacier and its surrounding waterfalls.
What makes this tour stand out is its combination of easy-to-moderate walking with spectacular views of ice, mountains, and waterfalls. The reviews highlight how luck with weather can make this experience perfect, with many emphasizing the ease of the hike and the breathtaking scenery.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want an accessible, scenic glacier hike with stunning natural vistas and straightforward logistics. Be sure to wear good walking shoes.
2. Hornelen Via Ferrata Wall of Witches Climbing Adventure
If you’re craving a true adrenaline rush, the Hornelen Via Ferrata ranks high as a challenge for active travelers. Climbing above the sea, with lunch dangling several hundred meters over the water, is an experience few can forget. This about 5-hour adventure offers varied climbing routes suitable for both seasoned climbers and active adventurers looking for a physical challenge.
The route’s uniqueness is its setting—climbing directly above the ocean with ships passing below and eagles soaring around. Expect a combination of climbing, exposure, and breathtaking views that make this a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for thrill-seekers and experienced climbers who want to combine Norway’s natural beauty with a physical challenge. Not suited for those with a fear of heights or limited climbing experience.
3. Olden: Fjord e-bike tour
For a relaxed but scenic exploration, the Fjord e-bike tour in Olden offers an accessible way to see waterfalls, mountains, and old farmhouses. Guided by a knowledgeable local, you’ll stop at the turquoise Olden Lake, Laukifossen waterfall, and the Skarstein viewpoint. The 2-hour tour is suitable for ages 13 and up, making it perfect for families or friends.
What makes this tour special is its combination of easy riding with educational commentary about the area’s history. Guests note how well-maintained the bikes are and how relaxing the pace is. The views from Skarstein are a highlight, offering a memorable overlook of the fjord.
Bottom Line: Great for those who want a scenic, gentle ride and some local stories, with a focus on nature without strenuous activity.
4. Mostraumen Private Pontoon Cruise
If you’re after a luxurious, quiet way to explore the fjords, the Mostraumen private pontoon cruise offers an intimate experience for up to 8 guests. Spanning 4 to 8 hours, this personalized voyage takes you into the heart of the fjord, with options like a seafood dinner from local fishermen.
The cruise’s exclusivity and flexibility make it stand out—no crowded boats here. You’ll enjoy serene views, learn about the landscape from your expert driver, and relax in comfort. The reviews rave about the scenery, the knowledgeable crew, and how special this private trip feels.
Bottom Line: Best suited for couples, families, or small groups seeking a bespoke, peaceful fjord experience. Expect a high price but unmatched intimacy and service.
5. 4 Hour Briksdal Glacier Tour in Briksdalsbreen Oldedalen
This 4-hour guided tour combines a scenic drive through Olden Valley with a hike up to the Briksdal Glacier. The hike lasts about 45 minutes and takes you past waterfalls and mountains before reaching the glacier lake. The route’s highlight is the view of the glacier itself—immense, blue, and icy.
Tour guests mention how comfortable the bus ride is and how the hike is manageable with the right footwear. One reviewer notes it’s “not too strenuous,” making it accessible for most. The scenery is the star here—waterfalls, alpine vistas, and the glacier at the end.
Bottom Line: A solid choice for travelers who want a manageable glacier hike with beautiful surroundings, without a full-day commitment.
6. PRIVATE GUIDED TOUR: World Heritage Fjord Landscape – Viking Special – from Flåm
This private 4-5 hour tour from Flåm offers an immersive look at UNESCO-listed fjord landscapes. You’ll explore Nærøy Valley, the Stalheimskleiva hairpin road, and Viking history at Njardarheimr village. The tour also includes activities like axe throwing and archery, making it suitable for adventurous travelers who want a full, personalized experience.
The focus on Viking culture and the stunning viewpoints like Stegastein set this trip apart. Reviews highlight the professionalism of the guides and the flexibility to tailor the day. It’s ideal for those who want an active, culturally rich experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for history buffs and those craving a private, all-encompassing fjord adventure.
7. Flam: The Spectacular Stegastein Viewpoint Tour (Small Group)
For cruise visitors or short-term travelers, the 1.5-hour small group tour to Stegastein is a must. The lookout juts 30 meters from the mountainside, 650 meters above the fjord, offering some of the most iconic views in the region.
Guests review the tour as “incredible,” praising the driver’s skill and the panoramic vistas. Perfect for those with limited time, it allows a quick but memorable experience of Norway’s stunning scenery. The included admission makes it a good value for the short duration.
Bottom Line: Ideal for cruise passengers or anyone wanting a quick, breathtaking overview of the fjord landscape.
8. Cruise Special: Private Trip To Canyons And Waterfalls With Flåm Railway
This private 5-6 hour tour from Flåm combines scenic rail journeys with visits to waterfalls and canyons. Your driver guides you from Flam to Voss, with stops at Tvindefossen falls and the Stalheim lookout. Riding the Flam Railway from Myrdal to Flåm is a highlight, offering dramatic canyon views and waterfalls.
The private aspect means you can customize the stops and pacing. Reviews praise the knowledgeable guide and the flexibility, making this more than just a sightseeing trip.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a personalized, scenic rail and canyon experience, with the option to include waterfalls.
9. Hiking and Kayaking Experience on Tunsbergdalsbreen
For the active traveler, this 9-hour adventure combines kayaking on a pristine lake with a hike to a glacier. Starting with kayaking, you’ll glide past wilderness and ice-clad mountains, then hike through a narrow gorge to reach the glacier features like crevasses and water holes.
It’s a full-day, high-intensity experience perfect for those comfortable with physical activity and seeking hands-on encounters with nature. The reviews confirm the trip’s variety and the stunning scenery, making it well worth the effort.
Bottom Line: Recommended for fit, adventure-minded travelers who want a mix of water and land exploration.
10. Olden Private Shore Excursion: Briksdal Glacier and SkyLift Loen
This private 7-hour tour pairs a visit to the Briksdal Glacier with a ride on the Loen Skylift. Starting from Olden, your guide customizes the experience, including stops at Olden Church and Oldedalen Valley. The highlight is the SkyLift, which offers incredible views of mountains and fjords from above.
Guests appreciate the flexibility and personalized service, as well as the chance to combine glacier and mountain views in one trip. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a tailored, scenic day.
Bottom Line: Great for those who want a private, flexible day combining glacier hiking with mountain vistas.
11. PRIVATE GUIDED TOUR: World Heritage Fjord Landscape tour, from Flåm, OFF-SEASON
This off-season private tour offers a tailored exploration of the UNESCO World Heritage fjord landscape. You start at Flåm, then visit Stalheim, Stalheimsfossen, and Gudvangen, with options for hiking and exploring local villages.
The guide’s knowledge and flexibility shine in this tour, accommodating weather and interests. Reviewers highlight the friendly guide and the personalized experience. It’s perfect if you prefer avoiding crowds and want a custom itinerary.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a private, flexible experience with a focus on natural and cultural highlights.
12. Guided Fjord & Glacier Tours – Vik
This 6-hour tour combines a boat cruise on Fjærlandsfjord with visits to Bøyabreen and the Norwegian Glacier Museum. The boat ride offers views of steep mountains and glaciers, while the museum provides engaging exhibits about glaciers and climate.
Guests mention the museum’s “spectacular” movie and the beautiful scenery along the fjord. The tour balances outdoor scenery with educational stops, making it good for those interested in both nature and science.
Bottom Line: Well-suited for travelers looking to combine scenic boat rides with educational insights into glaciers.
13. Flåm Tour: Borgund Stave Church, Lærdal & Stegastein
This 4.5-hour guided bus trip takes you to the most well-preserved stave church in Norway, Borgund, before continuing through Lærdal’s scenic landscapes to the Stegastein viewpoint. The church’s carved portals and dragon heads are a highlight.
While reviews note some logistical hiccups like late pickup, most appreciate the stops and the opportunity to see this architecturally unique site. The combination of cultural and natural sights offers a well-rounded half-day tour.
Bottom Line: Perfect for history enthusiasts and those seeking a mix of cultural and scenic stops in a short timeframe.
How to Choose Your Perfect Tour in Skjolden
When selecting from these options, consider your budget, physical fitness, and interests. If you love glaciers and scenic hikes, the Olden Glacier tours or Briksdal Glacier are excellent. For a more luxurious experience, the Mostraumen private pontoon offers exclusive fjord sailing, while the private fjord and Viking tour combines culture with scenic views.
If adrenaline is your thing, the Hornelen Via Ferrata and hiking & kayaking are for you. Budget travelers may appreciate shorter, focused trips like the Stegastein viewpoint or the cultural Borgund Stave Church. Booking early is recommended, especially for private or high-demand experiences.
Final Thoughts
Skjolden’s variety of tours means there’s something for every type of traveler. Whether you want a straightforward glacier hike, a private fjord cruise, or a vigorous via ferrata climb, the options listed here can help you make the most of your trip. For nature lovers, the glacier and fjord tours deliver unforgettable scenery. For those craving adventure, the via ferrata or kayaking adventures are perfect matches.
Two or three days in Skjolden can be filled with a mix of these experiences, but don’t forget to book early—these popular tours fill up fast, especially in peak season. Whether you’re traveling as a family, a couple, or solo, the right tour can turn your visit into something truly memorable.