Flåm Tour: Borgund Stave Church, Lærdal & Stegastein

If you’re considering taking a sightseeing trip around Norway’s spectacular fjord region, the Flåm Tour: Borgund Stave Church, Lærdal & Stegastein might be on your radar. We’ve looked into this experience based on reviews and detailed descriptions, so you can get a clear idea of what you’re signing up for. While it’s not a perfect all-day adventure, there’s plenty to like for those wanting a taste of Norway’s iconic scenery and cultural highlights.

One thing we love about this tour is how it offers a chance to see the most famous stave church in Norway from the outside—a photo-worthy stop that’s both historic and picturesque. Plus, the drive through some of Norway’s most dramatic mountain scenery, especially the Aurlandsfjorden and Nærøyfjorden, really gives you a sense of why this country is a photographer’s paradise. On the flip side, a potential drawback is that some travelers find the timing tight and the stops a bit rushed, especially if you’re hoping for inside visits or more leisurely exploration.

This experience suits those who are happy with a quick overview rather than an in-depth tour, and it’s especially useful if you want to combine scenic views with a glimpse of Norwegian architecture. It’s a good pick for travelers who value guide expertise, efficient stops, and breathtaking landscapes without spending all day on the road.

Key Points

• It’s a scenic bus trip that highlights Norway’s fjord landscapes and cultural treasures.
• The guide’s knowledge is often praised, adding context and history to the sights.
• The tour is relatively short, around four and a half hours, making it suitable for those with limited time.
• Some stops are quick photo ops, so patience might be needed if you want to explore deeper.
• The price (~$140) offers good value considering the scenic views and cultural sights included.
• Weather and traffic can impact the experience, particularly the fjord road which may be closed in winter or poor conditions.

An Honest Look at the Itinerary

The tour begins at the Flåm cruise pier, which is easy enough to find with the provided meeting point. From there, the first major highlight is the outside visit to Borgund Stave Church. Built around 1180, this church is the most famous and best-preserved stave church in Norway. While you’ll only see it from outside—since the visitor center entrance costs extra and isn’t included—you’ll get a good look at its intricate wood carvings, dragon-head roof details, and overall fairy-tale feel. Several reviews mention that the outside photo stop is short, often around 20 minutes, so don’t expect to go inside or linger long.

Next, the bus takes you on a drive through Norway’s longest road tunnel, a remarkable feat in engineering at 24.5 km long. This tunnel connects Aurland and Lærdal, offering a unique experience of traveling through a mountain underworld. Some reviews note delays at inspection stations, which can eat into your schedule, so don’t be surprised if your timing is slightly off.

A quick stop at Lærdal village then provides a chance to stretch your legs and snap some photos of the surrounding fjords. Situated between the Sognefjorden and the mountains, it’s a charming place that seems straight out of a postcard. The time here is brief—about 15 minutes—so plan to keep your explorations tight.

The drive continues along the scenic “snow road between the fjords,” a route renowned for its stunning views, especially if the weather cooperates. You’ll drive past towering mountains and along twisting fjord roads, which many reviewers find exhilarating. There are occasional extra photo stops, depending on traffic, weather, and timing, so be ready for some spontaneity.

Finally, the Stegastein viewpoint offers an awe-inspiring panorama. Suspended above the Aurlandsfjorden, this platform lets you look out at where the Aurlandsfjorden meets the Nærøyfjorden. It’s often praised for its jaw-dropping scenery—beautiful whether it’s sunny, cloudy, or snowy. The stop is around 15 minutes, giving you enough time to soak in the views and take photos.

The tour wraps up back in Flåm, having traversed some of Norway’s most iconic fjord landscapes and cultural sights. It’s a whirlwind, but you get a solid snapshot of this extraordinary region.

The Good and the Not-So-Good

The highlights are definitely the guide’s knowledge, the stunning fjord vistas, and the historic facade of Borgund stave church. Many reviews feature comments like “the guide was brilliant” and “breathtaking views from Stegastein,” showing that these aspects stand out.

However, some travelers have expressed frustration over the tight schedule and brief stops. Several reviews mention the shortness of time at each site—meaning you may not get the chance for a deeper exploration or inside visits. The fact that you only see Borgund’s exterior can be a letdown if you’re hoping for an interior experience.

Transportation issues also come up. There are reports of delays, confusion over pick-up locations, and even a couple of reviews describing the tour as canceled or not happening due to organizational errors. The company’s communication and handling of unforeseen problems seem to be an area that could be improved.

Pricing at around $140 per person is reasonable given the scenery and cultural stops, but it’s also worth noting that the tour is aimed at quick glimpses rather than immersive experiences. If you’re after a comprehensive, leisurely day, this might feel a bit rushed.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best suited for those with limited time who want a taste of Norway’s iconic landscapes and cultural sites. It’s a good option if you enjoy guided scenic drives, quick photo stops, and interesting commentary. Those who appreciate guide expertise and don’t mind rushing through stops will find it worthwhile.

If you’re traveling with children or prefer more leisurely sightseeing, consider whether the quick pace and outside-only viewing at Borgund meet your expectations. It’s particularly ideal for first-time visitors who want a snapshot of the region without spending hours on the road.

Final Thoughts

The Flåm Tour covering Borgund Stave Church, Lærdal, and Stegastein offers a compact but stunning journey through some of Norway’s most beautiful sites. While it’s not a comprehensive deep dive, it delivers on the essentials: breathtaking fjord views, memorable landscapes, and the chance to see a historic stave church from the outside.

The tour’s value lies in the scenery and guide’s narration—if you’re a fan of quick, scenic outings with informative commentary, this one could be a good fit. Just keep in mind the potential for delays and the brevity of stops, especially if you’re hoping to explore more inside the sites.

For travelers wanting a short, scenic snapshot of Norway’s fjord region with snapshot visits to cultural highlights, this tour hits the mark. It’s less ideal if you prefer a more relaxed pace or interior visits, but for a quick taste of Norwegian beauty, it’s worth considering.

FAQs

• Does this tour include inside visits to Borgund Stave Church? No, the visit is only from outside, as the entrance fee to the visitor center is not included.
• What is the duration of the tour? It lasts approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, including travel, stops, and sightseeing.
• Is the tour suitable for cruise ship passengers? Yes, the company offers a back-to-ship guarantee if you register your cruise details in advance, and the tour ends well before the ship’s departure time.
• Are there free restrooms during the stops? Only the stop at Lærdal seems to have a public restroom available; plan accordingly, as other stops may not.
• Can the itinerary change due to weather? Yes, especially the fjord road can be closed in winter or during bad weather, which could lead to alternate routes.
• How many people are in each group? The maximum group size is 48 travelers, which helps keep things manageable but can still feel busy.
• What should I wear or bring? Since this is a scenic drive with photo stops, bring layers, a camera, and possibly some snacks, but no specific gear is mentioned.

In the end, this tour offers a straightforward way to see some of Norway’s most picturesque sights with an experienced guide. Be prepared for a quick-paced adventure, and you’ll come away with plenty of memorable views and a better sense of the region’s beauty.