Hiking To See The Fjords In Europe

Fjords are widely considered to be among the most beautiful naturally-formed phenomena in the world, with various nations around the globe benefiting from the stunning landscape that is left behind in the wake of ancient glaciers. In Europe there are a number of different places that hikers can visit in order to take in the fjords in all their glory. The following is but a quick overview of just a few of the more popular options.

Norwegian Fjords

Norway is known for its gorgeous fjords and it is also one of the best places to go hiking whether you are a well-versed fjord-lover or a first timer. The west of the nation boasts numerous fjords and a wide range of hikes that include them. The Sengjaberget Hike is one of the most highly recommended in the western fjords, taking a route around Lustrafjord that can be suitably tailored to beginners or for experienced hiking enthusiasts. You can take a 30 minute stroll to enjoy excellent views, or head up the mountainous sides of the fjord for even better vistas.

Norway's fjords can also take you along the coast, with the Svartisen Glacier Hike being a popular example. It allows you to see a glacier in action, with daytime trekking being recommended as the way in which the light hits the imperceptibly moving walls of ice is really quite dazzling. Experts recommend taking as much time at the glacier as possible.

In the south of Norway the fjords are just as magnificent as anywhere else. The Pulpit Rock Hike covers one of the most iconic views offered by any fjord in the country. Two hours struggling against gravity up a steep path will reward you with unmatched views over Lysefjord, and a chance to capture some memorable photographs.

The northern fjords have all the character and beauty of their southern and western siblings, but as the temperatures drop you can see the cloud-shrouded peaks, gathering weather fronts and even visit one of the world's best waterfalls on the Mardalsfossen Hike. There will be other eager hikers around seeking out this powerful, cascading set of falls, but company is always welcome in the presence of nature's full force.

Icelandic Fjords

As with Norway, Iceland is home to numerous fjords across its expanses. The western region of the country alone is home to over 300 officially sanctioned hiking routs which take in various fjords and points of interest. In the West Fjord Alps, between Dyrafjordur and Arnafjordur, there are miles and miles of pathways and open landscape to traverse, as well as high mountains which are distinguished from other fjords in the region because they are capped with sharp peaks rather than level plateaus.

This is the main reason for the use of the 'Alps' nickname when referring to the region. Most fjord hiking paths in Iceland are fairly well signposted and serviced sporadically by local amenities and settlements. However, there are a number of routes that only experts should tackle.

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