1. Places to visit
  2. Balestrand

Balestrand

Balestrand is a charming village known for its spectacular views and fantastic light conditions. Numerous famous painters have come here to catch the special light on canvas. This fjord gem has so much to offer! Learn more about Balestrand and get inspired.
Balestrand - Norway, St Olaf´s Chrurch
+ 18

A true fjord gem

Balestrand is a picturesque village nestled amongst breathtaking mountains on the shores of the Sognefjord, Norway's longest and deepest fjord. Take in the serene beauty as you stroll through the village, with it's charming wooden houses, local cider farms, and impressive history dating back to the Viking Age.
Balestrand is well worth spending several days. Dine in style at the famous Kviknes Hotel, enjoy local cider tasting, or try an action-packed Rib tour on the Sognefjord, or a calm scenic kayak tour on on the blue-green fjord!
Don't miss the daily glacier tour to the Bøyabreen glacier, including a scenic fjord cruise on the Fjærlandsfjord and a visit to the Glacier Museum.
Activities in Balestrand  - RIB boat trip on the Sognefjord to Finnabotn - Balestrand, Norway
Rib Tour Balestrand

Breathtaking mountain views

Surrounded by high mountains, Balestrand does not lack of varied hiking trails, suited both for experienced and inexperineced hikers. The trails are well marked and at the top you are rewarded with an astonishing view over Balestrand and the Sognefjord!

Experience local cider

There are long traditions of cidermaking in the Sognefjord region. You may join cider tasting at Ciderhuset, where you will get an introduction to cider production along the Sognefjord and hear the story behind the well known drink. Enjoy a taste of the local produce as you indulge in the scenic fjord views!
Ciderhuset i Balestrand - Sognefjord, Norway
Cider tasting in Balestrand

History from the Viking Age

Balestrand has a unique history, dating back to the Viking Age, and is known for its swiss- and dragonstyle wooden houses. A walk through Balestrand is an exciting and historical experience. Amongst others, the unique St.Olafs church in stave church style with it`s 2 spears is found here. Did you know that the chapel of St. Olafs church was the direct source of inspiration to the Disney film Frozen?
Balestrand

The best things to do in Balestrand

Book an exciting activity as part of your Nutshell tour or as a stand-alone booking. Check out our exciting collection below!

Experience more with Sognefjord in a Nutshell™

Enjoy a fjord cruise on the spectacular Sognefjord, the second longest fjord in the world. Experience two of the world’s most beautiful train rides, the Flåm Railway and Bergen Railway.
The trip can be completed in a single day but is best when combined with an overnight stay in Flåm or Balestrand.

Highlights

Book hereSee more tours

Book a hotel in Balestrand

Find the perfect place to stay on your Norwegian adventure.