Holidays in Balestrand

• Takes approx. 2.5 hours (based on yellow route 7a to the waterfall)
• Difficulty: Easy - moderate

There are multiple trails around Balestrand named 'nature trail', the information here refers to the yellow route 7a to the waterfall. This is a great walk for anyone after an easier path with plenty of interest, you pass by information points that give details on the local wildlife - it's great to pick up some local knowledge. The trail is around 50 cm wide and is mainly stone, gravel or grass and as you continue on the walk you’ll get some great views towards Balestrand.

• Duration: Approx. 6 hours
• Difficulty: Challenging

This demanding hike begins just on the edge of Balestrand and you’ll climb to the top of Raudmelen where you’ll be greeted by fantastic views over the Sognefjord. There are steep and narrow parts to the walk.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Ascent/descent: Approx. 463 metres

There are a couple of different routes you can take for this one so it’s best to chat to the Kviknes hotel first to decide which route is best for you. Depending on the route you take, it can be challenging in places but the views are spectacular.

Being a small village, Balestrand’s activities tend to be more focused on it’s location. It’s about taking the time to enjoy the scenery and explore this area within the fjords. Wander to Gamleheimsfjøra to sit by the shores of the fjord or get into the mountains on foot for views from above. You may also wish to do a day trip so you get to see more of the area, this includes trips by boat so you get to be out on those fjord waters – take a look at our excursions below for more information.

The green sweep of Sognefjord is farming country – and apples are the speciality. You’ll see cider varieties all over the menus in Balestrand. For the best experience, go right to the source, where the town orchard and cider house serves juice, wine and brandy, as well as tasting tours (see our excursions below for more information). Elsewhere, you can dine well on regional specials like salmon, dumplings and (of course) apple pie.

There are some unique buildings on these shores often referred to as being built in the “Swiss style”. The Hotel Kviknes is one of these buildings and is a statement on Balestrand's shores. Another building to keep an eye out for is St. Olaf’s Church which was built in 1897, its a small church and is said to belong to the Church of England. There's even a walk you can do that takes you past a number of Swiss style buildings with signs along the way offering information on the architecture.

Another building to look out for is the Norwegian Travel Museum - this museum is just next door to the Kviknes hotel and great to wander. It details the history of travel and tourism and shows how tourism has developed in Norway. You can also purchase tickets for guided tours (during selected dates) or pop into their little café.

In May, Balestrand is often host to a Jazz festival, this takes place over a couple of days and is a great celebration of Jazz music and generally brings more people into Balestrand. The festival dates vary year to year so if you're interested in attending be sure to check the festival dates prior to booking (tickets may also need to be purchased in advance).

In Fjærland, Norway's largest fjord, the Sognefjord meets the Jostedalsbreen glacier. Many consider this idyllic fjord village of Fjærland to be the world's most beautiful place from which to explore the glaciers. Join in on a magical cruise through a fantastic fjord landscape and look out for some of the 100 different bird species as you pass through the Bøyaøyri Nature Reserve. You'll experience the Bøya Glacier up close and visit the Norwegian Glacier Museum, by bus, then hop on the boat back to Balestrand.

Departs: Daily

This excursion usually operates from early May to the end of September.

Please note that our Norway excursions are popular and book up very quickly, sometimes months in advance - it is therefore highly recommended to book onto excursions at the time of booking or as far in advance as possible to try and avoid disappointment.

We act at all times as a selling agent for the suppliers. All excursions require minimum numbers to run and are subject to change. Some excursions may not be available to pre-book in low season but may be available to book locally subject to numbers. Prices will be confirmed at the time of booking. Please see our terms & conditions.

Visit the oldest fruit-growing region in Norway on the banks of the Sognefjord. The cider tradition in Sogn is really exciting and their innovative cider making process means they come up with some really unique drinks. The Cider House in Balestrand offers cider tastings where you can try five ciders with snacks and learn about the local traditions, history and cider production of Sogn. Each cider comes with a snack, and you'll even have the chance to try the Cider House's homemade chocolate. (This tour also offers non-alcoholic options)

Departs: Monday - Saturday

This excursion usually runs from early June - late August.

Please note that our Norway excursions are popular and book up very quickly, sometimes months in advance - it is therefore highly recommended to book onto excursions at the time of booking or as far in advance as possible to try and avoid disappointment.

We act at all times as a selling agent for the suppliers. All excursions require minimum numbers to run and are subject to change. Some excursions may not be available to pre-book in low season but may be available to book locally subject to numbers. Prices will be confirmed at the time of booking. Please see our terms & conditions.