Why Should You Explore Norway On a Walking Holiday?
For those of you who love the great outdoors, Norway is a dream destination for a walking holiday. In fact, it’s one of the most spectacular destinations for Europe’s most scenic walking destinations, thanks to its dramatic fjords, mountain plateaus, and wild northern landscapes. With its towering fjords, rolling valleys, and untouched wilderness, every trail here feels like stepping into a postcard, and you’ll quickly see that for yourself when you visit!
Bordering Sweden, Finland, and even a little part of Russia, Norway is a true adventurer’s destination. That’s because the country’s rugged terrain delivers challenging hikes with rewarding summit views, while the gentler routes will take you through lush meadows, charming fishing villages along the coast (if that’s where you want to be), and quiet forests where the only sounds are the rustling leaves and distant waterfalls.
Norway’s rugged terrain forms part of a much larger Nordic adventure region, and many of the best hikes in Scandinavia can be found across Norway, Sweden, and Finland. And when the day’s walking is done, you can settle into a cozy mountain cabin, feast on fresh seafood, and experience Norway’s warm and laid-back hospitality.
From iconic trails like Trolltunga and the Lofoten Islands to hidden gems in the countryside, Norway offers some of the most spectacular walking routes in the world. Let’s find out more about what a walking holiday in Norway will be like.
These Are The Best Places To Explore On a Walking Holiday in Norway
Here are the top destinations in Norway for a walking holiday:
Fjord & Coastal Walks
For those of you who love breathtaking water views and rugged coastal landscapes, Norway’s fjords and seaside trails offer some of the most stunning walks in the world:
Nærøyfjord Trail
As one of Norway’s most famous fjords and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Nærøyfjord offers a spectacular hiking experience. The trails wind through dramatic cliffs, past waterfalls, and alongside deep blue waters to give you a front-row seat to Norway’s natural beauty. The peaceful surroundings and stunning reflections on the fjord make every step feel magical.
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The Lofoten Islands Coastal Walk
For those who enjoy the charm of coastal villages mixed with rugged cliffs, the Lofoten Islands offer unforgettable hiking routes. With trails that take you past fishing villages, white-sand beaches, and towering peaks rising straight from the sea, this is a must for anyone looking to experience Norway’s wild beauty up close.
Aurlandsdalen Valley
Known as “Norway’s Grand Canyon,” this valley offers a fjord-side trail that takes you through lush meadows, along roaring rivers, and past historical farms. It’s a perfect mix of cultural heritage and jaw-dropping landscapes, which easily makes it one of the most rewarding hikes in the country.
Mountain & Wilderness Hikes
For those of you who crave adventure and the challenge of reaching breathtaking summits, Norway’s mountain trails are second to none:
Trolltunga
Arguably Norway’s most iconic hike, the trail to Trolltunga (the “Troll’s Tongue”) is a challenging but rewarding experience. The 10 to 12 hour round trip will take you through alpine terrain to a dramatic rock formation jutting out over the fjord, which offers one of the most Instagram-worthy views in Norway.
Besseggen Ridge
For those looking for a ridge walk with sweeping views, Besseggen delivers. This famous trail in Jotunheimen National Park offers stunning panoramas of deep blue lakes and rugged peaks. The steep climb is well worth it, as the views from the top are nothing short of spectacular. You’ll have to see it to believe it.
Dovrefjell National Park
If you’re looking for a less-crowded but equally stunning hike, Dovrefjell is a great choice. Not only does this remote park offer breathtaking mountain trails, but it’s also one of the few places in the world where you can spot wild musk oxen roaming the tundra.
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Countryside & Cultural Walks
For those of you who prefer a gentler walk with a mix of nature and history, Norway’s countryside trails offer peaceful beauty and cultural charm.
Røros Mining Town Walk
Step back in time with a walk through Røros, a historic mining town and UNESCO World Heritage Site. The town itself is a mix of well-preserved wooden buildings, cobbled streets, and fascinating history, while the surrounding countryside offers scenic trails through rolling hills and peaceful meadows.
The Pilgrim’s Route (St. Olav’s Way)
For those who love long-distance walking with a cultural twist, St. Olav’s Way is an ancient pilgrimage route that leads to the Nidaros Cathedral in Trondheim. This route takes you through picturesque villages, forests, and farmland, which offers a deep sense of connection to Norway’s past and present.
Like many historic pilgrimage routes across the continent, St. Olav’s Way forms part of a broader network of European long-distance paths that connect hikers with cultural and historical landscapes.
Hardangervidda Plateau
For a serene and more open landscape, the Hardangervidda Plateau is the perfect hiking destination. As Northern Europe’s largest mountain plateau, it offers wide-open spaces, gentle walking routes, and the perfect chance to experience Norway’s stunning wilderness without the steep climbs.
What Can You Expect During a Walking Holiday in Norway?
Here’s what you can really expect from a fun walking holiday in Norway:
Adventures Beyond Walking
When planning a walking holiday in Norway, one of the first decisions you’ll make is whether to travel independently or join a guided tour. Understanding the difference between choosing between guided and independent walking holidays can help you choose the experience that best suits your style of adventure. For those of you who like to mix up your walking holiday with a bit of adventure, Norway offers plenty of experiences beyond the trails that are just as thrilling as its epic hikes.
Imagine swapping your hiking boots for a kayak and paddling through the glassy waters of the Nærøyfjord, surrounded by towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls. Regardless of whether you’re kayaking along a quiet fjord or taking a scenic boat tour through the famous Geirangerfjord, seeing Norway from the water is a really breathtaking way to experience its vast landscapes from a whole new angle.
If you’re looking for a cultural break from the trails, Norway’s cities and villages are packed with experiences that bring the country’s history and traditions to life. F0or example, you can wander through the charming streets of Bergen and explore colorful wooden houses, vibrant markets, and cozy cafés where you can warm up with a cup of rich Norwegian coffee.
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Or, for those of you fascinated by Viking history, a visit to the Viking Ship Museum in Oslo offers a deep dive into Norway’s seafaring past, which comes complete with ancient longships and fascinating artifacts that tell the stories of the legendary Norse warriors and explorers.
And for those of you who want an adrenaline rush beyond hiking, Norway delivers. Try dog sledding across the Arctic tundra in Tromsø, where you’ll glide over snowy landscapes under the northern lights. Alternatively, you could take a thrilling ride on the Flåm Railway, which is one of the most scenic train journeys in the world and winds through deep valleys and past roaring waterfalls.
The Food and Drink Experience
For those of you who believe that great food is just as important as great hiking, Norway’s culinary scene offers plenty of satisfying meals to refuel after a long day on the trails.
Traditional Norwegian cuisine is all about hearty and locally sourced ingredients with dishes that reflect the country’s deep connection to the land and sea. After tackling a rugged fjord hike, there’s nothing better than sitting down to a steaming bowl of fårikål, Norway’s national dish: a comforting stew of slow-cooked lamb and cabbage, which is perfect for warming you up after a long day outdoors.
For seafood lovers, Norway is an absolute dream. Imagine dining on the freshest grilled salmon or pan-fried cod, caught straight from the icy waters of the Atlantic and served with buttery potatoes and a squeeze of lemon. Or if you’re hiking along the coast, don’t miss the chance to try rakfisk (a traditional fermented trout dish) or king crab in Northern Norway, where you can even join a local fisherman on a boat and catch your own dinner before enjoying it by the fire.
And for those of you with a sweet tooth, Norway’s bakeries and cafés offer the perfect post-hike treat. Whether it’s a warm, cinnamon-scented skillingsbolle (a Norwegian-style cinnamon roll) in Bergen, a slice of kransekake (almond cake) in Oslo, or a cozy coffee stop in a mountain lodge with a hot cup locally brewed coffee, these little indulgences will help fuel your body as you journey onward.
Fun Accommodations
For those of you who love unique and memorable places to stay, Norway’s accommodations are just as exciting as its hiking trails.
If you want to stay right in the heart of nature, Norway has an incredible selection of traditional mountain lodges and cabins. Imagine waking up in a rustic wooden cabin in Jotunheimen National Park with a steaming cup of coffee in hand and nothing but towering peaks and crisp mountain air outside your window. Many of these cabins are hiker-friendly and offer hearty home-cooked meals and a warm fireplace where you can swap stories with fellow adventurers.
For those of you who prefer something a little quirkier, Norway is home to some of the most unusual accommodations in the world. Have you ever wanted to sleep in a glass igloo under the northern lights?
In places like Tromsø and the Lofoten Islands, you can do just that by watching the aurora borealis dance across the sky from the comfort of your bed. Or how about spending the night in a floating hotel on a fjord, where the only sounds you’ll hear are the gentle lapping of the water and the distant call of seabirds?
And for a true taste of Norwegian culture, you could consider booking a stay in a historic stave church hotel or a converted Viking-style lodge. These beautifully restored buildings will give you a glimpse into Norway’s past while offering all the modern comforts you need. Regardless of whether you’re cozied up in a remote mountain retreat or enjoying a one-of-a-kind stay in the Arctic Circle, Norway’s fun accommodations will always ensure that your walking holiday is unforgettable from start to finish.
Where to Next?
- Ultimate Guides – your gateway to hiking across Europe
- Hikes & Trails – curated lists of the best hikes and local gems
- Walking Holidays – extended journeys for when a single day just isn’t enough
- General Blog – all the extras: gear reviews, planning tips, and personal stories
Conclusion
And there you have it! Norway is a country where adventure reigns supreme, and in the process, it has some truly unique accommodation options and some great food. If you’re planning on visiting northern Europe for a walking holiday or a hiking trip, it’s not a country you’ll want to miss.
Is Norway calling your name?
