Fun Facts About Norway’s Fjords

Norway is so famous for its fjords, the Norwegian word has become part of the international travel dialect. In languages around the world, ‘fjord’ means a deep, natural sea channel reaching far inland, surrounded by dramatic cliffs carved millennia ago by glaciers on their way to the sea.

According to Visit Norway, the word ‘fjord’ has Viking roots, relating to the phrase for a ‘crossing point.’

The vast system of fjords along Norway’s coast certainly helps explain ancient Norse seafaring culture; skillful travel over water would be much better than trying to travel around steep cliffs by land.

Fjords are also the reason travel – especially cruise travel – to Norway is high on many travel bucket lists. They not only define Norway’s geography but also are the icon of its natural beauty and have shaped Norwegian cultural heritage.

Norway has over 1000 fjords, each poking into the coastal landscape like a finger. As the crow flies, the country’s coast is about 15,500 miles long. But if you were to straighten out all the fjords, it would be more than 3 times that length – over 51,000 miles long!

1. Sognefjord is the “King of Fjords” and the longest and deepest fjord in Norway. It extends over 124 miles inland and reaches depths of 4300 feet! The fjord's landscape, with its glaciers, waterfalls, and fertile valleys, makes it a symbol of Norway’s natural beauty. While sailing the fjord is a ‘must,’ there are more ways to experience Sognefjord: from hiking in the Jotunheimen and Jostedalsbreen national parks to visiting the historic Stave Churches in Urnes and Borgund.

2. Geirangerfjord is possibly even more famous than Sognefjord, this UNESCO-listed natural wonder is renowned for its stunning beauty (pictured above). Cruising through this fjord, visitors are treated to panoramic views of cascading waterfalls like the Seven Sisters, the Suitor, and the Bridal Veil. The deep blue waters, set against its emerald cliffs, create unforgettable memories and photo opportunities. Geirangerfjord is also home to charming villages and historic farms that cling precariously to the steep slopes, offering a glimpse into traditional Norwegian life.

3. Nærøyfjord is another UNESCO World Heritage site, one of the narrowest in Europe, and its awe-inspiring scenery is best experienced from the water. The journey through Nærøyfjord showcases towering rock faces, lush valleys, and tranquil waters, making it a favorite spot for nature lovers and photographers. The small village of Gudvangen at the fjord’s end is a perfect base for exploring the area further.

4. Hardangerfjord has a character all its own, with a famous waterfall and glacier, renowned for cliffside fruit orchards and as the starting point for Norway’s most epic hiking trail. The stunning natural beauty of Hardangerfjord’s steep cliffs is transformed every spring, when apple, cherry and pear orchards cover the dramatic landscape with a lacy, fairy tale display of white and pink blossoms. The festivities of the Hardanger Blossom Festival add to the scenery for this magical time of the year. Hardangerfjord is also the origin of the iconic Trolltunga hike. The payoff of the hike is the Trolltunga (Troll’s Tongue) rock formation (pictured, top), which juts horizontally out like the mountain is sticking out its tongue!

A cruise along the coast of Norway takes you into the heart of its scenic fjord land- and seascapes, where calls in ports give you the opportunity to immerse yourself in Norway’s rich cultural heritage, enjoy local cuisine including fresh seafood and traditional Norwegian dishes, and explore up close with outdoor activities like kayaking and hiking.