The possible experiences are endless in Vestland, with something for everyone from the adrenaline junkie to the food lover. This guide lists all the ports visited by cruise ships in the area, showing the wide array of highlights to explore.
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Eidfjord
Eidfjord is a small town lying at the end of Eid fjord, a tributary of Hardangerfjord. There are some small shops and restaurants to enjoy in the town and a picturesque waterside path, but most cruisers leave the centre for the adventures beyond. Most popular are the Vøringsfossen waterfalls, which fall 597 feet from the top of the Hardangervidda Mountain Plateau. The heights are dizzying and the sounds intense from the bridge built in 2020, with the experience really showing the power of nature. Eidfjord is also known as the gateway to Hardangervidda National Park. Visit this area to get away from other tourists and enjoy the vast mountain plateau and its many hiking trails. There's also the Norwegian Nature Center within the park which explores the flora and fauna found there.
Leirvik
Lerivik lies just south of Bergen on the large island of Stord alongside Hardangerfjord. As it's not a frequently used cruise port, it still very much retains its authenticity as a small town and allows visitors to see the wonders of the local scenery without mass tourism. Its picturesque harbour is lined with wooden houses and offers small shops to peruse. A visit to its Harbour and Maritime Museum shows the importance of fishing in Leirvik and its alignment to the Vikings or a walk to the breakwater will lead you to the Storddøra sculpture. Created by Sissel Tolaas, it translates as ‘Gateway to the Stord' and shines in the sun as its propellers spin in the wind. A longer walk will take you to the Hystadmarkjo nature reserve. The scenery here is stunning and many take a dip in the icy fjord waters or hunt for the Viking burial mounds along the waterside path.
Nordfjordeid
Norfjordeid lies deep inside Norway's fjords on Eidsfjord in the region of Vestland. For a great introduction to the area, there's an electric bus tour of the town - perfect for viewing the beautiful sights whilst learning about their culture and history. The first area cruisers will see as they leave the port is Old Town Street with its cafes, restaurants and shops housed in traditional white buildings. The town also has a Viking ship mound, a colourful church and surprisingly, Norway's second largest opera house. Walking slightly inland, visitors will find the Norwegian Fjord Horse Centre where this Viking breed (shown in Disney's ‘Frozen') can be petted and ridden. There's also the Sagastad Viking Center, which houses the largest Viking ship discovered in the county and exhibitions explaining why Nordfjordeid was such an important stronghold, as well as VR technology to immerse yourself in life 1,000 years ago.
Olden
There's something for everyone in the stunning fjord town of Olden on Nordfjorden. It's Norway's sixth largest cruise port and has so much to offer, so whether you're looking for an adrenaline-fuelled adventure or a relaxing view, there's plenty of options to choose from. A unique excursion will take you to the edge of Briksdal Glacier, which still met the fjord waters just 15 years ago. Today, it is receding and can be seen on a mile hike past glistening waterfalls. There's also Kjenndalen glacier, part of Europe's largest glacier, which can be seen after a drive inland through bucolic farms. Another relaxing way to see the scenery is on the Loen Skylift, which takes passengers 3,300 feet high to see the town, fjord and mountains laid out below. It's one of the steepest cable cars in the world and is quite costly, but the views are undoubtedly worth it and a whole day can be spent at the top exploring the hiking trails and sculpture park. For those wanting something more daring, there's a via ferrata to be attempted only by confident climbers. Those who have tried this activity before can be sure that the course will be one of the best that the world has to offer. There's also opportunities to kayak, SUP, fish, bike, ski and even zipline amongst the stunning scenery. After a day of exploring, there's some great food options. Nearly everything you'll find in the town is fresh and local, with berries, cheese, fish and meat aplenty. For a memorable meal, visit Mount Hoven restaurant, which can be found at the top of the skylift in a modern glass building. The apple juice comes from local orchards, the water from glacier runoff and the beer from a nearby brewery - the perfect accompaniments to your Norwegian feast!
Skjolden
Skjolden is a tiny settlement at the end of Lustrafjorden. Cruising here takes you past mighty mountains and cascading waterfalls along Norway's deepest and longest navigable fjord. It's the epitome of fjord scenery, with a mesmerising view at every turn. From Skjolden, there's a choice of three national parks to explore (Jostedalsbreen, Jotunheimen and Breheimen) as well as Europe's largest ice cap - the Jostedal Glacier. Those who get the chance to take a trip out of the village will see powerful waterfalls, serene lakes and tiny hamlets as they wind their way though the mountains. Another great excursion may require more fitness, but the history and views on offer make the effort worth it. Heading up the Fortun river takes you to the former hut of the one the 20th centuries' greatest philosophers, Ludwig Wittgenstein. Life took him from Austria to Cambridge and then Skjolden, where he made the most of the isolation to write his treatises on logic and language. Back in the village, local highlights include Urnes Stave Church, a UNESCO protected 12th century wooden masterpiece, and the llama farm, where you can take a new friend for a walk along the river.
Ulvik
Ulvik lies on the northern shores of Hardangerfjord, just west of Bergen. This quiet, small settlement is surrounded by mountains and orchards. A unique way to spend your day in port is to head on a walk connecting the fruit farms in the area. Head to Ulvik Frukt & Cideri, Syse Gard and Hardanger Saft to sample their cider alongside other local produce. For a longer hike, without the alcohol, follow one of the signposted routes from Ulvik. A highly recommended option would be to follow the old postal road between Ulvik and Granvin. The round trip takes around six hours with amazing views at the top of the mountain and a good half-way pitstop in Granvin. Another option is to climb Kvasshovden Opp, 1030m above sea level. This route is more challenging but rewards with the best fjord views in the area. Others may prefer to stay in the town, where they will find the Olav H. Hauge Centre dedicated to the national poet who lived in Ulvik, a beautiful church and plenty of places to sit and admire the fjord.
Vikøyri
The town of Vikøyri lies north of Bergen on Sognefjord. It’s the picture perfect Norwegian hamlet with colourful wooden houses, tall mountains and a wonderful fjord views. An independent walking tour of the town is highly recommended. Make sure to include the two iconic churches; one is from the 12th century with one of the oldest staves in the country and the other is one of the oldest stone buildings in Norway. After, head to a local cafe to sample the produce. Vikøyri is one of the best areas for growing raspberries in Norway. It also makes its own excellent ice-cream and cheese. To try Gamalost (which translates to ‘old cheese), head to Tine Meieriet Vik, the only Gamalost cheese factory in the world. It’s a strong flavour, but is recommended to be eaten with cream, butter and cranberries and washed down with a class of fresh raspberry juice.
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