Exploring Norway’s majestic landscapes is a dream for many travelers, and this particular tour from Olden promises a memorable day of scenery, hiking, and glacier marvels. While we haven’t personally taken it, reviews and detailed descriptions give us a clear picture of what to expect. This excursion is packed with highlights that cater to those who love nature, good organization, and authentic adventure.
What we really appreciate about this tour are the spectacular views of towering mountains and waterfalls, the friendly and knowledgeable guides like Alyssa who look out for everyone, and the stress-free logistics including a back-to-ship guarantee. However, it’s worth noting that the initial hike can be quite steep, which might be a consideration for those with mobility concerns. This trip seems perfect for nature lovers, first-time visitors craving a taste of Norway’s glaciers, and anyone looking for a well-organized, scenic day out.
Good To Know
- Stunning Scenery: Experience breathtaking vistas of mountains, waterfalls, and glaciers.
- Guided Hike: Enjoy a well-guided, approximately 45-60-minute walk that’s manageable and rewarding.
- Comfortable Transportation: Relax on spacious buses through scenic routes.
- Authentic Experience: Discover Briksdal Glacier, an arm of the famous Jostedal Glacier.
- Photo Opportunities: Capture memorable views from a breathtaking viewpoint.
- Stress-Free: Includes a back-to-ship guarantee for cruise travelers.
Introduction: Why This Tour Stands Out
If you’re visiting Olden and want to experience Norway’s iconic glaciers without the hassle of planning every detail, this guided tour offers a practical, scenic, and engaging option. The combination of comfortable transportation, expert guides, and access to a stunning natural wonder makes it a worthwhile choice for many travelers.
What’s most compelling about this experience are the beautiful mountain landscapes, the informative guides who enrich the journey with facts and friendly service, and the opportunity to see the glacier up close without the need for technical mountaineering skills. Plus, the tour’s flexibility and the back-to-ship guarantee provide peace of mind for cruise passengers.
A potential drawback is the initial steepness of the hike, which might be challenging for those with limited mobility or back problems. But for most, the moderate walk to a viewpoint with expansive views makes it worth every step. This tour suits nature enthusiasts, photographers, and anyone eager to step into Norway’s legendary landscapes.
Like guided experiences? More Olden tours with local guides
What to Expect on the Tour
Meeting Point and Transportation
The adventure begins right at the Olden cruise pier, where your guide—easily recognizable in a light-blue jacket—waits just inside the main pier area. From there, you’ll board a comfortable, spacious bus that takes you through charming Olden village, then into the Olden Valley. This journey alone is a treat, with views of shimmering Olden Lake flanked by soaring peaks.
Most reviews specifically praise the smooth transportation. Amy called it “good transportation and stunning location,” which sums up the transport experience well. The drive is about 45 minutes each way, giving you ample opportunity to enjoy the scenery and hear interesting facts from your guide.
Scenery Along the Way
As you travel, expect to see waterfalls cascading down rugged mountains, forests, and alpine lakes. The route offers photo-worthy views at every turn, giving you plenty of opportunities to snap shots of Norway’s raw beauty.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyThe Hike to the Glacier
Once you arrive at the trailhead near the Briksdal Glacier, the real adventure begins. The hike to the glacier’s viewpoint takes approximately 45-60 minutes. The terrain is mostly on a well-formed, wide track, but it does include some steep sections. According to reviews, the first part is the toughest, with the trail gradually becoming easier.
Guide Alyssa, for example, was praised for her attentiveness, ensuring everyone was comfortable, even if walking at different paces. Michelle mentioned that the walk is “on a really well-formed and wide track with a few stone steps here and there,” making it accessible for most.
The Glacier and Viewpoints
The highlight is reaching the viewpoint where you’re treated to incredible views of the glacier, surrounding peaks, and the meltwater streams. Sarah described the scenery as “breathtaking,” and many like Rose appreciated that this tour avoids the large bus crowds, focusing instead on a more intimate experience.
Photographers will love this part of the trip — the vantage point offers sweeping views of the glacier’s arm and Olden Lake, perfect for sharing on social media or just memorizing visually.
Additional Highlights
- Photo stops: The viewpoint is ideal for capturing the scale and beauty of the glacier and mountains.
- Café and Gift Shop: At the trailhead, there’s a cozy café and gift shop, perfect for a quick rest or souvenir shopping.
- Optional buggy ride: Some reviews mention an option to take a buggy partway if walking isn’t feasible, but most hikers will enjoy the full walk for the best views.
Return Journey
After soaking in the scenery and snapping photos, you’ll retrace your steps back to the bus for the journey back to Olden. The return includes another scenic ride, with plenty of opportunities to reflect on the day’s highlights.
The Value of the Tour
At $137 per person, this tour offers a balance of transportation, guided expertise, and access to one of Norway’s most awe-inspiring glaciers. When considering the cost, think of the value in the comfortable transportation, the personalized guidance, and the unique scenery you’ll experience — especially compared to larger group bus tours that might feel more rushed or less intimate.
The guided hike is an excellent way to get close to nature without needing specialized skills, making this suitable for most moderately fit travelers. The back-to-ship guarantee adds an extra layer of confidence, ensuring you won’t miss your cruise departure if delays happen.
Tips for Maximizing Value
- Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes—the trail can be uneven.
- Bring weather-appropriate clothing, including layers and a rain jacket, as mountain weather can change quickly.
- Capture plenty of photos but also take time to simply enjoy the silence and majesty of the landscape.
- Consider arriving early or late in the itinerary to avoid peak crowds, especially if you prefer a quieter experience.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience suits nature lovers, photographers, and those looking for a manageable hike in a spectacular setting. It’s also perfect for cruise passengers wanting a stress-free day that combines transportation, a guided walk, and breathtaking views.
People with mobility issues or back problems should note the initial steep part of the hike might be difficult, but the well-maintained path and optional buggy make it somewhat accessible. Those seeking a quick, scenic overview of Norway’s glaciers will find this very fulfilling.
FAQs
Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides bus transportation from the Olden cruise pier to the glacier and back.
How long is the hike?
The walk to the glacier viewpoint takes approximately 45-60 minutes, mostly on a well-formed track with some steep sections early on.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are essential. Warm, weather-appropriate clothing and rain gear are also recommended due to mountain weather.
Is food or drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there is a café at the trailhead where you can purchase snacks and beverages.
Can I do this if I have mobility issues?
The hike involves some steep parts, but there is an option to take a buggy if necessary. The guide and staff are attentive to individual needs.
What is the duration of the tour?
The total tour lasts about 4 hours, including transportation and hiking.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Most children with a good level of mobility should enjoy it, but very young kids or those with mobility challenges might find the hike difficult.
What makes this tour different from other glacier visits?
This tour combines scenic bus rides, a guided hike, and a dedicated viewpoint. It’s a more intimate and educational experience than larger bus-only excursions.
What is the best time of year to do this?
While available in the cruise season, the scenery varies with seasons—summer offers lush landscapes, while winter can add snow to the views.
What if it rains?
The tour runs rain or shine. Bring rain gear just in case, as mountain weather can change suddenly.
This shore excursion from Olden to the Briksdal Glacier offers a satisfying blend of scenic beauty, manageable hiking, and expert guiding. The stunning vistas and the chance to stand so close to a real glacier are hard to beat at this price point. Reviews highlight how well-organized and friendly the experience is, with guides like Alyssa making everyone feel comfortable and informed.
While the initial part of the hike demands some effort, most find it well worth the stunning views at the end. The tour’s inclusiveness, breathtaking scenery, and relaxed pace make it ideal for those wanting a genuine taste of Norway’s iconic glaciers without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
Whether you’re a photography enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a memorable day in Norway’s outdoors, this excursion will likely meet your expectations. Pack your camera, layer up, and prepare for a day filled with awe-inspiring sights and friendly guidance.
To sum it up, this guided hike to Briksdal Glacier is an authentic, value-packed experience that beautifully showcases Norway’s rugged landscapes. It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate manageable hikes, scenic drives, and the chance to witness one of the world’s most famous glaciers up close. If that sounds like your kind of adventure, this tour deserves a spot on your Norwegian itinerary.
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