Norway. Fjord Towns

On our journey through western Norway, we passed through three small fjord towns—each with its own unique charm. Traveling entirely by bus, we made a quick stop at the historic viewpoint above Lærdal, strolled the peaceful streets of Stryn, and soaked in the dramatic scenery of Hellesylt. These quiet places, nestled between fjords and mountains, gave us a deeper sense of the rhythm of life in Norway’s rugged heart...

On our way from Øvre Årdal to Gudvangen, we passed briefly through Lærdal—a quiet riverside town tucked at the end of the Lærdalsfjord, a branch of the Sognefjord. We made a short stop at the Laerdal Old Town Viewpoint, which offers a great look down at Gamle Lærdalsøyri, the historic quarter filled with centuries-old wooden houses. It was just a quick break, but enough to appreciate the town’s old-world charm surrounded by towering fjord walls...

We had more time to explore in Stryn, a welcoming town that sits between lush valleys, alpine peaks, and the vast Nordfjord. It felt vibrant and alive, even under the soft cloud cover. The town’s scenic setting makes it a popular base for outdoor adventures, and even just walking through its center gave us a sense of its mountain-town rhythm. Colorful houses, calm streets, and glacier-fed waters nearby - Stryn felt both peaceful and full of possibility...

We stopped to take in the views from the banks of Stryneelva. The crystal-clear river carved its way through the valley, reflecting the deep greens of the forested slopes and the towering peaks - one of those places where the beauty feels almost unreal.

Later in the trip, we spent time in Hellesylt, a tiny village dramatically set between steep cliffs and the mouth of the famous Geirangerfjord...

It’s known for its powerful waterfall, Hellesyltfossen, that crashes right through the center of town, and the ferry dock that connects travelers to Geiranger.

With its compact size, Hellesylt was easy to explore on foot, and the surrounding nature made it feel like a postcard scene come to life—quiet, raw, and unmistakably Norwegian. From here, we took the scenic ferry ride to Geiranger and back, soaking in the iconic fjord views from the water. After spending two days in Geiranger, we returned to Hellesylt, where the weather had cleared into bright sunshine. We visited the old mill perched right on Hellesyltfossen...