Exploring the Natural Wonders of Gudvangen, Norway

Finding Peace and Treasures in Gudvangen

Flåm Church: A Step Back in Time

Our first stop was the Flåm Church. The drive to Flåm from Gudvangen is always a treat, with the winding roads offering incredible views of the fjords. The church itself is a wooden longchurch with a capacity of about 160 people. Built in 1670 by master builder Magne Essen, it replaced an older stave church. It's amazing to think that parts of this building have been standing for centuries!.

Stepping inside, I was immediately struck by the sense of history. The interior is adorned with unique 18th-century decorations, including paintings of animals and deciduous trees. These are considered exceptional examples of church art from that period. Lena, with her keen eye for design, was particularly fascinated by the illustrations. It’s incredible how such a small church can hold so much history and art.

According to local historian Svein Indrelid, the church had an interesting start. Master builder Magne Essen initially built a church in Fretheim in 1668, but it was destroyed by a storm. The current church was then erected in 1670 on the site of the old stave church, using materials from both previous structures. This blend of old and new gives the church a unique character.

The altar set, featuring a chalice and paten in gilded silver, dates back to the 16th century. The church also has three bells, one from around 1500, another from 1864, and a third from 1992. The organ, with its four registers, was installed in 1979. The whole place exudes a sense of peace and history, a welcome contrast to the hustle and bustle of modern life.

I took some time to wander around the grounds, enjoying the tranquility of the Flåmsdalen valley. It’s a beautiful spot, perfect for reflection and a bit of quiet contemplation. As someone who spends a lot of time coding, these moments of peace are invaluable.

Sometimes, the most rewarding journeys are those that take you back in time, offering glimpses into the stories and artistry of generations past.

Chasing Waterfalls: Brekkefossen

Next on our itinerary was Brekkefossen, a stunning waterfall near Flåm. The hike to Brekkefossen is moderately challenging, with a round trip of approximately 5 km and an elevation gain of about 155 meters. The trail includes both paved paths and stone steps, so good hiking boots are essential. I was glad I remembered to pack mine, unlike my sunglasses, which I’m still regretting forgetting!

The hike starts with a gentle walk alongside the Flåm River, which was a great warm-up. Soon enough, we were climbing the stone steps leading directly to the foot of the waterfall. The climb was invigorating, and the views along the way were simply breathtaking. The best views, I must say, are from the viewpoint near the waterfall known as “Raokjen”. There are benches and tables available for resting and enjoying snacks, which we definitely took advantage of.

Brekkefossen is fed by the rivers Ljosdøla and Brekkeelvi, originating from Viddalsfjelett and Skratlandevatnet at an elevation of 1418 meters. The waterfall itself is about 100 meters high, though some estimates suggest it could be taller. Standing at the base of the falls, feeling the cool spray on my face, was an incredible experience. The power and beauty of nature are truly awe-inspiring.

Lena, who is always up for a good photo opportunity, took dozens of pictures. She managed to capture some amazing shots of the waterfall against the backdrop of the valley. I even managed to get a few decent ones myself, though I’m definitely still learning the ropes when it comes to photography.

The hike back down was just as enjoyable, with the panoramic views of Flåm, the Aurlandsfjord, and the surrounding valley. It’s easy to see why this is such a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. The combination of natural beauty and a good workout is hard to beat.

Retail Therapy at Mall of Norway

After our invigorating hike, we decided to indulge in a bit of retail therapy at the Mall of Norway. Located in Flåm, this shopping center is a showcase of Norwegian clothing brands, souvenirs, and sporting goods. It’s the perfect place to find something to remind you of your trip.

The Mall of Norway has an interesting history. The first store, Saga Souvenir, opened in Flåm in 1994. Over the years, it has grown into a premium stockist of all things Norwegian. Today, it consists of eight stores in various locations along the west coast of Norway. The flagship store in Flåm covers more than 700 square meters and is one of Norway's largest.

I was impressed by the variety of products on offer, from traditional Norwegian sweaters to modern outdoor gear. Lena was particularly interested in the locally handmade wool scarves. She ended up buying a beautiful blue one, which I’m sure she’ll be wearing all winter back in Berlin.

I, on the other hand, was on the lookout for a good quality hiking jacket. I found a great one from a Norwegian brand known for its durability and weather resistance. It’ll be perfect for our future hiking adventures, both here in Norway and back in Brandenburg.

The layout of the mall is well-designed, with spacious aisles and a curated selection of stores. The staff were friendly and helpful, making the shopping experience even more enjoyable. And, of course, the views of the surrounding mountains added to the ambiance. The Mall of Norway is open from 7:45 AM to 10:00 PM, giving you plenty of time to explore its offerings.

A Culinary Conclusion

For lunch, we headed to Viking Kroa in Gudvangen. This cafeteria-style eatery serves traditional Norwegian cuisine in a cozy setting. I opted for the lamb sausages, while Lena chose the fish. The food was hearty and delicious, perfect after a day of hiking and shopping.

For dinner, we decided to try Gudvangen Hotelldrift AS, also in Gudvangen. I was looking forward to experience more local flavors. I went for the fresh fish, while Lena enjoyed a vegetarian dish. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere, and we enjoyed reflecting on the day's adventures over a leisurely meal.

Before heading back to Gudvangen Fjordtell, we made a quick stop at a local bakery for some pastries. We picked up a selection of treats to enjoy back at the hotel. The Gudvangen Fjordtell continues to be a great home base for our adventures. We had a highly-rated breakfast there this morning, and it's great to know we have comfortable rooms to return to each night.

Tomorrow, we’re planning to explore the Tursti hiking trail and Hólesvingane [I8]. I’m looking forward to more stunning views and opportunities for photography [I8].

As I sit here writing this, I’m struck by how much this trip has already enriched my perspective. Norway’s natural beauty is undeniable, but it’s the combination of history, culture, and adventure that truly makes it special. I'm also grateful for the company of my friends, who make every experience even more memorable.

I'm really looking forward to more adventures tomorrow!