Exploring the Natural Wonders of Gudvangen, Norway

First Impressions of Gudvangen

After a long journey from Berlin, involving a flight to Bergen and a scenic train and bus ride, I finally arrived in Gudvangen. The anticipation had been building for months, and I was eager to dive into the heart of the Norwegian fjords with my friends. Gudvangen, nestled at the end of the Nærøyfjord, greeted us with open arms, promising a blend of Viking history and natural beauty.

Our first stop was the Gudvangen Fjordtell, our home for the next few days. Checking in was a breeze, and the staff were incredibly welcoming. The hotel had a charming, village-like feel, and I was excited to see what our rooms had in store. Luckily we avoided the Viking themed rooms, since I saw some reviews mentioning that they can get very warm during summer.


Discover the beauty of Gudvangen while enjoying affordable comfort at Gudvangen Fjordtell, your gateway to breathtaking fjords and adventure.

Settling In and a Hearty Breakfast

The Gudvangen Fjordtell proved to be a cozy and convenient base for our adventures. The room was comfortable, and after freshening up, we headed down for breakfast. The breakfast buffet was impressive, offering a wide variety of options to fuel our day. I particularly enjoyed the fresh pastries and strong coffee, a perfect start to exploring Gudvangen.

Exploring the Viking Village

With our stomachs full, we set out to explore the main attraction: the Viking Village. Just a short walk from the hotel, the village transported us back in time. It wasn't just a museum; it was a living, breathing community of reenactors who embody the Viking lifestyle. As someone interested in history, I was excited to learn about the Viking era firsthand.


Explore Viking Village in Nærøy Valley, where history comes alive with immersive experiences and authentic Viking culture.

The attention to detail was remarkable. From the traditional clothing to the handcrafted tools and weapons, everything felt authentic. We spent hours wandering through the village, watching demonstrations of blacksmithing, wood carving, and other ancient crafts.

Traveling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.

I even tried my hand at archery, which was far more challenging than it looked! My friends and I shared laughs as our arrows veered off course, but it was all part of the fun. The Vikings were incredibly friendly and eager to share their knowledge, making the experience both educational and entertaining.

Lunch at Gudvangen À la carte restaurant (KONGSHALLEN)

After immersing ourselves in Viking culture, we were ready for lunch. We chose the Gudvangen À la carte restaurant (KONGSHALLEN), conveniently located near the Viking Village. The restaurant offered stunning views of the Nærøyfjord, making it a perfect spot to relax and refuel. The ambiance was cozy, and the staff were attentive.


Experience authentic Norwegian cuisine amidst breathtaking fjord views at Gudvangen À la carte restaurant (KONGSHALLEN).

The menu featured a variety of local dishes, and I decided to try the fish soup (fiskesuppe), which came highly recommended. The soup was flavorful and comforting, a perfect complement to the cool August weather. My friends opted for other Norwegian specialties, and we all shared bites, savoring the unique flavors of the region. It was also pleasantly surprising to see they had a vegan menu.

Shopping at CraftyVikings

With renewed energy, we decided to do some shopping at CraftyVikings, a local shop known for its handcrafted goods. I was on the lookout for a unique souvenir to remind me of our trip. The shop was filled with beautiful items, from hand-knitted sweaters to intricate jewelry. I finally settled on a small, hand-carved wooden Viking ship, a perfect memento of our day.


Explore the beauty of Norwegian handicrafts at CraftyVikings in Gudvangen, where each piece tells a story of artistry and tradition.

Dinner at Viking Kroa

As evening approached, we made our way to Viking Kroa for dinner. This restaurant promised an authentic Viking dining experience, and it did not disappoint. The atmosphere was lively, with traditional music and décor that transported us back to the Viking Age.


Savor traditional Norwegian cuisine in Gudvangen's cozy cafeteria with stunning fjord views.

I ordered the lamb, a classic Viking dish, and it was cooked to perfection. The flavors were rich and hearty, and the portion was generous. We all enjoyed the communal atmosphere, sharing stories and laughter over our meal. It was a perfect end to a day filled with exploration and discovery.

Reflections on the First Day

Our first day in Gudvangen was nothing short of magical. From the moment we arrived, we were captivated by the natural beauty and rich history of the area. The Viking Village was a highlight, offering a unique and immersive experience that brought the past to life. The local cuisine was delicious, and the friendly locals made us feel right at home.

Back at the Gudvangen Fjordtell, I took some time to reflect on the day. As someone who enjoys sharing travel experiences on the Evendo blog, I knew I had plenty of stories to tell. I was already looking forward to tomorrow's adventures, which would include visiting Kjelfossen waterfall and exploring The Magic White Caves. I had heard that Kjelfossen is one of the highest waterfalls in Norway, and I couldn't wait to see it in person. And the Magic White Caves sounded equally intriguing, promising a unique and otherworldly experience.

I also looked forward to trying out some of the local bars, especially Ægir microbrewery, to sample some Norwegian craft beers. But for now, I was content to rest and recharge, ready for another day of exploration in this beautiful corner of Norway.

As I drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience such a unique and fascinating place. Gudvangen had already exceeded my expectations, and I knew that the days to come would be filled with even more adventure and discovery.

And I was glad I didn't forget my hiking boots, considering the amount of nature that still awaits to be explored in the coming days!

Good night from Gudvangen!