Tucked away in the heart of Norway’s stunning fjord country lies the Olden Shore Excursion to the Briksdal Glacier. This captivating 4-hour tour promises to whisk visitors on a journey through the region’s mesmerizing landscape, culminating in a chance to witness the awe-inspiring Briksdal Glacier up close. From a scenic drive to an invigorating hike, the excursion offers a well-rounded experience that’s perfect for nature enthusiasts seeking to enjoy the raw beauty of this Nordic wonderland. But the true magic lies in the glacier itself, its towering walls and cascading waterfalls sure to leave a lasting impression on all who venture forth.
Key Points
- Scenic 4-hour shore excursion from Olden to the Briksdal Glacier, offering panoramic views of the glacier, mountains, and waterfalls.
- Guided sightseeing tour with a convenient meeting point near the cruise port and hotels, ensuring a prompt start.
- Scenic drive along Oldevatnet lake, with insights from the guide about the local geography and history.
- 1-hour hike through a picturesque valley surrounded by towering mountains and waterfalls, leading to the glacier viewpoint.
- Included in the tour are a local guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, and access to the Briksdal Glacier and Olden Lake.
Overview of the Excursion
Olden Shore Excursion: the Amazing Briksdal Glacier
Overview of the Excursion
This 4-hour shore excursion from Olden takes guests on a scenic drive through the valley before a 1-hour hike to the magnificent Briksdal Glacier, offering panoramic views of the glacier, mountains, and waterfalls.
Operated by Norway Excursions, the tour includes a local guide, sightseeing, and hotel pickup and drop-off. Guests will visit Olden Lake and reach the viewpoint at the glacier lake for a breathtaking experience.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour provides some accommodations. Guests should arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time at the Norway Excursions Olden office, located near the cruise port and hotels.
Included in the Tour
The four-hour shore excursion from Olden includes a local guide, sightseeing tour, access to the Briksdal Glacier and Olden Lake, as well as hotel pickup and drop-off. Guests will enjoy panoramic views of the glacier, mountains, and waterfalls during the scenic drive and hike. The tour includes the following:
| Included | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Local Guide | Briksdal Glacier |
| Sightseeing Tour | Olden Lake |
| Hotel Pickup/Drop-off | Panoramic Views |
Throughout the tour, guests will be accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide who will provide insights and information about the natural wonders they encounter. The excursion offers an immersive experience, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the stunning landscapes of the Olden region.
Meeting Point and Arrival
Guests should make their way to the Norway Excursions Olden office, which is located within walking distance of the cruise port and most hotels.
They’ll need to arrive at least 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time to ensure a smooth start to the tour.
The meeting point is conveniently situated, making it easy for participants to find and reach on time.
Once there, the local guide will be waiting to greet the group and provide any final instructions before setting off on the exciting Briksdal Glacier adventure.
Punctuality is key, as the tour operates on a tight schedule to maximize the time spent at the glacier itself.
Drive to the Glacier
After a brief meet-up at the Norway Excursions office, the group typically sets off on the scenic drive towards the Briksdal Glacier.
The journey winds along the shoreline of the serene Oldevatnet lake, offering picturesque photo opportunities along the way. The guide points out highlights and shares insights about the local geography and history as the bus climbs up the valley.
Though the roads are winding, the skilled driver navigates them smoothly, ensuring a comfortable ride for everyone.
Soon, the group reaches the trailhead, where they’ll disembark and begin the hike up to the glacier itself, ready to witness its stunning natural beauty up close.
Hiking to the Glacier Viewpoint
From the trailhead, the group embarks on a scenic 1-hour hike up to the glacier viewpoint. Navigating a few steep inclines, they make their way through the picturesque valley, surrounded by towering mountains and cascading waterfalls.
Along the trail, the guide points out notable natural features and shares insights about the local environment.
As they approach the glacier, the path becomes more rugged, but the panoramic views of the Briksdal Glacier, its striking blue hues, and the dramatic landscape are well worth the effort.
Reaching the viewpoint, the group can admire the sheer size and power of the glacier, as well as the surrounding lakes and waterfalls. This is the highlight of the excursion, offering an up-close encounter with the natural wonder of Briksdal.
Scenic Views at the Glacier
Once they reach the glacier viewpoint, visitors are rewarded with a breathtaking panorama.
The sheer scale and striking blue hues of the Briksdal Glacier take center stage, framed by the surrounding towering mountains and cascading waterfalls. This is the highlight of the excursion, offering an up-close encounter with the natural wonder of the glacier.
Guests can marvel at the massive wall of ice that has been slowly carving its way through the valley for centuries. The contrast of the bright white glacier against the dramatic backdrop of jagged peaks and rushing streams creates a scene of unparalleled beauty.
It’s an unforgettable moment to soak in the grandeur of this spectacular natural landscape.
Return Trip to Olden
The excursion group then starts the drive back to Olden, retracing the scenic route along the Oldevatnet lake shoreline. On the return journey, guests have one final opportunity to admire the dramatic glacial landscapes receding in the distance. The guide points out notable sights, allowing for additional photo stops along the way. The drive is comfortable, with ample time to rest and reflect on the incredible experience at the Briksdal Glacier. Before long, the group arrives back at the Norway Excursions office in Olden, just a short walk from the cruise port and hotels. It’s been a memorable 4-hour adventure to one of Norway’s natural wonders.
| Scenic Overlook | Duration | Photo Opportunity | Drop-off |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oldevatnet Lake | 15 mins | ✓ | ✓ |
| Mountain Vistas | 10 mins | ✓ | – |
| Rushing Waterfalls | 5 mins | ✓ | – |
| City of Olden | 5 mins | ✓ | ✓ |
Tour Logistics and Policies
Norway Excursions provides guests with detailed confirmation upon booking the Briksdal Glacier tour. A multilingual guide often leads the mixed groups due to the tour’s popularity.
While the hike to the glacier features a few steep inclines, Norway Excursions offers some accommodations for guests who need assistance. However, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.
To ensure the minimum traveler requirement is met, Norway Excursions reserves the right to cancel the tour, providing a full refund if booked guests cancel at least 24 hours in advance.
The tour logistics and policies include:
- Scenic drive along Oldevatnet lake with a photo stop
- 1-hour hike to the glacier, with some steep sections
- Breathtaking views of the glacier, mountains, and waterfalls
- Hotel pickup and drop-off for convenience
- Cancellation policy for full refund if canceled 24+ hours in advance
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for This Tour?
There is no minimum age requirement for this tour. Children of all ages are welcome to join, though caution is advised for the hike to the glacier as it involves some steep inclines.
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Snacks Provided?
The tour does not mention any specific snacks or food provided. As it’s a hiking excursion, guests are advised to bring their own snacks and water to accommodate any dietary restrictions or preferences.
Can I Bring My Personal Camera Equipment on the Hike?
Guests are welcome to bring their personal camera equipment on the hike to capture the stunning glacier and scenery. However, they should be prepared for the moderately strenuous hike and ensure their equipment won’t hinder their experience.
What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Excursion?
The maximum group size for this excursion is not specified in the overview. However, it notes that a multi-lingual guide may be used due to mixed groups, suggesting the group size can vary. The specific maximum group size is not provided.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
There’s no mention of an option to extend the 4-hour tour duration. The excursion’s logistics are fixed, with a scenic drive, 1-hour hike to the glacier, and return to the starting point in Olden. No extensions are offered.
Recap
The Olden Shore Excursion to the Briksdal Glacier offers a captivating 4-hour experience showcasing Norway’s stunning natural beauty.
This tour includes a scenic drive, a 1-hour hike to the glacier viewpoint, and breathtaking vistas of the glacier, mountains, and waterfalls.
With convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as access to the glacier and Olden Lake, this excursion is a must-do for nature enthusiasts visiting the Olden area.
