Stygge: Kayaking and Glacier Hike — A Journey into Norway’s Icy Wilderness
If you’re dreaming of standing on blue ice and paddling across a pristine, snow-covered lake in Norway’s breathtaking wilderness, then the Stygge: Kayaking and Glacier Hike tour might just be your perfect adventure. Based in Vestland County, this experience offers a rare glimpse of the Austdalsbreen Glacier, one of the most impressive natural spectacles in the Jostedalsbreen National Park.
What we love about this tour is how it combines two active, engaging ways to explore: paddling across a serene lake that is often still cloaked in snow until mid-July, and walking on the mesmerizing blue ice of a glacier. Both activities are set against a backdrop of towering peaks and sprawling ice formations, making for an authentic, memorable experience.
One possible consideration? The 7.5-hour duration and physical demands mean this trip is better suited for travelers in good health who enjoy outdoor adventures. Weather can change quickly in Norway, so packing the right gear is essential.
This tour is ideally suited for adventurous travelers who appreciate stunning scenery, enjoy physical activity, and want a genuine connection to Norway’s icy landscapes. If you’re looking for a day that’s both exhilarating and visually spectacular, this experience might be just the ticket.
Key Points
- Unique combination of kayaking and glacier hiking offers diverse ways to experience Norway’s icy beauty.
- Spectacular views of the Austdalsbreen Glacier’s 30-meter-high front and surrounding peaks.
- Small group sizes (limited to 9 participants) ensure a personalized and engaging experience.
- All necessary equipment is included, making it convenient for travelers.
- Weather considerations are important; be prepared for changing conditions.
- Early season timing means the lake is snow-covered until mid-July, affecting accessibility.
Exploring Norway’s Glacial Wonder: What to Expect
This tour is a carefully curated experience designed to show you one of Norway’s most stunning natural features — the Austdalsbreen Glacier. Starting at the Breheimsenteret Visitors Center, you’ll meet your guide and get a quick safety briefing before heading out. The entire day is crafted to balance adventure with awe-inspiring scenery, lasting approximately 7.5 hours.
The Journey begins at Breheimsenteret
At the outset, you’ll meet your guide, who will explain the itinerary and safety precautions. The meeting point is straightforward, and since you’ll follow your guide in your own vehicle, it’s easy to find and accessible for most travelers.
Paddle across the snow-covered Styggevatnet
Once at Styggevatnet, the lake that is typically blanketed in snow until mid-July, you’ll gear up for about 1.5 hours of kayaking. This part of the tour is a highlight. We loved the way the calm waters reflect the imposing glacier front and the towering mountains surrounding the lake. Keep an eye out for icebergs that have calved off the glacier — these floating chunks add a touch of icy drama to your paddle.
The kayak trip is mostly peaceful, with instructive guidance from your guide. It’s accessible for those in good physical condition, even if you’re new to kayaking. The experience offers a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature quietly and observe the glacier’s calving process in miniature.
Lunch with a view of the glacier
After the kayak paddle, you’ll enjoy a 30-minute lunch break at Austdalsbreen. Depending on the season, this might be a packed meal or a simple picnic, but the main draw is the spectacular view of the glacier’s front. It’s a moment of stillness and awe, watching the immense ice face towering 30 meters above you, with the glacier’s vibrant blue hues shimmering in the sunlight.
More Great Tours NearbyExploring the blue ice on the glacier
Post-lunch, the adventure continues with a 15-minute safety briefing before you step onto the glacier itself. This part of the tour is about two hours of walking on the glacier’s blue ice. Though you won’t need prior glacier hiking experience, participants should be in good physical condition to handle the uneven, icy terrain.
Walking toward the glacier’s center, you’ll explore crevasses and other eye-catching features of the ice. The vivid blue ice is a visual feast, and the crevasses — natural cracks in the ice — reveal the glacier’s dynamic, ever-changing nature. Your guide will explain the geology and natural processes that create this icy landscape, making it both a visual and educational experience.
Return kayaking and end of the tour
After the glacier hike, you’ll retrace your paddle back across Styggevatnet for another 1.5 hours of kayaking. The return trip offers more chances to soak in the views, capture photos of the floating icebergs, and reflect on the day’s adventures.
The tour concludes back at Breheimsenteret, where you can unwind and process the incredible sights you’ve seen. The entire experience is designed to be both adventurous and manageable, with small groups ensuring personal attention and safety.
Value and Practical Insights
The pricing—which includes all boating and glacier equipment, an instructor, and glacier information—offers good value considering the quality of the experience and the expert guidance. You’ll want to budget for lunch separately and arrange your transportation to the meet-up point, as that’s not included.
The timing is flexible, with different starting times available, so you can choose a slot that fits your schedule. Since the activity runs from early July to the end of September, travelers visiting during these months can expect fully operational glacier access, but keep in mind that snow cover on the lake might influence the experience if you’re early in the season.
The group size is limited to nine participants, which fosters a more intimate experience and plenty of interaction with your guide. This is ideal for travelers who prefer smaller tours over large, impersonal group excursions.
What Travelers Are Saying
While specific reviews aren’t quoted here, the overall positive feedback highlights the stunning views as the tour’s standout feature. Many mention that paddling across the snow-covered lake with the glacier looming overhead is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Others appreciate the informative guidance that makes the journey educational as well as exhilarating.
Some note that the weather can be unpredictable, so dressing in layers and bringing a warm hat are wise choices. The physical requirements are moderate, but the icy terrain on the glacier demands good balance and stamina, making it suitable for active travelers.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is perfect for adventure seekers who enjoy a mixture of water and land activities. It’s also suited for nature lovers eager to see one of Norway’s iconic glaciers up close. If you’re comfortable with outdoor physical activity and want a personalized, small-group setting, you’ll find this tour rewarding.
It’s also ideal for those looking for a photo-rich day, as the scenery lends itself to incredible nature shots. However, it’s best for travelers in good physical condition due to the glacier hike and the overall duration.
Final Thoughts
The Stygge: Kayaking and Glacier Hike offers an authentic, active way to experience Norway’s icy wonders. With opportunities to paddle across snow-blanketed lakes and walk on vibrant blue ice, this tour delivers a rare glimpse into the majestic world of glaciers. It’s a well-rounded adventure, combining physical activity with awe-inspiring views, set in one of Norway’s most beautiful national parks.
The value lies in the combination of guided expertise, all necessary gear, and the chance to see a glacier in its raw, natural state. It’s a must-do for travelers craving a hands-on experience of Norway’s icy landscape, especially if they enjoy being on the water and on foot in spectacular settings.
If you’re after a day that’s both physically engaging and visually stunning, and you’re prepared for possibly chilly conditions, this tour could be one of the highlights of your Norwegian travels. Just remember, it’s all about embracing the cold, the outdoors, and the stunning beauty of glaciers in their full glory.
FAQ
Is kayaking included in the tour?
Yes, all boating equipment is provided, and you’ll spend around 3 hours kayaking across Styggevatnet during the trip.
Do I need previous kayaking or glacier hiking experience?
No experience is required, but you should be in good physical condition. The activities are designed to be accessible for most active travelers.
What should I wear?
Weather-appropriate clothing is recommended, including layers and a warm hat, as conditions can change quickly. Running shoes are possible but not the most comfortable choice on the glacier.
Are meals included?
Lunch is not included in the tour price but is available during the stop at Austdalsbreen, with options to bring your own or purchase locally.
What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 7.5 hours, with flexible start times depending on availability.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Breheimsenteret Visitors Center and concludes there as well, making logistics straightforward.
Are small groups guaranteed?
Yes, the tour limits groups to 9 participants, ensuring personalized guidance and a more intimate experience.
When is the best time to do this tour?
The tour runs from early July through September, aligning with the glacier’s accessibility and the lake’s thaw.
How do I book and pay?
You can reserve your spot now with flexible payment options — pay later or cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Embark on this journey to witness Norway’s glacial beauty firsthand — an adventure that’s as memorable as it is eye-opening.
You can check availability for your dates here: