Skjolden is known for its serene fjord landscapes, dramatic mountain scenery and easy access to some of Norway’s most iconic national parks. Tucked at the very end of the Sognefjord — the longest and deepest fjord in Norway — this peaceful village feels like a hidden gem surrounded by snow-capped peaks, waterfalls and glacial lakes.
Whether you're exploring by foot, kayak or winding mountain road, here are 10 unforgettable experiences that show exactly what Skjolden is known for.
1. Sognefjord
Skjolden sits at the innermost point of Sognefjord, often called the “King of the Fjords.” Stretching more than 125 miles inland from the coast, this vast body of water is surrounded by steep cliffs and green valleys that change with the seasons. It's lush in summer and snow-dusted in spring and fall.
Taking a boat ride or kayaking along this stretch of the fjord offers jaw-dropping views and a real sense of scale. The stillness of the water and sheer mountain walls make this one of the most dramatic fjord experiences in Norway.
2. Jotunheimen National Park
Just beyond Skjolden lies Jotunheimen National Park, a rugged alpine wonderland home to Norway’s tallest mountains. The name means “Home of the Giants,” and it’s easy to see why — the landscape is dominated by glaciers, icy rivers and dramatic hiking routes.
Popular trails include hikes to Galdhøpiggen (the highest peak in Norway) and Bøvertun, which offer panoramic views and encounters with Arctic wildlife. For nature lovers, it’s one of the best things to do in Skjolden and a perfect place to experience the raw power of the Norwegian wilderness.
3. Feigefossen Waterfall
Feigefossen is one of Norway’s tallest waterfalls, and it’s located just a short drive or ferry ride from Skjolden. Cascading 715 feet down the mountainside into the Lusterfjord, it’s an awe-inspiring sight — especially in spring and early summer when the snowmelt is strongest.
You can view the waterfall from below or take a short, moderately steep hike up to a viewpoint near the base. The sound, mist and sheer drop make this a highlight for photographers and hikers alike.
4. Hiking
Skjolden is known for its hiking trails that weave through valleys, forests and up into the mountains. Some routes begin right in the village and lead to scenic viewpoints overlooking the fjord, while others venture deeper into national park territory.
Popular routes include the Mørkrisdalen Valley trail, which follows a glacial river through a lush landscape, as well as the hike to Åsetevatnet Lake, where glassy waters reflect the peaks above. Whether you’re a casual walker or seasoned trekker, there’s a trail here for every pace.
5. Urnes Stave Church
A short fjord-side journey from Skjolden brings you to Urnes Stave Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest wooden churches in Norway. Built in the 12th century, it blends Viking design with early Christian architecture in a way that feels both mystical and intimate.
Carvings of serpents, dragons and intertwined patterns decorate the wooden portals — symbols that reflect a transition from Norse mythology to Christian faith. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in Scandinavian history and art.
6. Glacier Adventures
Skjolden’s location makes it a gateway to several glaciers, including Nigardsbreen — part of the larger Jostedalsbreen glacier system. Guided glacier hikes allow you to walk across ancient blue ice, learn how glaciers shape the land and peer into deep crevasses and caves.
Whether you opt for an easy family walk or a technical climb with crampons and rope, it’s one of the most unforgettable and adventurous things to do in Skjolden. Most excursions begin with a boat ride across a glacial lake, adding to the thrill of the experience.
7. Lusterfjord
Branching off from the Sognefjord, the Lusterfjord surrounds Skjolden with mirror-like waters in every direction. The fjord’s emerald color comes from glacial runoff — creating surreal tones that shift with the light and time of day.
Visitors can kayak on the fjord, paddle board in calm weather or take leisurely boat trips to explore nearby villages like Solvorn and Nes. Fishing is also popular here, and you might spot porpoises, sea eagles or seals along the way.
8. Skjolden Village
Though small, Skjolden has a peaceful, welcoming charm that’s hard to resist. Nestled between mountains and water, it feels like a place where time slows down. The village features a waterfront promenade, cafés with local fare and even a fjord-side sauna where you can warm up after a chilly dip.
Staying in Skjolden offers a more authentic, intimate experience of Norway compared to the busier tourist hubs. Whether you’re enjoying local waffles with brunost (brown cheese) or chatting with friendly shopkeepers, it’s the kind of place that leaves a lasting impression.
9. Local Farms & Cider Houses
The fertile valleys around Skjolden are home to traditional Norwegian farms, many of which still produce goods the old-fashioned way. From goats and sheep to berries, apples and honey, local farms contribute to the region’s rich culinary heritage.
Cider houses near Luster and Hafslo offer tastings of handcrafted apple ciders made from heirloom varieties grown in glacier-fed orchards. Visiting one of these farms is not only delicious — it connects you to the rhythms of rural life in western Norway.
10. Scenic Drives
Skjolden marks the start of some of the most magnificent drives in the country. The Sognefjellet National Tourist Route winds its way over snow-covered mountain passes, past glaciers, waterfalls and scenic picnic spots with views that go on forever.
This high mountain road is open seasonally (usually May to October) and offers stops like the Turtagrø Hotel and viewpoints with interpretive signage. It’s one of the most rewarding ways to take in the landscape — especially for photographers, cyclists or road-trippers chasing wild beauty.
What is the Skjolden Known For?
Skjolden is known for its peaceful fjord setting, dramatic natural landscapes and proximity to Norway’s top national parks and glaciers. Whether you’re hiking through valleys, cruising past waterfalls or simply sitting beside the fjord as the light shifts across the mountains, the best things to do in Skjolden invite you to slow down, breathe deeply and connect with nature in its purest form. It’s not just a destination —i t’s a quiet, powerful place where the scenery does the talking.
