Olden

A charming village at the end of the Nordfjordeid, famous as the gateway to Briksdalsbreeen glacier and its stunning turquoise glacial lake. The drive through narrow mountain valleys offers some of Norway's most picturesque scenery.

Things to do

• Briksdalsbreeen Glacier Walk — Hike to Norway's most accessible glacier, featuring a dramatic turquoise glacial lake and stunning views of the ice face.
• Olden Village Stroll — Wander through the charming waterfront village with traditional wooden houses, small shops, and scenic views of Nordfjordeid.
• Scenic Drive through Oldedalen Valley — Drive or cycle through the narrow mountain valley with cascading waterfalls and steep cliffs that lead toward the glacier.
• Nordfjordeid Fjord Boat Tour — Take a guided boat excursion on the deep blue fjord to experience the dramatic landscape and wildlife from the water.
• Briksdalsbreen Viewpoint Hike — Trek to elevated viewpoints above the glacier terminus for panoramic photographs of the surrounding peaks and ice formations.
• Olden Mountain Biking — Explore forest trails and mountain routes around the village offering varied difficulty levels with scenic valley views.
• Waterfall Photography at Kjenndalen — Visit the series of waterfalls cascading down the mountainside along the valley drive, perfect for capturing Norway's water features.

Food to try

• Fresh Fjord Fish — Sample locally caught Arctic char or halibut prepared simply with butter and herbs at village restaurants overlooking the water.
• Creamed Stockfish (Fårikål) — Try this traditional Norwegian comfort dish made with dried fish, potatoes, and onions, hearty sustenance for mountain travelers.
• Wild Berry Jam on Fresh Bread — Taste locally-made cloudberry or lingonberry preserves spread on warm bread, celebrating the region's forested berry harvests.
• Reindeer Stew — Experience traditional Scandinavian game meat slowly braised with mushrooms and juniper berries at local village establishments.
• Glacier Café Waffles — Enjoy freshly-made Norwegian waffles with jam and sour cream at cafés near the Briksdalsbreeen trailhead.

Local customs & good to know

• Mountain Valley Traditions — Respect the deep connection locals have to the land; many families have worked these valleys for generations and appreciate visitors who move mindfully through the landscape.
• Seasonal Visitor Patterns — Visit outside peak summer (July-August) if possible, as the narrow roads and small village infrastructure become congested; locals prefer the quieter shoulder seasons of June and September.
• Hiking Etiquette — Stay on marked trails at the glacier and valley walks; the terrain is fragile and weather changes rapidly, so start early and bring proper gear regardless of forecast.
• Cash and Small Shops — Many village establishments are small family businesses that may not accept cards, so carry Norwegian kroner for cafés, shops, and parking areas.