On Track: Hiking Norway's Fjordland

To give you a deeper understanding of our walking holidays in Europe, we introduce our On Track series — a collection of quick Q&As on specific trips in our programme. This first instalment features resident guide John, who recently hiked the routes of our Fjordland walking holiday in Norway. We describe the trip as "a wide-ranging introduction to trekking in Norway, featuring a range of walks of different standards in varied and dramatic scenery."

1. What is special about hiking in Norway?

There is a frontier, wild feeling to hiking in Norway. The scenery can be bleak and beautiful in places, with expansive vistas over distant lakes. You pass through stretches of forest and then suddenly find the fjords, with some of the most dramatic scenery imaginable.

2. How does the Norwegian landscape compare to other regions?

Norway has aspects similar to Sweden, of course, but it can also feel like parts of Scotland and Iceland. There are moderate fells and glacial features, and Norway shares much of the same geology as the Scottish Highlands. The weather is broadly similar too — southern Norway sits at roughly the same latitude as northern Scotland.

3. What is the weather like when walking in Norway?

Norwegian weather is frontal and fickle — it can do anything at these latitudes. There is great trekking here, but you should be prepared with good shell clothing and a positive attitude. The weather changes constantly. Our programme includes walks of different standards to allow for the vagaries of the conditions, and the walking remains dramatic whatever the weather throws at you.

4. Will we encounter other walkers on the trip?

It depends on the day and where you are. On most of the walks during my week in July, I saw between five and twelve people — not many at all. On more tourist-oriented routes like Myrdal to Flam you might see a few dozen, though mostly cyclists. Most Norwegians speak excellent English and are happy to help if you need directions or assistance.

Norway hiking holidays with Walkers' Britain and Europe

5. Where can I stop for a drink or a snack?

On the walks, there are few places to buy refreshments and some of the huts are unmanned. There are a couple of cafes on certain routes — quite charming spots, including one in an old farmhouse and another in a former railwayman's cottage. Walking in Norway places a strong emphasis on the self-reliant experience, so make sure you stock up on snacks and fill your flask before heading out each morning. Our route notes will cover this in more detail.