Amazing Destinations to Explore in the South of Norway
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Southern Norway with Kathryn Bird, as she shares her personal journey and recommendations for a self-guided road trip.
Due to bad weather, the author skipped Bergen on their road trip, but they did have the chance to witness the Northern Lights several years ago on a Norwegian cruise. Although photography wasn't their forte, the experience was unforgettable.
The highlight of the trip was riding down Trollstigen Road on a motorbike. This twisty, turny road offers an exhilarating ride and is highly recommended for those who dare to drive or ride for themselves.
The author never planned to embark on this adventure. They didn't initially intend to buy a motorhome, quit their job as an air traffic controller, or start a motorhome travel website. But fate had other plans.
Southern Norway is home to some of the most breathtaking places the author has ever seen. Preikestolen, a famous Southern Norway hiking spot, offers views that are simply awe-inspiring. Unfortunately, the author didn't hike up to the top due to a movie screening.
For those planning a road trip to Norway, the author offers a free travel guide that includes maps and photos. The guide covers 11 must-see destinations, including Preikestolen, Oslo, Bergen, Flamsbana Railway, and The Norwegian Fjords.
Other notable mentions include Sverd i fjell, a place with three huge carved swords in the rock and breathtaking views across the bay, located near Stavanger. The Northern Lights, although rarely visible during the summer months in Southern Norway, can be best seen north of the Arctic Circle.
Bergen, a pretty city with a lot to offer, including medieval buildings, traditional costumes, and stunning views across the sea, is also a must-visit. The Norwegian Fjords, with their breathtaking beauty, are a must-see on any itinerary in Norway.
The author suggests a self-guided road trip as the best way to explore Southern Norway. Here are the 11 best places to visit:
- Vøringsfossen Waterfall – One of Norway’s most iconic waterfalls, offering dramatic views along the route from Oslo to Bergen.
- Eidfjord – A lovely fjord-side village, perfect for exploring local nature and culture as part of a scenic drive.
- Borgund Stave Church – One of Norway’s best-preserved original stave churches, famous for its medieval wooden architecture.
- Stegastein Viewpoint – Provides sweeping views over the UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord, reached via a short hairpin turn road or shuttle from Flåm.
- Bergen – A colorful and historic city known as the gateway to fjords and an excellent base for road trips along the coast.
- Ålesund – Known for its fairytale Art Nouveau architecture, this coastal city offers picturesque streets and access to nearby fjords.
- Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) – A famous hiking destination near Stavanger, offering breathtaking views of Lysefjorden; hiking here is a must for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Stavanger – A vibrant coastal city with a charming old town (Gamle Stavanger) and cultural sites such as the Stavanger Cathedral and Norwegian Petroleum Museum, plus sandy beaches.
- Tungeneset Viewpoint – A wooden walkway extending over the rocks with epic views of the Okshornan peaks on the coastline.
- Bergsbotn Platform – A 44-meter-long platform overlooking the Bergsfjord and nearby villages, perfect for panoramic photo opportunities.
- Svandalfossen Waterfall – Located near Suldal, it features a dramatic 540-step staircase providing close proximity to the cascading water.
These sites offer a comprehensive road trip route across Southern Norway’s fjords, mountains, waterfalls, and cultural landmarks, ideal for a self-guided adventure with a mix of hiking, sightseeing, and charming towns.
The author also recommends driving through the world's longest tunnel, which has rest stops in several places in the middle. The Flamsbana Railway is another great way to get up into the mountains without hiking, see an incredible waterfall, and some of the best views in the area.
So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Southern Norway!
- For those needing help with shopping for the road trip, consider purchasing essentials like food-and-drink supplies, travel gear, and fashion-and-beauty items before setting off.
- In addition to the breathtaking natural landscapes, Southern Norway offers a variety of pet-friendly accommodations and attractions, making it an ideal destination for travelers with pets.
- The author's relationship with Southern Norway deepened as they discover the unique local lifestyle, from traditional food-and-drink offerings to home-and-garden practices that have been passed down through generations.
- For avid photographers, capturing the dazzling beauty of Southern Norway through landscapes, wildlife, or local lifestyles would make for an impressive portfolio or collection.
- The road trip through Southern Norway is a memorable journey, with opportunities to unwind in charming towns like cars parked along the picturesque streets, or explore the vibrant nightlife in bustling cities like Bergen.
