Press release -
Discover the dazzling delights of autumn in Fjord Norway
With a stunning landscape bursting with vibrant autumnal hues, clean, crisp air, and the ever-changing tapestry of weather, autumn emerges as the most diverse and captivating season in Fjord Norway. It's a time when nature puts on a spectacular show, offering a feast for the senses. As the leaves turn shades of red, orange, and yellow, and the air gets filled with the scent of fallen leaves, autumn invites exploration and immersion in the beauty of the Norwegian fjords.
Lace up your hiking boots
Autumn is a hiker’s paradise in the breathtaking fjord landscapes. With the summer crowds gone, you can venture out to iconic places like Trolltunga (the troll´s tongue) and Preikestolen (The Pulpit Rock) without having to stand in queues. It’s also the perfect season to discover hidden gems, where you can experience the tranquility of nature without interruption. Near fjord cities such as Ålesund, Bergen and Stavanger, countless trails await exploration, offering awe-inspiring views and the chance to reconnect with nature.
Early autumn presents an ideal opportunity to visit glaciers like Folgefonna or witness majestic waterfalls such as Langfoss. It’s also the season to experience the raw power of coastal autumn storms. Urban explorers can embark on city hikes, immersing themselves in street art, history, and culinary experiences. With sturdy footwear and a sense of adventure, autumn invites you to discover Fjord Norway on foot—each step revealing a new natural wonder.
From fjord to fork – a culinary harvest
Autumn marks the harvest season in Fjord Norway, a time when orchards and hillsides along the fjords are filled with fruits and berries. Apples, plums, cherries, pears, and raspberries are hanging from the trees, inviting visitors to taste their sweetness. Fruit farms along the fjords offer the opportunity to pick your own and sample homemade delights—from jams and juices to cakes and candies. The unique soil and climate of the region lend a distinctive flavor to the produce, making autumn the perfect season to dig into its culinary treasures.
As you explore the flavors of the fjords, every bite reflects the surrounding nature. Few places in the world offer such high-quality seafood, world-class cheeses, and crisp cider made from sun-ripened fruit grown in the fjord valleys. Step into a traditional eldhus (firehouse) at Voss and learn how locals once brewed farm ale under the ancient Gulatingslova law. Or taste clipfish (dried and salted cod) from the very area where the world’s most sought-after variety is produced in Northwestern Fjord Norway. Relish the finest local cuisine, connect with the people behind the flavors, and discover how fresh ingredients from fjords, fields, mountains, and sea transform into unforgettable culinary experiences.
Sleep surrounded by nature – unique stays
For those seeking a deeper connection to nature, Fjord Norway offers a range of unique accommodations that blend seamlessly with the landscape. Whether it’s sleeping in a treehouse nestled high among the branches, glamping along the fjord’s edge, spending the night in a historic lighthouse, or retreating to a design hotel with the river as its closest neighbor—these stays offer a front-row seat to nature’s grandeur. As you drift off to sleep to the sound of the forest or the gentle lapping of waves, you’ll find yourself immersed in the tranquility of the Norwegian wilderness.
Living culture – where tradition meets innovation
For those drawn to the charm of villages and cities, autumn offers a chance to explore inviting cities like Ålesund, Bergen and Stavanger. With its pastel-coloured Art Nouveau buildings and decorative facades, Ålesund is a city of contrasts—just like its cuisine. The Geirangerfjord, known for its breathtaking views, takes on new dimensions as the autumn palette transforms the landscape. In Stavanger, cultural events and festivals abound, offering a glimpse into the region’s dynamic arts scene. From symphony concerts to street art festivals, there's no shortage of inspiration. Take a leisurely stroll through historic streets, mingle with locals at cozy cafés, and experience the unique blend of tradition and innovation that defines Fjord Norway.
Along the coast and deep into the fjords, you’ll find fascinating traces of Norway’s Viking heritage—a legacy that has shaped the nation’s culture and way of life. In Haugesund, just north of Stavanger, and in Sunnhordland, south of Bergen, you can step back in time and learn more about Viking kings, the Christianization of Norway, and how Viking culture still influences modern Norwegian identity.
Ride through nature and history
Traveling by train is a comfortable, sustainable, and beautiful way to experience the fjord region. But it’s not just about railway tracks surrounded by stunning nature—train travel here can also offer captivating storytelling that turns the journey into a highlight.
The Rauma Railway, which takes you into the northern part of Fjord Norway, combines one of the world’s most scenic train journeys with gripping history from World War II. During the war, 49 tons of gold were secretly transported via this route to Åndalsnes before being shipped out of the country aboard British warships. If you want to learn more about the gold transport, The Golden Train is the perfect choice, taking you on a historic journey along the Rauma Railway.
You can also take the car—and let the journey itself become part of the adventure. A drive through the fjord landscape can be both scenic and deeply enriching, offering encounters with history, culture, and wild nature. Choose one of the many Norwegian Scenic Route, like the world-famous Atlantic Road between Molde and Kristiansund, winding its way across a series of small islands and elegant bridges, right at the edge of the ocean. The experience is nothing short of spectacular, with the road dancing across the sea in harmony with the rugged coastal surroundings. Along the way, a stop in the fishing village of Bud reveals powerful stories from the past.
The autumn air – weather & atmosphere
Autumn in Fjord Norway brings a dynamic interplay of weather, with temperatures ranging from below 10 °C to around 20 °C in early autumn. As the season progresses, the landscape undergoes a dramatic transformation, with bursts of sunlight giving way to sudden showers and gusts of wind. While some scenic routes close with the first snow in the mountains, there are still plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure. Local guide companies offer seasonal excursions, providing the necessary equipment and expertise for safe exploration. Whether you’re navigating coastal trails or trekking through mountain passes, autumn in Fjord Norway promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of nature.
Average low–high temperatures: 3–15 °C
Getting Here – Easy access to autumn adventures
Bergen, Stavanger, and Ålesund all offer flight routes to nearly every major European city, with excellent accessibility in early autumn. Later in the season, some summer routes may end, but you’ll still find a wide selection of direct flights to many European destinations. The regional airline Widerøe operates an extensive network of short-haul flights within Fjord Norway, making it easy to travel between towns and villages by air.
Car rental companies like Avis Fjord Mobility let you pick up a car in one city and drop it off in another, while buses and ferries connect the region for both visitors and locals. With so many convenient options, it’s easy to explore the entire region—and enjoy everything Fjord Norway has to offer in the autumn.
Great autumn destinations to explore in Fjord Norway
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Ålesund, Geiranger and the Sunnmøre region – Combine art nouveau architecture, world heritage fjords and a myriad of islands. In the Northwest region - drive the iconic Atlantic Road or ride the Rauma Railway through wild valleys and waterfalls. Taste world-class seafood, bold cheeses, local cider and experience Norways most awesome roadtrips.
- Sunnhordland – offers fjords, mountains and authentic coastal culture. Experience the dramatic landscapes of Åkrafjorden, peaceful fjord cruises, beautiful autumn hikes, and flavourful culinary experiences rooted in nature. Sunnhordland invites you to slow down, connect with nature, and enjoy the very best of Fjord Norway.
- Voss – A beautiful rural town, easily accessible by train and the perfect base for exploring the heart of Fjord Norway. Enjoy a blend of nature, culture and luxury through activities like hiking through Nærøy Valley (UNESCO landscape), beer brewing in a traditional firehouse, and relaxing in an outdoor jacuzzi before dining at Elva design hotel.
- Hardangerfjord – Fjords, mountains, glaciers, and vibrant villages. The Hardangerfjord-region contains the best Norway has to offer. With a rich culinary history, high quality accommodations with world-class hospitality, world-renowned icons, and unique nature experiences, it's no wonder why Hardanger has been a beloved destination for centuries.
- Haugesund – The viking destination of Fjord Norway. Discover a region full of contrasts, from the fresh and vibrant coast to the calm fjord. Enjoy exciting activities in Åkrafjord or explore the historic fishing village of Skudeneshavn.
- At the Edge of Norway, the Stavanger region is your perfect autumn escape. Breathe fresh mountain air, feel the ocean spray, and enjoy the vibrant city atmosphere. Stavanger offers modern hotels, MICHELIN-star dining, street art, museums, and shopping. Just 30 minutes away, explore fjords, steep mountains, and sandy beaches. Discover the top 9 things to do in Stavanger here.
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Ryfylke – home to the iconic Preikestolen. Here you can
taste award-winning apple cider, visit Fjord Norway's only winery and stay in unique design cabins with spectacular views of the Lysefjord.
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Fjord Norge AS/Fjord Norway is the official tourist board of Western Norway. Our main functions are international marketing of the Fjord Norway region, press-and study trips, and to convey information from the Fjord Norway region to tour operators, press and consumers worldwide. Find more information on our website.
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