Shared Tour of Geiranger from Hellesylt

Shared Tour of Geiranger from Hellesylt: A Balanced Look at Norway’s Famous Fjord Experience

Norway’s fjords are world-renowned for their dramatic landscapes, and this shared bus tour from Hellesylt to Geiranger promises to showcase some of the best views and natural wonders. Priced at around $185 per person, the tour lasts approximately 7.5 hours and is designed for travelers looking for a guided, sightseeing experience that hits key highlights along the way. It’s a popular choice, often booked about two months in advance, and provides a convenient way to see the fjords without the hassle of self-driving.

One thing we appreciate about this tour is its carefully curated itinerary, which includes stops at iconic locations like Hornindal Lake—the deepest in Europe—and the breathtaking Dalsnibba mountain top. However, some travelers have noted issues with the tour’s pacing and guide enthusiasm, which can affect the overall experience. If you’re someone who loves scenic viewpoints, knowledgeable guides, and a hassle-free day of sightseeing, this tour could suit you well. But if you prefer a more flexible or personalized adventure, you might want to consider other options.

Key Points

• Spectacular Views: The tour offers some of the most iconic fjord and mountain vistas in the region.
• Well-Selected Stops: Highlights include Hornindal Lake, Oppstryn Lake, Jostedalsbreen Center, Øvstefossen Waterfall, and Dalsnibba mountain.
• Group Size and Convenience: Limited to 48 travelers, with a shared vehicle and a guided experience in English.
• Weather Flexibility: The itinerary may shift if weather conditions aren’t favorable, especially for Dalsnibba views.
• Timing and Logistics: Designed to match cruise schedules for a time-efficient experience.
• Potential Downsides: Some reviews mention brief stop times and less motivated guides, which could impact the enjoyment for some travelers.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

This tour begins at the Coop Market in Hellesylt, a straightforward starting point close to the pier, making it ideal for cruise travelers. From here, the journey kicks off with a visit to Hornindalsvatn Lake, the deepest in Europe at 514 meters. This stop is perfect for quick photos and taking in the vastness of one of Norway’s natural marvels. Reviewers appreciate the scenic beauty but note the very brief 15-minute stop, which doesn’t leave much time for exploring or capturing the perfect shot.

Next, the bus heads to Stryn, a charming town known for its inviting streets and clothing stores. It’s a short 20-minute break—enough for stretching your legs and maybe grabbing a quick coffee—before continuing to one of the region’s educational highlights: Jostedalsbreen Nasjonalparksenter. This stop is more about learning than sightseeing, where you can gain some insight into glaciers, which adds context to Norway’s icy landscapes.

The tour then proceeds to Øvstefossen Waterfall, a picturesque cascade that makes for a nice photo stop. The falls are accessible and free, and the brief 15-minute window here is enough for a quick snap or two. Many travelers find this location charming, especially given its accessibility en route to the fjord landscapes.

Perhaps the most anticipated parts of the trip are the stops at Dalsnibba Mountain and Djupvatn Lake. At Dalsnibba, you’ll reach an altitude of 1500 meters, where a panoramic view of Geiranger, the Eagle Bend, and surrounding waterfalls unfolds. This spot is the tour’s marquee highlight—offering arguably some of the best fjord scenery on land. The ticket to Dalsnibba is included, and the road up is a privat toll road, adding a layer of exclusivity to the experience. However, weather can be unpredictable at this elevation, and if visibility is poor, the guide might substitute this with an alternative viewpoint.

Just below, Djupvatn Lake is another visual treat, sitting at 1030 meters above sea level. Reviewers mention the lake’s icy appearance and depth—at least 188 meters deep—as a stunning backdrop. The 20-minute stop provides an opportunity for photos, though again, time is limited.

The tour culminates at the Geiranger Skywalk, which offers breathtaking views of the fjord from a mountain vantage point. It’s a fitting finale to a day packed with spectacular scenery. Afterward, the bus returns to Hellesylt, ensuring you’re back in plenty of time for your cruise departure.

Transportation, Timing, and Group Experience

Transportation is provided in an air-conditioned vehicle that’s comfortable for travel over mountain roads and winding fjord routes. The small group size, limited to 48 travelers, helps maintain a more intimate atmosphere, but some reviews suggest that guides may not always be as enthusiastic as travelers hope. One reviewer noted their guide seemed unmotivated, which can sometimes affect the overall feeling of the experience.

Timing is structured to ensure cruise ship passengers aren’t left waiting. The tour guarantees a “Back in Time” return, allowing you to make your cruise comfortably after the trip. The stops are brief, typically around 15-20 minutes, which keeps the day moving briskly but might leave some wishing for more time at each location.

The Value Perspective

At $185.64 per person, the tour offers good value considering the transportation, included road tolls, and key scenic stops. The price reflects not just the experience but also the convenience of guided transportation and the assurance of timing for cruise schedules. However, the brief stops and variable guide enthusiasm may dampen the experience for travelers seeking a more in-depth exploration.

Authentic Traveler Insights

One reviewer, Heike, appreciated how “the route was very good” and highlighted the many noteworthy points visited. Still, she found the guide lacked motivation, and the limited time at each stop was a downside. Conversely, another traveler, Mario, praised the stunning views of the frozen lake but noted the challenge of finding the bus at the start—something to be mindful of if arriving by cruise.

A particularly alarming review detailed a mix-up where travelers were removed from the bus because they weren’t on the official list. While this appears to be an isolated incident, it underscores the importance of confirming your registration details before the tour.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is best suited for travelers who want a guided, efficient way to see some of Norway’s most famous fjord sights without the hassle of driving. It’s ideal if you’re short on time, especially for cruise passengers, thanks to the guaranteed return schedule. The stops are brief but well-chosen, offering memorable vistas and a taste of Norway’s natural diversity.

However, if you’re after a more personal or flexible experience, or prefer to spend more time exploring each site, this tour might feel rushed. Also, if your main interest is in deep learning or extensive glacier knowledge, you may want to supplement this with a dedicated glacier or hiking tour.

The Sum Up

In essence, this shared bus tour offers a convenient and scenic overview of Geiranger’s highlights, perfect for those who want a snapshot of Norway’s fjords without too much fuss. The inclusion of key viewpoints like Dalsnibba and Hornindal Lake makes it worthwhile, especially for first-timers. The comfort of guided transportation, combined with the guarantee of returning in time for your cruise, makes it a practical choice—despite some reviews pointing out the brief stops and variable guide enthusiasm.

For travelers who value stunning vistas, informative guides, and efficient planning, this tour can be a highlight of a Norwegian voyage. But if you’re craving a more leisurely, in-depth exploration, you might want to explore other options or consider private tours for a more personalized experience.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for cruise passengers? Yes, it’s designed to fit within cruise schedules, with a guarantee to return in time for your ship’s departure.

How long is the entire tour? The approximate duration is 7 hours and 30 minutes, including all stops.

What is included in the price? The tour covers transportation, a private road toll fee for Dalsnibba, and guided commentary in English.

Are meals included? No, lunch is not included, so plan on bringing snacks or eating beforehand.

Can I join this tour if I don’t speak English? The tour is guided in English, and while there might be a second language offered depending on the group, it’s not guaranteed.

What should I wear? Dress warmly and comfortably, especially at higher altitudes where weather can change quickly.

What if the weather is bad? The itinerary might be adjusted, especially for Dalsnibba, which is weather-dependent. The guide will suggest the best available viewpoints.

Is there a maximum group size? Yes, the tour limits groups to 48 travelers, making it relatively comfortable for a bus experience.

In summary, this tour offers a solid overview of some of Norway’s most spectacular sights, especially suited for travelers with limited time or those on a cruise. Despite some minor drawbacks noted in reviews, the stunning scenery and well-chosen stops make it a worthwhile option for scenic lovers eager to see the fjords with ease.