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If you’re cruising through Norway’s fjords or planning a day trip from Andalsnes, the Geiranger Highlights tour offered by Excursions.no is an option worth considering. It promises a quick but scenic overview of some of the most iconic viewpoints in the UNESCO World Heritage site of Geirangerfjord, with stops at Flydalsjuvet and Eagle Bend. While this tour is praised for its stunning vistas and knowledgeable guides, some travelers have pointed out challenges like the narrow, winding roads and the limited time at each stop.
What we appreciate about this tour is the focus on photo-worthy vantage points and clear audio guides in multiple languages, making it accessible to a diverse group of travelers. On the flip side, a few reviewers mention that the short stops and variable audio quality can hinder the experience. This tour is best suited for those who want a brief but picturesque glimpse of Geiranger’s highlights without the hassle of self-driving or extensive walking.
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or visiting Geiranger for the first time, this tour provides a convenient way to see the key viewpoints while learning about the area’s natural beauty. Now, let’s go into more detail about what you can expect, the pros and cons, and whether this experience aligns with your travel style.
Key Points
- Scenic viewpoints: Flydalsjuvet and Eagle Bend offer iconic photo opportunities.
- Expert commentary: Audio guides available in 8 languages enhance understanding.
- Narrow roads: The drive involves hairpin turns and steep, winding roads, which can be nerve-wracking for some.
- Limited stops: Each stop is brief, around 10-15 minutes, ideal for quick photos and snapshots.
- No hotel pickup: Participants meet at a central location in Geiranger.
- Value consideration: The price is reasonable for two major viewpoints but may feel pricey for the short duration.
What the Tour Includes and How It Works
The tour begins at a centrally located meeting point in Geiranger, which is accessible near public transport—an advantage for cruise passengers and independent travelers alike. From there, you’ll hop onto a bus driven along the winding roads leading to the most photographed spots in the area.
The itinerary is straightforward:
– First stop: Flydalsjuvet, a cliffside viewpoint famed for its panoramic vistas of the fjord and its signature sharp drops—perfect for those Instagram moments. Reviewers note it as “one of Norway’s most photographed highlights,” which is no exaggeration.
– Second stop: Eagle Bend (Ornesvingen), perched above the Seven Sisters Waterfalls, offers an expansive view of the fjord with a chance to snap that perfect shot. The hairpin bends on the drive make this leg a bit nerve-wracking but also highlight the engineering marvel of the roads.
Audio guides are available in eight languages, giving context about the scenery and area history, which adds educational value. Yet, some reviews mention that the headsets fade out or are hard to hear, so bringing your own earphones or supplementing with onboard commentary might improve the experience.
Looking for more options in Andalsnes? Here are some other experiences worth considering.
The Experience at Each Stop
Flydalsjuvet is the primary highlight. As a famous photo spot, it’s worth the brief 15-minute stop. Expect to take in sweeping views over the fjord, with plenty of opportunities to capture the scenery from different angles. According to travelers, the views at Flydalsjuvet are unforgettable, and many comment on how busy it can get with other visitors eager for their selfies.
Eagle Bend (Ornesvingen) is often praised as a magnificent viewpoint that provides a broad perspective of Geiranger and its waterfalls. The cliffside location offers a dramatic backdrop, and the 10-minute stop is enough for quick photos. Several reviewers appreciated the expert driving skills needed for the hairpin bends, with one mentioning that their driver navigated the narrow roads “with excellent skill,” even on a busy day.
However, the short duration at each stop can be a downside. Travelers wanting to linger or explore more in-depth might find the 15-minute window limiting. As one review bluntly put it, the tour is “basta corta,” or quite brief, with some missing out on extra sights like the Seven Sisters waterfalls or other nearby viewpoints.
The Winding Road Challenge
One common theme in reviews is the drive itself. The roads are narrow, steep, and lined with hairpin turns, which makes for an exciting but potentially nerve-wracking journey. Several travelers commented that the bus, being relatively large, had trouble maneuvering on the tight curves. One reviewer noted that the driver stalled on a turn, which underlines the tricky nature of the roads.
On the plus side, some reviewers, like Sandy, give high marks for the driver’s skill and the scenic drive. If you’re prone to motion sickness or anxious about tight roads, this might be a point to consider.
Timing and Group Size
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes, making it a time-efficient way to see some of Geiranger’s top viewpoints. Keep in mind that groups are limited to 48 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate enough but can still feel crowded at popular spots.
The meeting point is convenient and near public transport, but some reviews hint at occasional logistical hiccups. For example, a couple of guests experienced confusion or delays, emphasizing the importance of arriving 15 minutes early and providing your accurate contact info.
Price and Overall Value
At around $75.39 per person, this tour is fairly priced considering it includes two major viewpoints, audio guides in eight languages, and a scenic drive. However, some reviewers feel that the short stops and the additional costs for extra sights make it less of a bargain, especially if you prefer a more leisurely exploration.
You should weigh whether snapping quick photos at two key spots and learning a bit about the area fits your travel style. For those on a tight schedule or first-time visitors wanting rapid access to the highlights, the value is clear. But if you are craving a more in-depth experience or longer exploration, you might want to consider other options or self-guided touring.
You might also want to explore these Andalsnes activities
Who Would Enjoy This Tour?
This experience is best suited for travelers who:
– Want a quick, scenic overview of Geiranger with minimal hassle.
– Appreciate photo opportunities at iconic viewpoints.
– Don’t mind a short, sometimes bumpy ride along narrow, winding roads.
– Value multilingual audio commentary.
– Are okay with brief stops and a group tour setting.
It’s less ideal for those seeking in-depth exploration or extended time at each site. It also may not be suitable for travelers with mobility issues due to the short but somewhat bumpy stops and the narrow roads.
Final Thoughts
This tour offers a cost-effective way to get a taste of Geiranger’s breathtaking vistas, especially if you’re short on time or prefer guided transport to the most photogenic spots. Its highlight features—stellar viewpoints, friendly guides, and expert driving—make it a respectable choice for first-time visitors or cruise passengers wanting a snapshot of the fjord.
However, the brief stops and challenging roads mean it’s not for everyone. If you’re looking for a relaxing, in-depth day out, you might find this experience a bit rushed or limited. But if your goal is to capture stunning photos and learn a little about the area’s natural beauty, this tour delivers on those fronts.
The value hinges on your expectations: it’s a swift, scenic snapshot rather than a comprehensive tour. For many, it will be a memorable, picturesque experience—especially if you’re prepared for the winding roads and brief stops.
FAQ
Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup. Participants meet at a designated central location in Geiranger.
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes, including stops for photos and scenic viewing.
Are the viewpoints accessible for photos?
Yes, Flydalsjuvet and Eagle Bend are popular photo spots designed for visitors to capture the stunning scenery, with 15-minute stops at each.
Is this tour suitable for cruise ship passengers?
Yes, the tour is adapted for cruise arrivals and departures, with a guarantee to return to the ship if you register your cruise details in advance, provided the tour ends at least 1 hour before your ship departs.
What are the main negatives mentioned by reviewers?
Many mention the short duration at each stop and the challenging narrow roads with hairpin turns. Some also experienced issues with headsets and logistical organization.
What language options are available for audio guides?
Audio guides are offered in eight different languages, making it accessible to a wide range of travelers.
Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the start are non-refundable.
To sum it up, if you’re after a convenient, scenic way to see Geiranger’s highlights with some fantastic photo opportunities, this tour can be a good fit. Just be prepared for short stops and winding roads, and set your expectations accordingly. It’s a straightforward, well-priced option—perfect for those who want a snapshot of Norway’s iconic fjord scenery without the fuss of extensive planning.
