Geiranger by Royal route, 5 hours with visiting a high-mountain farm

Imagine cruising through one of Norway’s most breathtaking fjords, surrounded by towering mountains and cascading waterfalls—now, picture doing it privately, with a touch of regal elegance. That’s exactly what the Geiranger by Royal Route tour offers: a five-hour journey designed for travelers who want to see the highlights without the typical crowds, and with a dash of luxury. From dramatic viewpoints to a gourmet alpine restaurant, this experience neatly combines natural beauty with exclusive comforts.

What truly sets this tour apart is its carefully curated itinerary, taking you to five iconic vantage points and a high-mountain farm—yet it does so with a level of personalized service that’s rare in busy tour groups. Plus, the inclusion of snacks, bottled water, and a reserved table for a Norwegian meal adds value that many other excursions lack.

A potential consideration? At $1,154.13 for a group of up to four, it’s not the cheapest option, but you’re paying for the intimacy, the expert guidance, and the unique experience of following Norway’s royal footsteps. This tour best suits travelers who crave a private, immersive day with stunning scenery, cultural insights, and a touch of luxury—perfect for honeymooners, couples, or those celebrating a special occasion.

Key Points

• Exclusive Private Experience: Travel in your own group, avoiding crowds and enjoying personalized attention.
• Stunning Scenic Stops: Visit iconic viewpoints like Eagle Road, Flydalsjuvet, and Kilsti for extraordinary fjord vistas.
• Cultural & Royal Connection: Discover how Norwegian royalty and other distinguished visitors have experienced Geiranger.
• Gourmet Norwegian Cuisine: Dine at a cliffside alpine restaurant with a reserved table and enjoy local dishes.
• Comfort & Convenience: Includes snacks, bottled water, and hotel pickup, easing the logistics of a scenic day out.
• Flexible & Well-Structured: The itinerary balances sightseeing, photo opportunities, and relaxation.

An In-Depth Look at the Geiranger Royal Route Experience

Starting Point & Ease of Access

The tour begins at the Geiranger Cruise Terminal, making it incredibly convenient if you’re arriving by ship. The private nature of the tour means you won’t need to juggle large groups or wait for others to finish sightseeing. Instead, your guide from Uniktur will pick you up, ready to whisk you off on a carefully planned route through some of Norway’s most stunning landscapes.

The Spectacular Drive along Ornevegen – Ornesvingen

Your journey kicks off with a stop at Ornevegen, famously known as the Eagle Road. This stretch is renowned for its 11 hairpin bends, carved into steep mountain sides, providing a thrill for drivers and an adrenaline rush for passengers. From the platform at the last bend, you’ll get a view that’s well worth the ascent: a sweeping panorama of the Geirangerfjord and the iconic Seven Sisters waterfall.

Reviewer Charlie_C called this “a must-do tour,” emphasizing the “absolutely stunning scenery” and the guide’s knack for capturing beautiful photos. If you’re into photography, this stop alone offers plenty of picture-perfect moments with minimal crowds, thanks to the private nature of the tour.

Korsmyra Viewpoint & Mountain Vistas

Next, a quick stop at Korsmyra provides a stunning view of the Storseterfossen waterfall and the deep valley below. This photostop is brief—around five minutes—but it’s a chance to snap memorable photos of the rugged landscape. The scenery here underlines why Geiranger is considered one of the world’s most picturesque fjords.

Alpine Lake Eidsvatnet & Mountain Farms

Moving on, your guide takes you to Eidsvatnet, an alpine lake surrounded by towering mountains and tumbling waterfalls. The setting is idyllic, with grazing farm animals like cows, sheep, and goats adding a touch of charm. Here, the tour includes a visit for photos and bathroom breaks, but the real allure is the peaceful, untouched natural environment. Travelers have noted how this stop offers a genuine sense of Norway’s rural beauty, away from tourist-heavy spots.

Kilsti – The Hidden Gem

One of the more unique stops is Kilsti, a lesser-known viewpoint offering a heart-shaped panorama of the Storfjord, with views of Eidsdal, Valldal, and Sylte villages. This spot is perfect for those seeking a more intimate, less crowded experience, and the panoramic vistas are truly captivating.

Flydalsjuvet & a Royal Seat

Next up is the famous Flydalsjuvet, a dramatic cliffside lookout that’s a favorite among visitors. Here, you’ll see the Chair of Queen Sonja, a symbolic spot that pays homage to Norwegian royalty. According to reviews, the guide even has a little surprise prepared for guests—making this moment not just scenic but special. Expect about 20 minutes here to soak in the views, take photos, and enjoy the fresh mountain air.

Djupvasshytta & Mountain Lake

Continuing the ascent, the tour reaches Djupvatnet, a stunning lake at around 1,000 meters elevation. Surrounded by glaciers and rugged peaks, the lake offers an ideal backdrop for photos. The 30-minute stop allows you to stretch your legs, snap pictures, and appreciate the pristine environment.

Gourmet Lunch at Westerås Restaurant

No scenic tour would be complete without a satisfying meal, and here, the Westerås Restaurant delivers. Set with a breathtaking view over Geiranger village, this two-hour stop combines gourmet Norwegian dishes with traditional flavors. Guests often describe the food as delicious, and the peaceful mountain setting makes it a memorable culinary experience.

Ending with a Riverside Walk

The tour concludes with a gentle walk along the Geiranger river near Hotel Union, where you can enjoy the sound of waterfalls and the sight of wild, cascading water. It’s a fitting end to a day filled with natural wonders.

The Value of This Tour

While at over $1,150 for a group of four, this experience isn’t the cheapest, it offers significant value in its personalized approach, luxury touches, and carefully curated stops. The inclusion of bottled water, snacks, and a high-quality lunch at a scenic location means you’re not just paying for transport—you’re paying for a comprehensive, thoughtfully planned day.

The private transportation ensures comfort and flexibility, allowing your guide to adjust the pace or spend extra time at favorite spots. On top of that, guests often praise the knowledgeable guides—not only for their storytelling but also for their ability to take excellent photos, making sure you leave with memories (and pictures) to cherish.

Considering the Cost

Compared to more generic fjord tours, this experience is about the quality of service and exclusivity. If you’re someone who values intimate, well-guided experiences that allow for photos and meaningful stops, this tour hits the mark. For travelers on a budget, it might seem steep, but the added comfort and personalized touches justify the price for those seeking a special day.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This tour is best suited for couples, small groups, or honeymooners who want to explore Geiranger with a private guide, avoiding large crowds. It’s also ideal for those celebrating a special occasion, or anyone who appreciates scenic beauty paired with cultural insights. If you love photography, gourmet food, and a touch of Norwegian royalty, this journey will resonate deeply.

Practical Details & Tips

• Duration: About 5 hours, balancing sightseeing and relaxation.
• Cost: $1,154.13 per group (up to 4 people), offering good value for a private, curated experience.
• Includes: Private transport, snacks, bottled water, and a guided tour.
• Not Included: Lunch at Westerås Restaurant, which is a highlight, and a permit to Mount Dalsnibba (costs 500 NOK).
• Pickup: Offered from Geiranger Cruise Terminal or your hotel.
• Best Time to Book: The tour is available from May to September, with daily departures between 8:00 AM and 2:00 PM.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the route is designed to be accessible for a variety of age groups.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there’s free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the tour. This makes it flexible if your schedule shifts.

Will I have time to take photos?
Absolutely. Each stop offers ample opportunity for photos, and guides are happy to assist in capturing the best shots.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothing, camera gear, and a sense of adventure. Snacks and water are provided, but you might want extra if you’re hungry or prefer specific drinks.

Is lunch included?
No, but you’ll visit the Westerås Restaurant, where you can enjoy a delicious Norwegian meal with a view.

How do I get to the meeting point?
The tour starts at the Geiranger Cruise Terminal, conveniently accessible if arriving by cruise. Pickups from hotels are also offered.

Final Thoughts

This Geiranger by Royal Route tour offers an inviting mix of natural splendor, cultural insight, and luxurious comfort. It’s a wonderful choice for those who want to explore Geiranger’s highlights without the hustle of large groups, all while enjoying personal attention and scenic exclusivity. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or celebrating a special moment, this journey promises unforgettable views and authentic experiences.

While the price may seem high, the carefully curated itinerary, private transport, and gourmet meal make it a memorable investment in your Norwegian adventure. If you value quality over quantity and want a tailored, scenic day out, this tour could very well be your highlight in Norway’s majestic fjords.