Balestrand - Discovering Norway

Travelling to Balestrand

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Balestrand, a pretty good destination in Norway (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Balestrand and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Balestrand, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Norway, here's everything to know about Balestrand for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Balestrand

Balestrand is a small village located on the northern shore of the Sognefjord in Western Norway. It is situated in the county of Sogn og Fjordane and has a population of approximately 1,300 people. This picturesque village is known for its scenic beauty and is a popular destination for tourists who come to enjoy the stunning fjord views, hiking trails, outdoor activities, and cultural attractions. Balestrand has a rich history that dates back to the Viking era, and visitors can explore several museums, churches, and historic sites to learn more about this fascinating past.

What to visit in Balestrand

Certainly! Here are some of the main tourist attractions in Balestrand, Norway: 1. The Norwegian Museum of Travel and Tourism: This museum provides insight into how tourism developed in Norway and features exhibits related to travel by foot, horse, and rail.
2. Kviknes Hotel: This historic hotel dates back to the late 1800s and is known for its impressive architecture and beautiful gardens. It's located on the waterfront, and many guests come here to take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and fjords.
3. Sognefjord: This is Norway's longest and deepest fjord and a popular attraction for tourists. One of the best ways to experience it is by taking a ferry ride or a fjord cruise to see the cascading waterfalls, towering cliffs, and charming villages that line its shores.
4. St. Olaf's Church: This 12th-century church is one of the oldest buildings in Balestrand and is known for its unique architecture and historical significance. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn more about its history and see the stunning stained-glass windows.
5. Balestrand Art Village: This is a vibrant community of artists and artisans who create and sell a wide range of handmade crafts. Visitors can browse the shops, attend workshops, or even join in on a guided art walk to learn more about the artists and their work.
6. Fjaerland Glacier Museum: This museum is dedicated to the study of glaciers and their impact on the environment. Visitors can learn about the science of glaciers, see exhibits of ancient fossils and artifacts, and even take a guided tour of the nearby glaciers.
Balestrand is a beautiful destination with plenty to offer for both nature enthusiasts and history buffs.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Norway, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Balestrand

The best time to visit Balestrand, Norway largely depends on your interest, as each season offers unique experiences and attractions. If you're looking for mild temperatures and long daylight hours, then the best time to visit is from June to August, during the summer. During these months, you will have the opportunity to enjoy various outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and boating, and witnessing the incredible beauty of the surrounding fjords.
Alternatively, if you prefer cooler weather and less crowded spaces, then the best time to visit would be during spring (April to early June) or fall (September to November). you can enjoy the stunning natural landscapes and have an opportunity to see the Northern lights. However, during winter, the town is covered in snow, but it might be only comfortable for those who enjoy snow activities or winter sports. So it largely depends on your interests and what you want to do during your trip.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Balestrand

Balestrand is a small village located on the Sognefjord in west Norway. Here are a few options for getting there: 1. By car: If you are driving, you can take E16 from Bergen to Voss and then Route 13 to Balestrand. The road trip takes about 3 to 4 hours and offers beautiful views of the fjords and mountains.
2. By bus: There are daily bus services from Bergen and Oslo to Balestrand. The bus ride from Bergen takes about 3.5 hours, while the one from Oslo takes around 6.5 hours.
3. By ferry: There are also ferry services that run between Balestrand and nearby villages and towns. This is a scenic route and a great way to see the fjords. The express boat from Bergen to Balestrand takes about 4 hours and operates several times a week during the summer months.
4. By plane: If you are coming from other parts of Norway or abroad, you can fly to Bergen Airport, which is the closest airport to Balestrand. From there, you can rent a car or take a bus or ferry to Balestrand. The distance from the airport to Balestrand is around 225 km.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Balestrand, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Balestrand

Here are some typical foods of Balestrand, Norway with a short description for each of them: - Fårikål: This is a traditional Norwegian stew made with lamb meat and cabbage. It is seasoned with black pepper and cooked slowly until the meat is tender and the flavors meld together.
- Kjøttkaker: These are Norwegian meatballs that are typically made with a blend of ground beef and pork. They are seasoned with spices like nutmeg and allspice and then fried until golden brown.
- Raspeballer: Also known as klubb or komle, raspeballer is a traditional Norwegian potato dumpling. It is made from grated potatoes mixed with flour and boiled until cooked through. It is typically served with bacon, sausages, or lingonberry jam.
- Lutefisk: This is a unique and traditional Norwegian dish made with dried whitefish that has been soaked in lye for several days. It is then soaked in water to remove the lye and boiled until cooked through. It is typically served with potatoes, bacon, and mustard sauce.
- Brunost: Also known as brown cheese, brunost is a caramelized cheese that is made by boiling milk, cream, and whey together. The resulting cheese is sweet and slightly nutty in flavor with a soft, fudgy texture.
- Fiskesuppe: This is a hearty fish soup that is made with a variety of fish, vegetables, and spices. It is typically served with freshly baked bread and butter.
You can find general info about typical foods in Norway here.

Is Balestrand an expensive destination for tourists?

Balestrand is generally considered to be a somewhat expensive destination for tourists, as Norway is known to be one of the more expensive countries to travel in. Accommodations in Balestrand tend to be on the pricier side, but there are options available for all budgets. Food and activities can also be expensive, but visitors can save money by shopping at grocery stores and choosing simpler activities such as hiking or biking. Additionally, traveling during the shoulder season (May-June and September-October) can result in lower prices for accommodations and activities.

Where to find accomodation in Balestrand

Balestrand is a small village in western Norway that is popular among tourists for its stunning scenery and outdoor activities. The best areas to find accommodation in Balestrand are: 1. The village center: This area has several hotels, guesthouses, and bed and breakfasts within walking distance to the waterfront and local attractions.
2. Sognefjord: Sognefjord is the longest and deepest fjord in Norway and offers a variety of accommodation options, including traditional cabins and lodges with stunning fjord views.
3. Fjordside Villages: There are several small villages located along the fjord, such as Fjærland and Vik, that offer a quieter and more secluded experience with plenty of hiking trails and outdoor activities nearby.
Overall, most accommodations in Balestrand offer easy access to the village's top attractions, such as the Norwegian Museum of Travel and Tourism and the St. Olaf's Church, as well as opportunities to hike, bike, kayak, and explore the surrounding countryside.
You can check hotel prices at Balestrand here:
Booking.com

Is Balestrand a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Balestrand is generally considered a safe place for tourists. Norway, in general, is known to have a low crime rate and is a safe destination for travelers. However, it's always important to take normal travel precautions, such as being aware of your surroundings and keeping your valuables safe. It's also a good idea to adhere to local customs and cultural norms to show respect to local inhabitants.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Norway here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Balestrand.

What type of travelers will enjoy Balestrand the most?

Balestrand in Norway could be enjoyed by various types of travelers, but it is more suitable for couples and families who prefer a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere surrounded by natural beauty. The town is located in a beautiful fjord area with stunning scenery. It is an ideal place for those who enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, kayaking, or biking. You can also take a leisurely stroll around the town, exploring its picturesque houses, charming gardens, and impressive art galleries. It is not a place for those looking for lively nightlife or entertainment, so it might not be the best choice for young people looking for fun. However, if you are seeking tranquility, breathtaking landscapes, and cultural experiences with your loved ones, Balestrand can be a perfect destination.

How to get around Balestrand

Balestrand is a small village located by the Sognefjord in Norway, and its size makes it ideal to explore on foot or by bicycle. However, if you need to travel further away or don't want to walk or bike, you can use local transportation such as buses or taxis. There are also ferries that operate between Balestrand and nearby towns, offering scenic views of Norway's fjords.

What to see around Balestrand

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Balestrand: 1. Flåm: Known for its stunning fjord views, Flåm is a great place to visit for its scenic railway and boat tours. It's about a 2-hour drive from Balestrand.
2. Jostedalsbreen National Park: This park is famous for its glaciers and offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, skiing, and snowboarding. It's located about 1.5 hours from Balestrand.
3. Fjaerland: Fjaerland is a small village located in the heart of Norway's glacier region. You can explore the village's glaciers and learn about the history of the area's settlers.
4. Sognefjellsvegen: This is a mountain road that offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. It's a great place to take a scenic drive and stop for a picnic.
5. Vikoyri: A picturesque village located about 45 minutes from Balestrand that's set against a backdrop of high mountains and a beautiful fjord. It's known for its preserved old houses and museums.
I hope these suggestions help!
For every travel information about Norway you can click here.

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