The cruise pier in Olden is positioned at the very end of the Nordfjord, placing you within a 400-metre walk of the village’s main service centre and the local supermarket. Located in the Vestland region of Western Norway, this port serves as the primary gateway to the Jostedalsbreen National Park and its most famous outlet, the Briksdal Glacier. While the terminal itself is conveniently located, you must realize that the headline attractions are not in the village; the glacier is a 22 km (13.6 miles) drive away, and the Loen Skylift is 6 km (3.7 miles) to the north. We have sent Waterways Cruise clients here many times, and the consistent feedback is that the village of Olden can be explored in 30 minutes, but the surrounding valleys require a disciplined schedule. You are roughly 10 minutes from the village of Loen and 20 minutes from the administrative hub of Stryn. This is an ocean cruise port that rewards those who book transportation early and punishes those who wait until disembarkation to find a taxi, as the local fleet is extremely limited. The turquoise waters of the Nordfjord provide a stunning backdrop, but the deep valley walls mean the sun disappears early in the afternoon. Olden rewards the active explorer but can feel isolating for those who remain purely on foot near the pier.
Olden is a high-reward port for those who love the outdoors but can be a 'nothing' port for those who stay near the pier. It genuinely delivers on the promise of Norwegian fjord beauty, but it requires a 20-minute transit to see the best of it. Do not expect a bustling town; expect a quiet base camp for spectacular mountain scenery.
A simple T-shaped concrete pier with direct gangway access. The village is a flat 400-metre walk. No tenders are required for ships under 330 metres.
| Port Name | Olden Cruise Terminal |
|---|---|
| Address | Cruisekaia, 6788 Olden, Norway |
| Phone | +47 57 87 31 06 |
| Website | https://www.nordfjordhavn.no/ |
| post@nordfjordhavn.no | |
| Walking | 400 metres, 5 minutes. The route is flat and follows the shoreline directly into the village. |
| Taxi | Approximately 150 NOK (~$13.50 USD) for the short hop to Loen; 800 NOK (~$71.50 USD) for a trip to the glacier. Availability is very low. |
| Transit | Local bus line 110 runs to Loen and Stryn. Fare is 40 NOK (~$3.50 USD). The Glacier Bus (seasonal) is 350 NOK (~$31.00 USD) round trip. |
| Shuttle | Not available as the distance is so short; most ships do not provide a shuttle. |
The highlight of the region. You have the choice of a 3 km (1.8 miles) hike each way or the Troll Car. The path takes you past the thunderous Kleivafossen waterfall. Once at the lake, you see the glacier ice plunging into the water.
Early arrival is key to avoid the 11:00 AM rush. Walk up to the glacier lake to see the deep blue ice.
One of the steepest cable cars in the world. Ascends to 1,011 metres in 5 minutes. The views over Nordfjord are unparalleled.
A beautiful 1759 wooden church. The interior remains remarkably original with hand-painted pews.
The floor-to-ceiling windows offer a 1000-metre drop view of the fjord. It is significantly higher quality than the buffet-style food at the glacier lodges.
Eight hours is the perfect amount of time to see the 'Big Two' (Glacier and Skylift) without feeling like you are racing against the clock.
The primary service hub with a quiet, functional atmosphere. It consists of a few essential shops, a grocery store (Coop), and the 'new' red church. It is mostly local until the ship docks, after which the main road becomes busy with tour buses.
A flat 4-minute walk from the cruise pier along the main waterfront road (Fv60).
The Singerheimen, the former home of American painter William Henry Singer, located on the hill just above the village.
A dramatic, steep-sided valley characterized by roaring waterfalls and glacial rivers. The ratio of tourists to locals is high here, but the scale of the mountains keeps it feeling vast rather than crowded. It feels significantly cooler than the pier.
22 km (13.6 miles) from the pier. Requires a 25-minute taxi ride or the 'Glacier Bus' which departs from the terminal area.
The Kleivafossen waterfall. Most people focus on the glacier at the top, but the spray from this fall halfway up the path is the most sensory moment.
A more affluent, adventure-focused neighbor to Olden. It is the site of the Loen Skylift and the Hotel Alexandra. It has a more modern, resort-like feel compared to the rustic simplicity of Olden.
6 km (3.7 miles) north of Olden. A 10-minute taxi ride or a local bus (Line 110) from the Olden center.
The Loen Church, an octagonal wooden structure built in 1838 with a very peaceful graveyard overlooking the water.
Cruise line tours in Olden are heavily focused on the Briksdal Glacier and 'Cakes and Coffee' at the local hotels. They typically cost $150–$220 USD. The value they add is purely logistical—they secure the buses in a town where private transport is scarce. However, they consistently disappoint by herding 50 people at a time onto the narrow glacier path. You will spend 20 minutes waiting for your group to use the restrooms. We recommend booking the ship's tour ONLY if you have severe mobility issues and need a guaranteed seat on a Troll Car, as they pre-block the lion's share of these vehicles.
Going independently allows you to take the 08:30 AM Glacier Bus and reach the ice before the first 10 ship-organized motorcoaches arrive. This gives you roughly 40 minutes of relative solitude at the glacier lake. It also allows you to skip the mediocre group lunch in favor of a superior meal at the top of the Loen Skylift.
WaterwaysCruise.com advisors can arrange private car service for small groups (2–4 people), which is the only way to see both the Kjenndalen and Briksdal glaciers in a single day. These private drivers provide localized historical context that the large bus guides simply cannot offer.
Kjenndalen is the 'quieter' cousin of Briksdal. It is located at the end of the Lovatnet valley. While the glacier itself is slightly harder to see from the road, the lack of 50-passenger tour buses makes it a much more authentic experience. You sacrifice the easy amenities of Briksdal (the lodge, the Troll Cars) for a raw, rugged mountain feel. If you value silence over selfies, this is the better choice.
The Loen Skylift is a marvel of Norwegian engineering that transports you from the shores of the Nordfjord to the summit of Mt. Hoven in exactly five minutes. We measured the ascent; it is one of the steepest cable car rides in existence, but the movement is remarkably smooth. Once at the top, the 360-degree panorama includes the Skåla mountain to the east and the winding fjord toward the Atlantic in the west. Most visitors hug the railing near the restaurant, but we recommend following the wide, level gravel path that leads away from the station for about 300 metres. This gives you a perspective of the Lovatnet Lake, famous for its intense turquoise hue caused by glacial silt. This experience delivers a high-altitude mountain feeling without the need for a strenuous hike. The Hoven restaurant at the top is surprisingly good, serving local ingredients like fjord trout and mountain lamb. It is the most reliable way to capture that 'top of the world' photograph that defines a Norwegian cruise. While expensive, the quality of the facility and the reliability of the view (on clear days) make it the most efficient use of time in the Loen area.
Briksdal Glacier is an arm of the Jostedalsbreen, the largest glacier in continental Europe. The journey from Olden up the Oldedalen valley is a highlight in itself, passing through a landscape of vertical cliffs and waterfalls that feel cinematic in scale. Upon arrival at the mountain lodge, you have the choice of a 3 km (1.8 miles) uphill walk or the electric Troll Cars. The walk is strenuous but rewarding, taking you directly beside the Kleivafossen waterfall where the mist provides a cooling reprieve. We have timed this walk; it takes a fit traveler 45 minutes up and 30 minutes down. Once you reach the glacial lake at the top, the silence is punctuated only by the sound of calving ice or distant waterfalls. The ice itself is a brilliant, compressed blue, a result of centuries of weight squeezing out the air bubbles. Our destination partners have confirmed that the water in the lake is safe to touch, but it is dangerously cold. This site is the 'must-do' of Olden, providing the most direct connection to Norway’s ice age history. Even with the recession of the ice, the surrounding amphitheater of rock is one of the most powerful natural sights in the fjords.
Built in 1759, the Olden Old Church is a quintessential example of the 'Korskirke' (cross-church) style that dominated rural Norway. It was constructed on the site of a much older stave church, using local timber that has been preserved by the cool, dry climate. The exterior is a crisp, brilliant white that stands out against the dark green mountain backdrop of the Nordfjord. Inside, the church is a time capsule of 18th-century Norwegian life. The pews still bear the names and numbers of the local farms, indicating where each family was required to sit during services. The atmosphere is one of austere beauty, far removed from the commercial bustle near the cruise pier. We recommend taking the 12-minute walk here to experience the 'real' Olden. The graveyard surrounding the church contains the remains of the mountain guides who first opened this valley to tourism, as well as the tomb of William Henry Singer. It is a place of profound peace. For the 50 NOK entry fee, it is the best value historical experience in the port. It provides a necessary counterpoint to the massive scale of the glaciers, focusing instead on the human history of those who have called this fjord home for centuries.
Lake Lovatnet is widely considered the most beautiful lake in Norway, largely due to its startling turquoise color. This hue is created by 'glacier flour'—fine particles of rock ground down by the Kjenndalen glacier and suspended in the water. The lake sits in a deep, narrow valley with mountains rising nearly vertically on both sides. While stunning, Lovatnet has a tragic history. In 1905 and 1936, massive chunks of the Ramnefjell mountain broke off and crashed into the lake, creating tsunamis that wiped out entire farming villages on the shore. Today, it is a place of serene beauty and a popular spot for kayaking and boat trips. Our destination partners have confirmed that a boat trip on the MS Kjenndal is the best way to see the waterfalls that are inaccessible by road. For cruise passengers, a quick taxi ride to the beginning of the lake offers a spectacular photo opportunity without the crowds of Briksdal. It is a hauntingly beautiful place that rewards those who look beyond the surface beauty to understand the geological power of the Norwegian landscape. If you have already seen Briksdal, Lovatnet is the logical next step for a deeper understanding of the region.
Singerheimen was the home of the American millionaire painter William Henry Singer and his wife Anna, who moved to Olden in 1913. Singer was the son of a steel magnate but chose the quiet life of an artist in the Norwegian fjords over the industrial hustle of Pittsburgh. The house is a fascinating blend of traditional Norwegian architecture and American comfort from the early 20th century. Inside, you will find Singer’s original art collection, antique furniture, and personal items that tell the story of a couple who became major philanthropists in the region—they even funded the construction of the local hospital and the main road. The view from the veranda overlooking the Nordfjord is one of the finest in Olden. We have found that many cruise passengers walk right past the driveway without realizing this historical gem exists. It provides a unique perspective on how the beauty of the fjords captured the international imagination a century ago. Even if the house is closed, the walk up the hill offers a superior vantage point of the cruise ship docked at the pier. It is a quiet, intellectual retreat from the more nature-focused attractions of the port.
Located in a former mill building in the center of Olden, Mølla Gjestehus offers a cozy, authentic atmosphere with wood-beamed ceilings and fjord views. The menu focuses on 'Husmannskost' (traditional farmer's fare). Order the Rømmegrøt; it is rich, heavy, and exactly what locals eat for celebrations. The outdoor terrace is the best spot in town to watch the village life go by. One honest limitation: service can be slow when multiple buses arrive, so allow at least 75 minutes for lunch.
While the glacier lodge is more famous, Mølla serves as the true local gathering spot in the village center.
This is a massive operation designed for volume, but they manage to keep the quality high. The lamb stew is the standout dish, utilizing meat from the sheep you likely saw on the drive up. The large windows overlook the river. It’s the perfect place to refuel after the 6 km hike. Honest limitation: it can feel like a cafeteria during peak hours (12:00-1:30 PM), so aim for an early or late lunch.
It is the only option at the glacier, but the quality of the lamb is genuinely excellent due to local grazing.
Located inside the prestigious Hotel Alexandra in Loen, this is the most sophisticated spot for a drink in the region. The bar staff are experts in Norwegian spirits. It’s the place where the 'well-to-do' of the valley meet. The view of the Nordfjord from the large windows is spectacular. It's a 10-minute taxi from the pier but feels a world away from the cruise terminal crowds.
Old-world luxury and elegance with deep leather chairs and fjord views.
Locals in Olden are generally reserved but polite. A simple 'Hei' (pronounced like 'hi') is the standard greeting. In Norway, personal space is highly valued; do not stand too close to people in queues or initiate physical contact with strangers. Dining customs are informal; however, when you are finished, place your knife and fork parallel on the right side of the plate. Tipping is not mandatory as service is included, but rounding up to the nearest 50 or 100 NOK is a common gesture of goodwill for good service. Photography is generally welcome, but always ask permission before photographing locals, especially those in traditional dress. One common misunderstanding is the concept of 'Allemannsretten' or the right to roam. While you are free to walk in the mountains, this does not apply to private gardens or cultivated farmland in the valley—stay on marked paths to avoid causing offense to the farmers who are working the land.
Norway is a cashless society; you will need a credit or debit card for everything from the public bus to a bottle of water. While most places accept Visa and Mastercard, some smaller vendors may not accept American Express. Tipping is entirely optional but 5–10% is appreciated in restaurants. Five useful words are 'Takk' (Thank you), 'Vær så snill' (Please), 'Unnskyld' (Excuse me), 'Ja' (Yes), and 'Nei' (No). Be aware of the 'looky-loo' scam at the pier, where unofficial 'tour guides' offer cheap glacier trips that often result in missing the return ship; only use reputable operators or the official Glacier Bus. There is no strict dress code for churches, but modest attire is appreciated. The best time to visit the Briksdal Glacier is as early as possible—ideally, be off the ship within 15 minutes of clearance. If you are hiking, start your walk before 9:30 AM to avoid the 'wall of people' that descends from the large tour buses later in the morning.
The latest safe departure time from the Briksdal Glacier area is 90 minutes before your ship's 'All Aboard' time. While the drive is only 25 minutes, the single-lane road (Fv60) can be blocked by livestock or slow-moving caravans. If you are in Loen, a 10-minute taxi ride is usually sufficient, but we recommend leaving 45 minutes of buffer. A taxi to the pier from Loen will cost approximately 150-200 NOK (~$13.50-$18.00 USD). If you are running late, contact the Port Authority at +47 57 87 31 06. The ship will generally not hold for independent passengers. If you miss the ship, the next port is typically Hellesylt or Geiranger, which requires a 2.5-hour mountain drive at a cost of roughly 4,000 NOK (~$355.00 USD).
Can I walk from the Olden cruise pier to the Briksdal Glacier?
No, you cannot realistically walk to the glacier from the pier. The distance is 22 km (13.6 miles) each way along a winding mountain road with no continuous sidewalk. A round-trip walk would take over 8 hours and would leave no time to actually see the glacier. Instead, take the Glacier Bus for 350 NOK (~$31.00 USD) or a taxi. Once at the glacier parking lot, there is a further 3 km (1.8 miles) walk to the ice itself. WaterwaysCruise.com can arrange private transport if you wish to avoid the crowded public bus.
Is it better to visit Briksdal Glacier or Loen Skylift if I only have 4 hours?
Choose the Briksdal Glacier if you want a classic, ground-level Norwegian nature experience with waterfalls and hiking. Choose the Loen Skylift if you prefer a 1,000-metre aerial view and complete accessibility. The glacier is the 'iconic' choice, but the Skylift is more efficient for those with limited time or mobility. We have timed both; the glacier requires 3 hours minimum, while the Skylift can be done in 90 minutes. For a guaranteed back-to-ship experience, check the excursion options at WaterwaysCruise.com.
How much does a taxi cost from Olden to the glacier?
A taxi from Olden to Briksdal Glacier typically costs between 800 and 1,000 NOK (~$71.50–$89.50 USD) for a one-way trip, including a short wait time. Because there are so few taxis, drivers often insist on a round-trip booking. You should budget at least 1,800 NOK (~$160.00 USD) for a private round trip. For most solo travelers or couples, the 350 NOK (~$31.00 USD) Glacier Bus is a significantly more cost-effective option.
Are there any grocery stores near the Olden pier?
Yes, there is a Coop Prix supermarket located in the center of Olden, approximately 400 metres (5 minutes) walk from the cruise pier. It is the best place to buy local Norwegian snacks, bottled water, or basic supplies at local prices rather than tourist rates. Most ships dock within sight of the store. It is generally open from 08:00 to 22:00, making it very convenient for cruise passengers.
What is a Troll Car and do I need to book it?
A Troll Car is an open-sided electric vehicle that transports passengers from the Briksdal Mountain Lodge up the 3 km steep path to the glacier. It is essential for those who cannot manage a 45-minute uphill hike on gravel. It costs 290 NOK (~$26.00 USD) round trip. You must book this in advance at Briksdalsbre.no, as cruise lines often block out the entire fleet for their organized tours during the peak hours of 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM.
Is there free Wi-Fi at the Olden cruise port?
Free Wi-Fi is available at the Tourist Information building located at the exit of the cruise pier. However, the signal is often weak when a large ship is in port and hundreds of passengers are trying to connect simultaneously. For more reliable internet, many passengers use the Wi-Fi at Mølla Gjestehus in the village center while purchasing a coffee or lunch.
Is the water in the Nordfjord safe for swimming?
The water is safe but exceptionally cold, usually staying below 12°C (54°F) even in August due to the glacial melt. There are no dedicated swimming beaches in Olden. You will occasionally see locals swimming near the pier in Loen, but for cruise passengers, it is generally not recommended unless you are prepared for a 'polar plunge' experience.
Can I use US Dollars or Euros in Olden?
No, US Dollars and Euros are not widely accepted in Olden. While a few large souvenir shops may take them at a very poor exchange rate, you will receive change in Norwegian Krone (NOK). Norway is almost entirely cashless; we recommend using a credit card for all transactions. Even the smallest payments, like the 50 NOK entry fee for the Old Church, are handled via card.
How far is it from Olden to the Geirangerfjord?
Geiranger is approximately 110 km (68 miles) from Olden. While it looks close on a map, the drive takes at least 2.5 hours due to steep mountain passes and tunnels. This is not a realistic day trip for a standard port call. If your ship is visiting Geiranger the next day, wait until then to see it. Focus your time in Olden on the Nordfjord and Briksdal Glacier.
What should I do if it's raining in Olden?
Rain is very common in Olden. If it's a light drizzle, still head to the Briksdal Glacier—the waterfalls actually look more impressive in wet weather. If the rain is heavy and clouds are low, skip the Loen Skylift (as you will see nothing) and instead visit the Olden Old Church or the Singerheimen museum for an indoor historical experience. Always bring a waterproof jacket; do not let the rain cancel your day.
