Aurland

Written by Elsa Holm, Graham Smith, Julien Lambert
05/09/2025
Explore a winding road through the picturesque Aurlandsvangen landscape, capturing late autumn beauty.
Barnabas Davoti, Pexels

Aurland, Norway, captivates visitors with its breathtaking fjord landscapes, including the dramatic Aurlandsfjord and the UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord. It is a destination that perfectly balances opportunities for active exploration with serene natural beauty.

While Aurland itself is generally more tranquil than the bustling village of Flåm, it offers modest opportunities for social interaction. Establishments such as the lounge at Hotel Aurlandsfjord can provide a relaxed setting, and local cafes like Marianne Bakeri and Kafe offer picturesque spots for casual encounters. Many visitors find social connection through guided multi-day adventure tours, fostering a communal atmosphere among participants exploring the fjords and mountains together.

Top 6 Things to do in Aurland

Aurland offers a blend of stunning scenic viewpoints, immersive fjord experiences, challenging hikes, and unique cultural insights into local craftsmanship and wellness practices.

1. Visit Stegastein Viewpoint

Perched 650 meters above the Aurlandsfjord, the Stegastein viewpoint provides a panoramic glass platform that extends over the mountainside. From this vantage point, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the fjord, the village of Aurland, and the surrounding mountains, offering a feeling of hovering over the landscape. It is recommended to visit early in the morning to experience fewer crowds.

Cost: Access to the viewpoint is free. Guided bus tours from Flåm or Aurland are available, typically costing around NOK 415-430 per person. A taxi from Flåm or Aurland can also be arranged, with prices starting from approximately NOK 900 per hour for a maxi/wheelchair accessible taxi.

Transport: The viewpoint is an 8 km drive from Aurland village. The road is steep and narrow with hairpin bends; experienced drivers are advised if driving a private car. Shuttle buses from Flåm or Aurland provide convenient transport. For those without a car, public buses run between Flåm and Aurland, from where a taxi or tour can be taken to Stegastein.

2. Fjord Cruise on Aurlandsfjord and Nærøyfjord

Embarking on a fjord cruise allows for an intimate experience of the Aurlandsfjord, a branch of the Sognefjord, and the UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord. These cruises navigate through narrow waters, offering close-up views of dramatic cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and secluded villages. Modern electric vessels provide a quiet and sustainable journey, enhancing the natural experience.

Cost: Pricing varies based on season and tour package, with extended FjordSafari RIB boat tours starting around NOK 890 for adults for 1.5 hours, and NOK 1,060 for 2 hours and 15 minutes. Check local operators for the latest rates and availability.

Transport: Fjord cruises and FjordSafari tours primarily depart from Flåm, which is a 10-minute drive or a 20-minute ferry ride from Aurland. Shuttle buses operate between Flåm and Aurland, providing easy access to departure points.

3. Kayaking on Aurlandsfjord

Kayaking offers a unique and serene way to explore the Aurlandsfjord, allowing for silent gliding through crystal-clear waters. This activity brings paddlers closer to the dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and waterfalls, providing an intimate connection with the fjord landscape. It suits both beginners and experienced kayakers, combining gentle exercise with nature immersion.

Cost: Guided kayaking tours typically start from NOK 400-600 per person. Self-guided kayak rentals are also available for those wishing to explore at their own pace, potentially at lower rates.

Transport: Kayaking hubs and rental facilities are conveniently located in Aurland, Flåm, and Gudvangen, often within walking distance from central accommodations in Aurland.

4. Hike in Aurlandsdalen Valley or Prest Mountain

Aurland is a prime location for hiking, offering trails that range from demanding to moderate. The Aurlandsdalen Valley, often called 'Norway's Grand Canyon,' provides a renowned multi-day trek, but its most scenic part from Østerbø to Vassbygdi can be completed in a single day (5-7 hours, 18-20 km). Alternatively, hiking to Prest Mountain from a point above Stegastein offers an approximately 3-hour, steep climb rewarding hikers with exceptional fjord and mountain panoramas.

Cost: Hiking is a free activity. Transportation to trailheads may incur costs.

Transport: For Aurlandsdalen, a dedicated bus service runs between Flåm, Aurland, Østerbø (start of hike), and Vassbygdi (end of hike) during peak season (July-August daily; June, September-October on weekends). A round-trip bus ticket can be purchased for convenience. For Prest Mountain, the trailhead is a short drive past Stegastein Viewpoint, accessible by car, taxi, or a bus tour to Stegastein followed by a walk to the trailhead.

5. Visit Aurland Shoe Factory & Économusée

The Aurland Shoe Factory is the sole remaining producer of the traditional 'Aurlandskoen,' known as the original penny loafer, hand-crafted in Norway since the 1930s. Visitors can tour the facility, which serves as both an artisan workshop and a museum, to observe skilled shoemakers at work and learn about the history of this iconic footwear, said to be inspired by Iroquois moccasins. An on-site outlet offers shoes, bags, belts, and other leather products.

Cost: Admission to the Économusée is free. Guided tours for groups (10-20 people) can be booked, costing approximately NOK 300 per person for a 50-minute session. Products are available for purchase in the factory outlet, often with a 15% discount as part of a factory tour.

Transport: The factory is centrally located in Aurland village at Odden 13 and is easily accessible on foot. Visitors from Flåm can use the shuttle bus service running between Flåm and Aurland.

6. Relax at FjordSauna Aurland

The FjordSauna offers a unique wellness experience on a floating sauna located directly on the Aurlandsfjord. This facility allows guests to enjoy panoramic views of the fjord and mountains through large windows while experiencing the warmth of a traditional sauna. The experience is enhanced by the option to alternate between the hot sauna and refreshing dips in the cool fjord waters, promoting relaxation and well-being.

Cost: Shared sauna sessions (1.5 hours) are approximately NOK 425-445 per person. Private sauna sessions (1.5 hours) for up to 12 people cost around NOK 2990.

Transport: FjordSauna is conveniently located on a floating dock in Aurland village, easily accessible by a short walk from hotels like Vangsgaarden and Hotel Aurlandsfjord. Paid parking is available in the town center nearby.

Check out our other pages on Aurland

Getting There icon Getting There Restaurants icon Restaurants Bars and Entertainment icon Bars and Entertainment Hotels icon Hotels Budget Stays icon Budget Stays

Discover destinations in Norway

Central Norway
Northern Norway
Southern & Fjord Norway