Port information & tips for Olden (Nordfjord)
Olden is a picturesque jewel at the end of the Nordfjord and is considered one of Norway's most spectacular ports. The idyllic village impresses with its dramatic location between deep blue water and snow-capped peaks, exuding an incomparable Nordic tranquility. Absolute highlights include the impressive Briksdalsbreen, a famous branch of the Jostedalsbreen glacier, as well as the nearby Loen Skylift with its breathtaking panoramic views over the mountains. Cruise ships dock at the centrally located Olden Cruise Pier, which is situated directly in the charming village center. Thanks to this prime location, guests can easily reach local cafes, small shops, and hiking trails within a few minutes' walk and immediately enjoy the full, authentic fjord experience.
Olden is picturesquely situated at the end of the Nordfjord and features a central pier at Olden Kai, located directly in the village center. Reaching the port is straightforward for individual travelers thanks to well-developed coastal roads and regional transport hubs.
Car
Arrival by car is via National Road 60, which connects Olden directly to the major highways E39 and E15, providing links to Oslo and Bergen. Limited short-term parking is available directly at the terminal, and guests can find additional parking spaces in the village center and at nearby hotels for the duration of their stay.
Airplane
The regional Sandane Airport (SDN) is about 60 kilometers away and is served by domestic flights from Oslo. For travelers from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, Ålesund Airport (AES) at a distance of around 160 kilometers is the best choice; from there, rental cars or organized transfers allow for a journey through the fjord landscape in about three hours.
Bus & Transfer
Since Olden does not have its own rail connection and the nearest train stations in Otta or Åndalsnes are several hours' drive away, the well-developed network of the Nor-Way Bussekspress is the most important connection. Regular buses run between Olden and cities such as Bergen or Ålesund, with stops located in the immediate vicinity of the cruise pier, guaranteeing a convenient transfer.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that your travel documents usually include a fixed time slot for check-in, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for your journey to the port and keep in mind that the latest embarkation time—depending on the cruise line and destination—is generally about one hour before the scheduled departure.
The same applies during the voyage: for shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the latest announcements and notices on board, as docking and departure times can change at short notice.
Olden is picturesquely situated at the end of the Nordfjord and features a central pier at Olden Kai, located directly in the village center. Reaching the port is straightforward for individual travelers thanks to well-developed coastal roads and regional transport hubs.
Car
Arrival by car is via National Road 60, which connects Olden directly to the major highways E39 and E15, providing links to Oslo and Bergen. Limited short-term parking is available directly at the terminal, and guests can find additional parking spaces in the village center and at nearby hotels for the duration of their stay.
Airplane
The regional Sandane Airport (SDN) is about 60 kilometers away and is served by domestic flights from Oslo. For travelers from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, Ålesund Airport (AES) at a distance of around 160 kilometers is the best choice; from there, rental cars or organized transfers allow for a journey through the fjord landscape in about three hours.
Bus & Transfer
Since Olden does not have its own rail connection and the nearest train stations in Otta or Åndalsnes are several hours' drive away, the well-developed network of the Nor-Way Bussekspress is the most important connection. Regular buses run between Olden and cities such as Bergen or Ålesund, with stops located in the immediate vicinity of the cruise pier, guaranteeing a convenient transfer.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that your travel documents usually include a fixed time slot for check-in, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for your journey to the port and keep in mind that the latest embarkation time—depending on the cruise line and destination—is generally about one hour before the scheduled departure.
The same applies during the voyage: for shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the latest announcements and notices on board, as docking and departure times can change at short notice.
The port of Olden is located directly at the end of the Nordfjord and, thanks to its central location, allows for quick and easy access to the region's natural beauty.
On Foot
The charming village of Olden can be reached in about 5 to 10 minutes via a level walking path along the shore road. This short distance takes you directly to local shops, the historic church, and cozy cafes in the village center.
Glacier Bus & Sightseeing
The Glacier Bus to the Briksdalsbreen glacier as well as the Olden Sightseeing buses for round trips are available directly at the port terminal. These connections offer a comfortable ride through the picturesque valley and reliably bring you to the most impressive viewpoints.
Taxi & Loen Skylift Shuttle
Official taxis are located directly at the pier and allow for individual trips to the surrounding area, such as to the Loen Skylift. In addition, regular shuttle buses run to neighboring Loen, allowing you to reach the spectacular viewing platform on Mount Hoven within a short time.
To make the most of your stay in picturesque Olden, it is recommended to explore the combination of massive glaciers and spectacular viewpoints in the immediate surroundings.
Briksdalsbreen
The famous glacier arm is easily accessible thanks to a short drive through the idyllic Oldedalen and offers an unforgettable nature experience along the hiking trail past thundering waterfalls.
Loen Skylift
This modern aerial tramway whisks you to the summit of Mount Hoven in just a few minutes, where you can enjoy a spectacular panorama over the Nordfjord and also linger in a restaurant directly on the cliff edge.
Village Center and the Old Church
The charming center of Olden impresses with its relaxed atmosphere right by the water, and the historic red wooden church from 1759 simultaneously offers a fascinating cultural insight into Norwegian tradition.
Loen Skylift & Hoven
The spectacular Loen Skylift is accessible in just ten minutes' drive from the port of Olden and transports you on one of the steepest cable cars in the world directly to the summit of Mount Hoven. Once at the top, an incomparable 360-degree panorama opens up over the glittering Nordfjord and the surrounding mountains, making this location an absolute cultural and scenic highlight of your trip. The high-quality Hoven restaurant directly at the mountain station also offers excellent gastronomy and a spacious terrace, perfect for a relaxing break with regional delicacies and first-class views. Ideally, visit the summit in the morning to enjoy the clear mountain air in peace, and plan your return trip to the port comfortably about ninety minutes before your ship departs.
The journey back to the port of Olden is particularly relaxed and safe, thanks to the manageable size of the village and the excellently organized infrastructure for cruise guests.
Shuttle Buses and Organized Tours
From Briksdal Glacier and the Loen Skylift, shuttle buses from providers such as Olden Adventure bring you directly back to the pier. The buses at Briksdal Glacier depart punctually from the Fjellstove parking lot, while the shuttle service from the Loen Skylift starts at short intervals from the valley station and leads you comfortably back to the ship.
Taxi
If you are traveling individually, you will find taxis at the major sights such as the valley station of the Loen Skylift or in the town center of Stryn. A return trip to the port can also be easily reserved in advance through local providers, ensuring you arrive punctually and comfortably directly at the terminal's security gate.
On Foot
From the picturesque town center of Olden, as well as the small cafes and shops, you can reach the ship in a leisurely walk of about five to ten minutes. The path leads along the flat waterfront directly to the pier and is absolutely effortless to find thanks to good signage and constant visibility of the ship.
