The 8 Most Amazing Peaks around Aurland

For unparalleled views of the Aurlandsfjord, Aurlandsvangen, and Flåm, the hike to Prest is highly recommended. Many consider the beacon at 1,363 meters on Prest to offer the best viewpoint. For spectacular panoramas over the UNESCO World Heritage site Nærøyfjord, consider the challenging hike to View of Nærøyfjord from Bakkanosi or Breiskrednosi Summit, both offering dramatic cliff views into the fjord.

The highest peak in the municipality of Aurland is Blåskavlen, standing at 1,809 meters above sea level. It can be reached as a longer continuation of the hike to Prest or by continuing from Hovdungo, offering expansive views of the surrounding mountains and fjords.

Yes, for a more accessible option, the View of the River and Mountains offers a wonderful mountain panorama and a picnic area right by the river, suitable for families. While Prest is challenging, families with older, confident children (aged 8 and up) might find it rewarding due to its well-marked path and stunning views.

Aurland's mountain trails are characterized by significant steepness and considerable altitude differences, with minimum climbs often exceeding 600 meters. You can expect a mix of well-marked paths, old tractor roads, and challenging, strenuous sections, such as the historic Rimstigen trail which has a one-meter elevation gain for every three meters walked.

Yes, the Rimstigen trail is an old, very steep road that historically connected farmers along the Nærøyfjord to Voss and Bergen, offering a challenging hike with historical significance and wonderful views. Additionally, the Rallarvegen Fagervatn Highest Point (1343 m) marks a distinct high point along the historic Rallarvegen dirt road.

Experienced hikers seeking a challenge can tackle Prest, known for its steep sections and sheer drops. The Rimstigsfjellet trail is also very strenuous, with a significant elevation gain over a short distance. For an even more expansive view, consider the longer continuation from Prest to Blåskavlen, the highest peak in the municipality.

Beyond peak bagging, Aurland offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can explore numerous hiking trails, including the 'Grand Canyon of Norway' in the Aurlandsdalen Valley, which is a 20-kilometer trail from Østerbø to Vassbygdi. There are also extensive MTB Trails around Aurland and Cycling routes around Aurland, including sections of the Rallarvegen.

Yes, there are several hiking routes. For example, you can hike 'Up to Rimstigen plateau' (moderate, 4.3 km), explore the 'Historical hiking route Aurlandsdalen' (difficult, 15.8 km), or take the 'Aurlandsvangen to Stegastein Viewpoint Trail' (moderate, 6.1 km). You can find more options in the Hiking around Aurland guide.

While the guide does not specify the best time, generally, the hiking season in Norway's fjord region, including Aurland, runs from late spring (May/June) through early autumn (September/October) when trails are typically free of snow and weather conditions are more stable. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.

Yes, the hike towards Leimsnosi passes by Leimstølen, an old farm known for producing local goat cheese, offering a blend of challenging hiking with cultural insights. The Hovdungo peak also features a large flat area with old summer farms at its summit, providing a glimpse into traditional Norwegian farming life.

Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking views of the fjords and surrounding mountains. The sense of accomplishment after a strenuous climb, the dramatic natural scenery, and the opportunity to escape crowds are frequently highlighted. Many appreciate the unique perspective offered by peaks like View of Nærøyfjord from Bakkanosi, describing it as a grounding experience in nature.