Currency: Norwegian krone NOK
Language: Norwegian
Visas: You can travel in the Norway for up to 90 days as part of the Schengen area rules.
Money: Credit cards are widely accepted with ATMs also available.
Time Zone: Central European Time (CET) +1
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Olden is situated in the Stryn municipality of Vestland county, Norway. It can be found at the mouth of Oldeelva River and northern end of the Oldedalen valley on the southern shore of Nordfjorden. Olden boasts impressive natural beauty and is 6 km southwest of Loen, 16 km drive southeast from the municipal center Stryn, and 15 km east from Innvik.
The 0.58-square-kilometre (140-acre) village has a population (2019) of 479 and a population density of 826 inhabitants per square kilometre (2,140/sq mi).
Olden is a major tourist area. The cruise port in Olden had 102 cruise ship arrivals in 2019. The Briksdalsbreen glacier, a popular hiking destination, is located about 25 kilometres (16 mi) south of Olden, at the end of the Oldedalen valley. It is a small arm off the main Jostedalsbreen glacier. There are two churches in Olden, the Old Olden Church (built in 1759) and Olden Church (built in 1934).
Weather
Summer (June to August) in Olden are relatively mild with average temperatures ranging from 10 to 20 degrees Celsius (50 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit). It's the warmest time of the year, and you can expect longer daylight hours. However, even in summer, the weather can be quite changeable, with rain showers and cooler days.
Autumn (September to November) in Olden brings cooler temperatures, and the foliage in the surrounding mountains and forests can create stunning landscapes. Temperatures start to drop, and rainfall becomes more frequent.
Winter (December to February) in Olden can be cold, with temperatures ranging from just below freezing to a few degrees above. Snowfall is possible, especially in the higher elevations, creating a winter wonderland. However, the coastal location and influence from the Gulf Stream can moderate temperatures somewhat.
Spring (March to May) sees a gradual warming of temperatures, but it can still be quite chilly, especially in the early months. The snow begins to melt, and the landscape starts to come alive with blooming flowers and budding trees.
Cruise port
The port of Olden is located at the end of Nordfjord with shops and ticket offices close to the disembarkation point.
Google Maps port location: https://goo.gl/maps/ji7okYKsBu2RkudQ7
Things to do
The Briksdal Glacier is a western arm of the Jostedal Glacier, the biggest glacier on mainland Europe. The glacier was formed approx. 2,500 years ago. It covers an area of approx. 10.4 km². Most of it (88%) is on the glacier plateau, 1,500 metres above sea level. The glacier descends from 1,910 metres above sea level almost right down to the Briksdalsvatnet lake at 350 metres above sea level. The glacier covers a horizontal distance of 2 km from the glacier plateau (1,500 metres) to 350 metres above sea level.
It is possible to walk to the glacier from Mountain Lodge however we recommend booking a Troll car (must be booked in advance). For more than 100 years the farmers in Oldedalen have transported tourists with horse and carriage. In 2004 the horse and carriage were replaced with the ‘Troll cars’.
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One of the steepest cable cars in the word, the Loen Skylift will lift you from the fjord to Mount Haven (1011m) and stunning views.
At the top, there is a large observation deck that offers panoramic views of Mt. Skåla and Lake Lovatnet in the east, Jostedalsbreen Glacier and Olden in the south, and the Nordfjord that winds its way towards Stryn in the west. Visitors can also enjoy hiking trails, skiing, and other outdoor activities, as well as dining options at the restaurant located at the top station.
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TOP TIP: We recommend booking direct with Olden Adventure https://www.oldencruise.com/
Head over to the skylift as early as possible to beat the crowds.
Stand-up paddleboarding, an age-old surfing method, involves standing or sitting on a large board and propelling yourself with a single, elongated oar. No prior knowledge or experience is required for participation, as the skilled guides will lead you on an exciting journey through stunning landscapes and magnificent fjords, featuring uniquely coloured water sourced from nearby glaciers and snowy mountains.
Alternative excursions providers
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Norway Excusions Olden - offers yours of Briksdal Glacier, Gerirangerfjord and Huron viewpoint.
https://www.norwayexcursions.com/en/destinations-in-norway/olden/
Olden Adventure - provides ticket and transportation to Loen Skylift, Briksdal Glacier and a sightseeing tour.
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