Shared Tour of Geiranger from Hellesylt

Exciting Guided Bus Tour from Hellesylt to Geiranger for $185.64

This shared bus tour of Geiranger from Hellesylt offers a comprehensive look at Norway’s stunning fjord scenery over approximately 7 hours and 30 minutes. Priced at $185.64 per person, it’s a popular choice among travelers who want to experience key highlights of this UNESCO World Heritage site without the hassle of driving themselves. The tour departs from Hellesylt and includes visits to notable natural attractions, with the opportunity to stand atop Dalsnibba mountain at 1500 meters above sea level for sweeping views. Physical participation is accessible, but guests should be prepared for some mountain road driving and multiple photo stops.

While the tour showcases iconic sights such as Hornindal Lake, Djupvatn, and Øvstefossen Waterfall, reviews reveal mixed experiences regarding guide enthusiasm and the pacing at each stop. Still, the scenery remains the main draw, making this a worthwhile option for those eager to see Geiranger’s highlights in a single day.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: Priced at $185.64 with a 7.5-hour itinerary.
• Major Highlights: Visit Hornindal Lake, Djupvatn, Øvstefossen Waterfall, and Dalsnibba mountain.
• Stops and Photo Opportunities: Multiple scenic stops including lakes and waterfalls with free photography chances.
• Transport: Air-conditioned vehicle with private toll fee included.
• Limited Food Options: Lunch and hotel transfers are not included, so plan accordingly.
• Group Size and Timing: Guided in English, with a maximum of 48 travelers, and meeting at a central spot in Hellesylt.

Starting Point and Logistics in Hellesylt

The tour begins at the Coop Market Hellesylt (Hellesyltvegen 45-47), located conveniently next to the main road, across the local school and near the Joker market. The short walk from the pier makes this an easy meet-up for cruise passengers. The tour ends back at the same meeting point, ensuring straightforward logistics for travelers with cruise schedules.

Scenic Stops on the Route to Geiranger

Hornindalsvatn Lake: Europe’s Deepest Lake

The first stop on this journey is Hornindalsvatn, the deepest lake in Norway and Europe, measured at 514 meters deep. The 15-minute photo stop allows visitors to capture the vastness of this natural wonder. No entry fee applies, and the view offers a remarkable introduction to Norway’s impressive lakes.

Stryn: A Charming Rest Stop

Next, the tour pauses in Stryn for about 20 minutes. This charming town with appealing streets and clothing stores provides a brief chance to stretch your legs and enjoy a quick browse or a snack before heading further into the mountains.

Jostedalsbreen National Park Center

A short 15-minute visit to the Jostedalsbreen Nasjonalparksenter offers insights into glaciers, as the bus passes the stunning lake Oppstryn en route. Entrance fees are not included, but the stop is an educational peek into the icy glaciers that shape the landscape.

Øvstefossen Waterfall

A 15-minute photo stop at the Øvstefossen Waterfall gives travelers a chance to admire and photograph this picturesque cascade, which is easily accessible along the route to Geiranger.

Reaching the Highlights Near Geiranger

Dalsnibba Mountain: Panoramic Views at 1500 Meters

The Dalsnibba Skywalk is the tour’s crown jewel. From the mountain top at 1500 meters, visitors enjoy some of the most breathtaking views of the Geiranger fjord, the Eagle Bend, and surrounding waterfalls. The 15-minute stop here is included in the price and features access to the privately maintained Dalsnibba road toll.

Djupvatn Lake: Mountain Serenity

Another 20-minute stop allows visitors to photograph Djupvatn, a striking mountain lake at 1030 meters altitude, known for its clear, icy waters and dramatic setting. This free stop offers excellent photo opportunities of the rugged landscape.

Øvstefossen Waterfall: A Refreshing Break

On the way back, the tour makes a return visit to Øvstefossen Waterfall, giving another chance to enjoy Norway’s iconic cascades, with the same 15-minute stop.

Practical Details: Transport, Fees, and Timing

Comfortable Transportation and Road Toll

The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort during the roughly 7.5-hour journey. The private toll fee for Dalsnibba is covered, avoiding extra charges during the mountain road ascent.

Tour Schedule and Cruise Compatibility

The tour is carefully timed to match cruise ship schedules, with a Back in Time Guarantee for cruise passengers, provided the ship’s name is registered during booking. The official tour time ends at least 1 hour before the cruise departure, ensuring timely return.

Limitations and Weather Considerations

Guests should note that if weather conditions are not favorable, the Dalsnibba stop may be replaced with an alternative highlight offered by Geiranger. The tour proceeds rain or shine, so appropriate clothing is recommended.

What’s Not Included: Food and Hotel Transfers

The tour price does not include lunch or hotel pickup and drop-off. Travelers should plan their meals independently and coordinate transportation if staying in accommodations outside the meeting point.

Real-World Experiences: Guide Enthusiasm and Pacing

While the scenery impresses, reviews indicate some inconsistency in guide motivation, with one report describing a less enthusiastic guide. The limited 10-minute stops at each sight can feel rushed, especially at the more popular viewpoints. Travelers should be prepared for a brisk pace and short durations at each stop, making this tour better suited for those eager to see multiple highlights in one day rather than exploring any site in-depth.

Final Thoughts on the Geiranger from Hellesylt Tour

This guided bus tour provides a practical way to see Norway’s iconic fjord landscapes without the need to drive. The inclusion of Dalsnibba mountain and the scenic lakes around Geiranger offers picture-perfect moments, ideal for travelers seeking breathtaking views and photo opportunities. The 7.5-hour schedule balances travel and sightseeing, though the quick stops may not satisfy those craving more time at each location.

The mixed reviews regarding guide enthusiasm and the brief stops suggest that this tour prioritizes covering many sites over in-depth exploration. It delivers on its promise of scenic vistas and highlights, making it a solid option for visitors eager to tick off Geiranger’s must-see spots, especially cruise passengers who value the timing guarantees.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $185.64 per person.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately 7 hours and 30 minutes.

Where does the tour start and end?
The meeting point is at Coop Market Hellesylt, and the tour ends back at the same location.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included in the tour fee.

Are hotel pickups available?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included.

What highlights are included in this tour?
Guests visit Hornindalsvatn Lake, Stryn, Jostedalsbreen National Park Center, Øvstefossen Waterfall, Dalsnibba Mountain, and Djupvatn Lake.

Can the tour accommodate cruise ship schedules?
Yes, there is a Back in Time Guarantee for cruise passengers, with the tour timed to end at least 1 hour before cruise departure.

What should I bring for the stops?
Bring your camera for scenic photo stops and dress appropriately for mountain weather, which can be unpredictable.

Is the tour suitable for all physical levels?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but be prepared for some mountain roads and brief stops.

Are guides multilingual?
Guides are primarily English-speaking, with potential for a second language depending on passenger mix, but this is not guaranteed.

This shared tour of Geiranger from Hellesylt offers a scenic, if brisk, overview of some of Norway’s most stunning sights—perfect for travelers eager to maximize their fjord experience in a single day.