Geiranger: Excursions.no Geiranger Highlights

A visit to Geiranger, Norway, offers breathtaking scenery, and the Geiranger Highlights tour by Excursions.no provides a convenient way to see some of the most famous viewpoints in just over an hour. Priced at $75.39 per person, this tour is designed for those seeking a quick, scenic overview of the area’s highlights, including the iconic Flydalsjuvet gorge and Eagle Bend. With audio guides in eight languages and a central meeting point in Geiranger, it appeals to cruise ship passengers and day-trippers alike. The tour’s main strength is the opportunity to photograph spectacular vistas of the Geirangerfjord and the Seven Sisters Waterfalls.

However, it’s worth noting that some reviews highlight short stops and narrow, winding roads that can make the journey nerve-wracking for some. There is no hotel pickup, so travelers need to meet at the designated starting point. This tour offers a compact, scenic experience with a focus on viewpoints rather than in-depth exploration.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: At $75.39 per person, the tour lasts approximately 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes.
• Main Highlights: Visit Flydalsjuvet and Eagle Bend for iconic photos and views of the Seven Sisters Waterfalls.
• Included Features: Audio guides in 8 languages, photo stops, and a driving route with 11 hairpin bends.
• Limited Stops: The tour has two main stops—Flydalsjuvet and Eagle Bend—and short durations at each.
• Group Size: The tour handles up to 48 travelers, making it lively but not overcrowded.
• No Hotel Pickup: Participants meet at Fv63 52, Geiranger, and return to this point.
• Timing: The tour is adapted for cruise arrivals, with modified departure times announced in advance.
• Mixed Reviews: Some report wonderful scenery and expert driving, while others mention faded headsets and short stops.

Meeting Point and Logistics in Geiranger

The tour departs from Fv63 52 in Geiranger, a location easily accessible near public transportation options. It ends back at this same meeting point, so no additional transportation arrangements are necessary.

Participants should arrive 15 minutes early to register and be ready for the departure. Since there is no hotel pickup, arriving on time is crucial to avoid missing the tour. The group size is capped at 48 travelers, providing a balance between social interaction and comfort.

Highlights of the Flydalsjuvet Viewpoint

The Flydalsjuvet stop guarantees fantastic photo opportunities of the Geirangerfjord. It’s regarded as one of Norway’s most photographed spots, thanks to its dramatic vantage point above the fjord. The 15-minute stop allows enough time to take pictures of the stunning landscape and appreciate panoramic views that showcase the fjord’s deep blue waters and lush surroundings.

This viewpoint is ideal for those wanting a quick but memorable visual of the area’s natural beauty. The admission is free, and the viewpoint’s popularity makes it a highlight of the trip.

Eagle Bend and the Seven Sisters Waterfalls

The second key stop is Eagle Bend along the Ornevegen (Eagle Road). This 10-minute photo stop offers a magnificent view of the Seven Sisters Waterfalls—a series of flowing cascades famous for their beauty. From this vantage point, visitors get a sense of the scale and power of the waterfalls, with the fjord stretching out below.

The drive to Eagle Bend involves navigating 11 hairpin bends along winding roads, which some reviews describe as nerve-wracking. The driver’s skill is often praised, but the ride can be intense for those sensitive to tight, steep turns.

The Scenic Drive Through Narrow, Winding Roads

A defining aspect of this tour is the Eagle Road drive, featuring 11 hairpin bends that ascend and descend along steep, narrow roads. This drive offers spectacular views at every turn but is also described as nerve-wracking by some reviews due to the tight turns and bus maneuvering challenges.

The driver’s expertise is frequently acknowledged, ensuring safety despite the challenging roads. For anyone with mobility issues or a fear of heights, this part of the tour might feel a bit intense.

Audio Guides and Commentary Quality

The tour provides audio guides in eight languages, which are meant to enhance the experience with narrative explanations of the sights. However, some reviews mention faded headsets and low-volume narration in English, making it difficult for some participants to hear the commentary clearly.

On the plus side, staff members and the driver give an engaging commentary when they are present on the bus, offering additional insights into the area. The audio guide is intended to provide context and background but may not be fully reliable in all cases.

Pacing and Stops: Short but Focused

The tour features two main stops, each lasting around 15 minutes. While these stops are timed well for photography and enjoying the vistas, reviews note that the overall experience feels brief. The short duration at each spot limits the chance to explore in depth or to take extended photos.

This tour is ideal for those wanting a quick overview rather than a detailed exploration. Travelers should plan to maximize their time at each viewpoint.

The Guide’s Role and Overall Experience

Although there is no formal tour guide providing continuous narration during the ride, the staff members and driver offer informative comments at certain points, especially at the turnaround. The guidance is generally described as friendly and professional.

The main appeal of this tour is the convenient access to key vantage points with easy transportation rather than an in-depth guided experience. Many reviews highlight the driver’s skill and timeliness as strengths, despite some criticisms about long delays or short stops.

Practical Tips and Potential Drawbacks

Participants should arrive early and register properly to avoid missing the tour, especially since no hotel pickup is offered. The short stops mean little time for extended photography, so having a camera ready is recommended.

The winding roads may be challenging for those with motion sickness or fear of heights. The audio guides may not be audible for everyone, so bringing earbuds or being prepared for limited narration is useful.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This excursion suits visitors who want a brief, scenic overview of Geiranger’s most famous viewpoints. It’s particularly ideal for cruise passengers who need a timely and efficient way to see the sights without extensive walking or complex logistics.

Travelers comfortable with narrow, winding roads and short stops will appreciate the overall experience. However, those seeking a more relaxed pace or in-depth exploration may find this tour somewhat limited.

Final Thoughts on the Geiranger Highlights Tour

For a cost-effective and quick sightseeing option, this tour delivers stunning views and well-chosen stops. The Flydalsjuvet outlook provides a classic photo opportunity, while Eagle Bend offers a commanding view of the Seven Sisters Waterfalls.

While the short durations and narrow road drive are notable considerations, the professional driving and organized logistics make this a reliable choice for those with limited time. It’s best suited for photography enthusiasts and scenery lovers who want a snapshot of Geiranger’s natural beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there hotel pickup for this tour?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup. Participants meet at the designated Fv63 52 in Geiranger.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes.

What are the main stops?
The key stops are Flydalsjuvet for panoramic fjord views and Eagle Bend for views of the Seven Sisters Waterfalls.

Are the stops long enough for photos?
Stops are around 15 minutes each, providing enough time for photos but limiting extended exploration.

Is the drive on narrow roads difficult?
The drive involves 11 hairpin bends on narrow, winding roads, which can be nerve-wracking but is managed skillfully by the driver.

Is the audio commentary reliable?
Some reviews mention issues with faded headsets and low-volume narration, so be prepared for inconsistent audio.

Can I participate if I have mobility issues?
Since the stops are brief and involve walking at viewpoints, those with mobility concerns should consider this.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Generally yes, but the winding road drive may be intense for younger or sensitive children.

What is the booking policy?
Booking is flexible with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Is this tour worth the price?
For the scenic viewpoints and efficient route, many find it value for money, though some note the short stops and audio issues as limitations.