This Dreamy Fjordside Town Is An Under-The-Radar Destination In Norway, Per Rick Steves

While Norway's capital and largest city of Oslo is a major tourism draw, this Scandinavian country's west coast might be the attribute for which it is most famous. The fjords that cut deep into the land create a seemingly endless winding and rocky coastline, a type of landscape found in just a few places around the world. While traversing around these high cliffs by boat is a great way to experience Norway's fjords, spend some time in the tiny towns here too. Among them is Balestrand. 

Travel expert Rick Steves has spent time traveling all over Norway. In fact, if Steves had to live in a country that wasn't the U.S., this is the one he'd choose. Throughout his many northern galivants, Balestrand stood out. This tiny town has welcomed tourists for years, but it is not overtly touristy. "[Balestrand] feels real and lived-in, making Balestrand a nice mix of cuteness and convenience," Steves explains on his website. It is also easily accessible despite its seemingly remote location. However, the best time to visit this area of Norway is mid-May through mid-September as multiple businesses close during winter.

Near the harbor is the Norwegian Travel Museum (Norsk Reiselivsmuseum). where you can learn about how Balestrand and other small towns in the country's fjords managed to connect themselves to the world. A major part of such connection has long been the tourism industry. Exhibits at the Norwegian Travel Museum show what tourism was like in Balestrand as far back as the 1800s. Imagine traversing through Norway on an old steamship rather than a modern boat as you explore this museum.

Rick Steves recommends exploring Balestrand on foot. As you wander around the town's colorful buildings old and new, you'll come across the late 19th century St. Olaf's Church on King Bele's Way. Bells still ring from this old church and its placement on the fjord's water makes it all the more picturesque. Keep following King Bele's way to get to Balastrondi, a park area with access to the water. If you find it too cold to take a dip, it is still a relaxing place to enjoy the dramatic scenery. For an added layer of luxury for your relaxation, you can even book some time in the oceanside Heit Sauna in the park overlooking the fjords.

Even the journey to Balestrand is amazing. If you are coming from Oslo, take a ride on the Bergen Railway. This route not only takes you through incredible Norwegian scenery, but also gives you the opportunity to explore Bergen, the second-largest city in Norway. This town has an express ferry that goes to Balestrand. For another route, switch from the Bergen Railway to the Flåm Railway at the Myrdal station and ride until you reach the tiny town of Flåm. Then you can take a ferry to Balestrand from there.

You can also drive to Balestrand, which takes about six hours direct from Oslo. While the stunning journey is all part of the fun, it can be quite lengthy, so it is best to spend at least one night in Balestrand to make the trip worthwhile. Luckily, Balestrand's lodging is part of the appeal. The huge Kviknes Hotel is another example of Norway's famous wooden structures. The Kvikne family has owned the hotel since the 1877 and it's fit for a king — or an emperor. Germany's Kaiser Wilhelm II was a guest here on multiple occasions. You will definitely experience a perfect mountain escape with quintessential fjord views when you stay at this hotel. For something a little more quaint, stay at the brightly colored Sognefjord cabins. You can even add a boat rental to your cabin booking too.