10 reasons to visit Flåm in autumn

1. Cycle the Navvies Road - Rallarvegen

Autumn is the main season for the popular cycle tour on the Navvies road, Rallarvegen, from mountain to fjord. By mid-August most of the snow on the old construction road has melted and the temperature is perfect for being active outdoors. Get of the train at Finse and spend the day cycling back to Flåm. As autumn evolves, the colours of the landscape changes and we recommend making time for photo breaks. Do not forget to bring extra layers of clothes, even gloves and a hat could be wise. Weather can change fast in the mountains, and the temperature changes the closer to the fjord you get. Back in Flåm, opt for an après-bike with cured ham and local brew at Fretheim Hotel.

2. From fjord to mountain by the Flåm Railway

The iconic rail journey between Flåm and Myrdal is a good enough reason to travel to Flåm whatever the season. Autumn being no exception. During the 20 km long train ride you see the changes of the landscape up close. The Flåm Valley with its steep, tall mountains, and cascading waterfalls gets even more dramatic with fog hanging over the sparkling blue river and colourful trees surrounding the small farmsteads.

3. The Nærøyfjord in autumn colours

A boat trip on the UNESCO World Heritage listed Nærøyfjord is a must when in the area. In the course of the two hours the journey takes between Flåm and Gudvangen you get to see roadless fjord villages, charming Undredal village, spectacular mountains such as Bakkanosi and Beitlanipa, and beautiful waterfalls like Sagfossen. As your gaze lifts toward the Stigen farm clinging to the mountainside above the Aurlandsfjord, it’s easy to be amazed by those who once settled there.

On board one of our award-winning, fully electric vessels, the views take centre stage. With silent propulsion and large panoramic windows in the lounges, you can enjoy the journey in comfort – no matter the weather. The clouds drifting between the mountains add a dramatic and atmospheric frame to the landscape, making the fjord experience even more special.

4. Experience the waterfalls up close

Autumn transforms the landscape into a dramatic spectacle. As the rain falls, water cascades down the mountainsides and the waterfalls grow into powerful torrents roaring through the valleys. The dramatic light and vivid autumn colours make the experience even more intense – wild, beautiful, and truly Norwegian.

On the Waterfall & Fjord Tour, you’ll witness the raw power of nature up close. The tour takes you to the mighty Tvindefossen waterfall and the iconic viewpoint at Stalheim – two highlights of the region. If you want more, you can choose the extended version that ends with a quiet, electric fjord cruise through the UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord – the perfect finale to a day shaped by the season.

5. Feel the fresh air on a hike

It is not only cycling on the Navvies road which is on its best in autumn. The same applies for hiking in the mountains. The area surrounding Myrkdalen and Flåm is made for great hiking adventures. Walk the Aurlandsdalen Valley from Østerbø to Vassbygdi, hike to summits with fjord views, or a family-friendly hike in easy undulating terrain on Vikafjell mountain plateau. This time of year, temperature is perfect for outdoor activities and the trails are free from snow. No matter what kind of hike you choose, we can guarantee memories for life.

6. Flåm Zipline

Scandinavia’s longest zipline promises an unforgettable thrill. Stretching 1,381 metres with a vertical drop of 305 metres, it can reach speeds of up to 100 km/h – enough to send butterflies racing through your stomach. The adventure begins at Vatnahalsen, accessible only by the iconic Flåm Railway. For the ultimate experience, combine the zipline with this scenic train journey and a cycling trip along the historic Navvies’ Road back to Flåm. It’s a day you won’t soon forget!

7. Romance in historic surroundings

Imagine checking into a room where the champagne is ready on a table with views to fjord and mountains. The bathrobe is laid out in case you want to sink into the jacuzzi to retrieve energy after your travel here. For dinner you are served a 5-course menu with wine recommendations.
If you treat yourself and your significant other to a Romantic Package at Fretheim Hotel, this is exactly what awaits. The tower suite of the hotel’s historical wind is as made for a romantic autumn break.

8. Visit the Vikings of Gudvangen

Who hasn’t wanted to travel back in time at some point to see how the Vikings lived? This is actually possible in Gudvangen. In the Viking Valley Njardarheimr you can walk around the streets, stop and talk to the Vikings who live and work there, learn about old crafts, and take a look into the houses to see how they lived. Make sure to stop by the chieftain’s house. You may even meet chieftain Georg himself or one of the village’s excellent storytellers.

9. Enjoy the autumn colours from Stegastein

The view from Stegastein is like a living painting, constantly shifting with the seasons and light. One of the most magical sights is the morning mist slowly lifting from the fjord, especially on crisp autumn days when it lies like a soft blanket over the water. For a true bird’s-eye view, head to the iconic platform stretching 30 metres out from the mountainside – 650 metres above the fjord – after breakfast. With minibuses running year-round, you can sit back and enjoy the ride without having to navigate the steep, winding road yourself.

10. Visit Aurland Shoe Économusée

Did you know that the original penny loafer originates in Aurland, the neighbouring village to Flåm? The long shoe-making tradition in the village started in the 1880s and, in the 1930s, Nils Tveranger developed the shoe we know today as the Aurland Shoe. The penny loafer became very popular in the period following the Second World War and was exported to the USA, the UK and Canada. The present factory is the last remaining shoe factory in Norway. In addition to shoes, the factory also produces handbags and other items made from high-quality leather.

Visit the Économuséet and learn more about this fascinating story. Go on a self-guided tour around the premises using the Voice of Norway app and see the skilled shoemakers at work. If you fancy your own pair of Aurland Shoes, you can buy them in the outlet.