Breathtaking Waterfalls in Norway
Although Norway’s most famous attractions are the fjords, the dramatic scenery, and the spectacular wildlife that calls its rugged landscape home, it also boasts some absolutely stunning waterfalls.
Offering a remarkable array of gorgeous cascades (over 300 in total), including 10 of the 30 tallest on the planet, Norway is a wonderful destination for anyone who loves waterfalls. Seeking out these wonderful natural phenomena in the Norwegian mountains is a breathtaking and exhilarating way to spend a Norwegian vacation, and a far cry from lounging around on the beach!
So if you are planning a cruise to the Norwegian fjords this year and are looking for some additional excitement, check out the list below of the most beautiful waterfalls to visit in Norway.
Vinnu
Plunging down from the vast Vinnufonna glacier, Vinnu waterfall is a truly awe-inspiring sight. At over 2,800 feet, it is the tallest waterfall in Europe, and one of the highest in the world. It starts wide and mighty, like a white robe, then splits to form several separate cascades.
Vøringsfossen
One of the most well-known cascades in the country, Vøringsfossen is a vital part of Norway’s electrical grid, providing hydroelectric power for the entire country. Hidden in the deep recesses of the Måbødal Valley, it is a remarkable sight when viewed up close, after a long hike along the bottom of the gorge, or perched above it from the Fossli Hotel.
Kjelfossen
Another absolute giant, Kjelfossen ranks as the 18th highest waterfall in the world, and comes in just under 2,500 feet tall. Sadly due to its dramatic setting in Gudvangen it is hard to get up close, but there are some fantastic views of this majestic cascade from the road in the run-up to the Gudvanga Tunnel.
Steinsdalsfossen
Steinsdalsfossen is not a particularly large cascade – at 160 feet it is actually one of the smallest in Norway – but it offers something none of the others do. Due to its fascainating origin story, formed when a river diverted its course over 400 years ago, there is a flat, dry plateau under the overhang of the rock formation, which means that you can walk behind the falls themselves! Make sure you bring something waterproof to wear though, as up close the spray can soak through clothes fast!
Langfoss
Langfoss literally translates as ‘long waterfall’, and it certainly lives up to its name. The fifth tallest cascade in Norway, Langfoss in Åkrafjorden is just over 2,000 feet high, and is famous for the somewhat eccentric shape of its falls. Unlike other waterfalls which plunge straight down, Langfoss follows the topography of the cliff face itself, zig-zagging its way down like a vertical river! As a result of this odd formation, it is one of the few waterfalls in Norway which aren’t used to generate electricity.
The Seven Sisters
No list of waterfalls in Norway would be complete without a mention of the most famous cascade in the country, de Syv Søstre or the Seven Sisters. The unrivaled stars of Norway’s fantastic collection of falls, the Seven Sisters are a true natural wonder. Set in the UNESCO-protected Geirangerfjord, the seven streams of this waterfall are said to resemble seven strands of a woman’s hair, and a charming legend says that they are seven sisters who died unmarried after a single suitor attempted to woo all seven of them. In fact, an eighth cascade directly opposite is called the Suitor! The best view of these wonderful waterfalls comes from a cruise through the fjord, which also offers the opportunity to check out the neighboring cascades of Friaren, Ljosurfossen, and Bringefossen at the same time!
Image by John Gibson from Pixabay