In autumn, Norway resembles a colorful land, and September and October are the perfect time for hiking, road trips or camping. If you do not know which places to choose, below is a list of the most beautiful places for autumn trips, along with practical tips on when to go and how to prepare.
Why go to Norway in autumn?
It is worth visiting Norway in the autumn, because, firstly, there are fewer people out of season, there are better prices, it is also easier to stay overnight and calm, secondly, there is a chance to admire the first aurorae, and thirdly, there are colorful, autumn landscapes waiting for us…
Top places for autumn in Norway
Hardanger and orchard fjords
Hardanger and orchard fjords is one of the most picturesque regions of Norway, stretching around Hardangerfjord, with the charming villages of Ulvik, Eidfjord and Lofthus.
It is an ideal place for a quiet tour along the Hardanger Fruit and Cider Route trail, where you can visit local farms, taste fresh juices and craft ciders, and look into small presses. For active people there is a trekking to Trolltunga or short – less demanding – trails to the famous waterfalls: Vøringfossen and Steinsdalsfossen.
Aurland Valley and Nærøyfjord (UNESCO)
Another noteworthy venue is Aurlandsfjellet, Flåm and Gudvangen, which make up one of the most interesting corners of Norway. Be sure to also take a look at the Stegastein viewpoint, then go on a cruise on Nærøyfjord. If you have little experience, you can go trekking on easy trails in the Aurland Valley. If you are planning to travel along the “Snøvegen” (Aurlandsfjellet Scenic Route), you must remember that it is passable only to the first snow. It is therefore worth checking the current conditions before departure.
Telemark and Lakes Bandak/Flåvatn
If you are looking for a region for a road trip or camping with cottages, Telemark is a great idea. Telemark located in south-eastern Norway is a classic “Norwegian New England”, i.e. undulating hills, lakes and extensive, deciduous forests in autumn colors. While in this area, it is worth taking a cruise on the Telemark Canal and trails around Gaustatoppen, from where you can supposedly see 1/6 of the country.
Lofoten in autumn
Lofoten in the Nordland archipelago is one of the mandatory places that are worth seeing in the autumn. You can go to Reinebringen at dawn, visit the beaches of Haukland and Unstad and the nearby hills above Nusfjord. During this time, the nights are already dark, so it is worth looking out for the aurora, and due to the frequent strong wind, securely protect your tents
Oslo and surroundings – option for shorter trips
If you are planning a short trip to Norway, a great place to visit is the capital city and its surroundings. Take the trail around Sognsvann, climb Vettakollen to the sunset or go on a short cruise to Hovedøya.
Practical tips for September-October
When going to Norway in autumn, remember to put on layered clothing: waterproof membrane, warm jacket, hat and gloves; in the mountains it is possible to snow over 1000-1200 m. Since the days are shorter during this period, it is worth taking the flashlight. Check Statens vegvesen messages (closures of viewing roads), ferry timetables or book popular places in advance. Camping according to allemansretten: at least 150 m from the buildings, 1-2 nights in one place; a bonfire only where safe and without local prohibitions.
September and October in Norway is a time when nature is full of colors of red, bronze and gold. Choose a region under your belt of fjords, water and rocks, the central mountains or the north to immortalize the aurorae. Remember to prepare a travel plan, appropriate clothing and set off on an autumn trip to the land of fjords 😉