The Norwegian fjord region is not short of spectacular viewpoints. Even among all this natural beauty, Geiranger Skywalk, or Dalsnibba, is one of the very best.
If you're planning a trip to Norway, the Geiranger Skywalk should be at the top of your list. Nestled in the heart of the stunning fjord landscape, this incredible viewpoint offers an experience like none other.
I visited this remarkable place a few years ago with my in-laws, after a night down in the village. Even at the height of summer, there were patches of snow on the ground as we drove up, and up, and up!
When we finally arrived at the viewpoint, the panorama was simply breathtaking. If you're planning to visit Geiranger, I'd thoroughly recommend a visit here. Read on and I'll explain why.
Introducing Dalsnibba
The Geiranger Skywalk, also known as Dalsnibba, is a spectacular viewing platform located 1,500 meters above sea level.
It provides a sensational panoramic view of the UNESCO World Heritage listed Geirangerfjord and mountain landscape. It's one of Europe's highest fjord views accessible by car.
The viewpoint also hosts a shop and cafe. Despite the remote location, the shop has a good range of souvenirs and clothing on offer, including unique Geiranger Skywalk products that you can't buy anywhere else.
Don't have a car? This three-hour tour includes guided transport to Geiranger Skywalk and three other highlights of the Geiranger area.
The cafe serves drinks and simple snacks such as cinnamon buns and waffles. Fuelling up in the cafe is a good idea if you intend on hitting the trails.
From the skywalk, it's possible to head on out on some challenging hikes. These are for experienced hikers used to mountain conditions, though. Early in the season, experienced skiers also use Dalsnibba as a starting point.
Getting to Geiranger Skywalk
Reaching the Skywalk is an adventure in itself. The journey begins in the charming village of Geiranger, which is accessible by car, bus, or even a scenic cruise.
From Geiranger, it takes about half-an-hour to drive to Dalsnibba. The last part of the journey requires driving up a narrow, winding mountain road, known as Nibbevegen, which was built in 1939.
This toll road is open from May to September. It's usually open 24 hours a day, but the daily opening (and season start/end) can vary depending on weather conditions. It's well worth checking online prior to your visit to avoid a wasted journey.
The View
Once you arrive, prepare to be awestruck. The Geiranger Skywalk offers an unparalleled view of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Geirangerfjord.
On a clear day, you can see deep into the fjord, with its emerald waters, cascading waterfalls, and lush, green mountainsides.
The platform itself extends out over the edge of the mountain, giving you the feeling of standing on top of the world. It's a perfect spot for photos, so don't forget your camera!
Late in the summer, evening visits to Geiranger Skywalk are popular on clear nights for one of the best starry skies in all of Norway.
Practical Matters
There's one must-know tip about Geiranger Skywalk, and that's to check the weather before you go. Clouds can obscure the view.
Even if the weather seems favourable, dress in layers and take something warm and waterproof. The fjord region is notorious for its changeable weather, and that's even more true at altitude.
There is a toll payable to drive up Nibbevegen. You can pay online in advance, but make sure your ticket is downloaded to your phone, as signal up here is unreliable. In high season, the toll booth is manned. At other times there is a payment machine.
Transport to Geiranger Skywalk
If you don't have a car, don't despair! The company that hires out the small electric buggies offers rental in order to drive up to Dalsnibba, but it's pricey.
As such, the best option for non-drivers is an organised tour. This established three-hour tour has excellent reviews and also includes visits to the fantastic Eagle's Bend and Flydalsjuvet viewpoints.
Have you been to Geiranger Skywalk? I'd love to hear your experiences down in the comments.
If planning to drive down to Geiranger, I recommend consulting the cruise ship arrivals schedule https://www.cruisetimetables.com/geiranger-norway-cruise-ship-schedule-2024.html
Some of the visiting ships contain 5,000+ passengers, which means there will be many tour buses using the narrow, winding roads leading down to the docking area. Tour buses generally do not give way to cars ! Geiranger with a visiting cruise ship is best avoided in my opinion.
Hi! Thanks so much for the local tips and tricks!
My mother and I are meeting up from opposite ends of the world for our road trip through Norway, and we had planned to stay at one of your recommended hotels near Geiranger. Unfortunately it looks as though there is a cruise ship on the fjord almost every day, and a smaller (3000 people) one will be there on the day we will. Unfortunately we cannot change our dates to be around that area, but we do have flexibility to go somewhere else. Should I avoid the fjord completely? We were planning on hiking and kayaking that day…if we should avoid, where would you suggest we go instead?
Thank you!
Hiking trails aren’t going to be rammed as most cruise ship passengers go on organised excursions. Cruise ships are usually gone by 4/5/6pm, so the evening will be much quieter in the village anyway. Have a great trip!