Discover the breathtaking beauty of Fjord Norway's Loen through stunning photos showcasing its serene lakes, majestic mountains, and thrilling adventures that make it a must-visit destination.
Norway is not exactly short of spectacular scenery, with dramatic mountains, stunning fjords and thousands of miles of picturesque coastline. Yet, some places stand out even in a country overflowing with natural beauty.
One such gem is Lodalen, home to the charming village of Loen and the serene Lake Lovatnet—a place so captivating that it's earned the nickname ‘Norway’s Instagram village’ from the local media.
With its blend of quaint wooden farmhouses, mirror-like waters, and awe-inspiring mountain backdrops, Loen epitomizes the postcard-perfect charm that draws photographers and travelers alike.
What better way to showcase its magic than through this curated collection of spectacular photos?
Where is Loen?
Before diving into the visual feast, let’s pinpoint Loen on the map. Nestled in the heart of Fjord Norway, Loen is located at the easternmost end of the stunning Nordfjord, one of the region’s longest and most picturesque fjords.
The village lies in Stryn municipality, part of Vestland county. Loen is conveniently situated just 6 kilometres from the cruise port town of Olden and 11 kilometres from Stryn, the administrative centre of the municipality.
Surrounded by impressive peaks, tranquil waters, and lush valleys, Loen is easily accessible and serves as a gateway to the region’s natural wonders, making it a perfect base for exploration.
Whether you arrive by car, boat, or on a scenic detour from a fjord cruise, Loen promises a memorable introduction to Norway’s dramatic landscapes.
Exploring Loen: A Paradise for Adventure
Loen has long captured the hearts of Norwegians and visitors alike, including Queen Sonja. Her first visit to the region was in 1979, when she hiked to Oldeskaret, a picturesque mountain pass.
Decades later, in 2017, she returned to inaugurate the Loen Skylift, a spectacular addition to the area’s already impressive roster of attractions. I'll talk more about this attraction later.
Speaking at the event, the Queen described the region as “one of the most magnificent parts of our country, with such unique nature and tremendous variation.”
This blend of natural beauty and varied activities is what makes Loen so special. Whether you’re looking to unwind amidst serene landscapes or embark on thrilling adventures, Loen offers something for everyone.
For adrenaline seekers, the via ferrata climbing route to the summit of Mount Hoven is a must-try. This protected climbing route, which uses steel cables fixed to the mountainside, provides a safe yet exhilarating challenge.
While experienced climbers can rent equipment and take on the route solo, guided tours are the preferred option for most visitors, offering expert instruction and local insights.
If scaling a mountain isn’t your idea of fun, don’t worry—Loen’s outdoor activities cater to all tastes.
The calm waters of Lake Lovatnet are perfect for kayaking, rowing, or fishing, with campsites and rental facilities offering easy access to the equipment you’ll need. Cycling enthusiasts can explore the lush valley on two wheels, taking in the stunning scenery at their own pace.
Lake Lovatnet
For those who prefer to relax, Loen’s tranquil atmosphere and breathtaking surroundings are perfect for simply soaking in the natural beauty.
Meltwater from the Ramnefjell glacier, an arm of the mighty Jostedal glacier, feeds the lake. The waterfall Ramnefjellsfossen is one of the world's tallest.
For an even more relaxing stay, consider a trip on the canal boat MS Kjenndal. In a typical summer, the boat carries up to 100 passengers across the lake on Fridays and Sundays.
The Loen skylift
Opened in 2017, the Loen Skylift is one of the newest attractions in the Fjord Norway region.
The cable car climbs more than a kilometre up to the top of Mount Hoven, where passengers are rewarded with spectacular views of the Nordfjord.
The ride itself is notable for its steepness. At one point reaching a gradient of 60°, it's the steepest such transport in the world.
“I think this will be very important for the ability to enjoy the mountains in the area, as well as for the entire region, for Western Norway and for Norway as a whole. It is fantastic that they have realised this dream, this vision of building a skylift so that a wider number of people can share in the experience that many of us have been so privileged to have,” said the Queen of Norway at the opening ceremony.
The Queen also unveiled this five-metre-high horseshoe sculpture to commemorate the tale and the skylift. Why a horseshoe?
Well, an old Norwegian folk tale claims that Mount Hoven is named after the Norse God Odin's horse Sleipner. On a mountain ride, Sleipner is said to have struck his hoof leaving the powerful scar on the mountainside that is clearly visible today.
At the time of writing, a return trip on the skylift costs NOK 595 in the summer season and NOK 495 during the rest of the year. It's pricey, but you'll remember the views for a lifetime.
The Risk of Landslides
Loen’s beauty comes with a hidden danger: the risk of landslides, particularly those capable of triggering tsunamis in Lake Lovatnet. The surrounding mountains, including Ramnefjellet, have a history of devastating events.
In 1905 and 1936, massive landslides caused tsunamis that destroyed farms and claimed over 130 lives. Experts warn the risk of another such incident remains high due to the steep terrain and changing climate.
Modern monitoring systems, including seismic sensors and laser scanning, now provide early warnings to reduce risks. However, the inherent danger cannot be eliminated, leaving the area under constant observation.
A recent Sunnfjord Geo Centre report concluded that parts of the Lodalen valley are unsuitable for further development, posing challenges for local authorities balancing tourism growth with safety.
Efforts focus on sustainable tourism, with infrastructure expansion limited to minimize risk. Visitors are encouraged to respect safety guidelines and restrictions while enjoying the area’s stunning but vulnerable landscapes.
Have you been to Loen? I'd love to hear your thoughts and experiences down in the comments.
