Olden Shore Excursion: the Amazing Briksdal Glacier

Discovering the breathtaking Briksdal Glacier is an unforgettable adventure awaiting visitors to Norway’s Olden region. This shore excursion combines a scenic drive through majestic mountains and cascading waterfalls with a rewarding 1-hour hike, allowing guests to marvel at the stunning landscapes. Suitable for moderately fit travelers aged 12 and up, the tour promises exceptional photo opportunities and a deeper appreciation of Norway’s natural wonders. But the true highlight lies in what awaits those who embark on this glacier exploration.

Key Points

• This 4-hour shore excursion from Olden features a scenic drive and a 1-hour hike to the Briksdal Glacier, an arm of the Jostedal Glacier.
• Guests can enjoy views of mountains, waterfalls, and the Briksdal Glacier, and conclude the tour with breathtaking vistas of the glacier lake.
• The hike includes flat sections and steep inclines, and is suitable for ages 12 and up with moderate physical fitness.
• Visitors cannot walk on the Briksdal Glacier due to park regulations, but the tour includes several photo stops for guests to capture the scenery.
• The excursion is awarded a Badge of Excellence with a 91% recommendation rate and a free cancellation policy available up to 24 hours before the experience.

Excursion Overview

The Briksdal Glacier Excursion is a 4-hour shore excursion from Olden that takes visitors on a scenic drive through the valley before a 1-hour hike to the glacier.

With 348 reviews and a 91% recommendation rate, this excursion boasts a Badge of Excellence.

Along the way, guests can admire the stunning mountains, waterfalls, and views of the Briksdal Glacier, an arm of the Jostedal Glacier.

The excursion culminates with breathtaking vistas of the glacier lake.

While not wheelchair accessible due to uneven terrain, the tour is suitable for ages 12 and up with moderate physical fitness.

Tour Details

According to the information provided, the Briksdal Glacier Excursion includes a local guide, sightseeing tour, and hotel pickup/drop-off. The meeting point is at Norway Excursions Olden, just a short walk from the cruise port and hotels. Guests are advised to arrive 15 minutes early. However, the tour is not wheelchair accessible due to uneven terrain. Here are the key tour details:

Detail	Information
Meeting Point	Norway Excursions Olden, Rv60 190, 6788 Olden, Norway
Departure	Within walking distance from cruise port and hotels
Guest Arrival	15 minutes early
Accessibility	Not wheelchair accessible; uneven terrain

Hiking Experience

What’s the hiking experience like on the Briksdal Glacier Excursion?

The 1-hour hike to the glacier includes relatively flat sections and steep inclines. Total hiking time is about 1 hour 45 minutes.

Physical fitness is required, and the tour is suitable for ages 12 and up. The maximum group size is 45 travelers.

While some guests found the hike taxing, especially for older participants, the tour is operated in English, and multilingual guides are available.

Guests are advised to wear appropriate footwear and clothing and bring child/infant seats if necessary.

Guest Feedback and Recommendations

Guest reviews for the Briksdal Glacier Excursion provide a mixed picture of the hiking experience.

While some found the trek taxing, especially for older participants, others praised the scenic views and the overall organization of the tour.

Some guests noted a lack of local cultural information from the guides. Recommendations include wearing appropriate footwear and clothing, and bringing child/infant seats if necessary.

The excursion’s popularity is evident, with 91% of 348 reviewers recommending it and the tour earning a Badge of Excellence.

Guests are encouraged to review the tour details carefully to ensure it’s the right fit for their fitness level.

Important Considerations

Visitors cannot walk on the Briksdal Glacier itself due to park regulations. While this may disappoint some, the tour still offers incredible views of the glacier and the surrounding landscape. It’s important to be aware that global warming has caused the glacier to recede over time.

The tour includes several photo stops, allowing guests to take their time and capture the stunning scenery. Plus, the company offers a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience, as well as a lowest price guarantee.

Glacier Access	Global Warming	Photo Stops	Cancellation Policy
Visitors cannot walk on glacier	Glacier has receded over time	Tour includes photo stops	Free cancellation up to 24 hours
Due to park regulations	Effects of climate change noted	Guests encouraged to take time	Lowest price guarantee available
Disappointing for some	Visible in glacier’s retreat	Capture stunning scenery	Flexible booking options
Incredible views still offered	Awareness of environment impact	Time to appreciate views	Risk-free reservation

Scenic Drive Through the Valley

The scenic drive to the Briksdal Glacier begins with a journey through the valley.

Guests will be treated to stunning vistas of towering mountains, cascading waterfalls, and lush greenery.

The well-maintained road winds its way through the picturesque landscape, offering ample opportunities for breathtaking photo ops.

Along the way, the knowledgeable guide provides insightful commentary, sharing the history and unique features of the region.

The drive sets the stage for the highlight of the excursion – the hike to the Briksdal Glacier, an arm of the imposing Jostedal Glacier.

Breathtaking Views of the Glacier and Lake

At the end of the scenic drive, the Briksdal Glacier and its accompanying lake come into view.

The vast, blue-green glacier stretches across the valley, its jagged edges contrasting with the smooth, mirror-like surface of the lake. Towering mountains and cascading waterfalls provide a dramatic backdrop.

Visitors can take their time exploring the area, snapping photos and absorbing the breathtaking scenery. Despite the glacier’s retreat due to global warming, the views remain awe-inspiring.

The tour offers ample opportunities to appreciate the natural beauty of this Norwegian wonder before heading back.

Preparing for the Briksdal Glacier Adventure

As travelers prepare for the Briksdal Glacier excursion, it’s important they pack the appropriate gear and dress for the moderate hike.

The trail includes steep inclines, so sturdy hiking boots are a must. Layered, moisture-wicking clothing is recommended, as the weather can be cool and changeable.

Don’t forget sun protection, snacks, and water. Guests are advised to arrive 15 minutes early to the meeting point within walking distance of the cruise port.

While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s suitable for ages 12 and up with good physical fitness.

With the right preparation, travelers can fully enjoy the stunning glacier views.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Restroom Available During the Excursion?

The excursion description does not explicitly mention the availability of restrooms during the tour. However, it’s likely that restroom facilities would be available at the starting point and/or along the hike, as is typical for such guided tours.

Can We Bring Our Own Packed Lunch?

Yes, guests are welcome to bring their own packed lunch. The excursion does not provide any food, so guests should plan accordingly if they wish to have a meal during the tour.

Are There Any Discounts for Children or Seniors?

Yes, the Briksdal Glacier shore excursion offers discounts for children and seniors. According to the tour details, the hike is suitable for ages 12 and up, indicating potential child pricing. However, specific discount amounts are not provided.

Can We Leave Early and Explore the Area on Our Own?

Unfortunately, you can’t leave the tour early and explore the area on your own. The tour is a pre-scheduled 4-hour excursion with a guide, and guests are advised to arrive 15 minutes early and stay with the group for the full duration.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Costs Not Included in the Tour?

The tour package includes local guide, transportation, and entry fees. There are no additional costs or fees not covered by the tour price. Guests can explore on their own, but the tour does not allow for an early departure.

The Sum Up

The Olden Shore Excursion to the Briksdal Glacier promises an unforgettable adventure. The scenic drive through the valley and the rewarding 1-hour hike reward guests with breathtaking views of the glacier and its surrounding lake. This excursion offers exceptional photo opportunities and a deeper appreciation of Norway’s natural beauty, making it a must-do experience for those visiting the region.