Location and Geography
Hjørundfjord is tucked amid the peaks of the Sunnmøre Alps, lying at the innermost end of the Hjørundfjord which stretches 15 km from the village to the sea. The deep, u-shaped valley was carved out by glaciers and is framed by towering mountains that rise steeply from the shores of the fjord.
Climate and Weather
The climate of Hjørundfjord is mild oceanic, dominated by the North Atlantic Current. Winters are relatively warm yet wet, while summer months can range from cool to pleasantly warm. Fog and precipitation are common occurrences, contributing to the waterflows.
History and Origins of the Name
Hjørundfjord gets its name from the Norse mythological figure Hjørunn who was said to walk this valley. The village has ancient Viking origins, focused on fishing and only later developing into a tourist destination that promotes its natural scenery.
The Stunning Landscapes of Hjørundfjord
The landscapes of Hjørundfjord are simply stunning in their untouched beauty. Majestic mountains like the Sætretind rise dramatically to elevations over 5,500 feet. Lush green valleys covered in grasses, mosses and wildflowers lead down from alpine heights to the shores of the fjord. And cascading waterfalls like Litledalsfossen plunge over rocky cliffs as part of the water cycle that gives life to this distinctive Nordic ecosystem. The interplay of heights and depths makes Hjørundfjord an exceptionally scenic destination.
The Majestic Mountains
Rugged, dramatic peaks encircle Hjørundfjord, including the iconic pyramid-shaped Sætretind which towers at 1,895 m. Glaciers like the Sætredalsbreen cling to mountainsides, while hiking trails climb up slopes to panoramic high points. The crevasses and moraines left by glacial activity create an alpine landscape unique to fjord country.
Lush Green Valleys
Descending from the snow-dusted heights, verdant valleys cut through the mountains leading down to Hjørundfjord. Carpets of mosses and grasses grow lush fed by ample rainfall and waterfalls cascading down cliffsides. Networks of rivers and streams nourish the foliage and nurture tree species like mountain birch. The vibrant green hues contrast dramatically against craggy grey peaks.
Cascading Waterfalls
Abundant precipitation means Hjørundfjord is dotted with waterfalls that make their way from mountain snowfields and glaciers to the fjord below. Litledalsfossen is an impressive cascade plunging 297 m over a cliff into the Litledalen valley with an accessible vantage point for viewers. Other waterfalls can only be glimpsed on high while trekking through the peaks surrounding Hjørundfjord.
Related FAQs
Where exactly is Hjørundfjord located?
Hjørundfjord is located in the western part of Norway in the Sunnmøre region of Møre og Romsdal county. Specifically, it sits at the innermost end of the Hjørundfjord, about 15 km inland from the village of Ålesund where the fjord meets the open sea.
What is the best way to get to Hjørundfjord?
The most common way to access Hjørundfjord is by private car or tour bus, using the Fv258 mountain road that runs along the fjord from Ålesund. The nearest airport is Ålesund Airport on Vigra Island just a short drive away. Following the path up the fjord from Ålesund, the drive takes around one hour.
What activities are popular in the Hjørundfjord area?
Some of the most popular outdoor activities in Hjørundfjord include hiking, climbing, boating, kayaking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and photography. The dramatic landscapes provide endless opportunities for exploring via the network of trails and waterways. Cultural attractions and local amenities round out the visitor experience.
What is the best time of year to see the Northern Lights around Hjørundfjord?
The Aurora Borealis or Northern Lights appear most frequently and dramatically around Hjørundfjord during the winter months from late September through mid-April when hours of darkness allow the celestial light shows to be viewed. Peak viewing is generally around the equinoxes in March and September.
What wildlife might I spot in Hjørundfjord?
Some Norwegian wildlife to watch for in and around Hjørundfjord include large raptors like golden eagles, terrestrial species from red deer to arctic fox, marine mammals from seals to porpoises that inhabit the fjord waters, and a diversity of bird species from ptarmigans to puffins that nest on rocky cliffs.
