Geiranger
Geiranger is the smallest village in Stranda municipality, but perhaps the best known. Every summer, people from all over the world come here to see the World Heritage fjord. Behind the postcard views, though, there is also a living village with activity all year round.
UNESCO World Heritage site
Geiranger sits at the head of the Geirangerfjord, part of the UNESCO World Heritage site West Norwegian Fjords. The fjord, the waterfalls and the steep mountainsides are world famous, but for the people who live here they are also part of everyday life.
From the village centre, the fjord, the mountains and the hiking trails are all close by, and nature is as much a workplace here as a place to spend your free time.
Tourism is the backbone of Geiranger, and over generations the village has grown into one of Norway's most important destinations.
At the Norwegian Fjord Centre you can learn more about the World Heritage site and the history of the area. The Geirangerfjord World Heritage Foundation works to protect and share the natural and cultural heritage, and also runs development work and projects linked to the World Heritage site.
An important part of that history is found on the fjord farms along the Geirangerfjord. Farms such as Skageflå and Knivsflå tell the story of how people have lived and made a living in this landscape through the generations.
World-class tourism
Geiranger has a tourism industry with long traditions and a lot of know-how. Hotel Union Geiranger, Havila Hotel Geiranger, Geiranger Fjordservice and many other companies create jobs in everything from hotels, food and activities to transport, retail and experiences.
Local products are made here too. Geiranger Sjokolade is based in the old boathouse down by the fjord, and is one of several examples of businesses built on something uniquely Geiranger.
Tourism offers many different job opportunities, and a workplace where your colleagues and guests often come from many different parts of the world.
Everyday life in Geiranger
Geiranger has its own school and kindergarten, a shop and the services a small village needs day to day. At the same time, tourism leaves a clear mark on the village, with a wide choice of places to eat, activities and things to do, especially through spring, summer and autumn.
Plenty happens through the year, with local events such as Festspela and the Geiranger Light Art Festival, concerts, pub nights, sport and activities created by businesses, volunteers and the villagers themselves.
Geiranger has big differences in altitude over short distances. From the centre by the fjord, the road climbs to Flydalsjuvet and on to Dalsnibba, 1,500 metres above sea level. On the other side you will find Ørnesvingen, with views back towards the village and the Geirangerfjord.
You can paddle on the fjord, walk to one of the fjord farms, run or cycle up the steep hills, or head further up into the mountains. Much of what people travel far to experience is right outside your door.
Photo: Festspela.
