Bergen - Ålesund - Bergen
The Inner Fjords Explorer
Limited Collection voyage around Norway’s iconic Western Fjords
- April 2027 - May 2028
- 8 days
- 6 Stops
- All meals & unlimited select drinks included
Discover two remarkable expressions of Norway's cultural heritage. Visit the UNESCO-listed Urnes Stave Church, renowned for its intricate carvings and medieval architecture, before exploring traditional wooden boatbuilding at Ornes Shipyard, where centuries-old skills continue to thrive beside the Lustrafjord.
Highlights
Visit Norway's oldest stave church and discover remarkable carvings blending Viking and Christian traditions.
See traditional wooden boats being built and restored using time-honoured techniques.
Explore architecture, craftsmanship and history in one of Norway's most beautiful fjord landscapes.
How it works
Step into Norway's past on a journey that combines medieval architecture, traditional craftsmanship and spectacular fjord scenery. Travelling through the beautiful Lustrafjord landscape, you'll visit two sites that offer unique insights into the country's cultural heritage.
Urnes Stave Church is Norway's oldest preserved stave church and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built during the 12th century, the church is celebrated for its remarkable wooden carvings, distinctive architecture and fascinating blend of Viking and Christian symbolism. During a guided visit, you'll learn about its construction, history and enduring significance within Norwegian culture.
You'll also visit Ornes Boatyard, where traditional wooden vessels are still built and restored using techniques passed down over generations. Here, skilled craftsmen continue a proud maritime tradition that has shaped life along Norway's coast for centuries. The visit offers a fascinating glimpse into the knowledge, patience and expertise required to preserve these historic vessels.
To ensure a more personal experience, guests are divided into smaller groups and visit both attractions in turn.
Combining UNESCO heritage, living craftsmanship and beautiful fjord scenery, this excursion provides a rewarding introduction to the traditions, skills and stories that continue to shape Norway today.
Before you book
Activity level
Easy: Suitable for most people
Group size
Groups up to 90 guests
Availability
Spring, fall
Transport
Bus
Food & drink
No food or drink included
What to bring
Comfortable clothing and suitable footwear.
Voyages with this excursion
This excursion is available on select Hurtigruten voyages along the Norwegian coast. Explore all voyages.
Available: Spring, fall
Frequently asked questions
Answers to the questions our guests ask most often
If an excursion is not fully booked, any remaining slots will be available for purchase on board through your Expedition Team. These will be charged in Norwegian Kroner at your ship’s exchange rate.
However, to ensure yourself a spot, we recommend booking in advance.
You will be able to view them all by logging into your booking here.
If you booked through a travel agent, you can reach out to them for this information.
Yes, you will get a full refund to your original payment method. If that's not possible, we will reach out to check your payment details.
Each of our excursions has a rating to illustrate the level of fitness required. There are four categories, with 1 being the easiest and 4 the most difficult.
Level 1 = Easy: suitable for most
Excursions at this level are physically undemanding and suitable for most people. Level 2 = Moderate: some mobility needed
Excursions in this category involve a small amount of physical activity, but on easy terrain with few major challenges. Level 3 = Active: good mobility needed
Excursions in this category are more active and involve outdoor pursuits that require a decent level of fitness. You may be expected to carry your own backpack and equipment. They are not suitable for those with limited mobility.
Level 4 = Challenging: good mobility and fitness needed
These are our most challenging excursions, and require a good level of fitness. They may involve hiking or biking on uneven terrain and may also require specialist equipment. You would be expected to carry your own backpack and equipment. Excursions in this category are not suitable for those with limited mobility.
Prices can vary depending on the season you travel. Costs such as exchange rates and local prices may change from year to year, so we show a “starting from” price as a guide. The exact price will be confirmed when you book.
Other excursions in Skjolden
Discover more ways to explore this beautiful coastal destination
Sognefjord’s Glacier Landscapes by Bus
Drive dramatic Jostedalen valley, see Nigardsbreen glacier and discover how ice shaped the magnificent scenery.
Spring, fall
Sognefjellet Mountain Pass by Bus
Drive from Lustrafjorden through some of Norway’s most spectacular scenery to northern Europe’s highest mountain pass.
Spring, fall
Kayaking in Sognefjord
Paddle across Lustrafjord for a water-level perspective on the surrounding mountains, waterfalls and fjord scenery.
Spring, fall
Hike to Mount Senjaberg Viewpoint
Hike above Skjolden for sweeping views over Lustrafjord, mountains and the village, 120 metres below.
Spring, fall