Torn between visiting Briksdal Glacier or the Loen Skylift during your stop in Olden? Good news – you don’t have to choose. Here’s how you can experience both in one unforgettable day in this stunning Norwegian village.
If you’ve been eyeing an upcoming Norwegian fjords cruise and have Olden on the itinerary – lucky you! This charming little village is one of the prettiest ports of call, and it just so happens to be the gateway to two of Norway’s biggest highlights, the Briksdal Glacier and the Loen Skylift.
But here’s the question I see pop up time and time again in cruise groups and forums…
“Can I visit both the Briksdal Glacier and the Loen Skylift in one day?”
Yes, you absolutely can – but you’ll need to plan it right. I say that from experience, because on my very first visit to Olden, I faced the same dilemma: glacier or skylift? I couldn’t choose – I wanted to see both! So I took a chance, mapped out my day carefully, and guess what? I managed to fit them both in, and it was completely worth it.
Here’s all you need to know to make it happen.
Welcome to Olden
Tucked away at the end of the stunning Nordfjord, Olden is the kind of place that feels almost too beautiful to be real. Picture snow-capped mountains, glacier-carved valleys and shimmering emerald lakes. Olden has it all.
If you’re only in port for a few hours, choosing how to spend your time can feel like an impossible task. But the good news? With a bit of planning (and a pair of comfy shoes), you really can experience both the Briksdal Glacier and the Loen Skylift in a single, unforgettable day.
Briksdal Glacier
The Briksdal Glacier is the most accessible arms of the mighty Jostedalsbreen Glacier, the largest glacier on mainland Europe which makes it popular with visitors. While it’s sadly been retreating over the years, it’s still a spectacular sight and 100% worth seeing.
Location: Around 25k from Olden
Journey time: 40-45 minute scenic drive
Visit duration: 3.5 hours
What to expect
You’ll be dropped off at the Briksdal Mountain Lodge and from there it is a 2.5km walk to the glacier. The path is mostly uphill but surrounded by stunning mountain scenery, waterfalls, and wildflowers which takes your mind off the walk! If walking isn’t for you, don’t worry. You can hop on a ‘troll car’, a motorised buggy that takes you most of the way, leaving just a 700m walk to the valley.
Read more: Find out what it’s like to explore Briksdal Glacier on a shore excursion – what to expect and tips for making the most of your visit
Loen Skylift
The Loen Skylift is one of the steepest cable cars in the world, whisking you 1,011 meters (over 3,000 feet!) to the top of Mt. Hoven in just a few minutes.
Location: Around 6km (4 miles) from Olden
Journey Time: 10 minutes by vehicle
Visit duration: An hour or two (longer if you wish to explore or dine in the cafe or restaurant)
What to expect
- Epic panoramic views over the fjords and mountains
- Several view platforms
- Walking trails
- A mountain top cafe, restaurant and a gift shop
It can be busy when a ship is in port. With only two cable cars, don’t be surprised if you have to queue for a bit, especially in the morning. Trust me though, it’s worth the wait. Whatever the weather as you can see from the photos from my two visits.
Read more: Want to know more about what Olden has to offer? Check out my Olden Port Guide for everything you need to know to make the most of your time ashore.
How to visit both in one day
Most cruise ships dock in Olden for 6-8 hours which should give you enough time to comfortably visit both attractions. If you get an early start!
There are two main ways to do it. By taking an excursion with your cruise line or doing it independently. Let’s look at the advantages and disadvantages of both options.
Cruise line excursions
This is the easiest and most stress-free way to see both. Most, if not all, cruise lines will offer excursions.
Pros
- You are guaranteed to get back onboard the ship – they won’t leave you behind if you get delayed!
- There is no need to worry about logistics, it is all taken care of for you
- Gives you peace of mind as it is a totally stress-free way to see both attractions.
Cons
- You have no flexibility, you will have set times to go and leave.
- It might feel a bit rushed – especially if you are hopping from one excursion to another or you may not feel you had long enough at each place
- There will probably be no time to explore Olden itself.
I did both as separate excursions on my first visit – the glacier in the morning and the skylift in the afternoon. The day was full-on (I basically went from one coach to the next!) and while I loved the experience, it was pretty full-on. However, I felt I didn’t have enough time at the skylift as the excursion went to another attraction first. I also didn’t get a chance to explore the village.
I ended up booking another cruise that called into Olden so I could explore more (and do the skylift again!)
Doing it yourself (independently)
If you prefer to go at your own pace, local tour operators run shuttle services from the cruise dock to both attractions.
- The shuttle to the Briksdal Glacier runs three times a day and gives you around 3.5 hours at the site.
- The Loen Skylift shuttle runs every 30 minutes and includes your lift ticket.
Pros
- You can be flexible with your timings
- It can often be cheaper than a cruise excursion
- You might also be able to squeeze in a walk (or tour) around the village.
Cons
- The ship won’t wait for you if you are late back
- You will probably need to book in advance, particularly in high season.
Tip: If you haven’t pre-booked, you’ll find a local tour and transport booking office in the small building just to the right of the dock as you disembark.
Which one should you do first?
Honestly, it’s up to you….I don’t think it really matters.
If you want to get the more active bit out of the way first, start with the glacier in the morning, then relax with a ride up the skylift in the afternoon. That’s what I did, and I loved ending the day on a high (literally!)
The skylift first works if the weather is clear early in the day and you don’t want to miss those panoramic view. On my return trip, I did the skylift around mid-morning and found it much busier than the afternoon – especially the café which had a very long queue for cake!
If you’re booking independently and have the nerve to hold out booking until the last minute, you can keep an eye on the weather, and plan around when the views will be clearest.
Is it worth doing both?
Absolutely, 100% Yes.
These two experiences offer totally different perspectives on the stunning Norwegian landscape.
- Briksdal Glacier is all about nature, the walk, and feeling tiny beneath towering cliffs in the valley and the ancient ice snaking down.
- Loen Skylift gives you a sweeping perspective of the region that’ll leave you speechless. It is a truly inspiring view. I often have their webcam open so I can enjoy the view from home!
However, if you would prefer a more relaxed day in port it is probably better to choose one and spend the rest of the time exploring Olden and soaking up the fjords views.
Top Tips for a Smooth Day in Olden
- Check your time in port before planning and booking
- Book tickets in advance for shuttles or excursions (especially in peak season) to avoid disappointment
- Dress in layers – Norwegian weather is unpredictable, it can change quickly!
- Wear comfortable shoes if you’re hiking to the glacier
- Bring snacks and water for the walk
- Allow time to relax and enjoy the view at Mt. Hoven. There is nothing quite like sitting in the cafe with a cuppa and enjoying the view
- If doing the Skylift in the afternoon, keep an eye on the cable cars going back down. When it is busy there can be a long queue
- Watch the the clock if you’re exploring independently – don’t be late back!
The Last Word
Olden may be a small village, but it packs in some amazing experiences. With a bit of planning, you can enjoy both the glacial magic of Briksdal and the sky-high thrills of Loen Skylift during a port stop and trust me, it will be a day you’ll never forget. And if you’re anything like me, you’ll be talking about it long after you’ve sailed away from Olden.
These two attractions offer completely different, yet equally unforgettable experiences. Together, they give you a full picture of just how magical this region is.
Olden is one of those ports that leaves a lasting impression. So whichever path you choose – up the mountain or toward the glacier (or both!) – you’re in for something truly special.
Have you done both in one day? Let me know in the comments!