About Western Norway (Vestlandet)

Western Norway, locally known as Vestlandet, is arguably the most scenic region of Norway. This is "Fjord Norway" - where deep blue fjords cut between towering mountains, creating some of the world's most dramatic landscapes. The region includes the counties of Vestland (Bergen area), Rogaland (Stavanger area), and Møre og Romsdal (Ålesund area).

The Gulf Stream keeps the climate milder than the latitude might suggest, though the region is known for abundant rainfall (Bergen has over 200 rainy days per year). This moisture creates lush green valleys and spectacular waterfalls cascading into the fjords.

Key Facts About Western Norway

Counties

Vestland, Rogaland, Møre og Romsdal

Major Cities

Bergen, Stavanger, Ålesund

Famous Fjords

Sognefjord, Hardangerfjord, Geirangerfjord, Lysefjord

Climate

Mild oceanic - wet and temperate

Top Destinations

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Bergen

Gateway to the fjords with UNESCO-listed Bryggen wharf and seven surrounding mountains.

60.3913°N, 5.3221°E
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Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock)

Iconic cliff platform 604m above Lysefjord near Stavanger.

58.9867°N, 6.1867°E
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Geirangerfjord

UNESCO World Heritage fjord with dramatic waterfalls and mountain scenery.

62.1008°N, 7.0940°E
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Trolltunga

Dramatic rock formation jutting out over Lake Ringedalsvatnet.

60.1240°N, 6.7400°E
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Flåm Railway

One of the world's steepest railways with spectacular mountain views.

60.8631°N, 7.1136°E
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Ålesund

Beautiful Art Nouveau town, gateway to Geirangerfjord.

62.4722°N, 6.1495°E

The Major Fjords

  • Sognefjord: Norway's longest (204km) and deepest (1,308m) fjord
  • Hardangerfjord: Second longest, famous for fruit orchards and waterfalls
  • Geirangerfjord: UNESCO World Heritage, dramatic scenery
  • Lysefjord: Home to Pulpit Rock and Kjeragbolten
  • Nærøyfjord: Narrow UNESCO-listed branch of Sognefjord

Scenic Routes

  • Atlantic Ocean Road: Spectacular coastal road with bridges over the sea
  • Trollstigen: Dramatic mountain road with 11 hairpin bends
  • Hardangervidda: High mountain plateau route
  • Flåm Railway: Mountain railway from Myrdal to fjord level