Naeroyfjord (UNESCO)

The Naeroyfjord is a narrow 17-kilometre arm of the Sognefjord reaching to Gudvangen in Aurland municipality, Vestland, Norway. Together with the Geirangerfjord it forms the West Norwegian Fjords UNESCO World Heritage Site, inscribed in 2005. At its narrowest the fjord is only about 250 metres wide, and the rock walls rise to roughly 1,700 metres, with waterfalls spilling down the cliffs and small farms perched on ledges. Most visitors see it from the ferry between Flam and Gudvangen, a sailing of about two hours, often on a quiet electric vessel. The ride passes steep walls, cascades such as the Kjelfossen near Gudvangen, and views of the villages of Bakka and Dyrdal. Spring and early summer show the strongest snow-melt waterfalls, while autumn brings colour on the slopes. The best vantage points are on the open upper deck, where views open in all directions, and photographers can take wide shots of the cliffs from the water. Many travellers combine the cruise with the Flam Railway and a bus over the mountains as part of Norway in a Nutshell. Ferry fares are roughly NOK 550 to 800 one way, with half price for children, and the sailing is offered daily in season. Summer midday sailings are the most crowded, particularly with cruise-ship groups, and morning or late departures are calmer. Layers are essential, since the fjord is cool and breezy even in July. Gudvangen has a Viking-themed village and bus links to Voss.