Balestrand Ferries

Sorry, there is currently no available ferries on this route.

Balestrand is well-connected to major Norwegian cities through an efficient transportation network. From Bergen, travelers can reach Balestrand via the express boat service, taking approximately 4 hours through spectacular fjord scenery. Those coming from Oslo can take the train to Flåm, followed by a ferry connection. Road travelers will enjoy the scenic Norwegian highways, with good connections from Bergen (about 3.5 hours) and Voss. The ferry terminal in Balestrand offers short-term parking, though spaces can be limited during peak summer months, so arriving early is recommended.

Nestled along the shores of the magnificent Sognefjord, Balestrand stands as a jewel in Norway's crown of natural wonders. This charming village combines breathtaking scenery with rich cultural heritage, creating an idyllic ferry destination for travelers seeking authentic Norwegian experiences. Visitors arriving by water are greeted by dramatic mountain backdrops, colorful wooden houses, and the serene waters of what locals proudly call the 'King of Fjords.'

Balestrand enjoys a relatively mild climate compared to other parts of Norway, thanks to the warming influence of the Gulf Stream. The prime visiting season runs from May through September, when days are long and temperatures comfortable for outdoor exploration. July and August offer the warmest weather, perfect for swimming in the fjord and hiking, though these months also bring the most visitors. For those seeking tranquility amid autumn colors, September provides a magical atmosphere with fewer tourists. Ferry services operate year-round but run with increased frequency during the summer months, making connections to other fjord destinations more convenient.

Balestrand serves as an excellent hub for exploring the magnificent Sognefjord region by ferry. The UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord, just a scenic 2-hour ferry journey away, offers some of Norway's most dramatic landscapes with its narrow passages and towering cliffs. Flåm, reachable in approximately 1 hour by express boat, invites visitors to experience the famous Flåm Railway and charming village atmosphere. The historic town of Lærdal, about 1.5 hours by ferry, rewards travelers with well-preserved wooden buildings and Norwegian heritage. During summer, the comprehensive ferry network allows for delightful island-hopping experiences throughout the fjord system.

Balestrand offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences for ferry travelers. The distinctive St. Olaf's Church (Sognefjord Aquarium) showcases the region's unique architectural heritage and serves as a testament to the area's English connections. Outdoor enthusiasts will find paradise in the network of hiking trails that ascend from the village into the surrounding mountains, offering panoramic fjord views that justify every step. Food lovers shouldn't miss sampling local specialties like freshly-caught fjord fish and traditional Norwegian waffles at the harborfront cafés. The historic Kvikne's Hotel, with its dragon-style architecture and art collection, provides a fascinating glimpse into the village's history as a 19th-century tourist destination.

Balestrand has been inspiring artists since the 1800s, with its extraordinary light quality attracting numerous painters who established an artist colony that flourished until WWII. The village's distinctive dragon-style buildings were influenced by Viking ship design and traditional stave churches, creating a unique architectural heritage found nowhere else. Kaiser Wilhelm II of Germany was so enchanted by Balestrand that he visited annually for 24 consecutive summers until WWI began. The waters of the Sognefjord near Balestrand reach depths of over 1,300 meters, making it one of the deepest fjords in the world.