While the capital city of Oslo is as vibrant as they come, some prefer to stay off the well-trodden tourist paths. Mountain peaks, rocky fjords and quaint villages will provide you with picture-perfect views and unforgettable experiences. Here is a list of 10 off-beat destinations to visit while you travel across the beautiful countryside of Norway.
- Reine
Visitors are enticed by the mystical blue water, flower-covered meadows and dramatic cliffs located on the island of Moskenesøya. The quaint village has earned a reputation of being the most beautiful place in the world. - Aurland Lookout
Nearly 2,000 feet above the scenic landscape, the 14-foot-wide wooden platform provides visitors with the illusion of falling into the fjords. Thankfully, a glass wall prevents visitors from slipping off the ledge.
- Red Beach at Mjelle
The entire beach is covered in vaporized gemstones and has become a popular destination in the summer months. There is no clear explanation for the deep red sand, but locals like to say that the sand gets its color from garnet particles. - The Rakke Compass
The Rakke Compass is a giant stone compass with a needle pointing to cities and lighthouses all around the world. Getting to the compass requires hiking the longest trail in Norway as it is located at the very edge of a cliff. - Fjellheisen Cable Car
The cable car sits at the base of Mount Storsteinen and will take you to the peak in less than 4 minutes. From the top of the mountain you can enjoy the gorgeous views of the countryside or try some outdoor sports like skiing, paragliding or cycling. - Dovrefjell-Sunndalsfjella National Park
Located in the mountain area of Dovre and Sunndalsfjella, the park was created to preserve an intact alpine ecosystem. Hiking the national park, you’ll witness wild reindeer, arctic foxes, golden eagles and several historical gems. - Åna Sira
The village is located at the mouth of the Sira river that flows into the Åna fjord. Stay at the Seamoan house and be serenaded by stunning views of the sea, fjord and mountains. - Runde Bird Island
Also known as the “Treasure Island,” due to the gold that was found in the wreck of the Dutch ship “Akerendam,” this little island has more than 500,000 birds that comprise 230 species during the nesting season. Hiking trails on the island provide a number of birdwatching vantage points and views of the island. - Høse Bridge
The walls are clad with stainless steel stretch-metal providing visitors with amplified sounds of the Suldalslågen river rushing beneath it. Small pavilions have also been created to accommodate small picnics and pit-stops for those passing by. - Undredal
Eighty residents, about 300 goats and the smallest stave church in Scandinavia can be found in Undredal, a hamlet famous for its brown goat cheese produced by eight farms using traditional methods. The sleepy village offers lodging, camping and a shop where you can purchase their famous cheese.
