Balestrand is a municipality in the county of Sogn og Fjordane, Norway. It is located in the traditional district of Sogn. Balestrand lies between high snow-covered mountains in the center of the beautiful, lush Norwegian fjords. Three fjord arms stretch inland, winding through the mountains and dotted with charming hamlets.
Balestrand became popular early due to the interest of artists, such as Hans Gude, Alfred Heaton Cooper, Hans Dahl and Johannes Flintoe. Their paintings of the scenery around Balestrand inspired visitors, and Balestrand maintains its connection with art.
Balestrand is a very popular area for mountain hiking. The mountains around Balestrand offer fantastic hiking opportunities with trails providing for all levels of difficulty.
Things to See & Do
* Kviknes Hotel
* St Olaf’s Church
* Songnefjord Aquarium
* Museum of Tourism
* Balestrand Art Village
General information
Cruise Season – Feb - Dec
Currency - Norwegian krone (NOK)
Language – Danish
Land Area – 411 km²
Population – 1,500 approx
Electricity – 2 round pins European style
Time - GMT plus one hour
International Country Telephone Code - + 47
Port Location – Balestrand has a small quay which is centrally located in the town.
Transport Links – Balestrand is easily accessible via boat, train/boat combination, bus or private car.
The Bergen - Flåm expressboat is a popular way of traveling to Balestrand. You can utilize the express boat if you are arriving from Bergen or from Flåm (you would arrive from Flåm if your trip to Balestrand originated with the train from Oslo or while enjoying "Norway in a Nutshell" from Bergen). Travel time from Bergen is a short four hours and very scenic.
The Oslo - Bergen train stops in Myrdal, where you could connect with the world famous Flåm railway for a spectacular 45 minute train ride that descends down into Flåm valley. You continue to Balestrand via the express boat.
Daily bus departures from either Oslo or Bergen bring you to Balestrand.