Lustrafjorden, Norway (Scenic Cruising) cruises
Lustrafjorden port guide
Sailing along the glasslike waters of Lustrafjorden brings an opportunity to relax. Breathe in. Take a step back from real-life and simply bask in the serene scenery.
Lustrafjorden is a branch off Sognefjord, the longest and deepest fjord in Norway. Sognefjord runs more than 125 miles inland and offers acres of stunning landscape destined to fill your camera roll. Find a spot on deck and watch the world go by, pondering the lives and culture of the local people, the history of the region, and the abounding wildlife that calls this part of the world home.
Top landmarks and sights in Lustrafjorden
Savour the changing scenery and vistas of vibrant colours in this utterly photogenic region. From the decks of your Cunard Queen, gaze out over the calm waters at majestic mountains and emerald green meadows, peppered with traditional buildings adorned in their bright red and blue traditional Nordic panelling.
When it comes to sights to look out for, you may find the cascading waters of Feigefossen, one of Norway’s highest waterfalls, is a particular highlight. One of many spectacles of nature in Norway, the water at Feigefossen falls for roughly 218 metres, making this waterfall a truly postcard-worthy view.
You could also spot Urnes Stave Church, a UNESCO World Heritage site dating back to the 12th century. It showcases traditional Scandinavian wooden architecture and blends Romanesque-style structures with Celtic art and Viking culture.
When sailing on a Norwegian fjords voyage, the chance to spot elegant and elusive wildlife is a highlight for many. Sognefjord is home to a variety of different creatures, including seals, otters, dolphins, and porpoises. You could also spot an eagle soaring overhead.
Things to do in Lustrafjorden
Lustrafjorden makes for an idyllic cruise-by region due to its seemingly unending beautiful landscape. As you make your way along the fjord, find yourself absent-mindedly getting lost in the vision of the world around you. You could, in fact, while away the hours simply relaxing. Find a comfy spot on deck and make the most of this time escaping the realities of everyday life.
Another option is to settle inside, maybe in one of the bars or lounges or even your stateroom, with a view out to Lustrafjorden. There are plenty of generous windows to ensure you don’t miss a minute of scenery. Perhaps you’ll order a glass of wine or a sweet treat, recount stories of your voyage with new friends, play games, or read a book. To learn more about your surroundings, head to the library and borrow a book or two about Norway and Scandinavia, and find out more about the flora, fauna, history, and all manner of other information.
As well as keeping your eyes peeled for wildlife, the shores of Lustrafjorden bring an opportunity to see a little of Norway’s history. As you pass the pretty village of Solvorn, you might spot the Walaker Hotel – the oldest hotel in Norway, which dates back to 1690 and has been owned by the same family since it opened. There’s also the 12th century Urnes Stave Church, and plenty of sprawling ancient farms that have been in operation for many years.
Lustrafjorden culture and history
One of the best demonstrations of Lustrafjorden’s history is Urnes Stave Church. Dating back to the 12th century, this UNESCO World Heritage site is thought to be Norway’s oldest stave church – stave meaning the combination of Christian and Viking culture.
The medieval wooden building was built in Romanesque architectural style and is adorned with intricate carvings showing Celtic and Viking themes, including a deer eating Yggdrasil – the sacred tree from Norse Mythology. Urnes Stave Church helps to illuminate the journey of much of Scandinavia – that of the transition from the Viking Age to Christianity.
The presence of the church reveals the evolution of the life and times in Lustrafjorden, as do the many farms and boathouses in the area. These reveal the primary sources of income for local people, both historically and today.
Top tips for Lustrafjorden
Weather
As with much of Norway’s west coast, Lustrafjorden sees fairly cool temperatures throughout the year. The summer months are between June and August, when the average temperature is 14-16 degrees Celsius. The coldest months, on the other hand, are January and February, during which the average temperature is between 2 and 3 degrees Celsius. Lustrafjorden also sees rain throughout the year, so it’s wise to pack a few layers and a waterproof just in case.