The Longest Fjords In Norway

A fjord is a long and narrow inlet of the sea that is created by past glaciation events. A fjord is usually surrounded by steep mountains on three sides. They are deep water bodies whose depth increases with distance from the sea. Norway is one of the countries of the world whose coastline is indented with numerous fjords. Below is a list of the country’s longest fjords.

The Five Longest Fjords Of Norway

1. Sognefjord

Also known as Sognefjorden, this fjord is the longest and deepest fjord in Norway. It is located in the Western Norwegian county of Sogn og Fjordane. Sognefjord is also nicknamed the King of the Fjords. It has a length of 204 km. It extends from the Skjolden village in Norway’s Luster municipality to the open ocean. Sognefjorden has a maximum depth of 4,291 ft. For about 100 km of its length, this fjord has a depth of over 3,300 ft. A sill is located at its mouth about 330 ft below sea level. The cliffs rising on both sides of the Sognefjorden are extremely steep and about 3,300 ft high. The area in and around the fjord is a popular tourist destination. The spectacular natural landscape of the region and the cultural villages attract visitors to the Sognefjorden from all corners of the globe.

2. Hardangerfjord

Norway’s second longest fjord, the Hardangerfjord, is also known for its awe-inspiring natural scenery. It has a length of 179 km and is located in the Hordaland County of the country. The fjord extends from Odda town in the mountainous interior of the country to the Atlantic Ocean. As the fjord reaches inland, it branches off into several smaller tributaries that are separately named. Tourism supports the economy of the settlements located along the fjord. Fish farming also flourishes in the region. In fact, the Hardangerfjord is one of the world’s largest fish farming locations.

3. Trondheim Fjord

The 126 km long Trondheimsfjorden is the country’s third longest fjord. It is located in the Trøndelag county and stretches from Steinkjer municipality to the Ørland municipality. The fjord has a maximum depth of 2,024 ft. The Trondheimsfjorden is known for its rich marine life including 90 fish species. Deepwater corals and four giant squids were also discovered here in recent times. Many of the best salmon rivers of Norway also empty into this fjord. Trondheim Fjord also serves as an important waterway.

4. Porsangerfjorden

With a length of 123 km, Porsangerfjorden is Norway’s fourth most extensive fjord. It is located in the Finnmark county and stretches from the Lakselv village to the Barents Sea. The Helnes Lighthouse is located at its mouth. Several islands are also located on the fjord.

5. Storfjorden

The 110-km long Storfjorden is the fifth longest fjord in Norway. It is located in the Møre og Romsdal county and extends from the Hareid village to the sea. The fjord is surrounded by tall mountains and has several islands at its mouth. It also branches off into several smaller fjords. Its maximum depth is 2,228 meters.

Fjords Of Norway As Tourist Attractions

The stunning and dramatic natural beauty associated with the fjords attracts many tourists to Norway. Many tour companies operate cruises on the Norwegian fjords. Such cruises include visits to the natural areas and islands on these fjords as well as interactions with various fishing communities and other locals living along the shores of the fjords.