"Welcome to Balestrand" Balestrand by travelfrosch

Balestrand, while not exactly a secret, is just far enough off the beaten path to avoid the heaviest tourist crowds. You can get here by bus from Oslo or Bergen, but the most common (and most fun) mode of transporation is the Sognefjord express boat. The village itself has some very interesting architecture, to include an Anglican (no, that's not a misprint) church.

It's important to note that Balestrand is primarily a summertime destination; most (if not all) tourist accommodations are closed October through early May.

The Sognefjord from outside Balestrand

Of course, the best part about Balestrand is the views of the Sognefjord. It doesn't take a very long stroll to get some wonderful photo opportunites. Or just sit on a fjordside bench in town and see how low you can get your pulse.

View of fjord and town from a hiking trail

If you like to hike, there are plenty of opportunities around Balestrand to do so. In fact, when given the choice between taking the Jostedal Glacier tour and hiking, I chose to hike!

You might want to check very closely with your spouse before you make that decision. It's nearly 2 years later and I'm still hearing about it! The only solution: we'll just have to come back and take the glacier tour sometime soon... 8)