Nigardsbreen Glacier Guide
Nigardsbreen Glacier: Touch the Ice - An Accessible Glacier Experience! Guide
Nigardsbreen Glacier, an arm of the mighty Jostedalsbreen, offers a more accessible and family-friendly glacier experience. Its stunning blue ice and dramatic crevasses make it a photographer's dream. Located near the village of Gaupne, Nigardsbreen is a popular destination for those wanting to get up close and personal with a glacier without extensive hiking. Prepare to be amazed by the sheer scale and beauty of this natural wonder. Nigardsbreen has a long history of attracting visitors. Its relatively easy access compared to other parts of Jostedalsbreen made it a popular destination for early explorers and tourists. The glacier has retreated significantly in recent decades due to climate change, a stark reminder of the impact of human activity on the environment. Despite this, Nigardsbreen remains a powerful symbol of Norway's natural beauty and a valuable resource for scientific research. Several activities are available at Nigardsbreen. The most popular is a guided glacier walk, where you'll be equipped with crampons and ice axes to safely traverse the ice. Boat trips across the glacial lake provide stunning views of the glacier's face. For a more adventurous experience, consider ice kayaking or a guided ice climbing tour. The Breheimsenteret visitor center, located nearby, offers exhibits and information about the glacier and its surrounding environment. While in the area, try some traditional Norwegian waffles with brown cheese ("brunost") for a sweet and savory treat.
Transportation
To reach Nigardsbreen, you can drive from Sogndal or other nearby towns. Parking is available near the lake. During peak season, shuttle buses often operate from Gaupne to the glacier. From Gaupne, take the bus towards Jostedal and ask the driver to drop you off at the Nigardsbreen turnoff. From there, it's a short walk or shuttle bus ride to the lake. Check local bus schedules for accurate timings.