Epic Things to do in Loen, Norway

Nestled in the Fjords of Norway, Loen is an adventure destination with a variety of outdoor activities. We spent part of our Norway itinerary in Loen and had an fantastic time exploring the mountains, lakes and glaciers in the area. Below I will share the most Epic Things to do in Loen, Norway as well as some general thoughts on where to stay and things to know.

Note that this guide is for summer activities and several things are closed during the winter months.

Things to do in Loen

These are our top recommendations for things to do in Loen in no particular order.

Loen Skylift

This is probably the most well known and popular thing to do in Loen. Right from the edge of the Fjord, the Skylift ascends vertically to a mountain edge overlooking the fjords. From here you can visit the restaruant or take a hike further up into the hills. The views here are truly amazing.

We took the skylift and ate lunch at the summit before taking a 1-2 hour hike during our visit. You can purchase tickets for the skylift right at the base of the lift (where you’ll also find a small shop). You can make a reservation online for the restaruant at the Top. We did this and while there was plenty of seating, making a reservation meant that we got one of the tables overlooking the fjord.

After enjoying lunch (or before if you prefer). You can walk some of the hiking trails above the restaruant. These trails are generally wide and easy to walk with some elevation gain. You can plan you hike for as long or short as you like before returning for the lift back down to the base of the fjord.

Kayaking

There are several toru companies that offer kayak tours or rentals in the Loen area. Olden is probably the easiest place to rent a kayak. This company has the best reputation in the area when we asked about this tour at our hotel, but the day we were planning to kayak it rained a full inch so we stayed indoors.

Bike Lake Lovatel

I was so excited for this activity and it did not disappoint! We rented bikes directly in Loen but you can also book a bike tour right in Olden. We rented 3 electric bikes and 3 regular bikes and switched back and forth throughout the day.

From the rental shop in Loen, you can bike up over a small hill and then along the shore of Lovatel. This gorgoues lake goes further to the top of the fjord and from here you can stop at the small restaruant or hike further up the valley to the glacier. The whole lake is about 7 miles long but since this is an out and back you can do just part of the ride. You can also rent boats or kayaks along the way or take the ferry back from the end of the lake.

Hiking

There are some amazing hikes in the area from easy walks to truly challenging peaks. Here are the top 5:

1. Briksdalsbreen Glacier Trail

A popular, moderate hike leading to the glacial lake beneath Briksdalsbreen, an arm of the Jostedalsbreen Glacier. Short, scenic, and perfect for families. (I share more details below about this hike).

2. Klovane (Oldedalen)

A steep but rewarding climb with panoramic views of lakes, fjords, and the Melkevollsbreen Glacier. Great for hikers who want big scenery without a full-day trek.

3. Kattanakkjen (Kattanakken)

A challenging mountain hike above Briksdalen with dramatic ridge views over glaciers and waterfalls. Best for experienced hikers in good weather.

4. Loen Skylift – Mt. Hoven / Skredfjellet Loop

Ride the skylift to high mountain terrain and hike easier ridge trails with huge fjord views. Ideal if you want big scenery without a major ascent.

5. Skåla Summit

One of Norway’s legendary climbs, rising nearly 1,800 meters from Loen to the summit tower. Long, steep, and unforgettable for experienced hikers.

Glacier Walks

While this is already listed as one of the hikes above, there are 2 good glacier hikes in the area. One is at the head of Lake Lovatel (Kjenndal Glacier) and the other is the popular Briksdalsbreen Glacier. This is a 3.3 mile out and back hike that passes some really interesting sites and is absolutely worth it. We did this on a rainy day and still enjoyed the hike.

It’s also possible to take a Troll car up the short but steep trail to avoid hiking most of the trail.

This is a very popular trail so go early or late in the day – or like we did go in the rain!

Via Ferrata

Another way to get up the same mountain as the Loen Skylift is to do a via Ferrata. These tours can be organized through Loen Skylift.

The Loen Via Ferrata combines steel cables, ladders, and suspension bridges as you climb from the fjord floor up the steep mountainsides above Loen. The route offers jaw-dropping views of turquoise fjords, snow-capped peaks, and deep valleys as you ascend to Mt. Hoven, where the Loen Skylift brings you back down after the climb.

Suitable for adventurous beginners with a guide or experienced climbers on their own, it’s an unforgettable mix of exposure, adrenaline, and iconic Norwegian scenery.

Olden Farm

Olden Farm is a beautifully preserved historic cluster of traditional Norwegian farm buildings in the Oldedalen valley, offering a glimpse into rural life from centuries past. Surrounded by towering mountains and glacier-fed lakes, the farm showcases classic architecture, tools, and cultural heritage, giving visitors a peaceful, scenic place to explore while learning how generations lived and worked in this dramatic landscape.

Learn more about visiting the Farm.

Swimming & Saunas on the Fjord

Loen has several floating saunas and designated fjord swimming spots perfect after a long hike. The contrast of icy water with cozy sauna heat is a very Norwegian experience.

Loen Lake & Fjord Cruises

A scenic fjord cruise is one of the most relaxing ways to experience the dramatic landscape around Loen and Olden. Short tours depart from Loen, Olden, and Oldedalen, offering up-close views of waterfalls, mountain farms, emerald-green water, and glacier-carved valley walls.

Where to Stay in Loen/Olden

During our stay in Loen, we stay in Hotel Alexandra. This is an upscale hotel that offers a massive buffet dinner – if you’re looking to treat yourself, this is a great option and it’s located right next to several of the activities.

You can also find a bunch of apartments to rent in Olden and Loen which make great options, espectially with a family.

Hotel Loenfjord is also a good option in a great location right by the Fjord.

If you are coming in a campervan, there is a campground right at the top of the fjord that is a great place to stay.

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