If you’re searching for unforgettable things to do in Stryn, you’ll quickly find that this small Norwegian town delivers experiences far beyond expectations. Stryn is where wild landscapes meet turquoise lakes, deep valleys, and shimmering glaciers. Every road, trail, and fjord reflects Norway’s dramatic beauty, but to truly grasp the scale of it all, you need to see it from above. Whether you’re chasing adventure or peace, the best things to do in Stryn connect back to its breathtaking natural scenery — especially when you take your journey to the sky.
Why is Stryn known for some of Norway’s most breathtaking landscapes?
Stryn stands out among Norway’s destinations for its unique combination of mountains, glaciers, and fjords. Glaciers shape the land, rivers carve through valleys, and lakes shimmer in impossible shades of blue. This part of Nordfjord is the gateway to some of Norway’s most unspoiled nature, and exploring it is one of the most memorable things to do in Stryn.
Jostedalsbreen, the largest glacier on the European mainland, sits right next door. From this ice giant, countless rivers, waterfalls, and valleys stretch out in all directions. Oldedalen carves a green corridor through the mountains, dotted with shining lakes like Oldevatnet and Lovatnet. In every season, Stryn’s nature impresses. In early summer, snow still sits on the mountaintops as wildflowers bloom in the low valleys.
Have you heard about the turquoise lakes here? Lovatnet and Oppstrynsvatnet owe their unusual color to glacier meltwater mixing with minerals in the rock. These lakes don’t just look beautiful—they tell the story of the glaciers and the ancient movements that shaped the landscape. You’ll find villages like Hjelle nestled along the water, each with their own unique history and charm.
What do you see from a helicopter tour above Stryn’s mountains and valleys?
If you want a new perspective on the region, book a helicopter tour in Stryn. A flight gives you a full view of what makes this area special. You don’t just see one attraction at a time—you see the entire story of the landscape, from high mountain peaks to deep blue fjords.
Starting from Tyvaneset near Loen, you lift off into the sky. As you gain height, the world changes beneath you. The Nordfjord opens up, with its deep water and winding shoreline. Oldendalen stretches below, with river curves and bright green meadows. You follow Oldenvatnet, a gem-colored lake, and trace the path toward Jostedalsbreen.
Ever wonder what it feels like to fly over a glacier? The helicopter does just that. Jostedalsbreen’s icy arms, such as Briksdalsbreen and Kjenndalsbreen, come into view. From above, the crevasses and blue ice look unreal—you’d never grasp their scale from the ground.
Looking down, you spot the Ramnefjellet area, marked by the scars of past landslides that unleashed tsunamis in Lovatnet. You’re not just seeing nature’s beauty, you’re witnessing its power and history.
Glide on, and you see Lodalskåpa rise to 6,834 feet—one of Western Norway’s highest peaks. Can you spot Skålatårnet, the mountaintop stone tower perched next to the ice? The setting inspires climbers and dreamers alike.
Depending on which helicopter trip you choose, the flight can also take you along Stryn’s winding rivers and high mountain passes. Some tours cross into Geirangerfjord and the Sunnmøre Alps, where waterfalls tumble from dizzying heights and peaks break through the clouds. Seeing Stryn from the sky is a breathtaking highlight — and one of the best things to do in Stryn for those who crave perspective and beauty in equal measure.
From the sky, even the villages look different. You see the cozy streets of Stryn center, the church spires in Loen, and small farms clinging to hillsides that seem impossible to reach. Watching the landscape unfold at a thousand feet—or more—is a memory that stays with you.
Would you like to see Stryn from above? Book your tour easily at Opplev Loen. Remember to get in touch at least a day in advance for the best chance to reserve your preferred flight.
Which Stryn attractions are worth visiting after an aerial experience?
Once you’ve touched down, you’ll find even more things to do in Stryn on the ground.
Start with the Briksdalsbreen glacier. The hike from Briksdal mountain lodge up to the glacier front is one of Norway’s most famous short walks. You’ll cross flower-filled meadows, see thundering waterfalls, and end with a close-up of brilliant blue ice. Boat rides on Oldevatnet and Lovatnet give you another angle on the valleys and surrounding peaks you just saw from above.
For more adventure, head to Stryn Sommerski. This summer ski center sits high in the mountains, offering skiing on real snow while the valley below is green with summer. The panoramic views rival the best in Europe, and you can enjoy lunch on the terrace looking back at the path your helicopter took.
You can also ride the Loen Skylift—it whisks you in a glass gondola from the fjord’s edge to the top of Mount Hoven in just five minutes. Step onto the skywalk at the summit and take photos of both Stryn and the Nordfjord region below. Eat at the mountaintop restaurant or follow a gentle hiking trail over open ridges.
If history interests you, visit the village of Hjelle. This is home to the charming Hjelle Hotel, famous for its old-world charm and lakeside setting. Walk along the water or rent a rowboat for a peaceful experience. For short day trips, explore the Stryneelva river walk or stop at local art galleries and cafes in Stryn center.
After an action-filled day, choose among classic hotels, cozy lodges, or scenic campsites along the lakes and rivers. Many accommodations offer local meals—try reindeer, trout, or freshly baked bread.
How should you plan your stay in Stryn?
With so many things to do in Stryn, a little planning helps you make the most of your time. Combine high-altitude adventure with peaceful lakeside relaxation for a balanced experience. Start your morning with an aerial sightseeing tour. Catch the beautiful light over Jostedalsbreen and the valleys. After landing, head out to hike Briksdalsbreen, kayak on Lovatnet, or enjoy coffee and cake at a local café.
Think about how you want to get around. Rental cars or local taxis make it easy to hop from one valley to the next. Airport transfer services are also available if you arrive through Ålesund, Sandane, or even Bergen.
Are you traveling with family or a group of friends? Helicopter tours can take up to seven people, so the adventure gets shared. If you need a special pick-up or have a specific route in mind, talk to your pilot when booking. Every flight here is private, tailored to your experience.
Want to combine Stryn with nearby destinations? You’re a short ride from Loen, Olden, and Geirangerfjord. Each place brings its own character—soaring cliffs, hidden farmland, historic churches, glacier viewpoints, and more.
Ready to experience the best things to do in Stryn?
Stryn stands out in Norway because it gives you options that wow even experienced travelers. You can explore fjords, climb a glacier, relax by a turquoise lake, or take in the sweeping landscapes from high above.
Exploring the sky, water, and mountains are truly the best things to do in Stryn. From adrenaline-filled adventures to slow, scenic moments, this region offers memories you’ll carry forever.
Planning is simple. Choose your flight at Opplev Loen. Book a room near the fjord or by the lake. Pick activities that excite you most—whether it’s glacier trekking, a lakeside picnic, or simply soaking up the views.
How many places offer snowy mountaintops and fjord reflections in a single day? Stryn does. Make your next Norwegian vacation unforgettable and discover why everyone returns home with stories from the sky and smiles on their faces.
