2026 Hellesylt Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in January)

#cruiseholiday Ahoy! Imagine setting sail on MSC Euribia, the ocean's eco-warrior queen, christened in 2023 and named after the Greek goddess who tamed the seas. This LNG-powered beauty glides from Kiel, Germany's bustling Baltic port, on a 7-night Norwegian Fjords adventure. It's a perfect blend of Danish charm, Norwegian drama, and endless sea days under the midnight sun. Starting at around €800/person. Day 1: Kiel, Germany – Bon Voyage! Board at 2 PM in Kiel, a yachting hub since the 10th century. Stroll the waterfront promenade, grab fresh Fischbrötchen (fish rolls), or visit the Naval Memorial. Sail at 6 PM as the sun dips low. Day 2: Copenhagen, Denmark – Hygge Heaven 🇩🇰 Dock at 8 AM in the world's happiest city. Rent bikes to Nyhavn's colorful facades, or channel Hamlet at Kronborg Castle (1-hour train from port). Tivoli Gardens awaits with rides and smørrebrød feasts. Back aboard by 5 PM—don't miss the Champagne Bar's bubbles. Euribia shines here: Family-friendly with a massive aqua park, or zen out in the MSC Aurea Spa's thermal suite. Day 3: At Sea – Pure Bliss A full day of ocean therapy! Lounge on the Teensea Zone or master mixology at the Mixology Bar. Fitness buffs: Hit the gym with fjord views. Foodies, explore 10 venues—from casual bites at Bella Vista to Asian fusion at Kaito Sushi. Relax, recharge—Norway's epics await. Day 4: Hellesylt & Geirangerfjord, Norway – Fjord Fantasy Tender into Hellesylt at 8 AM, gateway to UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord. Hike to Seven Sisters waterfall or kayak emerald waters. Sail the fjord by noon—pure Norwegian noir. Day 5: Ålesund, Norway – Art Nouveau Gem Arrive 7:30 AM in this fjord-framed stunner, rebuilt post-1904 fire in whimsical architecture. Climb Aksla Viewpoint for panoramic bliss, or island-hop to Atlanten Stadium. Seafood? Try klippfisk (dried cod) at a harborside café. Depart 4 PM—back for Euribia's LED art installations that pulse with the sea. Day 6: Flåm & Aurlandsfjord – Scenic Spectacle Early tender to Flåm (7 AM), a whistle-stop village. Ride the Flåm Railway: 20km of hairpin turns through mountains to Myrdal. Spot wild reindeer, then picnic by Nærøyfjord (another UNESCO site). Ship sails the fjord—cameras ready! Evening: Flamencos-style tapas at Tapas on Board. Day 7: At Sea – Wind Down Reflect on fjord thrills with a spa day or cinema under the stars. Shop duty-free for Norwegian knits. Captain's gala dinner. Day 8: Kiel Return – Anchors Aweigh Dock 8 AM. Disembark with memories (and maybe a troll souvenir). Bon voyage! 👌

Hellesylt, a charming village in western Norway, serves as a gateway to the famous Geirangerfjord. Nestled among dramatic cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and verdant hills, it offers a serene escape into nature's grandeur. Here's a snapshot of what makes Hellesylt a must-visit: **Nature's Wonders** Hellesylt's standout feature is the Hellesyltfossen waterfall, a thunderous cascade that splits the village in two. The roar of the water and the misty spray create an enchanting atmosphere. Don’t miss hiking trails nearby, offering panoramic views of the fjord and lush landscapes. **Activities** Take a ferry from Hellesylt to Geiranger for one of the world’s most scenic fjord cruises. Along the way, marvel at iconic waterfalls like the Seven Sisters and the Suitor. Adventurous travelers can kayak on the fjord or trek to scenic viewpoints like Flydalsjuvet. **Local Culture** Hellesylt has a quiet, welcoming charm. Stop by local cafes for a taste of traditional Norwegian pastries and coffee. Visit the Sunnylven Church, a simple yet beautiful 19th-century wooden structure. **Best Time to Visit** Summer (June to August) is ideal, with long days and mild weather perfect for outdoor activities. The lush green landscape and blooming wildflowers are captivating, while autumn offers stunning fall colors. Hellesylt is not just a stop on the way to Geirangerfjord but a peaceful retreat, perfect for those seeking Norway’s natural beauty and tranquility.

In late May this year, I boarded the IONA, a new ship under the British cruise company P&O Cruises, which had been in service for three years. Departing from Southampton, the cruise visited four small towns in Norway. Hellesylt was the third town we visited. Surrounded by high mountains, the area boasts numerous spectacular waterfalls and fjord cliffs, and it has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The weather in Norway in May is very refreshing, and combined with the breathtaking scenery of this small town and the warm hospitality of the locals, I had a very relaxing afternoon there.