Nordfjordeid: Viking History by the Fjord

If you’re looking for a hotel in Nordfjordeid, it helps to first consider what the town has to offer. Viking history is reflected in several specific sights; there is also Eidsgata, a bathing beach on the Nordfjord, horseback riding and a mountain hike. This can help you decide whether culture in town, outdoor activities or both will shape your stay.

Viking History in Nordfjordeid

The Myklebust ship was found in a burial mound in Nordfjordeid in 1874. Rundehågjen is a burial mound in the town where a burnt Viking ship, or Viking grave, from the late 9th century was found. Both sites give Viking history a tangible historical setting.

The approximately 1.5-kilometre-long Saga Trail takes you through Nordfjordeid’s cultural history and includes a stop at the king’s burial mound. At Sagastad Vikingsenter, the focus is on stories about kings, power struggles, great journeys, mythology and mystical rituals. You can also go aboard the 30-metre-long reconstructed Myklebustskipet. Check access to the ship before your trip.

A visit to Sagastad also includes a VR experience and interactive installations. The centre thus combines historical themes with different forms of interpretation. The trail and the Vikingsenter each have their own focus: one takes you through the town’s cultural history, while the other presents stories and experiences related to the Viking Age.

Historic Streets and Local History

Eidsgata is a historic shopping street in the centre of Nordfjordeid. The street is lined with old, charming wooden houses and distinctive shops; the wooden-house development is listed in the Norwegian Directorate for Cultural Heritage’s NB register. Individual shops may change. Eid Church is considered the oldest church site in Nordfjord after Selja. The present church is more than 150 years old and is known as the rose-painted church of Nordfjord.

Malakoff is another place with historical significance: it was Norway’s first military training ground, established in 1649. The Malakoff Rock Festival is held every summer on the former training ground. Dates and programmes vary, so bear this in mind when planning a visit.

Vouchers can be used for events and cinema at Operahuset Nordfjord. This adds another cultural point of interest alongside the historic sights, without limiting a visit to Viking history.

Fjord, Horseback Riding and Hiking

Sagaparken, with a bathing beach on the Nordfjord, is next to Sagastad. Norsk Fjordhestsenter offers horseback rides on bridle paths with views of the town centre. Bookings and availability may vary; check these details if a ride is part of your travel plans.

At Myklebust Farm, the opportunity to enter an authentic Viking burial mound is offered to groups. At Hamna, children can use a Viking-inspired climbing room, said to be the only one of its kind in Norway. These are different activities with distinct focuses: a group visit to a burial mound and a climbing activity for children.

The hike to the summit of Trollenykjen starts in the centre at 0 metres and climbs to an altitude of 898 metres. From the summit, the view extends across seven parish districts and over the Nordfjord on both sides. Conditions vary by season; take the time of year into account when planning.

Getting There and Finding Your Way During Your Stay

Nordfjordeid is located on the E39 and is easily reached by car from Ålesund, Bergen and Stryn. Driving conditions may vary. When searching for a hotel, you can prioritise what matters most: the historic sites and Viking history offer several cultural points of interest, while the bathing beach, horseback riding and mountain hike offer other kinds of outdoor activities.

Discover more destinations: Stårheim.

Go to the overview of the wider travel area: Eid.