PLACES

True Wonders: Hjørundfjord & Geirangerfjord Unveiled

Interviewed: Peter Vollen,
CEO Mivo Hospitality

A kayak on a calm fjord with a steep cliff and waterfall in the background, surrounded by lush greenery and a bright blue sky.

27.02.2025

Photo: Christian Remøy

The Geirangerfjord and Hjørundfjord are two of Norway’s most iconic natural wonders, but they offer far more than just stunning views. For centuries, these fjords have been places where nature and history intertwine, creating an atmosphere that feels both timeless and profoundly unique.

Peter Vollen, CEO of Mivo Hospitality, shares his insight: “When you look at both of these fjords, they each have a story to tell. Hjørundfjord, in particular, is a place where royals and celebrities have found refuge for centuries. Its raw beauty, untouched nature, and the tranquility it offers have made it a secret haven for those who seek the serenity of nature without the crowds.”

Uncover the Hidden Charms and Majesty of Hjørundfjord and Geirangerfjord

Paddling in the fjords is a magnificent experience

Scenic mountain landscape with a fjord and two small cabins with moss-covered roofs, set on a grassy hillside at sunset.

Photo: Christian Remøy

Hjørundfjord is often described as one of Norway’s best-kept secrets, a place where the surrounding mountains rise dramatically from the deep fjord, offering a view so untouched that it feels like stepping into another world. "This is as beautiful as Geirangerfjord, but it's much more peaceful. The fjord offers solitude without sacrificing the beauty—it’s a ‘see but not be seen’ kind of destination," Peter explains. The fjord’s majestic beauty has attracted those who value a sense of quiet elegance and have long sought to escape the pressures of public life.

A true hidden gem within Hjørundfjord is Christian Gaard, a family-run haven accessible only by boat. "Trandal is a place where time seems to stand still, and its world-renowned swing offers a picture-perfect view of the fjord that you simply can’t find anywhere else,"
Peter says.

"It’s a slice of Norwegian life that continues to inspire and captivate visitors who are lucky enough to discover it."

Person in a red jacket sitting on a swing, overlooking a lake with snow-capped mountains in the background.

The famous swing at Trandal Farm

As for Geirangerfjord, its beauty isn’t confined to the summer months. "Many people associate Geiranger with peak tourist season, but there is something equally magical about the low seasons," Peter notes. "The fjord, with its towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls, feels different when the crowds are thinner. It’s quieter, more intimate, and the colors of the landscape shift with the changing light and weather. There’s a certain calmness that makes Geirangerfjord a perfect destination even in the off-season."

Both Geirangerfjord and Hjørundfjord are places where time seems to slow down, where the landscape speaks volumes, and where you can connect with the very soul of Norway’s natural beauty. For Peter and Mivo, these fjords represent more than just picturesque destinations—they are gateways to a deeper, more peaceful experience of life in this extraordinary part of the world.

“Whether you choose the raw, unspoiled beauty of Hjørundfjord or the timeless charm of Geirangerfjord, there is a deep sense of connection to the land that stays with you long after you leave,” says Peter. "These fjords offer more than a visit; they offer a chance to step into a story that has been told for generations."

Let us create a bespoke culinary experience just for you. To learn more, contact our team. We look forward to crafting unforgettable experiences with Mivo in Sunnmøre.