Eidfjord, Norway

August 3, 2016

Eidfjord, Norway

Population 950

Pulling up to the port, my eyes caught a splendid, large white hotel. It was like stepping back in time, similar to the grand hotel used in the filming of Somewhere in Time, but smaller – much more quaint. I loved this little village! Mountains encircle the homes built on hills, Viking mounds and remains lay up in the hills within walking distance, a stone church built in 1309 carries a fascinating story, and a local coffee shop drew me into the history and personality of the town! Jeff and I both set out on excursions up into the heights of the mountains where we viewed another gorgeous waterfall and enjoyed a favorite local cuisine – waffles with sour cream and jam. What a day! Although the weather was overcast and it rained along the way, the scenery was still absolutely breathtaking! I’d love to return to this village someday and even go hiking up in the mountains, which 10-15 thousand reindeer call home. Enjoy the pictures and go visit soon!

Eidfjord hotel (a Quality Inn believe it or not!)

Eidfjord is hosting a Norseman Triathalon this weekend – a brutal race of open water swimming in freezing jford waters, biking up steep mountains, and even crawling. Fastest finishers take around 11 hours to finish. Up for a challenge? Come be a Norseman for a day!

 

Stunning countryside with clear water reflecting the mountains…

People build their roofs with extra insulation – bark covered with earth and grass, so the roofs often grow flowers and even small trees. Some choose to trim (mow) their roofs, and others just let them grow.

I never tire of magnificent waterfalls….

           

Their colorful wildflowers abound. This one is common in England (Emma can you help me - what are these called?)

This charming stone church was built in 1309 and financed by a woman paying penance for treating her husband badly. She left him out on a reef while sailing, and sadly, when the surf came up, he drowned.

Sailing out of port and through the fjord, we were blessed with several rainbows! A sign, drawing us back to this winsome town soon, I hope!