How to Explore the Seven Sisters Waterfall in Norway
The Seven Sisters Waterfall (De Syv Søstre) is one of Norway’s most breathtaking natural wonders. Located in Geirangerfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this stunning cascade consists of seven separate waterfalls plunging down steep cliffs into the deep blue fjord below. To truly appreciate its beauty, here’s the ultimate guide on how to explore the Seven Sisters.
1. Where is the Seven Sisters Waterfall?
📍 Location: Geirangerfjord, Western Norway
🌍 Coordinates: 62.1260° N, 7.0076° E
🗺 Nearest town: Geiranger
The waterfall is only accessible by boat, kayak, or from viewpoints along the fjord. The tallest of the seven streams drops about 250 meters (820 feet) from the mountain, making it one of the most iconic sights in Norway.
2. Best Ways to See the Seven Sisters Waterfall
There are three main ways to experience the Seven Sisters:
A. Fjord Cruise – The Most Popular Option 🚢
One of the best ways to see the Seven Sisters is by taking a fjord cruise. These tours offer spectacular, up-close views of the falls as well as other highlights of Geirangerfjord.
🚢 Best Fjord Cruises to Book:
- Geiranger Fjordservice – Daily cruises from Geiranger to Hellesylt.
- The Fjords (Norled) – Offers electric and eco-friendly cruise boats.
- Stranda to Geiranger Boat Tour – A great option if you’re coming from Ålesund.
💰 Price: Starts at 450-600 NOK ($40-$55 USD) per person.
⏳ Duration: Around 1.5 to 3 hours depending on the route.
🔹 What You’ll See on the Cruise:
✔️ Seven Sisters Waterfall
✔️ The Suitor Waterfall (directly across from the Seven Sisters)
✔️ The Bridal Veil Waterfall
✔️ Abandoned fjord farms (like Knivsflå)
👉 Best time for a cruise? The spring and early summer (May–July), when the snow melts and the waterfalls are at their strongest!
B. Kayaking – The Adventurer’s Choice 🚣♂️
If you prefer a more immersive and peaceful experience, rent a kayak to paddle along the fjord. This allows you to get closer to the waterfall and fully appreciate its powerful mist and sound.
🚣♀️ Where to Rent a Kayak:
- Geiranger Kayak Center (Located at Geiranger harbor)
- Active Geiranger (Offers guided kayak tours)
💰 Price: 400-900 NOK ($40-$85 USD) for rentals or guided tours.
⏳ Duration: 2-4 hours depending on your route.
🔹 Why Choose Kayaking?
✔️ Closer to nature – Feel the mist from the falls!
✔️ Less crowded than boat tours
✔️ Great for photography and peace & quiet
🚨 Safety Tip: The fjord’s waters can be chilly and sometimes rough, so it’s best to go with a guided tour unless you’re an experienced kayaker.
C. Viewpoints – The Best Panoramic Views 🏔️
For those who prefer staying on land, several viewpoints offer breathtaking panoramic views of the Seven Sisters and Geirangerfjord.
📍 Top Viewpoints to Visit:
- Ørnesvingen (Eagle’s Bend) Viewpoint 🦅
- Best high-up view of the waterfall
- Accessible by car on the Eagle Road (Ørnevegen)
- Located 620 meters above the fjord
- Flydalsjuvet Viewpoint 📸
- One of the most famous fjord viewpoints in Norway
- Perfect for photographers
- Geiranger Skywalk – Dalsnibba ⛰️
- At 1,500 meters, this is the highest viewpoint over Geirangerfjord
- Offers stunning wide-angle views of the fjord and waterfalls
🚗 How to Get to These Viewpoints?
- Rent a car in Ålesund or Geiranger
- Join a fjord sightseeing tour that includes land-based viewpoints
💡 Tip: Visit at sunrise or sunset for the most magical lighting!
3. When is the Best Time to Visit the Seven Sisters Waterfall?
✅ Best Months: May to July (when the snow is melting and the waterfalls are strongest)
❌ Worst Months: Late summer & winter (August–March) – The falls may dry up or freeze.
🌅 Best Time of Day: Morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds.
4. Fun Facts & Legends About the Seven Sisters 🏔️✨
- The Seven Sisters Waterfall got its name because the streams resemble seven separate women dancing down the mountain.
- Directly across the fjord is another waterfall called “The Suitor”, which (according to legend) is trying to woo the Seven Sisters.
- Some of the abandoned mountain farms near the waterfall were once home to Norwegian Vikings!
5. Where to Stay Near the Seven Sisters Waterfall? 🏡
If you want to wake up to fjord views, here are the best places to stay:
Luxury Stays:
- Hotel Union Geiranger ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Amazing fjord views & a spa
- Grande Fjord Hotel ⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Panoramic fjord rooms with balconies
Mid-Range Hotels:
- Havila Hotel Geiranger – Classic fjord hotel with great dining
- Geirangerfjorden Feriesenter – Cabin stays right by the water
Budget / Camping:
- Geiranger Camping – Budget-friendly and right on the fjord
- Djupvasshytta Lodge – Great for hikers, located near Dalsnibba
🚗 Tip: Book early if visiting during peak season (June–August)!
Final Thoughts: Why You Should Visit the Seven Sisters Waterfall 🌊✨
If you’re planning a trip to Norway, seeing the Seven Sisters Waterfall should be at the top of your list! Whether you experience it by fjord cruise, kayak, or from a breathtaking viewpoint, this natural wonder is one of the most beautiful sights in Norway.
🚀 Quick Summary:
✔️ Best Way to See It: Fjord cruise, kayak, or scenic viewpoints
✔️ Best Time to Visit: May–July (when the falls are strongest)
✔️ Don’t Miss: Eagle’s Bend Viewpoint & kayaking near the falls
