There are beautiful views of the water from throughout Nordfjordeid.
Many of Norway’s fjord destinations offer a mixture of natural beauty and cultural richness, however the opening of a Viking Age museum has put one destination on the must-visit list, ahead of more famous alternatives.
The charming coastal town of Nordfjordeid, also known simply as “Eid”, is centrally situated within the Nordfjord region and offers a super base for exploring the dramatic landscapes at each ends.
To the west, the untamed wilderness of Norway’s Western Cape invites curious adventurers, while to the east, the panoramic views from the Loen Skylift and the stunning Briksdal Glacier await.
However, there are some fascinating attractions here, not least the brand new Viking Age Museum, which centres around an exquisite replica of a Viking ship – and yes, it’s seaworthy.
Enter the replica of a Viking ship
Visit Sagastad to explore the center of Nordfjordeid’s Viking history – the Myklebust ship. This fastidiously built replica of a Viking ship is on display in a contemporary, purpose-built museum on the waterfront.
The Sagastad Museum was built specifically to accommodate the replica of the Viking ship Myklebust.
Although the invention of the Myklebust ship burial was overshadowed by the invention of more intact ships comparable to the Gokstad and the Oseberg, it played a vital role in the event of data concerning the Viking Age.
The burial mound contained the stays of a ship, which was probably burned during a burial ritual. The ship, built by expert builders from Bjørkedalen, plays a significant role within the museum.
Experience Viking history first hand by entering the ship via a gangway and admiring the intricate woodwork. Use the helmets and shields as a photographic souvenir.
The museum also explores the story of the chieftain buried with the Myklebust ship and offers insights into the Viking Age through a movie, a virtual reality game and other exhibits.
Discover cultural trails
With historic wood houses, narrow streets, traditional farms and burial mounds from the Viking Age, Nordfjordeid is stuffed with cultural heritage and all just a brief walk from the harbor.
Look for the white cultural signs scattered throughout the town, pointing to streets and other areas of interest.
The street Eidsgata in Nordfjordeid is stuffed with traditional wood architecture.
Start with a straightforward stroll along Eidsgata, the town’s bustling backbone, lined with historic buildings that now house quite a lot of modern cafes and shops.
These predominantly white painted wood structures reflect traditional Norwegian craftsmanship and are beautifully preserved, offering a visible journey back in time.
Tverrgata is a narrow alley lined with more wood houses, highlighting classic rural Norwegian architecture. It results in a Viking-era burial site and the historic Myklebust farm. It is thought locally because the “Volva Path” because the burial site was said to have been used for influential women, including a robust “Volva”, a Seer from the Viking Age.
End your walk along Eidsgata on the attractive Eid Church. Although it looks older, the charming white wood church was in-built 1849 and today seats about 750 people.
It is open to visitors most days and is well value a glance inside, as the colorful interior contrasts with the plain white exterior. Concerts are sometimes held on cruise days.
Get to know Norwegian Fjord horses
Norwegian Fjord horses, with their striking fawn color and unique mane, are certainly one of the oldest and purest horse breeds on this planet.
The distinctive Norwegian Fjord horses are certainly one of the oldest and purest horse breeds on this planet.
These sturdy, friendly horses originate from the mountainous regions of Norway and have been used for hundreds of years in agriculture, forestry and for transport in rough terrain.
They are easily recognized by their muscular construct and distinctive mane, which is traditionally cut short in order that it stands upright and highlights a black stripe down the middle.
Nordfjordeid Norwegian Fjord Horse Center Stallion shows have been held here for the reason that nineteenth century. Today it’s a breeding knowledge centre and opens its doors to visitors, especially on days when a cruise ship is in port.
Cruise boost for Nordfjordeid
Nordfjordeid is prone to be certainly one of the Norwegian destinations that may profit most from the upcoming environmental protection regulations for the Norwegian fjords.
With most cruise ships set to be banned from the UNESCO World Heritage fjords from 2026, the Nordfjord region has positioned itself as a implausible alternative. Nordfjordeid is certainly one of the few ports within the fjord that may accommodate a number of the world’s largest cruise ships.
