UNESCO Breiskrednosi 1189, Wild Voss
About the trip
Trip outline
Nærøyfjorden is one of the most spectacular fjords of western Norway. Snowy mountains loom high above this narrow strip of greenish blue water, shedding meltwater in cascades down the sheer cliffs. The unique natural scenery and cultural landscape has granted this region a well earned spot on the UNESCO list of World Heritage sites.
From Breiskrednosi, you get to experience this beautiful scenery from a unique perspective, 1189 meters above the fjord.
After a one-hour drive from Voss, we arrive at the picturesque village called Bakka, by the Nærøyfjord. The road ends here, so we park near the start of the path called Rimstigen. We follow the winding Rimstigen steeply through the lush forest, under the looming presence of Bakkanosi (1398). We pass close by the impressive waterfalls of Tufteelvi. Continuing steeply uphill, we can only marvel at how earlier generations of farmers were able to lead their livestock up these hills to the summer pastures in the mountains above.
As we gain altitude, the view gets more and more impressive. At an elevation of 700 metres, the path reaches easier terrain as we approach the hanging valley of Rimstigbotnen. This is a great spot for a break. From here, we can look down upon the tiny boats and kayaks on the still surface of Nærøyfjorden far below.
The path continues past the tree line towards the steep hill known as Skarsbakkane. At around 1100 meters, we pass the crystal clear lake of Skarsvotni, jumping between rocks to cross the river running out of the lake. We head up towards the open mountain plateau near Rimstigfjellet, passing the high-point of the trip at 1250 meters above sea level. It is fairly common to encounter groups of wild reindeer in this area. Finally, we approach the last, impressive rise towards the spectacular top of Breiskrednosi. Luckily, the final 80 vertical metres are easier than they look from a distance.
From the top, we enjoy unforgettable moments of airy exposure. After absorbing the magnificent view from Breiskrednosi, we head back towards Bakka, retracing our own route.
Reasons to go
The mountains above Nærøyfjoden are wild, secluded and beautiful. The path up Rimstigen to Breiskrednosi is full of contrasts. From the lush greenery near the fjord to the barren mountain plateau partly covered under patches of snow. Fiercly steep, rocky sections followed by gentler slopes with grooves of mountain birches. Bubbling creeks, waterfalls and rivers all around us. And of course – you’ll visit some of the most superb viewpoints of the Norwegian fjords.