16/02/2023
When visiting the picturesque village of Olden in Norway, the Loen Skylift is an absolute must-do. Often mentioned alongside the Briksdal Glacier and its unique Troll Cars, the Skylift stands out as a premier attraction. For those planning a trip to this scenic corner of Norway, understanding how to get to the Loen Skylift is crucial. Whether you're arriving on a cruise ship or exploring independently, this guide will illuminate your path to one of Norway's most exhilarating experiences.
What is the Loen Skylift?
The Loen Skylift is a marvel of engineering, boasting one of the steepest cable car inclines globally. In a mere five minutes, it transports passengers from the fjord's edge to an impressive altitude of 1,011 metres above sea level. The cabin, capable of holding around 50 people, offers a smooth and gentle ascent. At the summit, visitors are greeted with a restaurant, a gift shop, and both indoor and outdoor viewing platforms. The surrounding area opens up to a network of hiking trails, allowing further exploration of the mountain, or even the opportunity to ascend even higher. For the adventurous, the top also serves as the starting point for the Via Ferrata Loen, a guided climbing route, and the thrilling Loen Zip Line, operational from June to October. During winter months, the mountain transforms, offering opportunities to hire toboggans or visit an ice house.
The journey begins at the base station, a hub where coaches arrive and vehicles are parked. This is where you'll join the queue before your ascent, with the cable car itself visible in motion.
On a clear day, the view from the viewing platform is simply spectacular, offering a panoramic vista down to the fjord below.
Your Travel Options: Independent, Cruise Excursion, or Olden Adventures?
Reaching the Loen Skylift from Olden, a journey of approximately 15 minutes, requires transportation. You have three primary avenues to consider:
1. Independent Visit
This route involves arranging your own transport to Loen and purchasing tickets directly from the Loen Skylift. You can book tickets in advance online or buy them on the day of your visit. The local bus is the most economical choice. Buses numbered 130 or 111 typically run from Olden. You'll need to walk to the designated bus stop, and checking schedules on sites like Entur.no is advisable. While taxis are an option, they can be surprisingly scarce in Olden due to its small population, making them a less reliable choice.
2. Cruise Ship Excursion
Most cruise lines stopping in Olden will offer the Loen Skylift as part of their excursions. These packages might include other attractions, which may or may not align with your interests. The primary advantage of cruise excursions is security and peace of mind. Should the port be cancelled, you'll receive a refund, and if the coach is delayed, the cruise ship will wait. The main drawback is the cost, which can be significantly higher than other options, and the inflexibility of a pre-set schedule. You are tied to the group's timings, limiting spontaneous decisions to stay longer or depart earlier.
3. Olden Adventures
This tour operator provides a convenient middle ground. They run shuttle buses directly from the cruise ship to the Skylift and include your tickets in the overall price. It's more affordable than a cruise excursion but pricier than the local bus. The benefit lies in the direct transfer from the ship and the freedom to choose your own time, provided you adhere to the final boarding times. This has been the author's preferred method for its balance of convenience and cost-effectiveness. Upon booking, Olden Adventures sends detailed instructions. Simply disembark the cruise ship, locate their clearly marked tables on shore, present your booking reference, collect your tickets, and proceed to the shuttle bus. Buses run frequently throughout the day, eliminating the need to pre-book a specific departure time.
Pricing Comparison (July 2023 Example)
For context, in July 2023, a visit for two adults and one child with Olden Adventures cost 2,014 NOK (approximately £149), which included a 10% discount. In contrast, P&O Cruises offered a package at £104 per adult and £68 per child (£276 total), which included an additional trip to Stryn Lake. While direct comparisons can vary based on cruise line and package inclusions, the convenience of the Olden Adventures shuttle, running every 15-30 minutes, is often considered excellent value at an additional £20 per person for the round trip, especially for those not on a cruise.
Estimated Cost Per Adult (Summer 2024, without discounts):
| Option | Price (NOK) | Price (£) |
|---|---|---|
| Direct at Skylift | 595 | £45 |
| Olden Adventures | 875 | £65 |
For those not arriving by cruise ship, the Olden Adventures shuttle may not be as practical.
The author's recommendation leans towards Olden Adventures for those who appreciate a bit of research and organization, suggesting it's a more cost-effective and flexible choice than cruise line packages.
Accessibility: Disabled and Pushchair Friendly?
The Loen Skylift is notably accessible for individuals with disabilities and those with pushchairs. If booking through a cruise excursion, confirm accessibility provisions. Olden Adventures typically accommodates wheelchairs with a ramp and dedicated space on their shuttle buses. For pushchairs, while manageable, a baby sling or carrier might be more convenient due to limited space and quicker boarding times without one.
The Skylift facility itself is well-equipped for accessibility. While there are stairs from the gift shop to the queue area, a lift and an external ramp are available. The cable car cabins are level, allowing easy wheelchair access. Handrails are present inside the cabins for those with mobility issues. At the top, a lift or stairs provide access to the gift shop and viewing platform. The viewing platform is concrete and fully accessible, though outdoor trails are gravel and may present challenges, especially in snowy conditions.
Managing Queues at the Loen Skylift
With only two cable cars operating, each accommodating around 50 passengers, queues can form, particularly when large cruise ships are in port. If you're visiting independently, checking cruise ship schedules via sites like Cruise Mapper can help you plan a visit on a quieter day. Local visitors are few, so non-cruise days typically mean no queues.
On cruise days, queue times depend on the season and weather. A summer visit on an overcast day might involve a 25-minute wait for the shuttle bus and a 45-minute wait for the Skylift. Earlier shuttle departures generally mean shorter queues, though the weather might be less clear. Queues tend to lengthen mid-day and then decrease later as people consider their return times. Reports suggest queues can reach up to two hours during peak times. To minimize waiting, consider visiting very early (though weather may be less predictable) or later in the day (ensuring you have ample time to return to your ship). Be aware that there is no seating available while queuing.
Is the Loen Skylift Worth It in Bad Weather?
The unpredictable nature of Norwegian weather means you can often judge conditions on the day, especially if you haven't pre-booked. Rain, low cloud, or bright sunshine can all occur within a short period. However, in the author's opinion, the Loen Skylift is absolutely worth the experience regardless of the weather. The journey itself is an adventure, and the views, even above the clouds, are breathtaking. Experiencing the mountain in varying conditions adds to the unique appeal. Much like the Welsh saying, "if you waited for a dry day you'd never leave the house," the same applies to Norway. With appropriate waterproof gear, the walks at the top are enjoyable in all weather. Embrace the elements and have a fantastic time!
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does the Loen Skylift take? The ascent and descent each take approximately 5 minutes.
- What is at the top of the Loen Skylift? A restaurant, gift shop, viewing platforms, hiking trails, and access to Via Ferrata and Zip Line.
- Can I book Loen Skylift tickets in advance? Yes, you can book directly with Loen Skylift or through tour operators like Olden Adventures.
- Is there parking at the Loen Skylift? Yes, parking is available at the base station.
- What is the best way to get to the Loen Skylift from Olden? Olden Adventures offers a convenient shuttle service, but local buses or taxis are also options.
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