How to Experience the Most Beautiful Swing in Norway
Welcome to the most beautiful swing in Norway, and one of our favorites in the world! Hidden in a small village a fjord, this unique location is sure to take your breathe away.
While many people know of the giant swing in Switzerland, Norway's version truly rivals it with its spectacular views and remote location.
In this guide we're going to share all of the info that you need to know, so that you too can tick this epic spot off your bucket list.
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📍 Where is the Most Beautiful Swing in Norway Located?
The incredible swing in Norway is located on a small village in southwestern Norway called Trandal, in the middle of Hjørundfjorden.
The property where the swing is located is called Christian Gaard Bygdetun, which is a restaurant in town on the water.
Visiting Norway's Most Beautiful Swing: How to Get to Trandal
In order to get to Christian Gaard, you'll have to get to Trandal, which is a remote village in a fjord, only accessible by water.
⛴ How to Get to Trandal, Norway: Option #1
In order to get to Trandal, you'll either have to take a ferry from Sæbø or Standal.
➡ Ferry Schedule From Standal to Trandal
M-T-Th-F: 6:45 AM, 7:40 AM, 1:10 PM, 3:45 PM, 6:45 PM, 8:00 PM*
Wednesday: 7:40 AM, 2:50 PM, 3:45 PM
Saturday: 7:40 AM, 4:10 PM, 6:45 PM, 8:00 PM*
Sunday: 9:00 AM, 10:00 AM, 3:30 PM, 4:55 PM, 8:00 PM*, 8:40 PM*
➡ Ferry Schedule From Saebo to Trandal
M-T-Th-F: 9:20 AM*, 5:45 PM*
Wednesday: No ferries
Saturday: 9:15 AM*, 5:35 PM*
Sunday: 11:50 AM*, 6:35 PM*
🔙 Ferry Schedule From Trandal to Standal
M-T-Th-F: 7:05 AM, 9:45 AM, 1:30 PM, 6:10 PM, 7:40 PM, 8:20 PM*
Wednesday: 8:00 AM, 3:10 PM, 4:30 PM
Saturday: 9:45 AM, 6:10 PM, 7:40 PM, 8:20 PM*
Sunday: 9:20 AM, 12:15 PM, 3:50 PM, 7:00 PM, 8:20 PM*, 9:00 PM*
🔙 Ferry Schedule From Trandal to Saebo
M-T-Th-F: 8:00AM*, 4:25 PM*
Wednesday: No ferries
Saturday: 8:00 AM*, 4:25 PM*
Sunday: 10:20 AM, 5:15 PM
*Tickets have to be reserved 60 minutes prior to departure by calling +47 916 69 340 (not necessary in June, July or August)
You can get to the most beautiful swing in Norway by taking a local ferry.
🚤 How to Get to Trandal, Norway: Option #2
In our case, we showed up on a Wednesday not realizing the ferries weren't running from Saebo. Arriving super early in the morning, we were wandering the village and found a small convenience store open.
We happened to ask about the ferry to someone who in fact had a boat, and was planning on going that way!
He offered to take us over there, and we paid him to come back later on and take us back. We wouldn't necessarily plan for something like this, but did want to share this in case you find yourself in a similar situation.
Have your camera ready for the scenic ride from Saebo!
⛵️ How to Get to Trandal, Norway: Option #3
Going on your own can be tricky, especially if you don't have a way to get to Saebo or Standal. The good thing though, is if you plan on going to Alesund, there is a boat excursion that takes people to Trandal for the day!
You'll sail through fjords for a scenic 75 minute ride, spend 2 hours at Christian Gaard (which is the perfect amount of time for the swing and a great meal) and then 75 minutes back on the boat.
It's honestly the perfect option for those wanting an easy option, or for those that aren't traveling in a group that are renting a car.
The excursion has 75 minutes of scenic views each way.
🥾 How to Get to Trandal, Norway: Option #4
Did you know you can also trek to Trandal? Thats right - you can get to Trandal by climbing a mountain that separates the village from other nearby villages.
We aren't sure about the details for this one, but next time we go we will hopefully to update this guide with getting the most beautiful swing in Norway by foot.
Experiencing the Most Beautiful Swing in Norway: What to Expect in Trandal
Now that you know the different options for getting to Christian Gaard in Trandal, let's talk about what you can experience once you arrive!
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🛥 The Boat Ride to Trandal
If you decide to take the ferry, a tour, or a private boat, there's one thing you can count on - and that's incredible views!
The ride from Saebo and Standal are about 20-30 minutes each way, and you'll be surrounded by quaint villages, stunning mountains, and shimmering waters the entire way.
As soon as you arrive (if it's by boat) you'll actually already be able to spot the most beautiful swing in Norway!
💃🏻 The Swing at Christian Gaard
The swing is completely free to use, and if you get there early like we did, you won't have to line up or anything.
Simply hop on the wooden swing and play like a kid while enjoying some of the most stunning views in Norway.
The pier is right next to the Christian Gaard property, so you'll be able to go ahead and experience everything right away.
🍴 Christian Gaard Restaurant
The restaurant at Christian Gaard has both indoor and outdoor seating. It has a cozy inside with wooden chairs, benches, and tables, complimented by warm furs draped over them.
The outdoor seating area is along an open wrap around porch, and boasts stunning views of the surrounding landscapes, as well as a view of the iconic swing of Norway.
🎶 Concerts at Christian Gaard in Trandal
Christian Gaard started as simply as a restaurant, but now they also have a small concert area! It's right next to the restaurant, and hosts fun live music events in the summer months.
🛶 Activities at Christian Gaard
Not only is Christian Gaard great for its incredible food, fun concerts, and being home to the most beautiful swing in Norway, but they also offer a few other activities and services.
- Guided tours around the area (trekking)
- Special celebrations (weddings, birthdays, etc)
- Boat tours (for up to 45 people)
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The Restaurant at Christian Gaard
Christian Gaard actually started only as a small restaurant owned by a fisherman, and now is a big restaurant with excellent dishes offering local and fresh ingredients.
We highly recommend the venison burger, and they are also known for their brown cheese ice cream!
Christian Gaard also can set up special menus for parties, weddings, or other celebrations, if you contact them in advance!
There is plenty of seating both indoors and outdoors, with good views from wherever you sit.
You can appreciate good views from both inside and outside.
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Price & Timetable
Now that you know what to expect for visiting the most beautiful swing in the world, we're going to break down some of the logistics.
🕘 When is Christian Gaard Open?
We ended up getting to the property early and were able to wander the village a bit until they were open. Here are the times you should be aware of:
🍸 Farm Yard & Bar Hours
Monday- Thursday: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Friday & Saturday: 10:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
🍴 Restaurant Hours
Monday- Friday: 10:00 AM- 4:00 PM
Saturday & Sunday: 12:00 PM- 4:00 PM
💵 How Much Does it Cost to Go to Trandal?
There is no entrance fee for Trandal, but you'll have to pay for your transportation there.
Ferries from Saebo to Trandal: 48 kr
Ferries from Standal to Trandal: 40 kr
If you have your own boat, you can simply pay the docking fees to stay at the pier:
- Boats up to 8 meters: 150 kr/day
- Boats 8-12 meters: 200 kr/day
- Boats over 12 meters: 250 kr/day
- Shore power: 40 kr/day
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Staying in Trandal
One of the best ways to experience Christian Gaard and the most beautiful swing in Norway is by actually spending a night!
🛌 Accommodation at Christian Gaard
Christian Gaard offers a number of accommodation options across the farm they own. You can either stay at the loft, Mimerebu, or Svensktoppen if you'd like to spend a night in Trandal.
The Loft on the Farm House
This farm house has 3 loft options, 2 with 2 single beds, and one with a double bed.
Mimrebu
This Cabin has a living room, small kitchen, bathroom with shower. 2 bedrooms, and a small loft with 2 beds.
Svensktoppen
This property has several rooms on the basement floor of a house that is 10 minutes above the farm, offering a shared bathroom. It has 2 rooms with single beds for solo travelers, a room with a bunk bed, and 2 family rooms equipped with a bunk bed and single bed.
You can actually stay right on the property of Christian Gaard!
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🏨 Other Accommodation Options Nearby
If you happen to be coming from Saebo, there is also a stunning hotel with dramatic views of the fjord.
Not only is Sagafjord Hotel a better option for those looking for something a bit more luxurious, but they also offer a number of activities on the property like kayaking, fishing trips, and skiing!
We also love the idea of spending a night here because the village is adorable and has a floating sauna, cathedral, and beautiful views around it.
Saebo is a beautiful village to stay in.
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Other Things to Keep in Mind for Visiting Norway's Most Beautiful Swing
Now you know almost everything you need to know for visiting the most beautiful swing in Norway, and all about Christian Gaard in Trandal.
But don't go anywhere just yet! We have a few more things to share with you.
☀️ Weather Conditions in Trandal
Norway experiences 4 seasons, with very cold and snowy winters, and mild sunny summers. The weather in Norway is very unpredictable, so it can change in the blink of an eye! We definitely recommend bringing an umbrella or sweater in case the weather decides to change on a whim.
📆 The Best Time to Visit Christian Gaard
The best time to visit Christian Gaard is in the summer, when the weather is the nicest and there are events going on. Try to check beforehand if there are any concerts, and also try to get on one of the first ferries to beat the crowds!
The best time to visit Trandal is in the summer months.
🎒 How to Prepare for a Day in Trandal
- Sunscreen
- Sneakers (if you plan on hiking there)
- Power Bank (we use Anker power banks as they are super long lasting and durable)
- Camera (we use the Sony A7Riii)
- Standard Lens (we use the Sony GM 24-70)
- Wide Lens to capture great panoramas of the area (we use the Sony GM 14 F1.8)
- Telephoto Lens to capture a close-up of the cliff (we use the Sony GM 70-200)
- Tripod to get pictures while no one is around or for multiple shots from far away (We use the Rangepod Tripod)
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🤔 Is the Swing in Norway Worth it?
We absolutely loved visiting Christian Gaard. Not only does it have one of the most beautiful swings in the world, but the food is delicious, and the whole experience is one to add to your bucket list.
Christian Gaard is definitely one for the bucket list.
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So are you ready to experience the most beautiful swing in Norway? Trandal is one of the most unique places to visit in the country, and we know you're going to fall in love with it just like we did.
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