Briksdal Glacier & the Troll Cars: What to Expect

If you’re cruising through the Norwegian Fjords and spot Briksdal Glacier on the excursion list - grab it. We visited Briksdal on a P&O Cruises trip and honestly, it’s one of those 'wow' moments you won’t forget.

Getting There from Olden 🚍

We were picked up right from the cruise port in Olden and whisked away by coach through one of the most scenic drives we’ve ever done. Think towering mountains, glassy lakes, and little wooden houses that look like they’re straight out of a fairytale. You’ll want your camera out the whole way.

The drive takes around 30–40 minutes and drops you off at Briksdalsbre Mountain Lodge, a cosy little spot with a café, toilets, and a souvenir shop. It’s also the starting point for the next part of the adventure…

All Aboard the Troll Cars! 🛺

From the lodge, you’ve got two choices: hike to the glacier (about 45 minutes uphill), or hop on one of the Troll Cars. We took the latter - and we’re so glad we did.

These quirky little open-air vehicles aren’t just a fun way to get up the mountain - they’re a bit of Briksdal history too. The Troll Cars have been running since the 1930s, originally starting out as a horse and cart service for tourists before evolving into what they are today. The name 'Troll Car' nods to Norwegian folklore, where trolls are said to live in the mountains and forests - it adds a bit of charm to the whole experience.

Today, they’re operated by Briksdal Adventure and are custom-built to handle the steep, winding path up to the glacier. They run from spring through to autumn, weather permitting, and carry visitors through some of the most scenic terrain in the fjords. You’ll pass waterfalls crashing down beside you, towering cliffs, and wild mountain landscapes that feel like something out of a storybook.

The ride takes about 10–15 minutes and drops you off around 1.5km from the glacier, where you continue on foot for the final stretch. It makes the whole experience more accessible and gives you more time to just enjoy the views.

Briksdal Glacier ❄️

And then you see it - Briksdal Glacier in all its icy glory. It’s one of the most accessible arms of the Jostedalsbreen Glacier, which is the largest glacier in mainland Europe, covering around 480 square kilometres.

Briksdal itself stretches down from a height of about 1,200 metres into the lush valley below. At one time, the glacier reached all the way down to the lake near the mountain lodge, but like many glaciers around the world, it has been retreating in recent years due to climate change. That said, it’s still a jaw-dropping sight - a vast, frozen river of deep blue ice wedged between steep rock walls.

The colours are amazing. Depending on the light, the ice can look anything from milky white to piercing turquoise. And the glacier is very much alive - cracking, creaking, and shifting slowly over time. It really gives you a sense of nature’s power.

You’ll find several spots for great photos, and the sound of rushing meltwater and nearby waterfalls just adds to the atmosphere.

Good to Know

• Troll Cars can be pre-booked (and we recommend it if you’re going in peak season).

• The final part of the walk to the glacier is uneven and a bit steep, so wear comfy, sturdy shoes.

• There are toilets, a café, and a gift shop at the mountain lodge, but no facilities once you’re on the path.

• The whole excursion took around 3–4 hours from start to finish, leaving us time to explore Olden afterwards.

  
  

Booking Options

• Olden Adventure is a great local option and easily accessible as you disembark.

• Book direct with your cruise line.

❄️ Briksdal Glacier & Troll Cars: FAQs

Where is Briksdal Glacier?

Briksdal Glacier is in the Oldedalen Valley in western Norway, not far from the village of Olden. It’s one of the most popular arms of the larger Jostedalsbreen Glacier, which is the biggest glacier in mainland Europe.

How do you get there from a cruise ship?

If you’re on a cruise like we were with P&O Cruises, you’ll usually be picked up directly from the port in Olden by coach as part of a shore excursion. It takes around 30–40 minutes to reach Briksdalsbre Mountain Lodge, where the Troll Cars begin.

What are the Troll Cars?

Troll Cars are open-air, motorised carts that take you about halfway up the mountain towards the glacier. They make the steepest part of the journey much easier and are ideal if you want to enjoy the views without a strenuous hike.

Can you walk to the glacier instead of taking a Troll Car?

Yes, you can walk the whole way if you prefer. It’s about a 45-minute uphill walk from the mountain lodge to the glacier viewpoint. The path is steep in places, but well-marked and popular with hikers.

Is the glacier retreating?

Yes. Like many glaciers around the world, Briksdal has been retreating over the past few decades due to rising temperatures. It used to reach the lake below, but now ends higher up the valley. It’s still a stunning sight - just with a different view than years gone by.

What should I wear?

Weather in the fjords can change quickly, even in summer. Bring layers, waterproofs, and wear sturdy shoes with good grip. Even if it’s sunny when you leave the ship, it might be raining in the mountains!

Are there toilets or food nearby?

Yes - you’ll find toilets, a café, and a gift shop at Briksdalsbre Mountain Lodge, which is the base for the Troll Cars. Once you start heading up the trail or hop on a Troll Car, there are no facilities until you return.

Can you get close to the glacier?

You can get fairly close - there’s a safe viewing area near the edge of the ice with great photo spots, but direct access onto the glacier isn’t allowed unless you’re part of a specialist glacier hike with proper gear and guides.

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This is one of those classic Norwegian Fjord experiences - dramatic scenery, fresh mountain air, and a real taste of the wild side of nature. Whether you’re into hiking, photography, or just love a good glacier, Briksdal doesn’t disappoint.

It’s peaceful. It’s powerful. And it’s unforgettable.