Borgund Stave Church: History, Highlights & How to Visit from Flåm
The Borgund Stave Church is one of Norway’s best-preserved stave churches and a true masterpiece of medieval architecture. Built around 1180, this iconic church offers visitors a glimpse into Norway’s history, showcasing the unique blend of Viking traditions and Christian influence that shaped the country during the Middle Ages.
Yes, I know it isn’t technically *in* Flåm (in fact, it’s in our neighboring municipality of Lærdal), but so many people want to visit the Borgund Stave Church from Flåm, and I get a lot of questions about it. So I figured I might as well write a blog post about it.
For travelers staying in Flåm for more than 1-2 nights, visiting the Borgund Stave Church is a highly recommended day trip. Whether you’re a history lover, an architecture enthusiast, or simply someone curious about Norway’s cultural heritage, this post will give you all the information you need to plan your visit, including my personal tips as a local.
Side note: the reason I specify 1-2 nights is because I wouldn’t start venturing out of the Aurlandsfjord villages with less time than that.
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Borgund Stave Church: Quick History Lesson
The Borgund Stave Church was built in 1180 and is one of only 28 stave churches left in Norway today. It is known to be the best preserved stave church in all of Norway – and I dare say most visitors will recognise it when they see it.
I am an Adventure Guide for Adventures by Disney in the summers, and the Borgund Stave Church is often used in their marketing of the trip that I guide!
Must know information: The word “stave” refers to the wooden posts (or staves – stavr in Old Norse) that form the structure of the church, a traditional method of construction unique to Norway. It is quite similar to the ship building techniques used at the time, and if you look up at the ceiling in a stave church, it can remind you of an upside-down boat!
This church is particularly famous for its Viking influence. You’ll notice dragonhead carvings on the roof ridges, designed to protect the church from evil spirits (we believe) – an echo of pre-Christian Norse mythology.
Inside, the church is simple but atmospheric, with high wooden beams and faint traces of medieval decoration. Perhaps the most fascinating detail is the graffiti and rune inscriptions left by visitors from centuries ago, which provide a glimpse into the lives of the people who worshipped here.
Read more on my main blog: Nordic Symbols (and their meaning)
Next to the church is a modern visitor center, which features an interesting exhibit about stave churches, medieval Norway, and the restoration work that keeps Borgund preserved for future generations. Entry to the exhibit is included with your ticket to the church.
Highlights of Borgund Stave Church
The Borgund Stave Church is a small but impressive site, and these are the highlights you won’t want to miss.
The Exterior
The dark, tarred wood of the church, combined with its steep, tiered roofs and Viking-inspired carvings, gives it a striking, almost otherworldly appearance. The dragonhead finials at the top of the roof are especially unique, making it one of the most photographed stave churches in Norway.
Beware of the tar dripping from the church on sunny days. This is used to protect it, in the old-fashioned way, and you do not want any of it on your clothing. Trust me.
The Interior
Step inside and you’ll find a serene, minimalist space with towering wooden columns and a simple altar. The church’s wooden construction gives it a warm, organic feel, and the medieval architecture will leave you marveling at how something so delicate-looking has withstood the test of time.
Rune Inscriptions
Look closely and you’ll find carvings left by medieval travelers on the doors. These runes and inscriptions are more than just graffiti – they’re pieces of history, offering a connection to the people who lived in this region hundreds of years ago.
The Graveyard
The church is surrounded by a peaceful graveyard with weathered headstones, some dating back centuries. It’s worth walking around to take in the quiet beauty of the setting and enjoy the stunning mountain backdrop.
I’m sure I don’t have to say it, but do make sure you don’t step on any graves whilst you are there. Stick to the path and stay respectful – this is still the working cemetery of the Borgund village.
How to Visit Borgund Stave Church from Flåm
Borgund is located about 80 kilometers (50 miles) from Flåm, making it an easy day trip. There are several ways to visit, the easiest being by tour or your own car.
Here’s how you can get to the Borgund Stave Church from Flåm.
By Car
Driving is definitely the most flexible way to visit Borgund Stave Church. From Flåm, take the E16 highway toward Lærdal. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, and the route includes decent fjord views at first, and a drive through the Lærdal Tunnel (the world’s longest road tunnel).
For those who enjoy scenic routes, consider taking the Snow Road (Aurlandsvegen) in the summer instead of the Lærdal Tunnel. This old mountain road offers great views, but keep in mind that it’s slower and only open during warmer months. Additionally, the part that goes up to the Stegastein Viewpoint is often very heavily trafficked, so I recommend heading out early if you intend on this route.
The Snow Road is part of Norway’s National Tourist Routes and the Stegastein Viewpoint is on the way!
By Guided Tour
If you don’t have your own car, the easiest and best way to visit the Borgund Stave Church is to join a guided tour from Flåm. These tours often include transportation, knowledgeable guides, and sometimes additional stops along the way, such as the charming town of Lærdalsøyri and even the Stegastein Viewpoint.
To be honest, even if you do have a car, you might want to consider joining a tour just for the ease of it.
This tour takes 4,5 hours, and is a great (and stress-free) option for anyone who wants to visit Borgund without a car. It includes a photo stop outside the Borgund Stave Church – make sure to speak to your guide about taking the time to go inside the church if you want to do this.
By Public Transport
It’s also possible to visit Borgund by bus, though it requires a transfer in Håbakken or Lærdal. The journey can take 2-3 hours one way, depending on connections. If you’re relying on public transport, be sure to check schedules in advance, as buses in this rural area aren’t frequent. The buses that go through the area are VyBuss and Nor-Way (click each to check their updated schedules).
Practical Information
The Borgund Stave Church and its visitor center are open to the public from April to October, making summer and the shoulder months the best time to visit for those wanting to go inside the church (and explore the exhibit in the visitor center.
Double check their exact season on the National Trust of Norway’s website before you go. Usually, their season is from mid-April to early October, but the exact dates vary.
Tickets cost 130 kroner (as of 2025) per person and include entrance to both the church and the exhibit in the visitor center.
If you’re visiting outside these months, the church is still worth seeing. You can admire the exterior, get a few photos of the outside and the surrounding area, but you won’t be able to go inside the stave church.
Why Visit Borgund Stave Church
As a local, I can tell you that visiting the Borgund Stave Church is one of the most fascinating ways to connect with Norway’s history. Its unique architecture, rich Viking-Christian heritage, and peaceful setting make it a place you won’t forget.
Whether you’re driving yourself, hopping on a bus, or joining a guided tour, a trip to Borgund from Flåm is well worth it if you have the time.
It’s a chance to step back in time and experience one of Norway’s true cultural treasures, and I’m sure you’re gonna love it!
