Exploring Norway by Motorhome

5 Must-Experience Camping Spots

Before we delve into this, a quick heads-up: Norway is vast. While peering from Central Europe, its true scale might not be immediately apparent on a map. But once you set foot here, the expanse of the country reveals itself, offering an abundance of unparalleled natural marvels. I’ll admit, we’ve merely scratched the surface of what Norway has to offer, so I won’t claim expertise or present an elaborate “Top Whatever” list. Instead, I’ve compiled a collection of my favourite camping spots for you and your motorhome in Norway, aiming to provide a glimpse of the awaiting wonders, even if you’re planning a more extensive adventure.

Eidfjord

There’s a good reason why Norway was right up there on our bucket list: the country permits free camping. Imagine this – you can just set up camp anywhere amid raw, untouched nature. Well, almost anywhere – granted there’s enough space to squeeze in. But that can be a bit tricky in those narrow fjords. They are usually just wide enough for a road hugging the water, and that’s about it.

And some of those fjords are crazy popular. If free camping was allowed, these spots would be swarming with people, which kind of defeats the purpose of enjoying the untouched beauty. But no worries, the cool Norwegians thought ahead. They’ve set aside the best flat land in many of these fjords for campsites.

Take Sæbø Camping in Eidfjord, for example. Tucked along the lakeshore behind the main fjord, it gives you a double dose of peace and unobstructed views (unlike Eidfjord itself, where you might end up with a giant cruise ship as your front-row neighbour).

Undredal

If you asked me to paint a picture of the perfect fjord village, it would look a whole lot like Undredal. Tucked away at the very end of the road, this tiny hamlet rests on the shores of Aurlandsfjord. I know Aurlandsfjord might not ring a bell, but I bet you’ve heard of the more famous Flam, right at the fjord’s tip. But here’s the thing: while most tourists make a beeline for Flam and miss out on Undredal, they’re unknowingly giving this little charmer a gift – the gift of tranquillity at the edge of the world.

Oh, and guess what? There’s a camping spot here that’s top-notch – Undredal Fjord Apartments & Camping, that’s the spot you want for setting up camp.

Iglandsvika, Bremangerlandet

Now, onto something refreshingly different – along the untamed coastline of western Norway, we stumbled upon another of those hidden treasures that seem to pause time. Enter Bremangerlandet, a tranquil island, “home” of the mighty Hornelen cliff, known as the tallest sea cliff in Europe.  We weren’t there to conquer it. There are plenty of equally rewarding but less demanding hikes.

Our base camp? The delightful Iglandsvik Marina offers around 15 snug spots for fellow campers, giving off that true local vibe. The cherry on top is the stunning Grotlesanden beach a couple of kilometres further along the road. The sands are white, the waters turquoise – you’d think you landed in the Caribbean if it wasn’t for the cold water.

But hang on, there’s a little bonus! You absolutely must drop by the local florist doubling up as a souvenir shop and a coffee corner. We stopped there for a delightful cafe affogato, whipped up with locally made “softis” ice cream. At 55 Kronen, it wasn’t just a treat – it was one of the most reasonably priced sips of coffee we’ve enjoyed in Norway.

Reinheimen National Park Station

Strictly speaking, we didn’t camp here. But believe me, if we had stumbled upon this gem sooner, we certainly would. So, I want to share this golden nugget of information with you, so you can soak up the rugged, high-mountain plateau panorama on your journey between Geiranger Fjord and Trollstigen. You could conveniently park your motorhome at a small parking lot, which doubles as one of the gateways to the Reinheimen National Park – an absolute haven of preserved wilderness nestled in the heart of southern Norway.

But bear in mind that this is pure, unadulterated wilderness. And that means it can throw some serious winds your way, not to mention the chilly temperatures. So, when you venture out, come armed with the right gear. Consider yourself warned – and ready for an adventure!

Secret spot in Hustadvika

Now, this is free camping at its purest. So, when you’re here, step lightly and be respectful to the folks (and goats) who call this place home – because you’re essentially camping right in their front yard. I won’t hit you with another tip for this spot – we simply parked up, surrendered ourselves to the views, and soaked in the tranquillity. It’s moments like these that make you realize why motorhome travel was invented in the first place.