Want to visit Europe’s highest waterfall? Then, a trip to Vinnufossen Waterfall is on the itinerary! Learn all about this spectacular natural wonder in our complete guide to this wonderful waterfall in Norway, including where exactly it is, how to get there and top things to do at the falls.
All About Vinnufossen Waterfall
The sixth-highest waterfall in the world, Vinnufossen, or Vinnu Waterfall, stands at a whopping 860 meters tall. Flowing from the Vinnufonna Glacier, which is the largest glacier between Jostedalsbreen and Svartisen, the tiered Vinnufossen Waterfall is part of the Vinnu River that cascades down Vinnufjellet Mountain.
With a longest drop of 575 meters and an average width of 38 meters, Vinnufossen Waterfall has an average flow rate of 38 cubic meters per second. Vinnufossen Waterfall is a tiered horsetail waterfall, which means that the water starts as a little stream and spreads out as it descends, creating a horsetail-type shape.
Where is Vinnufossen Waterfall?
Located in southwest Norway, Vinnufossen Waterfall sits in Sunndal municipality in Møre og Romsdal county, just east of the village of Sunndalsøra. Vinnufossen Waterfall can be found to the south of the city of Trondheim at the edge of Fjord Norway.
How to Get to Vinnufossen Waterfall
Reaching Vinnufossen Waterfall from Trondheim requires a 2 hour and 35 minute drive along the E6 and Rv70, with some tolls along the way.
From the Norwegian capital of Oslo, the journey will take around 6 hours by car along the E6 and also requires tolls.
If you’re already in Fjord Norway in one of the towns or villages, the drive should be shorter. From Alesund, for example, the journey to Vinnufossen Waterfall will take around 3 hours and 15 minutes via the E136, E39 and Fv62.
Top Things to Do at Vinnufossen Waterfall
So, what exactly can you do at Vinnufossen Waterfall? Well, here are our top recommendations to make the most of your visit to these falls.
Take some epic waterfall photos – A popular spot for photographers, you can capture some beautiful photos of the falls and the surrounding natural scenery while at Vinnufossen Waterfall. Late spring and summer usually provide the best weather conditions and views (from around May to July).
Go on an adventurous hike – If you fancy hiking up to enjoy an incredible view from the top of Vinnufossen Waterfall, you can take the 30 to 40 minute route from the parking lot. A staircase is currently being built to the top called the Vinnu Staircase, which has 676 steps at the moment.
Visit nearby waterfalls – Next to Vinnufossen Waterfall, you’ll find the lesser-known Vinnuis Skorga Waterfall and also the Amotan Waterfall, which is actually a convergence of six rivers and their waterfalls!
Travel Tips For Visiting Vinnufossen Waterfall
When visiting Vinnufossen Waterfall, keep our top travel tips in mind to ensure you enjoy your day trip to the max!
Check the road conditions before setting out – It’s a good idea to ensure all the roads on your route are clear before you set off on your journey to Vinnufossen Waterfall by checking the up-to-date Norway road conditions.
Keep an eye on the weather forecast – Make sure to check the local Norway weather forecast to ensure you’re traveling to the waterfall on a day with optimal conditions.
Pack your own snacks and drinks – As Vinnufossen Waterfall is located in a fairly remote natural area, we recommend bringing your own snacks and drinks to keep hydrated and energized throughout the day.
Wear waterproof clothes and shoes – If you plan to do the hike up to the waterfall, you’ll need some sturdy hiking boots and waterproof outer layers to keep you warm, cozy and dry.
Bring a change of socks – It’s always handy to have a change of socks, just in case you get sprayed by the waterfall. No one likes having wet feet! You might also like to bring a change of clothes, especially if you don’t have waterproof outer layers.
Enjoy Your Own Epic Norway Adventure
Get set for your own amazing Norway adventure by starting your vacation planning today! Check out our brilliant range of affordable and reliable campervan rentals in Norway to find both your accommodation and transport in Norway. Traveling by campervan is one of the best ways to see Norway, as you’ve got all the freedom, independence and flexibility you need to explore our beautiful country to your heart’s content – exciting!