Bråsvellbreen - brown and black abstract painting
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Bråsvellbreen

5
·3 reviews·, Svalbard and Jan Mayen

Witness the awe-inspiring Bråsvellbreen, a colossal ice cap featuring unique waterfalls cascading into the ocean. Experience nature's grandeur on an e...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

July evenings

See waterfalls in soft light

CrowdMedium
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Bråsvellbreen - brown and black abstract painting

Bråsvellbreen

Best Time

July evenings

See waterfalls in soft light

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Witness the awe-inspiring Bråsvellbreen, a colossal ice cap featuring unique waterfalls cascading into the ocean. Experience nature's grandeur on an epic scale.

5
(3 reviews)

"Awe inspiring example of Nature at its most magnificent."

Vertical photo
TIP

Plan for the Journey

Reaching Bråsvellbreen can involve an 18-hour round trip. Make it an epic adventure with friends! :rocket:

Drone Photography Ready

Capture stunning aerial views of this unique glacial landscape. :camerawithflash:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Cascading Ice Wall

The Cascading Ice Wall

Bråsvellbreen Glacier Front

Witness countless waterfalls pouring from a 45m high ice cliff into the ocean. A truly majestic and humbling sight.

Instagram
Longest Glacier Front

Longest Glacier Front

Nordaustlandet, Svalbard

Experience the sheer scale of the longest glacier front in the Northern Hemisphere, stretching 180km.

Instagram
Austfonna Ice Cap

Austfonna Ice Cap

Nordaustlandet, Svalbard

Stand before a 30m high wall of ice, part of Austfonna, one of the world's largest ice caps.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Arctic Scale

Bråsvellbreen is an immense ice cap, often described as a 'wall of ice.' Prepare for a truly humbling experience. Many visitors note the long travel times to reach it, so plan accordingly for an unforgettable Arctic adventure. Instagram

Witness Glacial Wonders

This glacier is unique for its numerous waterfalls cascading directly into the ocean. It's a dynamic natural spectacle, but also a fragile environment. Understanding the impact of climate change here adds another layer to the visit. Instagram

Best Times

When
July evenings
Why
See waterfalls in soft light
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer mornings
Why
Calm seas for boat tours
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

- Have you ever seen something like this ? - S’il y a bien un endroit que je retiendrais au Svalbard, c’est sans doute celui là. La calotte glacière de Bråsvellbreen. C’est un lieu unique en son genre. Habituellement, l’eau des glaciers s’écoule entre les crevasses et viens s’enfoncer dans leurs profondeurs avant de s’écouler sous le niveau de la mer. Ici, la glace est si compact, que l’eau ne p...
benjifre
627 likes • 0 views

Plan for the Journey

Reaching Bråsvellbreen can involve an 18-hour round trip. Make it an epic adventure with friends! Instagram :rocket:

Drone Photography Ready

Capture stunning aerial views of this unique glacial landscape. Instagram :camerawithflash:

Bråsvellbreen, Svalbard - Uninterrupted 180km long piece of ice with countless waterfalls pouring down to the ocean, it’s the longest glacier front in the northern hemisphere. Besides this factual textbook information above, facing it in that environment with those waterfalls pouring down from a 45m high ice cube was very magestic and humbling at the same time! What I saw from the sea became mor...
denizhota
268 likes • 0 views
Bråsvellbreen - worth the 18hr round trip to see this awe inspiring spot in the Arctic! Add good music, good friends and life can’t get much better!! 🤙🏻 @tuskphoto #jaxwild #arctic #arcticvibes #dji #wilderness #wildlifeplabet #earthcapture
jackiewildphoto
230 likes • 0 views

Respect the Fragile Environment

This is a delicate ecosystem. Be mindful of your impact and the ongoing climate change effects. Instagram :leaf:

Game of Thrones Vibe

The sheer scale of the ice wall evokes a dramatic, almost fantasy-like atmosphere. Instagram :movie_camera:

6 waterfalls coming off of Bråsvellbreen one evening in July. This is a land based ice cap on Nordaustlandet reaching 45 kilometres long. Sometimes we are totally spoiled and get tired of repeatedly going to a particular place on Svabard, if you can believe it. I was bored of coming here, often seeing the same thing and then was quickly put in my place, reminded every part of Svalbard can offer s...
photojeanettics
210 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Plan for the Journey

Reaching Bråsvellbreen can involve an 18-hour round trip. Make it an epic adventure with friends! Instagram :rocket:

Drone Photography Ready

Capture stunning aerial views of this unique glacial landscape. Instagram :camerawithflash:

Respect the Fragile Environment

This is a delicate ecosystem. Be mindful of your impact and the ongoing climate change effects. Instagram :leaf:

Game of Thrones Vibe

The sheer scale of the ice wall evokes a dramatic, almost fantasy-like atmosphere. Instagram :movie_camera:

What Travellers Say

5
(3 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently describe Bråsvellbreen as an awe-inspiring and magnificent natural wonder, with the unique glacial waterfalls being a major highlight. The sheer scale of the ice wall and its status as the longest glacier front in the Northern Hemisphere leave a lasting impression. While the journey can be long, most agree it's an unforgettable Arctic experience.

"the best experience in Svalbard"

Traci Frederick

"Awe inspiring example of Nature at its most magnificent"

Te Shan Liang

"Awesome place
The Climate oF brasvellbreen is very attractive"

Arumuga Durai

What People Like

Majestic glacial waterfalls
Immense scale of ice wall
Longest glacier front

What People Dislike

Long travel times

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Bråsvellbreen is located on Nordaustlandet, requiring boat tours or expeditions from Longyearbyen. These are often part of multi-day Svalbard tours. The journey can be long, with some trips involving an 18-hour round trip. Instagram It's essential to book with a reputable tour operator specializing in Arctic exploration. Instagram

Independent travel to Bråsvellbreen is extremely challenging and generally not recommended due to the remote location, unpredictable sea ice, and the need for specialized vessels and safety equipment. Guided tours are the standard and safest way to experience this glacier. Instagram

Tours to Bråsvellbreen typically utilize expedition ships or smaller Zodiac boats for closer exploration. Some tours might involve hiking on the glacier itself, but this is usually part of a larger expedition. Instagram+1

Bråsvellbreen is a land-based ice cap, but direct land access for tourists is virtually impossible due to the terrain and remoteness. Access is primarily via sea. Instagram

While the direct travel time can be significant, seeing Bråsvellbreen is often part of longer Svalbard expeditions that can last several days to a week, allowing for exploration of surrounding areas. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

You don't buy individual tickets for Bråsvellbreen itself. Access is typically included as part of a broader Svalbard expedition or boat tour package. Booking a tour is the primary way to gain entry. Instagram+1

The cost varies greatly depending on the tour operator, duration of the expedition, and type of vessel. Expect expedition costs to be significant, reflecting the remote nature and specialized logistics of Arctic travel. Instagram

As a natural glacial formation, Bråsvellbreen does not have set opening hours. Access is determined by tour schedules and prevailing weather and ice conditions, which can change rapidly in the Arctic. Instagram

The summer months, particularly July and August, are generally considered the best time to visit Svalbard and Bråsvellbreen, as sea ice is at its minimum, and daylight hours are long. Instagram

While some last-minute deals might exist, it's highly recommended to book Svalbard expeditions well in advance, especially for popular summer months, as tours fill up quickly. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The entire glacier front offers incredible photographic opportunities. Focus on capturing the scale of the ice wall, the unique waterfalls, and any wildlife present. Drone footage can provide breathtaking perspectives. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is essential for capturing the vastness of the glacier. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. Consider a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions and a waterproof camera or housing for potential spray from the waterfalls. Instagram+1

Generally, photography is permitted, but always follow your tour guide's instructions. Be mindful of wildlife and maintain a safe distance. Drone usage may have specific regulations, so check with your tour operator. Instagram

Early morning or late evening light can create dramatic scenes, especially with the waterfalls. However, summer in Svalbard offers long daylight hours, so you'll have ample time to capture stunning shots throughout the day. Instagram

Yes, wildlife like Kittiwakes are often seen near the glacier. Instagram Always maintain a respectful distance and never feed or disturb animals. Your tour guide will advise on safe wildlife viewing practices.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While Bråsvellbreen is an incredible natural wonder, it's important to note that visiting typically involves long boat journeys and expeditions. Consider the age and stamina of your children when planning. The sheer scale of the ice wall and the unique waterfalls can be captivating for older children who can appreciate the natural spectacle. Instagram Ensure any tour you book is family-friendly and offers appropriate safety measures for younger travelers. The experience is more about observation and awe than active participation for kids. Instagram

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Bråsvellbreen is a photographer's dream, offering dramatic landscapes and unique phenomena. Bring your widest lenses to capture the immense scale of the glacier front and the cascading waterfalls. Instagram Consider a telephoto lens for potential wildlife sightings, such as seabirds. Drone photography can provide breathtaking aerial perspectives, but always check local regulations and tour operator policies regarding drone usage. Instagram The ever-changing light conditions in the Arctic can create magical moments, so be prepared for long shooting days. Instagram

🌍 Eco-Conscious Travelers

For those concerned about the environment, Bråsvellbreen offers a poignant experience. The visible glacial melt and waterfalls serve as a stark reminder of climate change impacts in the Arctic. Instagram Choose tour operators who prioritize sustainable tourism practices and educate visitors about conservation. Respect the fragile ecosystem by staying on designated paths (if applicable) and leaving no trace. Instagram Understanding the environmental significance of this location enhances the visit. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Unique Glacial Waterfalls

Bråsvellbreen is renowned for its spectacular waterfalls, a phenomenon rarely seen directly from a glacier front into the ocean. These cascades are formed by meltwater flowing from the vast ice cap, creating rivers that pour over the ice cliff. Instagram+1 The sheer volume and height of these waterfalls, sometimes described as a 'wall of ice,' create a powerful and mesmerizing natural display. Instagram It's a stark reminder of the dynamic processes at play in glacial environments. Instagram

These waterfalls are a direct visual indicator of glacial melt. While beautiful, they also highlight the ongoing changes in the Arctic due to climate change. Instagram Witnessing this spectacle offers a profound connection to the power and fragility of nature, prompting reflection on environmental shifts. Instagram

Photographers and nature enthusiasts are drawn to Bråsvellbreen specifically for this unique feature. The contrast of fresh water cascading over ancient ice into the salty sea is a sight that stays with visitors long after they leave. Instagram

Understanding the Scale of Bråsvellbreen

Bråsvellbreen is not just a glacier; it's the seaward-facing edge of the immense Austfonna ice cap, one of the largest in the world. Instagram+1 The glacier front itself stretches an astonishing 180 kilometers, making it the longest in the Northern Hemisphere. Instagram Standing before this colossal 'wall of ice,' which can be up to 45 meters high, is an experience that dwarfs human scale. Instagram

This immense scale means that even though it's a single glacier front, the experience can vary greatly depending on where you view it from. Tour operators carefully navigate these waters to provide the best vantage points. Instagram The sheer mass of ice represents a significant portion of Svalbard's glacial landscape and plays a crucial role in the region's ecosystem. Instagram

Visitors often express awe at the sheer size, comparing it to scenes from epic fantasy series. Instagram The vastness is a key element that makes Bråsvellbreen a must-see destination for those seeking to comprehend the grandeur of Arctic nature. Instagram

Experiencing Bråsvellbreen: A Journey

Visiting Bråsvellbreen is often described as an unforgettable experience, but it's important to understand that it's not a casual day trip. Many visitors report that the journey itself is a significant part of the adventure, with some expeditions involving an 18-hour round trip. Instagram This commitment is rewarded with unparalleled natural beauty. Instagram

Travelers often emphasize the importance of good company and music to enhance the long journey, turning it into a memorable group experience. Instagram The remoteness and the effort required to reach Bråsvellbreen contribute to its pristine and awe-inspiring nature. Instagram It's a destination that truly tests and rewards the adventurous spirit.

Once there, the experience is described as majestic and humbling. Instagram The combination of the immense ice wall, the cascading waterfalls, and the Arctic wilderness creates a profound connection with nature. Instagram It's a place that makes you feel small in the best possible way, offering a unique perspective on our planet. Instagram

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