Hardangerfjord stretches out for 179 kilometers, not only making it the world’s fifth-largest fjord (and the second-largest in Norway) but it’s also become a tourist mecca for all sorts of interesting things to see and do.
In this article, we dive into everything there is to know about the impressive fjord, as well as its equally impressive surroundings that are considered must-adds to any Norwegian trip itinerary.
Where is Hardangerfjord in Norway?
Hardangerfjord can be found in Hordaland County in West Norway. It’s also important to remember that Hardangerfjord doesn’t just refer to the fjord itself but also an entire region, consisting of the Eidfjord, Kvinnherad, Ulvik, Kvam, and Ullensvang municipalities surrounding the fjord. This paradise-like region and its fjord are just one hour from International Bergen Airport.
Hardangerfjord: An Overview
Hardangerfjord is not just one of the longest fjords in Norway but also one of the deepest, clocking in at more than 800 meters at points. The fjord is absolutely breathtaking, offering incredible panoramic views and plenty of other interesting things to see and do around it. If you visit Hardangerfjord in May, you’ll also see the fruit trees blossoming.
Reaching Hardangerfjord
If you feel so inclined, you can opt for one of the myriad of guided tours local tour operators and guides offer of the Hardangerfjord and its surroundings. Most, however, prefer to visit Hardangerfjord on their own terms and with their own vehicle. There are a number of routes one can take to Hardangerfjord from Bergen (assuming you landed at the airport there, of course).
Which you take will depend on your time and preferences. There is a scenic route with narrow fjord-side roads, which will give you both great views as well as heart palpitations if you’re a nervous driver. The other option is to go through Voss on the main highway in the direction of Granvin. This route is especially recommended for those with limited time since it’s quicker.
The Hardranger Scenic Route
The Hardranger scenic route is roughly 127 kilometers, will take you just over 2 hours without stopping, and will leave you 100 NOK ($9.15/€8.40) out of pocket for tolls. This route is also open all year round, and you’ll find its turn-off at a roundabout in Trengereid.
The Highway Route
The highway route is roughly 129 kilometers, will take you just under 2 hours without stopping, and will leave you 72 NOK ($6.60/€6.05) out of pocket for tolls. This route is also open all year round, and you’ll have to drive through Trengereid in the direction of Vaksdal to take this route.
A Few Things to Do in Hardangerfjord
If you are looking for a few things to add to your Hardangerfjord trip itinerary, you should consider the following:
Lake Bondhusvatnet
The beautiful glacier lake of Bondhusvatnet can be found in the Bondhusdalen Valley in Folgefonna National Park. Reaching the lake will require a (fairly easy) 2-hour hike. If you find yourself on the wrong side of Hardangerfjord, simply take the Jondal-Torvikbygd Ferry across the fjord to reach the beginning of the hiking trail.
Oddadalen (aka the Valley of Waterfalls)
You will need to search long and hard to find a place like Oddadalen, where waterfalls are lined up one after the other within the span of just a few kilometers. These include Latefoss, Tjornadalsfoss, Espelandsfoss, Strandfoss, and Vidfoss.
Baroniet Rosendal
Baroniet Rosendal is Scandinavia’s smallest castle and a museum offering historical tours, an events venue, as well as a bite to eat at its restaurants. If you visit Norway in August, you can also attend the Rosendal Chamber Music Festival here. Although it’s referred to as a castle and certainly is beautiful, its appearance is rather that of a large manor house, so keep expectations realistic.
Dronningstien Hiking Trail
Dronningstien hiking trail, or Queen Sonja’s hiking trail (since it was her favorite hike), is one of the most beautiful mountain trails in Norway, offering breathtaking views across Hardangerfjord and its surrounding landscape. The trail is roughly 15 kilometers long and will take about 6.5 hours to complete. But this trail is considered difficult, so it is reserved for the more experienced hikers among us.
Mikkelparken
Mikkelparken is a theme park that promises the ultimate family fun. From water slides, rides, a petting zoo, playgrounds, and all sorts of other exciting, family-friendly activities, this is Norway’s take on Disneyland. This is an absolute must if you have children between the ages of 1 and 10.
Trolltunga
Trolltunga, which translates to “troll’s tongue,” is a cliff edge that hovers roughly 700 meters above Ringedalsvatnet Lake, making for spectacular views and even better photo opps. The only way to reach it is via a pretty grueling hike, but it’s well worth it.
Glacier Hiking at Folgefonna Glacier
Going on a glacier hike is one of those bucket list activities. When hiking Folgefonna Glacier, all gear and equipment are provided by the tour operator (the only way to go hiking on a glacier), and you’ll get to experience a world of incredible blue ice, deep crevasses, and interesting ice formations. A guided hike here usually lasts about 5 hours, so plan accordingly.
Hardanger Folk Museum
The Hardanger Folk Museum gives you a glimpse into the past and local culture throughout the ages with permanent as well as changing exhibitions. The museum is also home to Norway’s largest collection of old Hardanger fiddles. In the open-air part of the museum, you can get a behind-the-scenes look at what local farm life was like, and you can take a walk through the orchard.
Hardanger Skyspace
The Hardanger Skyspace is a permanent art installation here in Norway by an American artist, James Turrell. It is an octagonal structure in which 18 people can sit, and with a hole in the roof, unique interior design, and natural lighting, one can experience something spectacular, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Cliff Camping
This is an outdoor adventure not for the faint of heart. When going cliff camping at Hardanger, you will spend the night in a tent suspended against a cliff above the fjord. And while it gives incredible views over the fjord, the glacier, and the rest of the Icelandic landscape, those with a fear of heights won’t be able to enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
This is Merely an Intro to Hardangerfjord
We gave you the basic lowdown on the incredible fjord and started delving into what other exciting things you can expect from the surrounding area. But we have merely scratched the surface of everything Hardangerfjord has to offer.
The best and most affordable way to properly explore the regions is by renting a motorhome in Norway and then road-tripping your way down the fjord and its various sights and activities. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning and prepping, and come visit Hardangerfjord for awe-inspiring views, once-in-a-lifetime experiences, and unforgettable memories.
Comments