Cidery Day Tour with a Fjord Cruise from Bergen

An All-Inclusive Day Exploring Bergen’s Fjords and Cider Scene for $381

The Cidery Day Tour with a Fjord Cruise from Bergen offers a well-rounded look at Norway’s stunning landscapes and local flavors. For $381.38 per person, this 13-hour guided tour takes visitors on a scenic journey through the fjords, a visit to the historic Hopperstad Stave Church, and a relaxing boat cruise across Sognefjord. The tour features luxury transportation in a private, air-conditioned minibus with Wi-Fi, ensuring comfort and convenience throughout the day.

This group tour is designed for those eager to explore multiple attractions without the hassle of driving or planning, with up to 32 travelers on board. While the tour receives a solid 4-star rating overall, some reviews note that it offers good value for the scenic and cultural highlights, but that certain experiences—like the cider tasting—may feel brief for some. Still, for fans of picturesque fjords and authentic local tastes, this tour ticks many boxes.

Key Points

• Includes a scenic fjord cruise across Sognefjord with indoor and outdoor seating options
• Visits iconic attractions like the Hopperstad Stave Church and Tvindefossen Waterfall
• Enjoys lunch at a local restaurant in Balestrand, included in the price
• Sample ciders and learn about organic fruit growing at a family-run micro winery
• Comfortable transport in an air-conditioned minibus with Wi-Fi and a small group size
• Free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the tour

Starting the Day at Storesvingen Viewpoint for Picturesque Fjord Views

The tour begins early at 7:30 am from Strandkaien 3 in Bergen, with a scenic drive towards Vik. The first stop at Storesvingen Fjellstove offers immediate breathtaking views of Vik Village and Sognefjorden. The viewpoint provides excellent photo opportunities, making it an ideal spot to appreciate the scale of the surrounding mountains and water.

Travelers get about 10 minutes here to take in the scenery, with no admission fee. This leg of the journey sets a relaxed tone, emphasizing Norway’s natural beauty right from the start. The stop is brief but impactful, giving visitors a taste of the landscape to come.

Visiting the 1130 AD Hopperstad Stave Church in Vik

A highlight of this tour is the visit to Hopperstad Stave Church, built in 1130, making it one of Norway’s oldest stave churches. Located in the village of Vik, this church showcases rich woodwork and intricate decorations that reflect traditional craftsmanship.

The 30-minute stop allows for a guided tour, included at no extra cost, or for exploring at your own pace. The local guide provides insights in both English and Norwegian, shedding light on the church’s history and architecture. This site offers a glimpse into Norway’s medieval past and its preservation of cultural heritage.

Sognefjord Boat Cruise from Vik to Balestrand

Next, the tour switches from land to water with a 30-minute boat cruise across Sognefjord. The boat departs from Vik harbor and heads toward the charming town of Balestrand. Passengers can choose between indoor seats or standing outside on deck to fully enjoy the stunning fjord scenery—mountains, waterfalls, and quaint villages.

This cruise is included in the ticket, giving travelers a comfortable and scenic way to experience Norway’s longest and deepest fjord. The boat’s design allows for great views regardless of the weather, making it a relaxing highlight of the day’s itinerary.

Lunch and Free Time in Balestrand

Upon arrival in Balestrand, the tour provides a lunch at a local restaurant, included in the overall price. This meal offers an opportunity to sample regional Norwegian cuisine in a cozy setting. Afterward, guests have approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes to explore the town at their leisure.

Balestrand is known for its scenic streets, art galleries, and views of the fjord. Visitors can stroll along the fjord side, read informational posters about the area’s history, or visit local shops. The flexibility allows for a brief cultural walk or simply relaxing while soaking up the peaceful atmosphere.

Learning About Organic Cider Production at The Cider House

The tour’s unique feature is the visit to The Cider House, a family-run micro cidery located in an organic orchard. Here, visitors learn how the family grows a variety of fruits and berries, transforming them into ciders, fruit wines, and brandy.

The hour and 50-minute stop includes a guided tour with explanations of the méthode traditionnelle used to produce sparkling cider—a process similar to Champagne-making. This educational aspect enriches the tasting experience, which features five cider samples, with options for non-alcoholic drinks as well.

While some may find the tasting session somewhat brief, it offers a taste of authentic local craftsmanship and organic farming practices, making it a memorable part of the day.

Exploring Balestrand in Free Time

Following the cider tasting, guests have nearly 2 hours to explore Balestrand further. This period allows for visits to additional local attractions, cultural walks, or simply relaxing by the fjord. The tour provides the flexibility to engage with Balestrand’s charming streets, art galleries, or scenic viewpoints.

The bus then returns to the Cider House to pick up guests and head back to Balestrand pier, where the same boat departs for Vik, completing the water segment of the journey.

Visiting Tvindefossen Waterfall Near Bergen

The last stop on the return journey is Tvindefossen Waterfall, a 110-meter-high cascade near Bergen. With 15 minutes allocated for this visit, visitors can walk close to the waterfall and enjoy the myths and stories shared by the guide.

This impressive waterfall is a popular tourist photo spot and offers a fitting conclusion to a day filled with scenic views and cultural insights. It’s a quick stop but leaves a lasting impression of Norway’s natural wonders.

Practical Details: Logistics and Group Size

The tour departs from Strandkaien 3 in Bergen at 7:30 am and concludes back at the meeting point in the evening. The journey is facilitated by a private, air-conditioned minibus with Wi-Fi, ensuring a comfortable ride for up to 32 participants. This small group size enhances the experience, allowing for more personalized attention from the guide.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, with confirmation provided at booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start time. It is recommended for those interested in both natural scenery and cultural sites, though some reviews mention that the fjord views from the boat and bus may not be as extensive as in other tours.

The Tour’s Strengths and Limitations

This tour excels in combining fjord cruising, cultural visits, and local tasting experiences into a single day. The inclusion of lunch and cider samples adds value, especially for those interested in regional food and drinks. The small group size and luxury transportation contribute to a relaxed and intimate atmosphere.

However, some reviews note that the cider tasting session feels limited in duration, and the timing at Balestrand may be tight for those wanting to explore more deeply. Plus, the views from the boat and bus are described as not always breathtaking, depending on weather conditions.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This tour suits travelers who appreciate scenic fjord landscapes, historic sites, and local craftsmanship. It’s ideal for those seeking a full-day experience without the hassle of organizing logistics themselves. The combination of cruise, cultural stops, and tasting makes it appealing for visitors interested in Norway’s regional flavors and scenery.

While it offers solid value, it may not be suited for those looking for extensive fjord exploration or outdoor hikes, as the schedule prioritizes sightseeing and tasting over physical activity.

Bergen’s Fjord and Cider Experience in a Nutshell

The Cidery Day Tour with a Fjord Cruise presents a balanced mix of Norway’s natural beauty and artisanal tradition. With comfortable transport, a scenic boat cruise, and a visit to a historic stave church, the tour makes for a memorable day. The local cider tasting adds a distinctive flavor, especially for those keen to learn about organic farming and beverage production.

While some may find the timing at Balestrand a bit limited for deep exploration, the flexibility to wander independently provides a good balance. This tour remains a practical choice for those wanting a well-organized, multi-activity day out of Bergen, particularly if they value authentic regional flavors and iconic scenery.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The fjord cruise, lunch, cider tasting, and guided visits are all included in the $381.38 fee.

How long does the entire tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 13 hours, starting at 7:30 am and returning in the evening.

What stops are part of the itinerary?
Stops include Storesvingen Viewpoint, Hopperstad Stave Church, Sognefjord cruise, Balestrand for lunch, Cider House, and Tvindefossen Waterfall.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses a private, air-conditioned minibus with Wi-Fi, accommodating up to 32 guests in a small-group setting.

Are meals included?
A lunch in Balestrand is included, offering regional cuisine as part of the experience.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 32 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What are the reviews like?
The overall rating is 4.0 out of 5 based on 12 reviews, with some comments about the limited duration of the cider tasting and timing at Balestrand, but praise for the scenery, guide, and overall value.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but physical mobility may influence comfort at stops like the viewpoint and waterfall.

How do I book this tour?
Booking is available through providers like Viator, with a typical advance booking period of about 50 days.

This all-inclusive day tour provides a fulfilling mix of natural beauty, cultural sites, and local flavors, making it a solid choice for those wanting to maximize their experience around Bergen.