Private tour – Hardangerfjord, Voss Gondola & 4 Great Waterfalls

Explore Norway’s Queen of the Fjords on a Private Day Trip from Bergen

This private tour offers an intimate journey through some of Norway’s most breathtaking sights, including the Hardangerfjord, Voss Gondola, and four impressive waterfalls. Priced at $957.80 per person, the experience lasts approximately 9 hours and includes hotel pickup, lunch, and gondola fees, making it a smooth and comprehensive way to see Norway’s natural beauty without the hassle of planning.

With a rating of 4.5 out of 5 based on 7 reviews, this tour is ideal for travelers seeking a personalized, relaxed exploration of the fjord region. It is particularly well-suited for those who appreciate nature, waterfalls, and scenic viewpoints, and who prefer a private vehicle and professional guide for a more tailored experience. While the Voss Gondola may not offer extensive views in every season, the overall itinerary promises a day filled with gorgeous waterfalls, stunning fjord panoramas, and mountain vistas.

Key Points

• Private full-day tour from Bergen with hotel pickup and all logistics arranged
• Visits Fossen Bratte, Steinsdalsfossen, and Vøringfossen, some of Norway’s most stunning waterfalls
• Ride Northern Europe’s largest gondola in Voss for panoramic mountain views
• Explore Hardangerfjord, the second-longest fjord in Norway, with free entry
• Cross Hardanger Bridge, Norway’s longest suspension bridge, connecting two municipalities
• Includes lunch and gondola fees, with limited group size for a personalized experience

Starting Point and Tour Length

The tour begins at 9:00 am with pickup from your Bergen hotel, making it easy to fit into a full-day schedule. The entire journey lasts about 9 hours, providing ample time to visit each stop at a relaxed pace. The private vehicle ensures comfort and flexibility, with a professional driver guiding you through this scenic route.

Visiting Fossen Bratte: A Powerful Single Drop Waterfall

The first stop is Fossen Bratte, also called Brudesløret, Eikedalsfoss, or Brattefossen. Located on the way between Bergen and Norheimsund in Hordaland, this waterfall features a thunderous descent of over 79 meters in a single, steep drop.

While Steinsdalsfossen tends to attract busloads of travelers, Fossen Bratte offers a more striking impression of raw power and height. The 15-minute stop includes an admission ticket and provides a great opportunity to admire the sheer force of nature. Its impressive cascade makes it a highlight for those who appreciate dramatic waterfalls.

Walking Behind Steinsdalsfossen: Norway’s Most Visited Waterfall

Next, the tour stops at Steinsdalsfossen, in Kvam, Vestland. Known as one of the most visited tourist sites in Norway, this 46-meter-high waterfall features a unique trail that leads behind the falling water, allowing visitors to walk dryshod into the rumbling cascade.

The 30-minute visit is included in the tour, with an admission ticket provided. The waterfall draws visitors year-round, especially when the snow melts in May and June, increasing the volume of water. From the parking lot, a scenic path ascends a hill, leading to stunning views and photo opportunities of the water plunging down.

Discovering Hardangerfjord: Norway’s Fjord Queen

The tour’s centerpiece is a two-hour exploration of Hardangerfjord, the second-longest fjord in Norway at 179 kilometers. This free-entry stop offers a chance to admire the fjord’s expansive beauty, where glacial erosion and high-pressure meltwater carved out the valley thousands of years ago.

Traveling along this majestic waterway provides views of mountain peaks, lush valleys, and perhaps the occasional boat, illustrating why the fjord is called the Queen of the Fjords. This section highlights Norway’s glacial history and the sheer scale of natural forces that formed the landscape.

Crossing Norway’s Longest Suspension Bridge at Hardanger

A highlight of the route is crossing the Hardanger Bridge, Norway’s longest suspension bridge at 1,380 meters long with a main span of 1,310 meters. The bridge crosses the Eidfjorden branch of Hardangerfjord, connecting the municipalities of Ullensvang and Ulvik.

The 20-minute stop allows ample time to appreciate the engineering marvel and enjoy scenic views of the fjord below. This modern structure replaces a ferry connection, significantly shortening travel time while offering spectacular photo opportunities of the bridge and surrounding mountains.

Marveling at Vøringfossen Waterfall

The Vøringfossen stop showcases one of Norway’s most famous waterfalls, with a total drop of 182 meters. Located at the top of the Måbødalen valley in Eidfjord, Vøringfossen is a major tourist draw, renowned for its powerful cascade and scenic surroundings.

This hour-long visit includes easy access to viewpoints and walking paths, making it an excellent chance to experience Norway’s legendary waterfalls up close. The impressive height and roar of the water make it a memorable highlight, illustrating the force of nature that forms the landscape.

Skjervsfossen Waterfall: Twin Falls and Scenic Trails

On the way from Granvin to Voss, the tour stops at Skjervsfossen, where twin waterfalls plunge 150 meters from the mountainside. The site offers well-organized paths, stairs, viewpoints, and rest areas, making it accessible for visitors of all ages.

A notable feature is the Shower, a scenic spot where the water surges through a narrow channel, offering an immersive experience of the waterfall’s immense power. Be prepared to get soaking wet if there has been recent heavy rain, but the views and experience are worth it.

Exploring Voss: Adventure Capital and Panoramic Views

The last stop is in Voss Municipality, famous for adventure sports like skiing, water sports, and skydiving. The village of Vossevangen serves as the regional center, surrounded by snow-capped mountains, lakes, and whitewater rivers.

Here, the Voss Gondola takes visitors to Mount Hanguren at 820 meters in under nine minutes. The 30-minute gondola ride offers panoramic views of the mountains and valleys, with options for hiking, biking, or relaxing at the local café. During winter, the gondola serves as the lift to a ski resort, extending the fun.

Practicalities and Booking Considerations

The tour is designed for most travelers, with service animals allowed and near public transportation options. Since it’s a private experience, only your group participates, ensuring a personalized pace and attention from the guide.

Booking is recommended at least 71 days in advance, given the tour’s popularity, and the full experience starts at 9:00 am. The price includes all gondola and lunch fees, ensuring no hidden costs during the day.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This full-day private tour suits nature lovers, waterfall enthusiasts, and those interested in scenic viewpoints. The mix of waterfalls, fjord exploration, and mountain gondola rides offers varied experiences, appealing especially to travelers who value personalized service and flexibility.

While Voss Gondola may sometimes be less spectacular depending on the season and weather, the waterfalls and fjord scenery more than compensate, making this a memorable way to experience Norway’s natural grandeur.

The Sum Up: A Scenic, Personal Adventure in Norway’s West

This private tour delivers a well-rounded glimpse of Norway’s dramatic landscape, combining waterfalls, fjord views, and mountain panoramas in one memorable day. The professional driver and personalized service ensure a comfortable, tailored experience, ideal for those seeking effortless exploration of Norway’s natural highlights.

Although the Voss Gondola might not always impress, the powerful waterfalls and the spectacular Hardangerfjord stand out as true highlights. Perfect for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts, this tour offers an enriching taste of Norway’s rugged beauty in a convenient, guided format.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The $957.80 fee covers hotel pickup, lunch, gondola fees, and admission tickets for stops like the waterfalls.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes approximately 9 hours, starting at 9:00 am.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is designed for most travelers, with accessible paths at waterfalls and scenic stops.

Do I need to prepare for walking at the waterfalls?
Expect some walking and short hikes at stops like Steinsdalsfossen and Skjervsfossen.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, the guide can tailor the pacing and focus based on your preferences.

Is lunch included?
Yes, lunch is included in the tour price.

Are there any seasonal considerations?
The Voss Gondola offers different experiences in summer and winter; the scenery at waterfalls can vary with weather.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, there’s free cancellation available if canceled more than 24 hours in advance.

What are the main highlights?
Expect powerful waterfalls, the Hardangerfjord, the longest suspension bridge in Norway, and panoramic views from Mount Hanguren.

How do I book this tour?
Booking is recommended well in advance through the provider, Guided Fjord Tours, to secure your spot.