2-Day Round Trip from Bergen: THE GRAND HARDANGER fjords, waterfalls, glaciers

A 2-day round trip from Bergen, Norway, offers a comprehensive look into the breathtaking Hardanger region, famous for its majestic fjords, waterfalls, glaciers, and lush landscapes. Priced at $1,626.67 per person, this tour is ideal for travelers seeking an in-depth exploration of Norway’s natural beauty, with the flexibility to customize stops and extend the trip further if desired. The journey is led by a local professional driver-guide in a comfortable Mercedes minivan, with the option of a Tesla Model X for smaller groups. The tour includes car ferry fees, bottled water, and transportation, making it a practical choice for those wanting a well-organized, scenic adventure.

With 2 full days of sightseeing, this experience covers key highlights like Vøringsfossen waterfall, the Kjeasen Mountain Farm, and the Hardanger Bridge, alongside optional activities such as hiking to Trolltunga or exploring the Bondhusdalen Valley. While the tour is rich in outdoor experiences and scenic stops, it’s especially suited for those comfortable with some walking and open to a flexible schedule. The tour’s high rating of 5.0 from two reviews reflects its popularity and the quality of guide-led storytelling.

Key Points

• Two full days exploring the Hardangerfjord and surrounding landscapes from Bergen
• Flexible itinerary with optional stops like Trolltunga, mountain farms, and waterfalls
• Led by a professional driver-guide in a Mercedes minivan, with Tesla option for small groups
• Includes ferry fees, bottled water, and local transportation
• Suitable for travelers with moderate physical activity, as some stops involve walking
• Can be extended with extra days for deeper exploration of the region

Starting in Bergen: The Gateway to Norway’s Fjords

The 2-day tour begins in Bergen, Norway’s historic city founded in 1070. This city offers a vibrant mix of cultural landmarks and scenic views, setting the perfect starting point for a fjord adventure. As you depart, your guide provides an overview of Bergen’s history while passing notable sights along the route. The tour is designed for small groups, ensuring a personalized experience, and pickup from specific locations is available.

The journey from Bergen serves as an introduction to Norway’s natural and cultural landscape, with brief stops that highlight local architecture and history. This setup ensures travelers get a taste of Bergen’s charm before venturing into the more remote and wild areas of the Hardanger region.

Visiting the Dale of Norway Factory Outlet & Museum

A highlight early in the trip is a visit to Dale, home of the famous sweater factory, Dale of Norway. The factory outlet here allows visitors to browse a selection of woolen souvenirs, making it a perfect spot for gift shopping. The free 20-minute stop at this factory lets you see the manufacturing process and pick up authentic Norwegian wool products.

From September to May, visitors might also explore the factory’s museum, adding an educational element to the stop. This location offers a glimpse into Norway’s textile craftsmanship and adds a cultural touchpoint before continuing into more scenic areas.

Exploring Voss and Historic Landmarks

Travelling through Voss, the tour passes by notable sights like Vangskyrkja, a church dating back to 1277, and the St. Olaf’s cross from 1023. This 15-minute stop offers a quick look into the region’s deep historical roots. Voss itself is known for outdoor activities, but on this trip, the focus is on the local history and scenic drive through the town.

The drive from Voss proceeds toward the Bordalsgjelet Gorge, a 30-minute walk inside a deep, dramatic gorge. The walk is safe and secure, offering visitors a chance to experience the raw power of Norway’s landscape. During winter months, this path may be closed due to weather, so timing can influence availability.

Witnessing the Power of Skjervsfossen Waterfall

On the way from Voss to the Hardangerfjord, a detour introduces the Skjervsfossen waterfall. With twin falls plunging from 150 meters, this 20-minute stop showcases one of the region’s most impressive waterfalls. The view is striking, and the stop offers excellent photo opportunities, adding a dramatic natural element to the journey.

This scenic detour emphasizes Norway’s abundant waterfalls, which are a recurring highlight throughout the trip.

Discovering Ulvik and Its Ecological Delights

The tour includes a recommended stop in Ulvik, a small village at the end of Ulviksfjord, a branch of the Hardangerfjord. The 1-hour visit explores this peaceful locale, renowned for its cider production at the Cider Rou farm. Ulvik’s secluded setting and highland surroundings make it a peaceful contrast to busier towns.

A drive along the old road via Espeland valley provides a relaxing scenic route. The village’s rustic charm and local delicacies make it a worthwhile stop for those interested in regional gastronomy and traditional farming.

Crossing the Iconic Hardanger Bridge

One of the tour’s standout features is crossing the Hardanger Bridge, a suspension bridge completed in 2013. Spanning 1,310 meters, this bridge connects the eastern and western sides of the Hardangerfjord, providing breathtaking views of the fjord and mountains below. The 10-minute stop at the bridge allows travelers to admire the engineering marvel and take panoramic photos.

This crossing marks an important milestone in the region’s infrastructure and offers a moment of awe at Norway’s mastery of engineering amid natural beauty.

Optional Visit to Simadalsfjorden and Kjeasen Mountain Farm

On the other side of the Hardangerfjord, optional stops include the narrow Simadalsfjord and the Kjeasen Mountain Farm. The 10-minute visit to Simadalsfjorden offers a quick glimpse of the striking fjord branching off the main Hardangerfjord.

The Kjeasen Mountain Farm is famously called “the world’s most inaccessible” until 1974. The 30-minute visit involves a drive up to the farm, perched about 1,740 feet above sea level, showcasing traditional farm life and spectacular mountain views.

Visiting the Norsk Natursenter – Hardanger

A 1-hour visit to the Norwegian Nature Center in Øvre Eidfjord provides an educational perspective on the region’s ecology and geology. The center features exhibits about the local environment, flora, and fauna, offering an engaging experience for eco-enthusiasts. Entry fees are not included, but the center complements the natural highlights of the tour.

Encountering Vøringsfossen and the Måbødalen Valley

The main highlight of the tour is the visit to Vøringsfossen waterfall, a 182-meter fall at the end of Måbødalen valley. This 30-minute stop provides breathtaking views from designated viewpoints, capturing one of Norway’s most iconic waterfalls.

Afterward, optional visits to the Hardangervidda plateau can be included if time permits. The 20-minute drive onto the plateau offers views of Norway’s barren mountain landscape above the timberline, adding an extra layer of scenic diversity.

Overnight in Eidfjord or Nearby Villages

The tour concludes with an overnight stay in Eidfjord, a village with several hotel options situated near the fjord. Alternative accommodations are available in Kinsarvik, Lofthus, or Odda. This setup allows travelers to relax and prepare for additional adventures, such as optional hikes or further exploration.

Optional Husedalen Valley Waterfalls

For those interested in hiking, an optional 30-minute drive from Eidfjord leads to the Husedalen Valley, famous for its series of waterfalls. The ascent involves some walking, but it provides a rewarding view of cascading falls amidst natural surroundings.

Exploring the Town of Odda and Låtefossen

The journey south takes visitors through Odda, a town notable for tourism, industry, and its appearance in a Netflix series. The Låtefossen waterfall is a highlight here—a 541-foot tall, twin waterfall that merges into the river Opo. The 20-minute stop offers excellent photography opportunities and a chance to see one of Norway’s most impressive waterfalls.

Optional Trolltunga Hike and Folgefonna Glacier

For adventurous travelers, an optional full-day hike to Trolltunga is available, taking 5-6 hours each way. This demanding trek requires proper preparation and a guide, with the cost not included. Alternatively, a scenic drive through Folgefonn Tunnel takes visitors toward the Folgefonna glacier, with views of the glacier and its summer ski center.

Final Scenic Stops and Return to Bergen

On the return journey to Bergen, the tour includes stops at Vangdal, with viewpoints over the fjord, and the Steinsdalsfossen waterfall, where visitors can walk behind the falling water. The tour concludes back in Bergen, bringing an end to the memorable two days of natural beauty and scenic wonder.

Customization and Additional Days

This tour is designed with flexibility in mind. It can be extended with extra days for deeper exploration, including more hikes or visits to additional villages. The private tour format allows adjustments based on your interests, making it suitable for those wanting a personalized experience.

Final Thoughts on the 2-Day Hardanger Fjord Tour

This highly-rated tour promises a well-rounded experience of Norway’s fjords, waterfalls, glaciers, and mountain farms. The scenic crossings, such as the Hardanger Bridge, and stops at Vøringsfossen and Låtefossen stand out as unforgettable highlights. The professional driver-guide provides insightful commentary and tailor-made stops, creating a comfortable and enriching journey.

While the itinerary is packed, it remains manageable for travelers comfortable with some walking and outdoor activity. The option to extend the tour offers flexibility for those wanting more adventure. This tour offers a comprehensive, scenic, and customizable way to explore Norway’s natural wonders in just two days.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour price covers car ferry fees, bottled water, local professional guides, and private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, with rain gear and hiking shoes provided if needed.

Can I customize the stops or itinerary?
Yes, the tour is customizable, and the final schedule depends on your interests. Extra days can be added to explore more or focus on specific locations.

Is this tour suitable for all physical levels?
Most stops involve some walking, such as at Bordalsgjelet Gorge or Bondhusdalen, so it’s suitable for travelers able to walk moderate distances. Weather conditions can affect accessibility.

What are the main highlights of the tour?
Key highlights include Vøringsfossen waterfall, crossing the Hardanger Bridge, visiting Kjeasen Mountain Farm, and optional activities like Trolltunga or hiking in Husedalen Valley.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, the tour is booked about 192 days in advance, indicating high demand for this popular experience.

What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellations are accepted up to 3 days before the scheduled start for a full refund. Less notice may result in non-refundable payments.