PRIVATE GUIDED TOUR: Queen of the Fjords – tour from Bergen, 6 hours

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience for up to 7 guests
• Includes ferry crossing and visits to iconic waterfalls like Steinsdalsfossen and Fossen Bratte
• Led by knowledgeable guides fluent in multiple languages, including English and Norwegian
• Comfortable transport in Mercedes minivan or Tesla Model X with live commentary
• Seasonal highlights include fruit farms and scenic viewpoints like Omaholmen
• Excellent reviews with a perfect rating of 5.0/5 from 93 travelers

Bergen as the Starting Point for Fjord Exploration

The Queen of the Fjords tour begins in Bergen, known as the Gateway to Norway’s fjord regions. Founded in 1070, Bergen boasts numerous historical and cultural landmarks that are visible on the drive to the scenic areas. The tour includes a hotel or port pickup, making entry seamless. The journey from the city offers a glimpse of Bergen’s heritage before venturing into Norway’s natural wonders.

This tour is ideal for travelers who appreciate a luxurious, private experience with a focus on scenic beauty and cultural insights. The 6-hour duration strikes a balance between sightseeing and comfort, with a cost of $1,219.67 per group, accommodating up to 7 people. Booking on average occurs 104 days in advance, indicating its popularity among discerning visitors.

Visit Sørfjorden and Osterøy Island

The tour’s first scenic stop is in Osteroy Municipality, specifically along Sørfjorden, a saltwater inlet that surrounds Osterøy Island—the largest inland island in Northern Europe. The drive along this part of Osterfjord reveals the unique natural phenomenon where saltwater surrounds the island, enclosed by land.

While the drive through this area typically doesn’t include a stop, it provides an impressive backdrop of Norway’s fjord landscapes and sets the stage for the more prominent sights ahead. This segment offers photo opportunities of a pristine water inlet flanked by rugged landforms.

Trengereid and Route #7 to Hardangerfjord

Passing through Trengereid, the tour follows Route #7, a scenic road that leads to Norway’s famous Hardangerfjord. The stop here usually involves no extended pause, but the route itself is a visual treat with views of mountains and lakes along the way.

The drive through this area is part of the tour’s appeal, offering a preview of the stunning natural scenery that awaits at the fjord. It’s a good point to appreciate Norwegian engineering and landscape design—all part of the journey.

Hardangervegen: The Tourist-Attracting Hardanger Road

A highlight of this tour is traveling along Hardangervegen, Norway’s Route #7, renowned for its scenic beauty. The Hardanger Road is more than just a route; it’s an attraction in itself, with mountains, lakes, and waterfalls lining the way.

Two notable photo stops are made here at Fossen Bratte and Steinsdalsfossen waterfalls, both prominent natural features. These stops are carefully chosen for their spectacular views and accessibility for visitors looking to capture the power of nature.

Fossen Bratte Waterfall: A 259-Foot Cascade

The tour includes a 20-minute stop at Fossen Bratte, a 79-meter (259 feet) waterfall considered one of the most impressive in the area. Visitors can walk to the bottom of the waterfall, feeling the roaring spray and refreshing water drops.

This is a must-do for photography and experiencing the raw energy of Norway’s waterfalls. The proximity to the waterfall makes it easy to appreciate its scale and take memorable pictures.

Steinsdalsfossen: Walk Behind the Waterfall

Next is Steinsdalsfossen, a 50-meter (164 feet) waterfall where visitors can walk behind the falling water without getting wet. This rare opportunity to view a waterfall from behind offers a unique perspective and great photo opportunities.

The 25-minute stop allows visitors to enjoy the sound and sense of scale of this natural feature while exploring moderately steep trails that lead to the viewpoint. It’s a favorite among guests for its interactive experience.

Traveling Along the Hardangerfjord to Vangdal

The Hardangerfjord, the second-longest fjord in Norway, becomes the focus as the tour progresses. The drive along the fjord showcases small villages, fruit farms, and scenic views.

The stop at Vangdal offers a panoramic outlook over the fjord, where visitors can admire the landscape and explore petroglyphs from the Stone Age and Bronze Age. Walking down and up trails leads to these ancient carvings, adding a layer of historical intrigue to the natural beauty.

Fruit Farms and Seasonal Berries

During the summer months, the tour features visits to local fruit stands along the fjord. Guests have the chance to buy fresh fruits and berries, adding a taste of local produce to the experience. These stops highlight Norway’s fruit-growing tradition, especially in the fruit-rich Hardanger region.

Although seasonal, these visits are a delight for food lovers and provide authentic local flavor amidst the stunning scenery.

Omaholmen Viewpoint: One of the Best Fjord Views

The Omaholmen stop offers one of the most breathtaking views of the Hardangerfjord. This little hill provides a panoramic outlook over the water and surrounding landscape.

Guests can pause here to take in the scenery, capturing photos of the fjord and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. The viewpoint exemplifies the dramatic scenery that makes Norway famous.

Crossing Fusafjord on a Car Ferry

A notable feature of this tour is crossing the Fusafjord by car ferry, which takes approximately 15 minutes. Guests are encouraged to leave the vehicle during the crossing to enjoy the views from the deck, making it a relaxing and scenic experience.

This ferry ride adds a dynamic element to the journey, offering a different perspective of the fjord’s depths and beauty. The ferry crossing is typically 20 minutes long, providing a pause before continuing the drive back to Bergen.

Return to Bergen via Osøyro

After disembarking the ferry, the tour passes through Osøyro, a small town that marks the end of the fjord exploration. The drive back to Bergen includes views of the coastal villages and rural landscapes, rounding out the 6-hour tour.

The tour concludes with a drop-off in Bergen, completing a memorable journey through Norway’s fjord country. The experience is private, meaning only your group participates, allowing for a personalized and flexible itinerary.

Logistics and Included Amenities

This tour offers hotel or port pickup, ensuring ease of access. Travel is in a luxurious Mercedes minivan or Tesla Model X, with air conditioning and live commentary from a multi-lingual guide fluent in English, Norwegian, and Russian.

Guests receive bottled water and all taxes, fees, and handling charges are included in the price. The tour operates rain or shine, so appropriate clothing is advised. Children are welcomed if accompanied by an adult.

The Expertise of the Guides and Guest Experiences

Guides like Vlad and Jana receive high praise for their knowledge, friendliness, and professionalism. They make the tour informative and engaging, sharing local history, cultural insights, and personal stories. Guests appreciate the flexibility, often stopping at hidden gems and scenic viewpoints off the typical tourist trail.

Guests also value the comfort of the vehicle and the personalized attention during the tour. The live commentary enhances the experience, making it both educational and entertaining.

Suitable for All Weather Conditions and Physical Requirements

The tour operates in all weather conditions, with appropriate dress recommended for rain or cold weather. It’s suitable for most travelers, including families with children, as long as they are accompanied by an adult.

While the stops involve walking along trails and moderately steep paths, most guests find the activity level manageable. The private nature allows for tailored pacing according to group preferences.

Booking and Pricing Considerations

At a cost of $1,219.67 per group, the tour offers a luxurious, intimate experience of Norway’s fjords. Planning ahead is advised, as the tour is typically booked about 104 days in advance. Flexible cancellation policies allow full refunds if canceled more than 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind.

Final Thoughts on the Queen of the Fjords Tour

This private 6-hour journey from Bergen provides a comprehensive and personalized exploration of Norway’s iconic fjords, waterfalls, and cultural landmarks. The expert guides, luxury transport, and carefully selected stops make it a standout option for travelers seeking a comfortable, scenic, and informative experience.

While the price point reflects the private and premium nature of the tour, the high praise from guests underscores its value. It is especially suited for those who want a relaxed pace with ample opportunities for photos, learning, and cultural insight.

For anyone looking to capture the essence of Norway’s natural beauty with expert guidance, this tour promises an unforgettable day in the fjord landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
All taxes, fees, handling charges, a local guide, live commentary, hotel or port pickup, bottled water, and transport in a luxury vehicle are included.

How long is the ferry crossing?
The ferry ride across Fusafjord lasts approximately 15 minutes, with an additional 20 minutes for the ferry journey overall.

Can children participate in this tour?
Yes, children are welcome if accompanied by an adult. The tour is suitable for most travelers, including families with kids.

What transportation is used?
Guests travel in a Mercedes minivan or Tesla Model X, both air-conditioned and comfortable, with a personalized private tour setting.

What stops are included along the route?
Stops include Fossen Bratte Waterfall, Steinsdalsfossen Waterfall, viewpoints at Vangdal and Omaholmen, and a ferry crossing at Fusafjord.

Is the tour suitable in bad weather?
Yes, the tour operates in all weather conditions, so dressing appropriately for rain or cold is recommended.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made about 104 days in advance, but it’s best to reserve early to secure availability.

What language support is available?
Guides can operate in English, Norwegian, and Russian, ensuring clear communication.

How much does the tour cost?
The price is $1,219.67 per group, accommodating up to 7 guests for a private experience.