Bergen: Hardangerfjord Day Trip with Waterfalls — A Detailed Look at Norway’s Natural Beauty
If you’re visiting Bergen and craving a taste of Norway’s spectacular fjords and waterfalls without the hassle of planning, this full-day tour offers an excellent way to see some of the country’s most photogenic spots. The trip, operated by Transfer Service AS, takes you through rugged mountain passes, past quaint villages, and right into the heart of the Hardangerfjord region. The highlight? Visiting stunning waterfalls like Fossen Bratte, Steinsdalsfossen, and Skjervsfossen, each with its own unique charm.
What I appreciate most is the carefully paced itinerary—many stops for photos, time to explore Voss, and a comfortable minibus with an engaging local guide. I also love how this tour balances natural beauty with authentic Norwegian village life. But, be aware that the day involves a fair bit of driving through narrow, curvy roads, which might not suit everyone. Still, if you’re after memorable scenery and straightforward logistics, this trip could be a highlight of your Bergen visit.
One thing worth noting is the guide’s role. The reviews praise guides like “Viggo,” who are both knowledgeable and friendly, making the journey more engaging. Plus, the stops at local farms and small shops deliver a taste of local produce and crafts—definitely a bonus for food lovers and souvenir hunters alike. However, the tour does run on a set schedule, so if you’re a slow walker or want more free time, plan accordingly.
Key Points / Takeaways
- Stunning Waterfalls: Get close to Fossen Bratte, Steinsdalsfossen, and Skjervsfossen—each offering unique photo opportunities and memorable experiences.
- Authentic Norwegian villages: Explore Voss and Granvin, soaking in local shop life and scenic charm.
- Expert guides: Guides like Viggo receive praise for their knowledge and friendly attitude, enhancing the trip’s value.
- Flexible photo stops: Multiple opportunities to capture the spectacular scenery, from viewpoints over Hardangerfjord to waterfalls cascading right beside you.
- Comfortable transport: Traveling in a modern minibus, you’ll enjoy a smooth ride through mountain passes and tunnels that are part of the adventure.
- Balanced itinerary: Well-paced stops with enough free time to explore or relax, ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive yet manageable day.
The Experience in Detail: What You Can Expect from Start to Finish
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Jondal.
Starting Point and Early Morning Pickup
Your day begins at Bergen Børs Hotel, with a prompt departure at 09:00 a.m. The meeting point is outside the tourist information at Bergen Fish Market, marked clearly with a sign saying “Fjords & Waterfalls.” This early start is perfect if you want to make the most of your day, especially since you’ll be covering quite a bit of ground.
Scenic Drive Through Kvamskogen
Driving out of Bergen, you immediately sense the transition from city to wilderness. Passing over Kvamskogen, a favorite winter retreat for Norwegians who love skiing, I felt the contrast between urban life and mountain leisure. The drive here offers great views and sets the tone for the day—expect winding roads and tunnels, which are part of the charm but might challenge those prone to motion sickness.
Fossen Bratte: First Waterfall Stop
The first major stop is at Fossen Bratte, a waterfall located just off the main road. You’ll have about 20 minutes here, enough to snap a few pictures and breathe in the fresh mountain air. The waterfall is smaller but striking, with a power that’s hard to capture in just a few shots. The short walk from the bus makes it accessible for most travelers.
Passing Norheimsund and Oystese: Fjord Views
As you head towards the fjord, the scenery opens up—craggy mountains framing the water, villages dotted along the shoreline. Your guide will point out interesting facts, making the drive informative and scenic. The view of the Hardangerfjord on your right side is particularly impressive from the viewpoint stop later in the day.
Walk Behind Steinsdalsfossen
One of the trip’s highlights is the visit to Steinsdalsfossen, where you can walk behind the waterfall itself. This isn’t just a postcard view—it’s an interactive experience. Standing just a few feet from the cascading water, feeling the spray on your face, gives you a real sense of Norway’s wild beauty. The path is well-maintained, safe, but still delivers that exhilarating “close encounter” with nature.
Local Farm Stop and Tastings
Before heading to the fjord, you’ll stop at Steinsto farm for a quick taste of locally produced fruit and baked goods. This is a delightful chance to sample authentic Hardangerfjord flavors—think fresh apples and homemade cakes. The farm shop also sells local crafts, making it a sweet little shopping break.
Hardangerfjord Viewpoint
No fjord trip is complete without a photo stop at a designated viewpoint. Here, you’ll get a sweeping vista of the fjord’s curves and the surrounding mountains. The views are the reason most travelers come to this part of Norway, and this stop does not disappoint.
Skjervsfossen: The Power of Water
Driving to Skjervsfossen, you might be lucky enough to stop right in the middle of the road, getting splashed by the spray—an invigorating close-up of Norway’s waterfalls. The walk to the viewing platform takes about 30 minutes, but I recommend taking your time, soaking in the roar of the water and the lush greenery around.
Voss: Small Town, Big Charm
The tour’s final major stop is Voss, where you get 45 minutes to explore. The town boasts cozy cafes, small shops, an old stone church, and even a gondola offering bird’s-eye views—if you’re up for it. Many reviews mention that guides like Viggo are great at giving tips on where to eat or shop. Voss is a lively little hub that feels surprisingly authentic, with a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
Return to Bergen: Relaxing and Reflecting
The journey back involves about 75 minutes of driving through numerous tunnels—an experience in itself. You might choose to nap, chat with fellow travelers, or simply enjoy the mountain scenery slipping past your window. The tour concludes back at Bergen Børs Hotel, making it a convenient finish point.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This trip is ideal for those seeking a manageable yet comprehensive taste of Norway’s natural beauty. It suits travelers who appreciate scenic drives, waterfalls, and small villages with local charm. It’s especially good for visitors with limited time in Bergen who want a guided, hassle-free day with plenty of photo opportunities. If you enjoy a paced itinerary that combines nature with a touch of local culture, this tour hits the right notes.
However, be aware that the drive involves narrow, curving roads and tunnels. If you’re prone to motion sickness or prefer a more leisurely, less structured experience, you might want to plan accordingly. Also, since the tour is fixed in its schedule, those wanting more free time at each stop should consider how this fits into their overall trip.
Price and Value
At the time of writing, the tour offers excellent value for the comprehensive experience—covering transportation, a guide, multiple scenic stops, and free water. It’s a well-organized, bucket-list-worthy day that packs in waterfalls, fjord vistas, and charming villages without any guesswork. Compared to the cost of private tours or self-driving, the guided option provides both convenience and insights that elevate the experience.
Final Thoughts
This Bergen to Hardangerfjord day trip with waterfalls is perfect for travelers who want a well-rounded, scenic experience without the stress of navigation or logistics. The combination of waterfalls like Steinsdalsfossen and Skjervsfossen, along with the views of Hardangerfjord and the charming town of Voss, offers a snapshot of Norway’s wild beauty and cultural warmth.
The tour’s success largely depends on the skill of the guides and the quality of the stops—both of which seem to be strong points here. If you love taking photos, exploring waterfalls up close, or just relaxing in a comfortable minibus while soaking in Norwegian landscapes, this trip delivers.
Overall, it’s a smart choice for those looking to see a lot in one day, especially if you enjoy natural scenery and small-town charm. It’s a straightforward, dependable way to tick off some of Norway’s most iconic sights.
FAQs
What is the starting point for the trip?
The tour departs from Bergen Børs Hotel, specifically outside the tourist information at Bergen Fish Market, at exactly 09:00 a.m.
How long does the tour last?
The trip lasts approximately 6.5 hours, including all stops and travel time.
What stops are included in the itinerary?
Stops include Fossen Bratte, Steinsdalsfossen, a local farm for tastings, a viewpoint over Hardangerfjord, Skjervsfossen waterfall, and Voss town.
Is there free time at any of the stops?
Yes, you’ll have about 45 minutes to explore Voss and 30-minute stops at waterfalls for photos and sightseeing.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, weather-appropriate clothing, and a sense of adventure are recommended.
Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but you can purchase food and snacks at local shops and cafes during the free time in Voss.
Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Generally yes, especially if you enjoy scenic drives and easy walks. Those with mobility issues should note the walking involved at some stops.
In all, this Bergen day trip offers a hands-on taste of Norway’s iconic waterfalls and fjords, ideal for travelers wanting an authentic and memorable snapshot of the region’s natural beauty.