Known as the Queen of Fjords, Hardangerfjord is the second-longest fjord in Norway at 111 miles (179 km) long. Hardangerfjord is near the famous flat rock, Trolltunga (Troll’s Tongue). Reaching Hardangerfjord is easy via air, car or bus from Bergen and Oslo. Bergen Airport is the closest to the fjord and the drive is around an hour to an hour and a half.
You may want to consider this wonderful 6-day road trip itinerary, starting in Bergen with opportunities for hiking and activities in the Hardangerfjord.
From Bergen
Duration: 1.5 hours by car, 4.5 hours by bus
Bergen to Hardangerfjord is a distance of 47 miles (75 km) and the drive is around an hour to an hour and a half. Shortly after leaving Bergen, you’ll begin on the E39 highway and pass by the North Sea before it turns into the E16. This route has beautiful scenery as you’re often on two-lane roads alongside lakes or farmland.
This route has toll roads like most highways do in Norway. If you rent a car, make sure to enquire about the best way to pay for tolls.
There are regional and local buses from Bergen to the town of Hardanger. Taking the bus takes around four and a half hours and you’ll need to take two buses before hopping on a ferry to reach Hardanger. Skyss is the bus company offering bus departures a few times a day.
From Oslo
Duration: 2 hours by air + car, 6.5 hours by car
Flying is the fastest way to get from Oslo to Bergen with a flying time of 55-minutes. There are several airline carriers offering daily departures. Upon arrival in Bergen, you can opt for a private transfer or rent a car to drive to the region of Hardanger, which takes around an hour to an hour and a half.
Driving is convenient and allows you to go at your leisure. Covering a distance of 259 miles (417 km), travel time is around six and a half hours without any stops. Known as the National Tourist Route, you’ll begin on the RV7 highway and later merge onto the FV49. You’ll pass by several lakes and rivers on this scenic drive, including the Hallingdaselva River, often referred to as the Great River. You’ll travel alongside this river off and on during your journey and also go near the Eidfjord. Allow time on your journey for pit stops.
Remember that this route has toll roads. Talk with your rental company about the best way to pay for tolls to ensure a smooth and easy journey.