Hardangerfjord Road Trip - 6 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Bergen - Drive to Odda

Welcome to Bergen! Situated on Norway's west coast, this small wharf city (one of the oldest port cities in Europe) is surrounded by ocean, mountains, and fjords, including Sognefjord, the country’s longest and deepest.

When you have arrived, pick up a rental car and drive to the Hardanger region. Along the way, make sure to stop by Steindalsfossen on your way, here you can walk behind a waterfall cascade without getting wet as well as other scenic outlooks. Hardangerfjord is the 3rd largest fjord in the world at 111 miles (179 km) long. The area has been an important European tourist destination since the 19th century and offers spectacular nature opportunities. 

From here, you'll stay overnight in Odda. This town on a mountain plateau is the practical base for adventurists who are hiking Trolltunga and taking advantage of the area's glaciers, waterfalls, and fjords in Folgefonna National Park. Check out great bars, urban coffee shops, and unique restaurants in and around town like Floating Bear and nearby Tjødnadalen, where you can experience organic dining at a working farm. 

Day 2: Guided Hike to Trolltunga - Camp Overnight

After breakfast in Odda, it's time to start a spectacular hiking and camping experience.

First, drive to Skjeggedal to meet your private guide for a full-day hike to Trolltunga. Together, you'll climb various sections of the steep mountain. At the summit, you'll find the arctic dome; then continue will reach the famous Trolltunga, or troll's tongue—a smooth rock formation jutting out over Lake Ringedalsvatnet. The views from here are spectacular and are among the most photographed in all of Norway. 

After completing the hike—and if clouds are cooperating—you can watch a magical setting as you see the sun dip to the west behind the glacier. Meanwhile, your guide will pitch tents and prepare an outdoor campfire dinner. This unique nature experience is sure to be remembered for a long time. 

Day 3: Drive to Ullensvang (Hardanger National Scenic Route)

This morning, you'll wake up in your tent, surrounded by nature, with time to soak in the peaceful views of Trolltunga. Enjoy breakfast at the camp before starting your descent back down to the trailhead. The trip will end around midday.

From here, you'll drive to Ullensvang on the other end of the Hardangerfjord. This trip takes you along the Hardanger National Scenic Route and passes through postcard mountains, orchards, and charming villages. Look for fruit stands along the way in late summer, as this has been a farming industry hub since the 14th century. In other words, this transportation link goes back a long way.

A good place to stop for lunch is the Kompaen Bistro and Café in nearby Lofthus for an assortment of sandwiches and gourmet takeaway items. You can enjoy your surroundings further, or check into your hotel and rest after last night's camping adventure!

Day 4: Hiking in the Hardangerfjord

This morning, after a relaxing breakfast in Ullensvang, you're free to hit the trail again. There are more beautiful drives in plenty of hiking opportunities in the area. 

For instance, the trail through Husedalen Valley is one of the most beautiful hikes in Norway. You can hike past four gorgeous waterfalls on the way from Kinsarvik to Hardangervidda. From the first waterfall to the last and back it takes 5-6 hours, or take a shorter hike and see fewer waterfalls. 

You can also take the Queen's Trail named after HM Queen Sonja, who is a passionate mountain hiker. This trail is one of her favorite hikes in the Hardangerfjord region with magnificent fjord views as you pass through forests, mountains, and orchards.

Following your adventure, drive to the village of Voss where you can reward yourself with dinner and drinks in the town's restaurants and pubs. You can also ride the new cable car, which is the biggest and most modern cable car in Northern Europe. At the top, you will find Hangurstoppen Restaurant and panoramic views.

Day 5: Whitewater Rafting Excursion

Today, you'll take part in a rafting trip that is exciting, fun and suitable for both beginners and experienced paddlers—  guaranteed to be an unforgettable experience! Depending on the water level, you will raft either the Stranda or Raundal rivers, both of which offer world-class white water rapids.

The Stranda river section is about 5 miles (8 km) with 9 spectacular rapids and several beautiful stretches. Since the river has a pool-drop character, the grading is relatively low compared to the size of the rapids, giving you a great bang for your buck!

Meanwhile, the Raundal river section has about 4.3 miles (7 km) of world-class white water running through a beautiful canyon away from the road. Guides usually run the Raundal when the Stranda is too low, typically from August to September.

Either adventure lasts a half-day and includes check-in, tutorial, transfer, instructions, and swimming tests. Following the rafting excursion, you will return to Voss for the night. 

Day 6: Drive to Bergen - Depart

It's time to say goodbye to Norway! After enjoying breakfast in Voss, you'll make the return drive to Bergen. Take advantage of any remaining time you have to explore this historic waterfront city before heading to the airport for your departure.