HARDANGERFJORD

Frozen magic

Discover Hardangerfjord in summer
A map of Norway with a red dot on Hardangerfjord.
© Mapbox © OpenStreetMap Improve this map

The Hardangerfjord is one of the longest fjords in the world and is located in Fjord Norway, about half an hour from Bergen.

Hit the slopes, enjoy the views on a fjord cruise, visit quaint villages, and perhaps even indulge in a Michelin-starred meal that's a little out of the ordinary.

Winters in this part of Norway tend to be relatively mild, with weather ranging from rain and mist to sunshine and snow. Please note that snow and ice can lead to temporary closure of some of the larger waterfalls and attractions.

Find inspiration below, or go directly to:

A man and a dog looking at the Trolltunga mountain formation in winter.
Trolltunga Sunset/Sunrise in Fjord Norway

The low sun. Reflections of the landscape on the deep blue fjord.

During winter and early spring, the Hardangerfjord region in Fjord Norway is serene and spectacular.

And yes, the fjord might be a bit rough at times – so this is also the place to discover your inner Viking.

Best of all, you get to do so without the crowds!

You don’t even have to queue to capture that Insta-worthy photo at Trolltunga, one of Norway’s most famous rock formations.

The hike is very tough, and you must go with a guide who will provide you with snowshoes and show you the safest route.

Are you missing a travel buddy? No worries. Borrow your own personal husky to keep you company and help you stay motivated all the way to the top!

If you have time, spend a night in a comfy luxury tent at the top and watch the sun colour the sky as it sets – and when it rises the next morning.

Top winter activities in Hardanger

Check out some of the best things to do in the Hardangerfjord region in winter

  • Trolltunga Adventures vinter 1
    Tyssedal

    Trolltunga winter with Trolltunga Adventures

    Visit Trolltunga during winter on a guided hike with Trolltunga Adventures! Available from March-May.
    Book now
    Kraftmuseet
    Tyssedal

    Kraftmuseet

    Experience The Powermuseum - Kraftmuseet in Tyssedal and gain a fascinating insight into Norway's hydropower and industrial adventure, with activities for the whole family set in beautiful Western Norway nature.
    Book now
    Hardangerfjord Adventure-50
    Norheimsund

    Hardangerfjord and Fyksesund Fjord Safari From Norheimsund

    A boat journey into Hardangerfjord's most hidden gem
    Book now
    untitled (1 of 1)-1764_1240x711
    Tyssedal

    Trolltunga Winter - Trolltunga Active

    Avoid mass tourism – join a guided winter hiking adventure to Trolltunga. This snowshoe hike with Trolltunga Active is a unique experience.
    Book now
    Overview of the Hardanger Maritime Center with the new visitor building, boats and workshops by the dock.
    Norheimsund

    Hardanger Maritime Centre

    Discover maritime history at Hardanger Maritime Centre with hands-on workshops and family activities.
    Yrjan Olsnes-0127
    Røldal

    Røldal Ski Resort

    Go skiing in Hardanger. Røldal Ski Resort, with one of Norway's most stable snow and winter conditions, is perfect for both beginners and experienced skiers.
    WEB
    Rosendal

    Salmon Eye - World's largest floating art installation

    Learn more about the aquaculture industry aboard Salmon Eye, the world's largest floating art installation located in the heart of the Hardangerfjord. The restaurant Iris is also located inside Salmon Eye. Ever experienced expedition dining?
    Book now
Find more winter activities
A group is snowshoeing to Trolltunga in Fjord Norway in winter, and one woman is sliding down the hill on her butt, smiling.
The charming village Lufthus by the Hardangerfjord in Fjord Norway, covered in snow.

You can also go for a shorter, less challenging snowshoe hike and take a shortcut down or …

… venture inwards into the fjord on a rib safari or in a kayak.

The mighty waterfalls of the region, including the famous Vøringsfossen, are a unique sight this time of year, as they are partly turned into ice and resemble ice castles.

As you roam the region, you’ll come across several villages by the fjord that are surrounded by mountains.

The charming Rosendal and Lofthus (pictured) will make you want to snap a photo or ten, while thrilling activities await near Odda and Eidfjord.

Where to stay

Book comfy hotels or cosy cabins. Find your home away from home.

  • Kvamseter lodge 083
    Norheimsund

    Kvamseter Lodge

    Stay comfortably in the mountains between Bergen and Hardanger! Kvamseter Lodge offers accommodation for different budgets on Kvamskogen all year round.
    Book now
    Thon-Hotel-Sandven-Fasade-44
    Norheimsund

    Thon Hotel Sandven

    Thon Hotel Sandven is a classic 19th century wooden hotel. Situated at the Hardanger fjord in the centre of Norheimsund a 1 hour 15 min drive from Bergen. The hotel is awarded with "Olavsrosa" - a sign of historic importance and quality.The hotel has 102 rooms and several rooms for functions and meetings.
    Book now
    Hotel_red_lite
    Tyssedal

    Tyssedal Hotel

    Tyssedal Hotel is located near the museum Kraftmuseet in Tyssedal and not far from Skjeggedal. Should you plan to do the Trolltunga hike, the Tyssedal Hotel is a perfect base.
    Book now
    kopi hardanger panoram lodge
    Ulvik

    Hardanger Panorama Lodge

    Take the Ulvik-experience all the way to the top by staying in the literal heights of Ulvik among the trees. Hardanger Panorama Lodge offers a unique, fully-equipped accommodation for a stay with a world-class view.
    Book now
    1240x711Gjermundphotography-1
    Odda

    Woodnest - Odda Treehouse

    Get close to nature and enjoy the silence and the view over the Sørfjorden. The unique Woodnest treetop cabins in Odda are worth an overnight stay.
    Book now
    1 - Husnes Sentrum Hotell
    Husnes

    Husnes Sentrum Hotell

    Stay central and comfortable at Husnes Sentrum Hotel – with easy access to fjords, mountains, and the stunning natural beauty of Husnes and Kvinnherad.
    Book now
    Vøringfoss Hotel av Silje Brandsdal @siljebrandsdal 21
    Eidfjord

    Vøringfoss Hotel

    Vøringfoss Hotel is located in the innermost part of the Hardanger Fjord in Eidfjord, surrounded by the best Norwegian nature has to offer. We are located right on the shoreline, by breathtaking mountains up to 1600 meters.
    Book now
    Trolltunga Hotel
    Odda

    Trolltunga Hotel

    Sleep comfortably in beautiful surroundings at Trolltunga Hotel in Odda, Hardanger. The hotel has been recently upgraded and offers rooms in all price ranges.
    Book now
    Restaurant 1
    Øystese

    Hardangerfjord Hotel

    The newly renovated Hardangerfjord Hotel is idyllically located by the fjord in Øystese, just an hour's drive from Bergen, with a fantastic view of the Hardangerfjord, the mountains, and the Folgefonna glacier.
    Book now
    Rosendal Fjordhotel Marina
    Rosendal

    Rosendal Fjordhotel Marina

    The marina is beautifully situated by the hotel. You will also find a very nice beach her. Short walk to the Barony Rosendal from the marina.
    Hardanger Fjordtun Tretopphytta
    Herand

    Hardanger Fjordtun - Treetop and Fjord panorama cabins

    Beautiful views and the sound of nature. Book a night in architect-designed treetop cabins on the sunny side of the Hardangerfjord!
    Book now
    Hordatun Hotel
    Røldal

    Hordatun Hotel

    Hordatun Hotel in Røldal offers spacious apartments and hotel rooms with stunning views of Røldalsvatnet. The perfect stop between east and west along the E134, with indoor parking and wireless internet.
    Book now
More accommodation alternatives
The Iris restaurant at The Salmon Eye in the Hardangerfjord
A woman is sitting in a bed looking at the view from Hardanger panorama lodge in the Hardangerfjord region in Fjord Norway.

On the sea outside Rosendal lies one of the world's largest floating art installations, the Salmon Eye. At their visitor centre you can learn about how the ocean industry works.

It also houses the exclusive Michelin-starred restaurant, Iris Expedition Dining, which offers a unique 18-course tasting menu.

NOTE: Restaurant Iris is temporarily closed to further develop the concept. You can still visit the exhibition center at Salmon Eye.

The best way to enjoy the serenity of the fjords is to travel slow. So consider an overnight stay in one of the villages, for example in a cosy hotel or a lodge with panoramic views of the fjord, like Hardanger panorama lodge.

On your journey, you can also make a stop in Voss and catch a gondola directly from the train station to the restaurant at the top of Mount Hangurstoppen – how cool is that!

You can ski back down through Voss resort if you like – there’s a ski rental right there at the top station.

Both Voss resort and Myrkdalen mountain resort are popular skiing destinations, so you can easily combine a round trip with a few days in the slopes.

Food and drink

Taste delicious local food and book a table at a fine restaurant.

  • 1_SyseGard-235
    Ulvik

    Syse Gard

    Three people walk through blooming orchards along the Cider Route in Ulvik, overlooking the fjord.
    Ulvik

    Fruit and Cider route, Ulvik

    Book now
    Halne mountain lodge seen from the outside.
    Vøringsfoss

    Halne Fjellstugu

    Book now
    ELINS MATGLEDER INNGANG BUTIKK foto Hege Hisdal
    Uskedalen

    Elins Matgleder

    Hardangerviddahallen restaurant UTE
    Øvre Eidfjord

    Hardangerviddahallen Restaurant & Café

    Book now
    restaurant-quality-hotel-voringfoss-web
    Eidfjord

    Restaurant Onen

    JAH_5729-web
    Rosendal

    Iris Expedition Dining - Salmon Eye Floating Restaurant

    Book now
    christer legger opp mar, kredvisithardangerfjord
    Øystese

    Restaurant Glime - Hardangerfjord Hotel

    Book now
    Eiendom-sommerdag-_web©StewartBarry[46]
    Herand

    Kramsjø Guesthouse

    Book now
    3_Gløyp Spiseri
    Kinsarvik

    Gløyp Spiseri

Find more restaurants
A train on the Bergen Line is driving through snowy mountains in Norway
Three people are admiring the view out the window on the Bergen Line, a train running between Oslo and Bergen in Norway
The Museum of hydropower in Tyssedal in Hardangerfjord in winter
The Museum of hydropower in Tyssedal in Hardangerfjord in winter

Another gem that’s just waiting is the Bergen Line – one of the world’s most beautiful train journeys.

From Voss, you can take the train to Oslo or Bergen.

Dibs on the window seat!

To experience everything the Hardangerfjord region has to offer, make sure you set aside at least two or three days.

But note that many visitor attractions, like the Museum of hydropower in Tyssedal (pictured), are only open on weekdays during winter, unless your visit is part of a pre-booked Nutshell tour.

So, decide what you want to experience and make arrangements before you go …

… because a winter getaway to the Hardangerfjord region is an unforgettable adventure.

Read more and book your Hardangerfjord in a nutshell tour

Find more information on Hardangerfjord's official website.

Hardangerfjord Logohardangerfjord.com

Getting here and around

Plan your trip to the Hardangerfjord region with Entur.

  • Local travel

    A well-developed bus and boat network makes it easy to travel around the Hardanger region.

    By car

    The Hardanger region is about 5 hours from Oslo and a 1 hour from Bergen. The area is easily accessed by car.

    The Norwegian Scenic RoutesHardanger and Hardangervidda both go through the Hardanger region.

    Plan your route, check traffic alerts, ferry information and more at the Norwegian Roads Administration website.

    Ad: Auto Europe – always a smooth rental experience

    By plane

    The closest international airports to the Hardanger region are Bergen airport and Haugesund airport.

    Ad: Norwegian – cheap and direct flights in Norway and over 70 European destinations

    By boat

    You can get to the Hardanger region by ferryfrom Denmark and Germany.

    A passenger ferry takes you from Bergen to Rosendal through the Hardangerfjord.

    Ad:Fjord Tours – experience Norway in a Nutshell® with one ticket

    By bus

    Express buses connect the Hardanger region with Oslo, Sandefjord, Larvik, Kristiansand, Stavanger, and Haugesund.

    The Trolltunga–Preikestolen express bus takes you between the Hardanger region, Ryfylke, and Stavanger daily through July and August.

    Ad: Vy ekspress - travel comfortably by bus throughout Norway

    By train

    The Bergen Line between Oslo and Bergen is known as one of the world’s most beautiful train rides. You can choose between several daily services, and the journey takes about seven hours.

    From the stations Bergen, Voss, and Geilo there are bus routes to the Hardanger region.

    Ad: Visit Vy's website for tickets and timetables

Important information about winter driving in Norway

If you are going to drive in Norway in the cold season (October–April) you and your car need to be prepared before you hit the road. Icy, slippery roads, snow, darkness, and poor visibility can make driving challenging at this time of year and it's important to know how to prepare:

How to drive in Norway in winter conditions

Winter in the fjords

  • View from Mount Fløyen in Bergen, Fjord Norway, in winter

    Bergen in winter

    Bergen has something for every winter traveller. A mild winter climate, scenic landscapes, a World Heritage-listed medieval wharf, and vibrant culture!
    Two people standing on a boat enjoying the view of the Nærøyfjord in winter

    A winter journey from Bergen to Flåm

    You haven’t seen the fjords until you see them in winter. Enjoy this travel route from Bergen to Flåm and discover some of the world’s most beautiful winter landscapes.
    Walking in Fargegata in Stavanger

    The Stavanger region in winter

    Escape the winter blues with a getaway to the Stavanger region! Explore Preikestolen (The Pulpit Rock), colourful streets, street art, cosy cafés, and exclusive Michelin-starred restaurants.
    Woman on top of the sightseeing boat from Ålesund to the Geirangerfjord in winter

    Winter adventures in the Geirangerfjord

    Some say the world famous UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord is even more majestic in winter. Discover this snow-clad fairy tale paradise for yourself!
    The Nidarosdomen cathedral in Trondheim, Trøndelag

    Trondheim in winter

    Experience Trondheim, where frosty Viking history meets warm, creative energy. From Nidaros Cathedral to Michelin-starred dining, this city turns up the heat.

Discover more

Apple juice on an orchad in Inderøy in Norway.
Cider and juice heaven
Three people hiking on the Nigardsbreen glacier in Fjord Norway
Glaciers
A woman enjoying the view from a Glød Aurora Canvas Dome in Alta
Glamping all year round
  • Kayaking on the Hardangerfjord
    Plan your trip to the Hardangerfjord region
    The Nærøyfjord in Fjord Norway on a sunny summer day
    The most famous fjords
    A family of three snowshoeing at Aurlandsfjellet
    Winter in the fjords

Take advantage of top offers

See our selection of trusted companies that work hard to make you happy all through your trip.

  • Food - Brim Explorer
    Brim ExplorerQuiet fjord tours on award-winning electric catamarans in Oslo, Tromsø, Lofoten, and Svalbard.
    Performancce Marketing
    CityboxModern and affordable hotels in central locations in Oslo, Bergen, and Kristiansand.
    Happy family taking a selfie in an airport after arriving to Norway
    Norwegian HolidaysLow-price package holidays with Norwegian. Book your flight, hotel, and rental car all in one place.
    Blazerbu - Norgesbooking
    NorgesbookingBook your perfect cabin stay in the fjords, mountains, and valleys of Norway.
    Elegant wooden hotel in mountain valley beneath snow-capped peaks.
    De HistoriskeHave an unforgettable stay at one of Norway's unique, authentic historic hotels. Enjoy first-class dining experiences and a broad range of activities.
    Buss bilde - NOR-WAY
    NOR-WAY BussekspressEnjoy scenic views on comfortable bus trips to the fjords and from city to city with our express buses.
    Airplane
    NorwegianNorwegian offers cheap flights in Norway and direct flights from more than 70 European destinations. Book flights through our low fare calendar to your destinations.
    Sykkeltur i Hardanger
    Discover NorwayOffers a range of exciting self-guided hiking, biking, and skiing holidays in Norway. Luggage transfer included.
    Shutterstock 4 - Rent-A-Wreck
    Rent-A-Wreck of Scandinavia ASThe smart and affordable car rental alternative.
    Auto Europe
    Auto EuropeAlways a smooth car rental experience. Search and compare rental rates. Free cancellation up to 24 hours prior to pick-up.
    Hikers approaching a small wooden cabin with grass roof in mountainous landscape
    Up NorwayBespoke luxury hand-picked by local experts. We combine your preferences and our knowledge to make an unforgettable journey.
    Skiing on finnmarksvidda
    Norrøna AdventureGet ready for expeditions and adventure holidays with Norrøna Adventure. Hiking, skiing, and biking trips.
    The Hurtigruten ship MS Nordkapp in Geirangerfjord in Fjord Norway
    HurtigrutenExperience the world's most beautiful sea voyage on an unforgettable cruise along the stunning Norwegian coast.
    Woodward - Arctic Campers
    Arctic Campers ASDo you want to try van life? Explore Norway in comfort and style with our smart and cosy campervans.
    Two people sitting in a sofa in Eagle Nest Eco Lodge in Eastern Norway
    50 Degrees North NordicChoose between unforgettable tailormade individual trips and small, exclusive group tours of Norway.
    Scandic Holmenkollen Park Hotel in Oslo, Eastern Norway
    Scandic HotelsExperience Nordic hotel hospitality at its finest at more than 90 hotels across Norway. Special offers are available.
    A woman hiking in the summer mountains by the fjord.
    CampioNorway's biggest camping booking site. Find the best camping and motorhome pitches throughout Norway.
    Raumabanen - SJ Nord
    SJ NordSJ NORD - the adventure starts on the train
    Standard Room - Svolvær - Thon Hotel
    Thon Hotels ASFantastic breakfast included! Experience true comfort and reasonable rates at our 80 hotels in Norway.
    Eidfjord village - Go fjords
    Go FjordsBook fantastic tours and experiences! We offer tours in Oslo, Bergen, Stavanger, Lofoten, the North Cape, and more.
    Hop on hop off bus - Stromma
    StrömmaSightseeing by bus and boat in several major tourist spots and cities in Norway.
    Campanyon - Arctic Dome Smiberget
    CampanyonUnique camping in nature. Book a stay in a treehouse or glamping tent or rent a motorhome pitch.
    Two women viewing scenic Norwegian fjord from a boat, with dramatic mountains reflected in calm water under blue sky.
    Fjord ToursHome of Norway in a Nutshell, Norway's most popular tour. Fjords, mountains, and stunning destinations — all in one trip!
    Hotell Refsnes Gods - fasade
    Classic Norway HotelsWhen the hotel is the destination. Book a night to remember in one of Norway's most unique and distinctive hotels.
    Family in outdoor pool in winter at Radisson Blu mountain resort & residences in Trysil, Eastern Norway
    Radisson HotelsGreat value offers and comfortable quality stays in Norway´s major cities, airports, and ski resorts.
    Malangen resort - My nordic travel
    My Nordic TravelChoose between DIY itineraries and pre-packaged holidays to the very best destinations in Norway.
    Two women waving out the windows of a campervan with Benzini Campers on the hood
    Benzini CampersThe adventure of your life starts here. Book a campervan with Benzini Campers now.
    Hardangerfjord - Authentic Scandinavia
    Authentic ScandinaviaTravel curated by locals. Our tailormade tours suit every type of traveller and budget.
    The Thief - A lifestyle boutique hotel in Oslo
    StrawberryA different hotel company! Look out for great weekend deals at more than 100 hotels in Norway.
    A bus driving along the coast in Norway, Vy express route vy146
    Vy expressDiscover Norway on comfortable express buses that take you between major cities, mountains, and fjords.
    Vy Train travelling on a scenic railway line between Bergen and Hønefoss, Norway
    Vy TrainGlide through scenery on a train between Oslo and Bergen on the Bergen Railway and explore the greater Oslo region.
    Aurora borealis Tromso - Fjord Travel
    Fjord Travel NorwaySleep in an ice hotel, hunt the northern lights, and discover the magical fjords. Book your tour now!
    Valevåg Camping
    CampcationBook a camping stay in stunning and unique locations all across Norway with Campcation.
    Lit-up tent in snow with colorful northern lights and mountains behind it
    Booknordics.comUnique holiday packages, adventure hotels, tours, and activities.