Norway

Vestlandet

Sognefjorden is Norway’s longest and deepest fjord. It stretches from the coast just north of Bergen to the mighty mountains in Jotunheimen National Park and the glacial blue ice in Jostedalsbreen National Park. The surrounding mountains are home to a treasure trove of delightful villages, charming historical buildings and exquisite restaurants that enchant you with local produce.

Hardangerfjorden is the fourth-longest fjord in the world and the second longest in Norway. This beautiful fjord meanders through a wild and impressive landscape and the area is home to a number of Norway’s national symbols, such as the Hardanger fiddle and Hardanger embroidery. The region is also known for its fertile agricultural areas, where apple orchards are found in abundance.

Nærøyfjorden is the most beautiful and wildest branch of Sognefjorden – and is listed as an UNESCO World Heritage Site. The boat trip through the 17 km long fjord, which is only 250 m wide at the narrowest point, is known as one of the most dramatic fjord trips in Europe, with views of steep, snow-capped mountains, wild waterfalls and a thriving cultural landscape.

Like Nærøyfjorden, Geirangerfjorden is listed as an UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a true cornucopia of spectacular nature experiences. The route along the fjord winds from one hairpin turn to another, offering several awe-inspiring lookout points. Step out onto Geiranger Skywalk, Europe’s highest landscaped fjord viewpoint 1500 metres above sea level, or make a stop at Flydalsjuvet, where you watch the fjord’s many cruise ships go by.

Lysefjorden near Stavanger is best known for its spectacular tourist destinations like Preikestolen and Kjerag, but the 40 km long fjord also offers countless other nature and cultural experiences. For example, you can take the route along the world’s longest wooden stairway (an impressive 4444 steps) in Flørli, visit the historical village of Landa Park or go on a guided kayak tour between the fjord’s steep cliff walls

In total, Norway has over 1000 fjords. The most famous fjords, which are usually seen on postcards, are found in Western Norway.

The magical Norwegian fjords

From Oslo fjord in the east to Varangerfjord in the north-east, there are over 1000 fjords in Norway: some are long, some are short, others are deep and still others are so breath-taking that they’ve become UNESCO World Heritage Sites. But the most famous fjords – the ones you usually find on postcards – are found in Western Norway.

lies the gorgeous little municipality of Øystese. Here you are surrounded by the best that Fjord Norway has to offer, from unspoilt landscapes to some of Norway's most fertile agricultural areas, not to mention a range of attractions and activities for young and old.

Hardangerfjord is the third longest fjord in the world and the second longest in Norway. The fjord and surrounding landscape can be explored in a variety of ways. It's worth taking a guided tour by water and on land. This will take you past idyllic farms, pleasant orchards and mountain peaks with fantastic views of fjord landscapes, glaciers, mountains and deep valleys. The local guides will also take you to areas that are not normally discovered by the big travel agencies, and here you will get a very special insight into life along this impressive fjord over several generations.

If your holiday wish list includes a trip to one of Norway's special viewpoints, 

should be on your list of destinations. The rocky outcrop is about three hours' drive south-east of Øystese, between Hardangerfjord and Hardangervidda National Park, and the drive there is a magnificent and intense natural experience in itself. The rock formation, which extends horizontally from the mountain some 700 metres above Lake Ringedalsvatnet, is one of the most spectacular — and most photographed — rock formations in Norway. The hike there is long and relatively strenuous, but the feeling when you finally stand on the "Troll Tongue" and look out over the beautiful mountain landscape cannot be described in words!

On the other side of Hardangerfjord, a veritable cornucopia of nature experiences awaits you. Here, in Norway's largest national park, the only limit on your potential experiences is your own imagination. The area offers mile after mile of marked hiking and cycling trails, exquisite climbing areas, lakes and rivers for fishing, and hundreds of Stone Age settlements, as well as being home to some of the world's largest herds of wild reindeer and numerous Arctic plant and animal species.

The areas around Hardangerfjord are some of the most fertile agricultural land in Norway, and orchards in particular thrive in this region. The apple harvest here is world-class, and one of the local specialities is cider, which many refer to as "Nordic champagne". Visit one of the local cider farms and taste for yourself. You can even take a special cruise on the "Cider Boat", which will take you past several different cider breweries.

When you are in Øystese, you should visit an absolute sightseeing highlight that is just a 10 km drive from the hotel. Steinsdalsfossen is one of Norway's most popular waterfalls, not least because it is possible to walk behind this impressive 50-metre waterfall without getting wet!

Tip: An environmentally friendly destination

If you prefer to travel without a car, you can reach Øystese by bus from Bergen - depending on the route and departure time, it only takes 1.5 to 2 hours.

Overnight stay in the midst of beautiful scenery

When you travel to the Hardangerfjord with Fjord Line, you stay at the Hardangerfjord Hotel in either a double room or a family room - so you live with the spectacular fjord right on your doorstep.

Your guide to a fantastic holiday on the Hardangerfjord

Below you can read more about experiences, sights and accommodation options on the Hardangerfjord and find inspiration for your holiday in our travel articles about the region.


Hirtshals

Bergen

Experience the breathtaking landscapes of Hardangerfjord. Explore the majestic fjord, hike to Trolltunga, and immerse yourself in Hardangervidda National Park.

Discover Hardangerfjord: Your Ultimate Holiday Escape | Fjord Line

At Hardangerfjord Hotel you can choose between a double room or a family room - all with an armchair, TV, kettle and of course free WiFi.

The rooms have garden or city views, and as a guest at the hotel, you will also have access to Hardangerbadet right next to the hotel.

A wealth of fantastic nature experiences await just outside the door, whether you fancy a hike in the mountains, a boat trip on the fjord or a picnic at the "goldfish lake", one of the popular local excursion destinations.

Discover comfortable accommodation options in the Hardangerfjord area, providing easy access to Norway's stunning landscapes. Choose from a variety of rooms with garden or city views and enjoy nearby attractions.

Accommodation at Hardangerfjord | Fjord Line

Here you'll find tips for your holiday at the Hardangerfjord, whether you are looking for relaxation and cosiness, beautiful nature experiences on land and water, or impressive history, art and culture.

Explore a range of activities for your family holiday at Hardangerfjord, from relaxing moments to thrilling adventures in stunning natural landscapes.

Experiences at Hardangerfjord: Fun for the Whole Family | Fjord Line

We have teamed up with a group of Danish-Norwegian experts and local guides who provide good advice, recommendations, and tips for "hidden gems" that can give you, your family, and friends a fantastic holiday at the Hardangerfjord.

Get insider tips and recommendations from Danish-Norwegian experts and local guides for an unforgettable holiday experience in one of Norway's most stunning natural landscapes.

The magical Norwegian fjords

The longest: Sognefjorden

The second longest: Hardangerfjorden

Also visit: Nærøyfjorden

Geirangerfjorden

Lysefjorden