2-Day Round Trip from Bergen: THE GRAND HARDANGER fjords, waterfalls, glaciers

Traveling through Norway’s fjordland is a dream for many, but picking the right journey can be daunting. This 2-day Grand Hardanger tour from Bergen offers a well-balanced mix of breathtaking scenery, cultural insights, and outdoor opportunities. While it’s quite an investment—around $1,626 per person—it promises a comprehensive look at one of Norway’s most spectacular regions.

Two things we especially like about this tour are the personalized itinerary—with options to customize stops and activities—and the stunning scenic highlights, from towering waterfalls to glacier views. The tour is designed for those who want to see the best of Hardanger without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

One consideration to keep in mind: the full itinerary is packed, so if you prefer a slow-paced trip or have limited mobility, check that the activities suit your pace. This tour suits travelers who love photography, scenic drives, and outdoor adventures, and who appreciate having a knowledgeable guide to point out the hidden gems along the way.

Key Points

• Customizable Experience: The tour offers flexibility to include farm visits, hikes, and glacier excursions based on your interests.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable local guides enhance the experience with insights and assistance.
• Stunning Natural Landmarks: Expect waterfalls, glaciers, and scenic fjords, with many stops that are photo-worthy.
• Comfortable Transportation: Traveling in a Mercedes minivan or Tesla Model X ensures comfort on long drives.
• All Weather: Operates in all conditions, so dress accordingly.
• Long Lead Bookings: Most travelers book around 192 days in advance, reflecting its popularity.

An In-Depth Look at the 2-Day Hardanger Fjord Tour

This tour’s main appeal is its sweeping coverage of Norway’s Hardanger region, starting from Bergen—the historic gateway to the fjords—and looping through some of the most iconic sights. It’s a hefty itinerary, but one that balances key landmarks with opportunities for outdoor fun, all wrapped in the comfort of private transportation.

Starting in Bergen: The Historic Hub

Your adventure begins in Bergen, founded in 1070, a city famous for its colorful wooden houses, bustling fish market, and lively harbor. While the tour doesn’t include entrance fees, it offers a great introduction to the city’s charm and history. Expect a quick pass through Bergen’s cultural sites, setting the stage for the scenic journey ahead.

Dale of Norway Factory Outlet & Museum: Woolly Souvenirs

A stop in Dale allows for some shopping, especially if you’re into authentic Norwegian woolen sweaters—a perfect keepsake from your trip. The factory outlet is free to visit, and the quality of the sweaters is high, making it a worthwhile detour for those interested in local craftsmanship.

Voss and Gudvangen: From Towns to Waterfalls

Passing through Voss, known for adventure sports, you’ll see Vangskyrkja, a church dating back to 1277, and St. Olaf’s cross from 1023. These give a glimpse into the region’s deep history. The highlight here is a visit to Bordalsgjelet Gorge, a dramatic, safe walking path inside a deep canyon. It’s a short but memorable walk that offers visually stunning views—a great stop for nature lovers.

Waterfalls and Scenic Detours

The journey continues with a quick stop at Skjervsfossen, a twin waterfall plunging 150 meters. It’s a classic Norwegian scene—powerful water rushing over rugged cliffs. Many reviews mention the impressive views here, with one traveler noting how the waterfalls are truly mesmerizing.

Ulvik and the Hardanger Bridge

A scenic drive along the Ulvik fjord includes a passage over the Hardanger Bridge, one of Norway’s longest suspension bridges, offering sweeping views of the fjord below. Ulvik itself is a tranquil village, often called the “Pearl of the Hardangerfjord,” and is a popular spot for local cider tasting—if you choose that extension.

Exploring the Fjord and Mountain Farms

Crossing the bridge, the tour ventures onto the Simadalsfjord, branching off from the main fjord, before arriving at Kjeåsen Mountain Farm. Known historically as “the most inaccessible farm in the world,” it’s perched high above the fjord. Visitors often marvel at this feat of mountain living and may enjoy a brief visit or photo stop here.

Visiting Norway’s Natural Center and Waterfalls

En route to the main attraction, Vøringfossen, expect breathtaking views of a 182-meter waterfall—arguably the star of the trip. The viewing platform offers an incredible perspective of the cascade, and many travelers comment on how imposing and beautiful it is. Optional visits to Hardangervidda, Norway’s largest mountain plateau, provide a stark, expansive landscape that’s perfect for those who love wide-open spaces.

The End of Day One: Idyllic Eidfjord

Your overnight stay is often in Eidfjord, a charming village with several hotels. It’s the perfect base to relax after a full day of sightseeing, with options to explore nearby hikes or waterfalls like Husedalen Valley or Låtefossen, a majestic merging waterfall renowned for its natural beauty.

Day Two: The Glaciers and Fjords

The second day continues with more fjord scenery, including optional visits to Bondhusdalen valley or a drive through the Folgefonn Tunnel to the Folgefonna glacier, one of Norway’s accessible ice masses. This part of the trip offers a chance to see glaciers up close, with some travelers taking optional hikes or simply enjoying the icy vistas.

The journey also includes ferry crossings, scenic drives along Vangdal, and stops at waterfalls like Fossen Bratte, which you can walk behind—a favorite among visitors for its unique viewing experience.

Optional Highlights: Trolltunga and More

For those seeking a challenge, the Trolltunga hike is available as an optional, full-day demanding trek. It’s not included in the base tour, but it’s worth noting for adventurous travelers planning extra days.

Final Stops and Return to Bergen

The tour wraps up with a drive back across the fjord via the Folgefonna Tunnel and stops at other scenic sites, including Vangdal and Steinsdalsfossen, where you can walk behind the waterfall. The journey concludes back in Bergen, completing a circle of Norway’s most stunning sights.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Insights

One of the highlights of this tour is the knowledgeable guide—as one reviewer noted, “Vlad provided a special, professional and fun 2-day tour around the Fjords.” The guide’s insights turn scenery into stories, making the experience more meaningful.

The transportation in a Mercedes minivan or Tesla Model X ensures comfort during long drives in often unpredictable weather. The small group size (since it’s private) means more flexibility, more personalized stops, and fewer crowds—ideal for those who dislike large tour buses.

The price reflects the comprehensive nature of the trip, including ferry fees, bottled water, and rain gear. While not cheap, the value lies in the breadth of sights covered, the convenience of private transport, and the tailored experience.

Pros and Cons

Pros include the stunning variety of scenery, flexibility in itinerary, and the opportunity to see areas many day-trippers miss. Cons might be the high cost relative to other tours, and the packed schedule may not suit travelers preferring a more relaxed pace.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re looking for a deeply scenic, well-organized trip that packs in waterfalls, fjords, glaciers, and mountain farms—all with local insights—this tour is a strong choice. It’s best suited for travelers who want to see Norway’s natural beauty efficiently and are comfortable with a full schedule.

Those interested in outdoor activities, photography, or simply soaking in Norway’s landscape will find plenty to love. But if you prefer slow, leisurely days or have mobility concerns, you might want to consider customizing the itinerary or extending your stay in the area.

The Sum Up

This 2-day Grand Hardanger fjord tour offers a fantastic way to experience Norway’s dramatic landscapes with the comfort of private transportation and expert guidance. It’s perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, customizable adventure filled with waterfalls, glaciers, and fjord views.

While the itinerary is intense, the variety of sights and the quality of explanations from guides make it worthwhile. It’s an excellent introduction to Norway’s natural wonders, especially if you’re short on time but want a thorough, memorable experience.

For those who thrive on scenic drives and outdoor exploration, and don’t mind a full schedule, this tour delivers a balanced blend of adventure and comfort. It’s priced accordingly, but many will find the value in the convenience, sights, and stories that come with it.

FAQs

What is included in the tour price?
The cost covers private transportation (Mercedes minivan or Tesla X), ferry fees, bottled water, local driver-guide, and rain gear or hiking shoes depending on availability.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, entrance fees to museums or attractions like the Norwegian Nature Center are not included. Optional activities such as hikes or farm visits might also have extra costs.

How long is the tour each day?
The tour lasts approximately two days, with a full schedule of stops and scenic views. It’s designed to be a packed but rewarding experience.

Can I extend the tour?
Yes, the tour can be extended with one or more additional days if you want to explore further or relax more.

Is the tour suitable for all weather conditions?
Yes, the tour operates in all weather, so dress appropriately for rain or shine. The scenery is impressive regardless of weather.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 192 days in advance, reflecting its popularity and limited availability. Early booking is recommended to secure your preferred dates.

This detailed review should help you decide whether the Hardanger fjord adventure is right for you. Whether you’re after spectacular vistas, outdoor hikes, or just a well-organized way to see Norway’s best, this tour offers a memorable window into Norway’s natural grandeur.