From Bergen: Folgefonna National Park & Glacier Lake Tour

Imagine a day spent exploring some of Norway’s most captivating natural sights—glaciers, waterfalls, fjords, and lush greenery—all in one seamless package. This Bergen-based tour to Folgefonna National Park promises just that. While it’s not for those seeking strenuous hiking or strict solitude, it offers a well-rounded experience for travelers wanting a taste of Norway’s wild beauty without breaking a sweat or spending too much time on logistics.

What we really like about this tour is how it balances scenic drives and boat trips with a gentle hike that’s accessible to most visitors—including those with strollers. Plus, the guides seem to really know their stuff, sharing stories and facts that add depth to every stop. One possible drawback? The day is quite long—around 10 hours—so it works best if you’re prepared for a full, active day and have some local snacks or lunch with you, since food isn’t included.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive adventure with plenty of photo opportunities and authentic Norwegian scenery. It’s ideal for nature lovers, first-time visitors, and anyone eager for a relaxed yet enriching experience outside Bergen’s city limits.

Key Points

• Accessible outdoor activity: Gentle hike suitable for most, even strollers with outdoor wheels.
• Scenic transportation: Bus, ferry, and photo stops create a varied travel experience.
• Highlights include: Folgefonna Glacier, Bondhusvatnet lake, Steinsdalsfossen waterfall, and fjord views.
• Expert guides: Known for storytelling, local facts, and making the day engaging.
• Good value: At $204, it covers transportation, ferry rides, and the hike, offering a complete day out.
• Bring your own food: Food isn’t included, so pack snacks or a picnic to enjoy at the lake.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

How the Day Unfolds

The journey begins at the Fish Market in Bergen, where your guide will be holding an orange sign saying “Velkommen Norway.” From there, you’ll set out by bus, enjoying the comfort of a modern, smooth ride as you leave Bergen’s harbor behind. The scenery starts to change immediately—rural farms, rolling hills, and distant mountains fill the window, giving you a taste of Norway’s pastoral charm.

Your first stop is Steinsdalsfossen waterfall. This isn’t just a pretty cascade; it’s famous for walking behind the waterfall itself, an experience that adds a thrill to the sightseeing. Reviewers mention how this is a “really something else,” and if you’re lucky with the weather, you’ll get a spectacular view and the chance to snap some memorable photos. While some reviews suggest more time at the waterfall would be appreciated, most agree it’s a highlight.

Next, your group boards a ferry across Hardangerfjord, one of Norway’s most scenic fjords. The ride offers a fresh perspective—crisp air, sparkling water, and stunning mountain vistas framing the boat’s route. Many travelers note this as the “breathtaking” part of the trip, with some reviewers mentioning they enjoyed the different angle of the fjord from the water.

Once on the other side, the bus takes you toward Folgefonna National Park. The drive itself is a highlight, with countless photo stops for capturing Norway’s pastoral scenery, waterfalls, and mountain views. It’s clear that the guides aim to maximize photo opportunities—something many reviews praise highly.

The Main Event: Bondhusvatnet Glacier Lake

Hiking the last stretch to Bondhusvatnet, a stunning glacier lake, is about a 5-kilometer walk on soil and small stones, suitable for most hikers—including those with outdoor wheel strollers, according to the tour info. The trail is well-trodden and offers moments of enclosed greenery and open water views. The scenery here is what makes the whole trip worthwhile—crystal-clear water, the glacier-capped peaks, and a serene atmosphere perfect for picnics or just soaking in nature.

Reviewers describe the lake as a “beautiful green haven,” an ideal spot for relaxing away from crowds. Several mention how the peaceful setting—scattered rocks and benches—makes for a memorable picnic experience, especially with the backdrop of a glacier.

Returning with New Perspectives

After relaxing at Bondhusvatnet, the tour takes you back on a different ferry route, offering another angle of Hardangerfjord’s beauty. The boat ride is a fitting way to reflect on the day’s sights, with many travelers noting how the views from the water are “stunning,” especially as the mountains and fjord landscape unfold around you.

The final stretch is a scenic drive back through the charming Countryside of Vestland, with stops to capture more photos of quaint villages, farms, and lush landscapes.

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The Guides Make a Difference

Across reviews, guides like Alexa and Bas are repeatedly praised for their knowledge, storytelling, and friendliness. They not only provide interesting facts about each stop but also keep the group engaged with humor and background stories—transforming a regular sightseeing day into a memorable experience. Travelers mention how these guides made the history and culture of Norway come alive, often saying their storytelling was “captivating” and “fun,” with some reviewers even commenting on how their guides’ voices sounded like “audio books.”

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour’s price of $204 covers transportation by bus, ferry rides, and the scenic hike. It’s a structured package that offers good value, especially when you consider the cost of ferry rides and transportation alone. However, food is not included, so bringing snacks or a packed lunch is a smart move. Several reviewers mention enjoying picnics at Bondhusvatnet, making the most of the tranquil setting with some homemade or purchased treats.

Duration and Practical Tips

This is a full-day trip, approximately 10 hours long, so it’s best suited for those who can comfortably spend a long day on the move. Starting times vary, so checking availability in advance is recommended. Make sure to bring weather-appropriate clothing—Norwegian weather can be unpredictable, and the tour involves outdoor walking and boat rides.

The tour is suitable for most, but note that non-folding wheelchairs and strollers are not allowed, which might be a consideration if you’re traveling with very young children or mobility devices. The hike is described as gentle, but some uneven terrain is unavoidable.

Accessibility and Comfort

The bus is modern and comfortable, with a driver and guide who seem committed to making the journey smooth and enjoyable. Many reviewers highlight the “brand-new” bus and the professionalism of the driver, which ensures scenic travel without worries. The stops are well spaced, with enough time to enjoy each location without feeling rushed.

Reviews and Authentic Feedback

One consistent theme among the high ratings—4.9 out of 5 from over 300 reviews—is how much travelers appreciate their guides. Comments range from “Alexa made the experience so amazing,” to “Baily was exceptional,” to “Bas, the guide, was very knowledgeable and funny.” It’s clear that a passionate, well-informed guide can elevate this trip from a simple sightseeing tour to an engaging, fun adventure.

The scenery plays a vital role, with many travelers describing it as “breathtaking,” “incredible,” and “beautiful.” The combination of waterfalls, fjords, lakes, and glaciers makes every stop visually rewarding. Reviews also mention that the trip balances planned activities with free time, allowing for personal reflection or spontaneous photos.

A few travelers expressed slight wishes for more time at certain stops, like the waterfall, but overall, most agree the itinerary is well-paced for a full day.

The Sum Up

This Bergen tour to Folgefonna National Park and Glacier Lake strikes a great balance between comfort, scenic beauty, and authentic Norwegian landscapes. The combination of scenic drives, boat rides, iconic waterfalls, and a gentle hike makes it a compelling choice for travelers wanting a comprehensive outdoor experience without the physical demands of strenuous trekking.

The knowledgeable guides, engaging storytelling, and stunning vistas are the tour’s biggest selling points. While it runs a long day, most visitors find the value in seeing such remarkable sights with expert commentary and ease of logistics.

If you’re eager to capture some of Norway’s most iconic natural scenery—glaciers, waterfalls, fjords—and enjoy a relaxed, well-organized day out, this tour is hard to beat. It’s especially recommended for those who appreciate a bit of storytelling along with their sightseeing, and for anyone looking to experience Norway’s wilderness with comfort and confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children or strollers?
The hike is described as gentle and accessible for outdoor wheels, but non-folding strollers are not allowed. It’s suitable for most children, especially if they’re comfortable walking or being in a stroller with outdoor wheels.

How long is the hike to Bondhusvatnet?
The walk to the glacier lake is about 5 km, on a soil and small-stone trail. It’s considered easy and suitable for most, but it involves some uneven terrain.

What should I bring for the trip?
Weather-appropriate clothing is recommended, as Norwegian weather can be unpredictable. Since food isn’t included, bringing snacks or a picnic is a good idea.

Are meals included in the tour price?
No, food is not included. Travelers usually bring their own snacks or lunch, and many enjoy a picnic at Bondhusvatnet.

What transportation is involved?
The tour includes bus transportation, a ferry crossing across Hardangerfjord, and another ferry back, plus scenic stops along the way.

How long does the tour last?
The full-day experience takes about 10 hours, starting in the morning and ending back at the meeting point in Bergen.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, since much of the experience involves outdoor activities, weather can influence the day. The guides are experienced in adapting to conditions, but it’s wise to be prepared for rain or wind.

This tour offers a rich sampling of Norway’s stunning landscapes, expertly managed for comfort and enjoyment. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, it’s a chance to see some of the country’s most beautiful sights with good company and great storytelling.

You can check availability for your dates here: