Hardangerfjord

Hardangerfjorden

An expansive fjord known for its fruit orchards, waterfalls, and access to the Hardanger Plateau and Folgefonna glacier. Beautiful in spring when fruit trees bloom.

Things to do

• Hike to Vøringsfossen Waterfall — Trek to one of Norway's most dramatic waterfalls, plunging 182 meters into Måbødalen valley with sweeping fjord views.
• Kayak among the fjord arms — Paddle through calm waters surrounded by granite cliffs and cascading waterfalls, particularly stunning in spring snowmelt season.
• Traverse Folgefonna Glacier — Experience glacier hiking or skiing on Norway's third-largest mainland glacier with guided tours departing from the eastern arm.
• Explore Hardanger Plateau (Hardangervidda) — Hike across Europe's largest mountain plateau with pristine wilderness, wild reindeer herds, and mountain huts offering overnight stays.
• Visit spring fruit blossom orchards — Wander through extensive apple, pear, and cherry orchards blanketing the fjord's inner regions in white and pink blooms during April and May.
• Tour Ulriken Cable Car and viewpoint — Ride the cable car above Hardanger village for panoramic views across the fjord, surrounding mountains, and fruit farms.

Food to try

• Fresh local trout and char — Catch of the day prepared simply at waterside restaurants, showcasing the pristine cold waters' prized salmon family fish.
• Hardanger fruit preserves and juices — Homemade jams, compotes, and fresh juices made from the region's celebrated apples, pears, and berries sold at local markets.
• Cream cake with local berries — Traditional Norwegian layer cake topped with fresh cloudberries, blueberries, and lingonberries sourced from the plateau and fjord valleys.
• Smoked lamb and game — Regional specialty of slow-smoked mutton and venison served cold as appetizers, reflecting mountain farming traditions.

Local customs & good to know

• Best visiting season is April to May for blooms, or July to September for hiking — Spring brings the celebrated orchard blossoms but can be wet; summer offers stable weather and full access to plateau trails and glacier tours.
• Book accommodation and activities in advance during peak season — Popular fjord hotels and guide services fill quickly during Easter week and July-August, especially for glacier and plateau experiences.
• Respect private orchard lands and posted hiking routes — Many orchards are family-owned farms; stick to designated paths and ask permission before photographing or entering private property.