Hardangerfjord is Norway at its rural best, where verdant granite cliffs look down on rippling waters and, in spring, great apple orchards come to life in pretty, seasonal blooms. Between stays in historic Bergen and pretty Lofthus, you’ll explore this region's walking routes, crashing waterfalls and charming fjord villages with boat cruises and bus hops taking the stress out of it all. Along the way, you’ll stay in hand-picked hotels, where included breakfasts and dinners showcase the finest local ingredients. There’s also the option of extending your stay in any of the villages, or changing this route to a road trip.
Hardangerfjord in a Nutshell
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At a glance…
A superb chance to witness some of Norway's most awe-inspiring fjord scenery
» 4 day tailor-made holiday
» Accommodation: Superior A higher standard of accommodation with a better range and quality of facilities, often in a good location (typically 4 stars)
» Price from: £1,035 pp incl. flights
Day by day itinerary
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Day 1 » UK/Bergen
Flying out from the UK, you'll be welcomed to Norway's second city at your stylish accommodation. Located right by on the waterfront you'll be perfectly poised to explore all the city's highlights, from its cobbled streets and famous fish market to the UNESCO-listed Hanseatic wharf, just a few steps from the hotel. Here, you'll discover the city's trading past that lives on in colourful timber houses, now transformed into art galleries and cute boutiques. Don't also miss out on Bergen's famous funicular railway (ticket included), offering superb fjord and city views. Back at your hotel, the included light evening supper is an added bonus.
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Day 2 » Hardangerfjord & Lofthus
Begin your day with breakfast in Bergen, before heading to the train station to embark on a rail journey to Voss, taking in spectacular views of deep fjords, towering mountains and cascading waterfalls along the way. On arrival in Voss, you'll board a bus to Ulvik, a picturesque village surrounded by lush orchards, towards the innermost end of Hardangerfjord. Consider an overnight stay here, perhaps indulging in a cider tasting or taking the opportunity to go kayaking amidst the serene surroundings. From Ulvik, you'll embark on an express boat journey along Norway's second-longest fjord, with breathtaking panoramas en route to the village of Eidfjord.
Next up is a bus journey through a river valley to Voringsfossen, home to Norway's largest single-drop waterfall, where you'll explore its grandeur via walkways and bridges. The winding roads and tunnels leading there are an adventure in themselves. Finally, you'll return to Eidfjord and take the express boat back to Ulvik, and then on to Lofthus, where you'll disembark. Here, we've arranged an overnight stay at the historic Ullensvang Hotel, beautifully nestled on the edge of the fjord. If your arrival time allows, consider a charming side trip to Utne. A short 15-minute taxi ride to Kinsarvik ferry quay, followed by a brief ferry crossing to Utne, will transport you to a world of quaint old streets, beautifully preserved wooden houses and the Hardanger Folk Museum. This evening, a delectable dinner awaits you back at the hotel.
Stay: Hotel Ullensvang, Hardanger
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
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Day 3 » Eidfjord
Begin your day with a delightful breakfast overlooking the fjord. As the next leg of your onward journey doesn't begin until later in the afternoon, you'll have some free time to explore the area, perhaps enjoying a hike along the Queen Sonja trail, relaxing at the hotel's spa, or taking a refreshing dip in the fjord. When it's time to leave, an express boat will collect you for another awe-inspiring journey along Hardangerfjord, this time culminating at the charming town of Norheimsund. You'll then enjoy a scenic bus journey back to Bergen, where you'll check into your hotel for the final night of your trip.
Stay: Home Hotel Havnekontoret, Bergen
Meals: Breakfast
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Day 4 » Depart for UK
After breakfast, and depending on your flight time, enjoy a further exploration of Bergen before making your way to the airport for your flight home.
Meals: Breakfast
To book call us on:
At a glance…
A superb chance to witness some of Norway's most awe-inspiring fjord scenery
» 4 day tailor-made holiday
» Accommodation: Superior A higher standard of accommodation with a better range and quality of facilities, often in a good location (typically 4 stars)
» Price from: £1,035 pp incl. flights
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