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 forward-thinking Oslo, 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 also enjoy a cider tasting tour as well as stays in a collection of 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
» 7 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: £1,710 pp incl. flights
Day by day itinerary
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Days 1-2 » 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 have two days to be able to trace 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 3 » Hardangerfjord & Lofthus
You'll hit the water today with a scenic boat ride from Bergen to Rosendal – the chance to fully appreciate the sheer scale of the landscape with its great green-dappled cliffs. Then, a bus ride along the waters' shores will bring you on to Odda at the end of Hardangerfjord and the starting point for anyone looking to test themselves with the 10-hour hike to famed Trolltonga. If that's not for you, continue to follow our suggested itinerary with a boat ride along Hardangerfjord, via Na and Aga, to Lofthus. Often referred to as the 'Orchard of Hardanger', this fjord-side idyll is especially beautiful in late spring and early summer, when pink and white fruit blossom adds an extra flourish to an already stunning landscape of green hills and snow-tipped mountains. It's all reflected in the tranquil waters of the fjord – the beautiful setting for your spa hotel, where you'll enjoy half-board dining in between time to relax or hike.
Stay: Hotel Ullensvang, Hardanger
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
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Day 4 » Cider tour & Ulvik
Today begins with a relaxing morning at your fjord-side hotel, followed by a scenic boat ride past mountains, glaciers, charming villages and the sprawling orchards of Sørfjorden. On arrival at Aga you will get to enjoy a cider tasting at the award-winning producer Aga Sideri as well as a traditional light lunch. Return to the Lofthus quay mid-afternoon and relax (we can request a late check out for you). Later, take the connecting bus to Ulvik and your overnight accommodation the Brakanes Hotel. Enjoy a restful evening at this delightful fjord-side accommodation, taking your included dinner at the hotel restaurant and soaking in some truly wonderful views.
Stay: Brakanes Hotel Ulvik
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
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Days 5-6 » Oslo
You'll have time for a leisurely breakfast and a morning amble by the water before boarding the express boat to Eidfjord before continuing by bus to the Norwegian Nature Centre, where you'll find an exhibition covering everything from Norwegian nature to the climate and local culture. Then, via a stop in Voringsfossen – Norway's highest waterfall – you'll board the bus to Geilo and on to Norway's capital, Oslo, arriving in the late-evening.
The next day is free to explore, taking in everything from buzzing Aker Brygge to the Royal Palaces and a wonderful array of galleries and museums. Be sure not to miss the new National Museum and the always excellent Munch Museum – a city highlight.
Stay: Hotel Clarion The Hub, Oslo
Meals: Breakfast
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Day 7 » Depart for UK
After breakfast, and depending on your flight time, enjoy a further exploration of Oslo. Then, make 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
» 7 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: £1,710 pp incl. flights
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