Vøringsfossen Waterfall the Grand tour of Hardanger Fjord

If you’re heading to Bergen and crave a full day of breathtaking scenery, this tour offers a chance to see some of Norway’s most iconic sights—without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. For around 11 hours, you’ll travel through towering fjords, past waterfalls, and across impressive bridges, all led by a knowledgeable guide who will bring the landscape to life. The journey covers the Vøringsfossen Waterfall, a sweeping vista of Hardanger Fjord, and stops at four impressive waterfalls, including the scenic Skjervsfossen.

We love the way this tour combines captivating natural beauty with practical comfort. The first thing that strikes us is the inclusion of a delicious lunch featuring Norwegian ingredients—a true local experience—paired with a 180-degree nature film that previews the sights to come. The second highlight is the chance to walk the stone stairs up to the top of Skjervsfossen, where you can stand amidst the roar of the waterfall and breathe in the crisp mountain air.

One possible consideration is the long drive time—around 75 minutes each way—so this isn’t for travelers seeking a very relaxed or slow-paced day. Also, because the tour involves some walking and scenic stops, it’s best suited for those comfortable with a bit of physical activity and variable weather.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided experience of the Hardanger region, especially if you’re eager to see multiple waterfalls, fjord views, and spectacular bridges in one day. It’s perfect for those who appreciate storytelling, good food, and natural grandeur.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery: Witness the breathtaking Vøringsfossen waterfall with a 182-meter drop and 145 meters of free fall.
• Authentic local experience: Enjoy a Norwegian-inspired lunch at the Nature Center, including regional ingredients.
• Educational highlight: Watch a 180-degree film that offers a preview of Norway’s natural wonders.
• Multiple waterfalls: Visit four large waterfalls, including Steinsdalsfossen and Skjervsfossen, with opportunities for photos and walks.
• Iconic bridges: Stop at the Hardanger Bridge to take in views of the fjord from above.
• Comfortable logistics: A well-organized 11-hour trip with a first-class bus and a knowledgeable guide.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Introduction to the Tour Experience

This day-long adventure begins in Bergen, where you’ll meet your English-speaking guide at a designated meeting point near the fast boat terminal. From there, your journey takes you through some of Norway’s most striking landscapes. The tour is designed for those who want to see the highlights without the stress of navigating on their own, all while savoring local flavors and gaining insight into the region’s natural history.

The highlight, of course, is Vøringsfossen, one of Norway’s most famous waterfalls. With a height of 182 meters and a thunderous free-fall of 145 meters, it’s a sight that leaves many visitors awe-struck. Standing on the viewing bridge, you’ll feel the mist and hear the roar—an experience that’s both humbling and exhilarating.

We appreciate how the tour balances the awe of nature with practical comforts—such as a scenic, well-paced itinerary and a stop at the Norwegian Nature Center for lunch. It’s not just about the views; the included 180-degree film prepares you for what’s ahead, making every vista more meaningful.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point and Early Drive

The tour kicks off at Strandkaien 17 in Bergen at around 7:45 am, with departure at 8:00 am. You’ll board a comfortable, first-class coach that whisks you along Norway’s scenic roads. The initial drive, around 50 minutes to Osterfjord, offers glimpses of Norway’s fjord scenery, setting the tone for the day’s natural splendors.

Waterfall and Scenic Stops

First, you’ll make a quick photo stop at Fossen bratte—a perfect teaser for the waterfalls to come. The short 15-minute stop allows you to stretch and snap some photos before continuing onward.

Next, your journey takes you to Steinsdalsfossen, a waterfall renowned for its accessible path behind the cascading water. For 30 minutes, you’ll get up close and personal, feeling the spray and hearing the crashing water—an experience many travelers find truly memorable.

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Scenic Fjord Drive

Driving along the Hardangerfjord for about 75 minutes, you’ll witness Norway’s famous fjord landscape. This scenic drive is a highlight in itself, with opportunities to stop and take photos of the fish farms, lush orchards, and rugged mountains.

Norwegian Nature Center

Your next stop is the Norwegian Nature Center in Hardanger, where you’ll have a leisurely lunch featuring regional Norwegian ingredients—think smoked salmon, locally cured meats, and hearty bread. The guided tour here includes a 180-degree film that showcases the region’s natural spectacles, giving context to what you’ll see on the tour. Visitors praise this part, noting it adds a meaningful layer to the day: “The film really helped me understand the landscape better,” one reviewer shared.

Vøringsfossen and Top of Skjervsfossen

After lunch, you’ll head to the most anticipated sight—Vøringsfossen. With around 70 minutes allocated for photos, exploration, and free time, you can stand on the viewing bridge, feel the mist, and hear the thunder of the water. For those wishing to stretch their legs further, an optional walk up the stone stairs leads to the top of Skjervsfossen. Here, you get a different perspective of the waterfall, and the cool, humid air is a refreshing break.

Additional Scenic Stops

Moving on, the tour includes a stop at the Hardanger Bridge, a marvel of engineering that spans the fjord. It’s a perfect spot to snap photos of the fjord from above and appreciate Norway’s impressive infrastructure.

Later, you’ll visit Eidfjord and stop at Dale for a cozy break with coffee, tea, and Norwegian waffles with jam or brown cheese—simple, delicious, and local.

Final Highlights and Return

The last major stop is Skjervsfossen, where you can walk the stone stairs to get close to the waterfall’s misty spray. The cool air and roaring water make for a sensory-rich experience.

On the journey back to Bergen, you’ll traverse the scenic roads for about 50 minutes, passing through Voss—a popular spot for adventure sports—and ending your day at the meeting point around 6 pm.

What’s Included and What to Keep in Mind

This guided tour offers value with its all-inclusive approach—your guide, entrance fees at the Nature Center, the film, and the four waterfalls are covered. The lunch with Norwegian ingredients is a highlight, giving you a taste of local flavors in a comfortable setting.

However, keep in mind that personal expenses like souvenirs or extra snacks are not included. The tour is also not suitable for wheelchair users or those with serious fears of heights or vertigo, especially given the bridges and walkways involved.

Weather can change quickly in Norway, so dressing in warm, layered clothing and bringing rain gear is advisable. Comfortable shoes are essential, as you’ll be walking on uneven surfaces and stairs.

Why This Tour Offers Real Value

Compared to trying to piece together your own day trip, this guided experience saves you hours of planning and transportation logistics. The knowledgeable guide enhances the experience with stories and insights that enrich your understanding of Norway’s landscapes and geology. The stops at multiple waterfalls and the fjord drive ensure that you see a variety of scenery, making this a well-rounded day.

The inclusion of lunch and entrance fees means you won’t have to worry about extra costs, and the small group feel—depending on the season—keeps the experience intimate and engaging.

From the comments, travelers appreciate the balance of scenic stops and free time—you’re not hurried through the highlights but given enough time to soak them in.

Who Should Take This Tour?

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a structured, comprehensive day of Norway’s best natural sights. It suits those interested in waterfalls, fjord views, and impressive bridges, and who enjoy learning from a guide. It’s especially suited for anyone eager to see multiple waterfalls in one day or who appreciate local food and cultural insights.

It’s less ideal for travelers with mobility issues or those seeking a more relaxed, less structured experience. If you’re comfortable with a full day on a coach and enjoy a good story about the landscapes you’re seeing, this tour will deliver.

This tour offers a fantastic value for those wanting an immersive day in Norway’s natural beauty, with plenty of opportunities for photos, learning, and tasting local flavors. The guide’s knowledge and the well-planned itinerary make it a hassle-free way to see some of Norway’s most celebrated sights.

Whether you’re a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or just someone looking to tick off a bucket-list item, this trip provides a balanced mix of awe-inspiring scenery and cultural richness. Expect to leave with not just photos, but stories to tell and memories of Norway’s rugged, pristine landscapes.

For anyone eager to see waterfalls, fjords, and bridges, and experience the authentic charm of the Norwegian landscape in one day, this adventure is hard to beat.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs approximately 11 hours, starting around 7:45 am and returning by about 6 pm.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Strandkaien 17 in Bergen, near the fast boat terminal area.

What is included in the price?
Your guide, entrance to the Norwegian Nature Center, the 180-degree film, lunch with Norwegian ingredients, and visits to four waterfalls are included.

Is food included?
Yes, a lunch featuring regional Norwegian ingredients is included, served at the Nature Center.

Are there any physical activity requirements?
There is walking involved, especially when visiting waterfalls and walking stairs at Skjervsfossen. The tour is not suitable for those with mobility issues or vertigo.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, rain gear, a camera, and water are recommended.

Are the stops long enough?
Yes, each stop is planned to give you a good amount of time to explore, take photos, and enjoy the scenery.

Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the focus on walking, stairs, and heights suggests it’s better suited for older children and adults.

How scenic is the drive?
The scenic drive along Hardangerfjord offers stunning views, with plenty of photo opportunities along the way.

In summary, if you’re eager to combine Norway’s spectacular waterfalls, fjord scenery, and cultural flavors in one day, this guided tour offers a thoughtfully curated experience that balances adventure, comfort, and authentic local charm.

You can check availability for your dates here: