Imagine standing at the edge of one of Norway’s most spectacular waterfalls, hearing the roar of water crashing into the valley below, while over your shoulder, the imposing Sysen Dam and a vast glacier stretch to the horizon. This tour, at around $100 per person, covers some of the most breathtaking sights in Vestland County, including the famous Vøringsfossen Waterfalls, the Sysen Dam, and a scenic drive through the Måbø Valley. It lasts about 4 hours, making it an excellent choice for travelers who want a taste of Norway’s natural grandeur without committing an entire day.
What we love most about this experience is how it combines powerful waterfalls with impressive engineering marvels, all set against a backdrop of dramatic mountain scenery. The newly-built step bridge over the waterfalls provides a perfect vantage point for photos, and the drive through six tunnels in the winding mountain roads adds a sense of adventure. Plus, the chance to glimpse Norway’s second-largest glacier makes it feel like a truly comprehensive nature tour.
A key consideration is that this tour is quite active — expect to walk around 90 minutes at the waterfalls and be prepared for some bumpy mountain roads. Also, because it’s a group tour, the experience hinges on the guide’s commentary, which some travelers found lacking. Still, for lovers of striking landscapes and engineering feats, this trip hits all the right notes.
If you’re visiting Eidfjord via cruise or are based nearby and eager for a well-organized, scenic excursion, this tour is a good fit. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate nature, photography, and learning a bit about Norway’s hydroelectric infrastructure.
Key Points
- Stunning Natural Sights: Experience Vøringsfossen Waterfalls and the Hardanger Glacier from the Sysen Dam viewpoint.
- Convenient & Scenic Drive: Journey through Måbø Valley, crossing six tunnels while soaking in mountain vistas.
- Photo Opportunities: Capture dramatic views from the waterfalls’ platform and the new step bridge.
- Educational Value: Learn about the construction and purpose of the Sysen Dam, a significant hydroelectric project.
- Flexible & Well-Organized: Tour is scheduled to align with cruise ship arrivals, with advance booking recommended.
- Active Experience: Expect some walking and driving on winding mountain roads, suitable for those comfortable with moderate activity.
In-Depth Review of the Eidfjord Waterfalls and Dam Tour
What the Tour Coveres and Why It Matters
Starting right outside the Vøringfoss Hotel, the tour kicks off with a short walk to the bus, which is marked with an “A” — making it easy to locate. From there, the journey begins with a drive through the village of Eidfjord, a charming spot that feels authentically Norwegian, before heading into the Måbø Valley. This part of the trip is quite scenic, with the bus winding through mountainous terrain and passing through six tunnels. Norway is famous for its tunnel system, and crossing these during a mountain drive offers a sense of adventure and the thrill of being deep inside the mountains.
Next, the highlight for many is the Sysen Dam, built between 1974 and 1980, a structure that exemplifies Norway’s engineering prowess. At 81 meters high and 1,160 meters long, it’s a formidable sight. The tour stops here for about 30 minutes, giving you a chance to take in panoramic views of the dam, the reservoir, and the Hardanger Glacier.
The Sysen Dam isn’t just a dam — it’s a monument of modern engineering. Made of 3.6 million cubic meters of stone and moraine deposits, with a core of mud, it forms the main reservoir for hydroelectric power. Inside, the reservoir holds back Lake Sysen, ensuring a steady water supply for downstream waterfalls and power stations. It’s interesting to note that the dam helps regulate water flow, especially during the summer, highlighting Norway’s sustainable approach to energy.
The Waterfalls: Vøringsfossen, Norway’s Powerhouse
The Vøringsfossen Waterfalls are the star of the tour. Standing at over 182 meters tall, they are among Norway’s highest and most impressive waterfalls. From the viewing platform, you’ll witness the sheer force of water tumbling into the Måbø Valley — a sight that makes it easy to understand why this is a favorite among travelers.
One of the best features is the newly-built step bridge, which provides a dramatic vantage point directly over the raging river. Many reviews praise this addition, noting how it enhances the experience and offers fantastic photo opportunities. From here, you can get close enough to feel the spray and hear the thunderous sound of water crashing below.
Why This Tour Works
What makes this tour particularly appealing is the balance it strikes between nature, engineering, and scenic driving. It’s well-paced, with enough walking to enjoy the waterfalls but not so much as to tire you out. The scenic drive through the mountains, combined with stops at key viewpoints, offers a well-rounded experience.
Several travelers appreciate the knowledgeable guides, who share insights into the area’s geology and hydroelectric development. One reviewer said, “No fuss. Just in time. Safe trip with a reservoir, hills, mountains, and spectacular waterfalls,” indicating how smoothly the tour operates.
More Great Tours NearbyPossible Downsides
One common critique is that the tour may lack detailed guidance or commentary about the landmarks, especially at the waterfalls. For some, this results in a less engaging experience, feeling more like a scenic ride than an educational tour. Plus, the price of nearly $100 might seem steep for a bus trip, especially if you’re comparing it to renting a car, which some reviews suggest could be more economical if traveling in a group.
Weather can also impact the experience — cloud cover or rain might obscure the glacier views, and mountain roads can be narrow and winding, so comfort with mountain driving is advisable.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
Ideal for cruise passengers or visitors short on time but eager to see the highlights of Eidfjord and the surrounding mountains. It’s perfect if you want photo opportunities, scenic drives, and a glimpse into Norway’s hydroelectric infrastructure. Those who prefer guided tours might find the lack of detailed commentary a downside, but if you’re okay with a focus on scenery, this will suit you well.
Practical Details
Included in the tour are stops at the Sysen Dam, a walk at Vøringsfossen Waterfalls lasting about 90 minutes, and a beautiful drive through Måbø Valley. You’ll need to bring sunglasses, a sun hat, and a camera for capturing your memories. Pets, non-folding wheelchairs, and alcohol are not permitted, and the tour isn’t suitable for children under 4, pregnant women, or those over 95.
Meeting points are clearly designated outside the Vøringfoss Hotel, with instructions to look for buses marked with an “A.” Since the buses return from the waterfalls, arriving early might mean waiting a little, but the staff advises staying put until the bus arrives.
Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially to secure a spot during cruise season. You can reserve and pay later, with full refunds available if canceled 24 hours ahead.
Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?
For travelers who want a comprehensive snapshot of some of Norway’s most iconic sights, this tour offers excellent value. The combination of dramatic waterfalls, powerful dam structures, and the chance to see Norway’s second-largest glacier is hard to beat in such a short trip. The scenic mountain drive adds to the allure, making it a memorable highlight of any visit to Eidfjord.
If you’re comfortable with a moderately active, well-organized tour and enjoy photography and natural scenery, you’ll find this experience rewarding. It’s particularly suited for cruise travelers needing a reliable, guided way to see the sights without the hassle of self-driving.
However, if you’re looking for a deeply narrated or educational experience, or if you’re on a tight budget comparing to car rentals, you might want to weigh those factors carefully. The tour is effective, efficient, and packed with iconic views, making it a solid choice for most visitors.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for cruise ship passengers? Yes, the tour is designed to coordinate with cruise schedules, and the guide has direct access to ship arrival times to ensure timely pickups.
What should I bring? Pack sunglasses, a sun hat, and your camera. Comfortable walking shoes are also recommended for the waterfall and dam stops.
Are children allowed on this tour? Children under 4 are not suitable, and if you’re bringing children, especially those under 3, contact the provider for child seat availability.
How long is the walking involved? Expect about 90 minutes of walking during the waterfall stop, including walking on the newly-built step bridge.
What are the main highlights? The stops include the Vøringsfossen Waterfalls platform and the new step bridge, Sysen Dam with views of the Hardanger Glacier, plus the scenic drive through Måbø Valley.
Is it worth the price? For roughly $100, you get a mix of natural wonders and engineering marvels, making it a good value if you appreciate scenic and photographic opportunities.
What happens if the weather is poor? Inclement weather might obscure some views, especially the glacier. The tour proceeds rain or shine, so dress appropriately and prepare for mountain conditions.
To sum it up, this guided excursion in Eidfjord offers a well-crafted blend of Norway’s stunning waterfalls, impressive dam engineering, and mountain scenery. It’s a practical choice for travelers seeking memorable visuals and a taste of Norway’s natural and technological achievements, especially for cruise visitors or those with limited time. While it may lack some detailed commentary, the scenery alone makes it a worthwhile investment. Just remember to book ahead, dress for the weather, and prepare for a day filled with awe-inspiring views.
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