Kvinnherad municipality is situated in Sunnhordland in Vestland county. The municipality extends across the Hardangerfjord and a large part of it is situated in the western part of the Folgefonn peninsula. The beautiful village of Rosendal is the administrative centre of Kvinnherad. The Rosendal and Mauranger area is known to have some of the most beautiful fjord landscapes in Sunnhordland and hiking its waymarked trails offers sensational experiences.For many, the walk up to Bondhusvatnet lake is simply a must.
On the west side of the Hardangerfjord are Ølve and Hatlestrand, and further south in the municipality are the islands of Borgundøy, Fjelberg and Halsnøy. Here too you can find incredible hiking routes, such as the hike up Borgundnuten mountain that offers panoramic views of the area.
The barony, culture and history
In Kvinnherad, you will find the smallest castle in Scandinavia – Baroniet Rosendal. The castle, which dates from 1665, is surrounded by a beautiful Renaissance Garden and there are several period styles inside the barony.
The cultural programme offers world-class performances.
The cultural centre in the centre of Husnes puts on concerts and theatre productions throughout the year.
Things are happening throughout the year at Halsnøy Kloster monastery, which is on the island of Halsnøy at the gateway to the Hardangerfjord. The Augustine monastery can be traced back to the 14th century.
Folgefonna
The southern Folgefonna glacier is the third-largest glacier in Norway.
In the Folgefonna National Park, you’ll encounter dramatic wilderness and can enjoy exciting activities both on and off the glacier. There are a number of good starting points for trips and activities in the national park, in Åkrafjordtunet, Sundal, Jondal, Odda and Rosendal. Visit the stone parks, take a guided glacier walk, discover the local history and sample some local fare.
You can discover more about glaciers, fjords, water and the changing climate at the Folgefonn Centre in Rosendal. The tourist information centre can also be found here.