Waterfalls, fjords and glaciers: Go Viking in Hardangerfjord

Fjords, mountains, waterfalls and sparkling apple cider: Your inner Viking longs for Hardanger.

The Vikings were a brave, yet superstitious sort of people. Their sagas tell of powerful, fearsome Norse deities and monsters, and the dramatic nature in Hardanger brings the idea of giants and goblins to life. Lucky for us, the modern Vikings invented “innekos”; a term which perfectly sums up everything you need to have a wonderful, indoors evening in cold weather. Curling up in front of a fireplace, a scrumptious meal, a hot drink, good conversation or enjoying the silence while the cold wind whistles outside: this is “kos”.  
 

Forces of nature

Only one hour from Bergen, Hardanger and the Hardangerfjord is a base for expeditions and adventures in nature. Travelling here between October and April is a voyage into an untamed realm, where Viking kings and chieftains once ruled. The region shows off striking contrasts, and you may experience anything from frost-kissed moors, howling wind, a star-studded night sky or sunlight that glimmers on the fjord. Do as the locals and seek the comfort of a crackling fire after spending the day outdoors.  

Choose your vessel

Ages ago, the Vikings navigated the narrow fjords and high seas in majestic longships. Nowadays, trains, buses and boats link together remote fjord villages with towns and cities. Hardangerfjord in a Nutshell from Fjord Tours is a unique way to travel. Much like the Vikings, the tour takes the sea route from Bergen to Hardanger, trading in the longship for a high-speed passenger boat. Enjoy a cup of hot cocoa from the cafeteria on board and prepare yourself for one of Norway's most exhilarating destinations. While towering mountains and deep-blue fjords may seem daunting, fear not: experienced guides know the wild nature and bring you along on safe, unforgettable adventures.  
 

Frozen waterfalls

Vøringsfossen and Steinsdalsfossen are some of our most spectacular waterfalls. In spring and summer, the falls rumble and tumble down from the mountains, rising to a crescendo that may have impressed the Norse god of thunder himself: Thor. A fairy-tale landscape appears when the temperature drops below zero, creating a still, frozen veil.  

Vøringsfossen is one of Norway's most famous waterfalls and a spectacular sight, stooping 182 meters from the plateau down into the Måbødalen valley.

Steinsdalsfossen has a special feature that lure visitors closer. The path leads behind and under the waterfall, so be prepared for a brisk shower – this is as close to nature as it gets! 
 

Trolltunga

Trolltunga is a truly iconic landmark. This cliff formation hovers 700 meters above lake Ringedalsvatnet in Odda and is an incredibly popular hiking destination. The Vikings knew that nature demanded caution and respect – as do the guide companies that conduct tours and expeditions to Trolltunga. If you are up for the challenge of a 10-12-hour hike, your guide will provide a safe route, skis or snowshoes, as well as fascinating insight about the stunning landscape. Hiking with headlights and feeling the wind, rain and sunshine on your face before finally reaching plateau is a unique and memorable adventure – perfect for active Vikings.  
 

The story of a people

Amidst stories of raids and voyages of discovery, we sometimes forget that the Vikings were not always out for war and riches. Most of the time, they were just ordinary people: farmers, fishermen and merchants. Quiet fjord villages and hamlets lie where the Vikings once lived off what nature provided and carried on with their daily chores. Hardanger has a range of accommodation options, from grand hotels to historical and rustic smaller hotels, with local food on the menu and a tranquil atmosphere perfect for stargazing. A mild and fertile climate provides a bonus: the region is widely known for numerous fruit farms that produce first-class apple cider. For the farmers, tradition and craft go hand in hand, and some have developed a special twist through generations of cider production.