The Hardangerfjord (Hardangerfjorden) is about 179 km long, making it the second-longest fjord in Norway (after the Sognefjord) and the third-longest in the world. Roughly an hour by car from Bergen, it is nicknamed the 'orchard of Norway' for the apple, cherry and pear farms that erupt in white blossom each spring, and it is renowned for its award-winning cider. As of 2026, the Skjeggedal access road to Trolltunga is under time-restricted control due to rockfall-protection work, so travellers must check the latest access status before setting out. It is Fjord Norway's showcase region, pairing spring blossoms with summer hikes, midnight-bright nights, waterfalls and glaciers.
Trolltunga: the tongue-shaped rock jutting out 700 m above Lake Ringedalsvatnet — one of Norway's most iconic hikes
Vøringsfossen: a waterfall plunging about 182 m into the Måbødalen gorge, with viewing platforms on the Hardangervidda National Scenic Route
Folgefonna glacier: guided glacier walks over blue ice with turquoise-fjord views
Hardanger Bridge (Hardangerbrua): Norway's longest suspension bridge at 1,380 m, crossable on foot or by bike
Spring apple and cherry blossom, Hardanger cider-farm tours, plus fjord cruises and kayaking along the 179 km fjord
Good to know
SafetyThe standard Trolltunga route is a demanding 27 km round trip taking 10–12 hours. There are no fences at the cliff edge and fog can roll in fast — start early and carry proper waterproof, warm hiking gear.
SeasonThe Trolltunga summer season runs 1 June–31 August. Outside it (Oct–May) a guide is mandatory due to snow and ice, and in 2026 the Skjeggedal road is under rockfall-work time restrictions (e.g. no night access), so confirm the current status before you go.
SeasonAt this latitude (about 60°N) summer nights stay bright ('white nights'), so bring an eye mask. Conversely there are no northern lights in summer — aurora is only possible in the darker late-autumn-to-winter months.
RulesTrolltunga shuttle buses (Odda–P2–P3) and parking sell out in peak season, so book ahead. Follow the mountain-guard instructions, and note that unguided winter hiking is not allowed.
MannersNorway's 'right to roam' (allemannsretten) allows free passage, but do not pick fruit from private orchards or trample farmland — close gates behind you and follow Leave No Trace, carrying out all rubbish.
CautionNorway is very safe with low crime and tipping is not expected (service is included), but tours and food are expensive — compare prices and book official operators. Cards are accepted almost everywhere, so cash is rarely needed.
Practical info
Bergen is the gateway. From Oslo take the Bergen Line train (about 6.5–7 hours), then a bus toward Odda, Eidfjord or Ulvik, or join a fjord cruise/express boat (e.g. to Rosendal) from Bergen. Combined-ticket tours such as 'Hardangerfjord in a Nutshell' are also available. Shuttle, cruise and ferry fares and operating dates — and the Trolltunga road-control hours — change by season and year, so always confirm the latest information.
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