Exploring The Hardangerfjord (Tour A)
Northern Europe Excursions
- £90-100
- 8 hours approximately
- Limited capacity
- Medium
BERGEN, NORWAY
The second-longest Fjord in Norway, board the coach at Bergen pier to experience the beautiful fruit orchards and surrounding mountains.
Leaving the city we journey in a southerly direction through the suburbs on to the village of Os, located on the Bjørnefjord. This short fjord enjoys wonderful views of snow-capped mountains in the distance. At Hatvik we cross by ferry to Venjaneset, where we proceed past many small settlements.
Our tour continues to Gjøna Lake and the farming hamlet of Eide, which comprises several old farm buildings. It was customary during the medieval period to have approximately 15 to 20 buildings on a farm, each having its own special use – for example, one for food storage (the ‘stabbur’), another for livestock, and one for the ‘badstue’ (sauna). We may see examples of the traditional rose painting inside the living quarters here (now a museum). Refreshments are served.
We reach the Hardangerfjord at Mundheim and enjoy a one-hour drive along this ‘Queen of the Fjords’. On a clear day we will be able to view Norway’s third largest glacier, the Folgefonna Glacier. A stop is made in the village of Øystese for lunch, situated in a bay and surrounded by mountains and fertile farmland. Refreshed, we head inland to see the lovely Steinsdal Waterfall, which we can walk right behind if we wish (time permitting)!
Via several tunnels we climb to the Tokagjel Gorge, then reach the mountain plateau of Kvamskogen. This area is exceptional for hiking and skiing, and there are many holiday cottages built in the woods. We descend to the fjord again, before once more climbing to Gulbotn, another popular recreational area. We proceed to Sørfjord (South Fjord), where Oster Island – the largest island on the west coast – is in view.
Back in Bergen, we rejoin our ship after a truly memorable day!
TOUR NOTES: This excursion involves scenic driving and several tunnels. There is a moderate amount of walking and steps involved. The walk behind the waterfall contains rocky, uneven terrain and will be wet and slippery. A waterproof jacket is recommended. The tour is not recommended for wheelchair users. Lunch will typically be buffet style.
DESCRIPTION CORRECT FOR 2010 SCANDINAVIA & BALTIC SEASON
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Snack or meal provided
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Refreshments available
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Free time
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Shopping opportunity
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Wheelchair access
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Swimming opportunity
All prices are based on operating costs, tariffs and rates of exchange and are subject to change without notice.
