Norway

Cycling the Norwegian Archipelago South of Bergen

Trip code: C06BE

Self-guided cycling

6 nights,
hotel-to-hotel

Level: 2 & 3

Flights
available

Printed route
directions

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SUMMARY

  • Travel from Bergen through the stunning fjords and island landscapes of Sunnhordland, with panoramic views of Norway's third-largest glacier, Folgefonna.
  • Cycle through varied terrain with breathtaking views of mountains, fjords, and lush countryside.
  • Spend two nights in the charming village of Rosendal, with options to hike, visit cultural sites, or explore the floating Salmon Eye experience centre.
  • Experience traditional Norwegian villages, rich in history and charm and sample the delicious locally sourced cuisine, featuring the best of Norway's seasonal ingredients.

WHAT'S INCLUDED?

  • 6 nights accommodation
  • All breakfasts, five packed lunches and five dinners
  • Bike fitting at the start of your holiday
  • Comprehensive route directions
  • Bike hire included
  • All passenger-only ferries are free of charge
  • Luggage transfers where stated in itinerary

TRIP DESCRIPTION

Embark on a breathtaking cycling adventure through the stunning fjords south of Bergen. Starting with an express boat ride through the dramatic landscapes of Sunnhordland, where towering mountains meet deep fjords. From Sunde, you'll travel to Rosendal, a charming village at the gateway to the Hardangerfjord, where you'll stay for two nights. Here you can enjoy a scenic bike ride and explore cultural highlights in your free time, including the hisoric 1665 Manor House, the Stone Park, the Folgefonn Centre to learn about climate change, or the innovative floating experience center, Salmon Eye. Your route then winds through lush farmlands, with stunning views of the Hardangerfjord before you take the passenger ferry towards Uggdal, your next overnight stop.

Continue your ride through varied and hilly terrain, cycling past majestic mountains, fjords, lush islands, and rolling green hills onto Leirvik and then Bekkjarvik, an old trading station with tons of Norwegian coastal heritage. As you travel along the way on the ferry and boat crossings, you can admire breathtaking views of the Folgefonna Glacier, as these briefly provide a chance to soak in the region's spectacular beauty.

The accommodation is a variety of three star hotels where you'll experience authentic Norwegian fjord culture all with breakfast, picnic lunches and evening meals included. See the day by day itinerary for full details of inclusions.

For any optional activities and sightseeing ideas, entrance fees or transfers required are not included, but can be booked and paid for locally.

This holiday involves many ferry transfers between locations. All passengers ferries are free of charge when cycling, but if you choose to take any express ferries, these are not included. Your luggage will be transferred each morning to your next location, as the itinerary shows. Please note you will not be able to travel with these transfers.

Terrain

A mix of picturesque roads with little traffic and some busier stretches. Expect hills, flat areas along the fjords, and the occasional challenging incline.

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DAY-BY-DAY ITINERARY

 

Day 1: Arrive in Bergen

Arrive into Bergen and spend the day relaxing in this historic coastal city. Exploring is easy with the famous funicular railway taking passengers from the city centre up to Mt Floyen and there is also the cable car which travels to the highest viewpoint in Bergen, the summit of Mt Ulriken. The old town is very nice to wander around - the jewel in the crown being the area on the east side of the Vagen harbour, called Bryggen, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The fish market, in a modern building on the opposite side of this harbour is also worth a visit and the food options are deliciously tempting.

Overnight in the Thon Hotel Orion on bed and breakfast basis.

You stay at Thon Hotel Orion.

hotel details

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Thon Hotel Orion, Bergen

HOTEL WEBSITE      TRIP ADVISOR

Shops
Mastercard
Visa
Hairdryer
WiFi
TV
Minibar
Safe
Tea/coffee


Thon Hotel Orion is a newly renovated 3* hotel. The staff do their utmost to provide a good service so that guests feel welcome. The hotel is in walking distance to Torgalmenningen, Fløibanen funicular and other sights in the centre. All rooms have en-suite facilities and T.V, Safe, Mini Bar, Telephone, Hairdryer and Wi-Fi.

Breakfast is provided.

Room upgrades and extra nights: Contact us for details.

Day 2: Sunde to Rosendal (31km/19.3mi)

Following breakfast you will pick up your bikes in Bergen and take them on the 12:45 express boat to Sunde, (ferry not included as tickets must be bought on board). Arriving into Sunde, your luggage will be collected and taken onto your hotel in Rosendal, allowing you to begin your cycling adventure. A gentle and leisurely ride along the fjord brings you to Rosendal in the afternoon, where you will stay for your next two nights. Rosendal is a charming village known for its breath taking combination of views of the fjords, the Folgefonna glacier and its cultural heritage.

Overnight at the Rosendal Turisthotell, which includes your evening meal, breakfast and picnic lunch to take with you in the morning.

You stay at Rosendal Turisthotell.

hotel details



Rosendal Turisthotell, Rosendal

Mastercard
Visa
Hairdryer
WiFi
TV


The Rosendal Tourist Hotel is a charming and historic accommodation, known for its cosy atmosphere and picturesque surroundings. This traditional hotel underwent a significant renovation in 2008, blending its classic charm with modern comforts. Guests can enjoy one of the 21 well-maintained rooms that retain the hotel's warm, old-world appeal while offering updated amenities. The hotel's intimate size and welcoming staff ensure a personal touch during your stay. There is a lovely restaurant and wine cellar for you to enjoy a drink before dinner.

Your evening meal, breakfast and picnic lunch are included here.

Day 3: Rosendal

Today there are a few options for cycling or you may choose one of the areas famous hikes. There are also many places of interest to visit such as the Manor House and its Rose Gardens, the Rosendal Stone Park with its collection of prehistoric rock sculptures, or the interactive exhibitions at the Folgefonna National Park where you can learn all about life in Hardangerfjord and the impact of climate change on this glacial region. (Entrance fees and travel to these optional activities are not included and can be paid for locally).

Overnight at the Rosendal Turisthotell, which includes your evening meal, breakfast and picnic lunch to take with you in the morning.

You stay at Rosendal Turisthotell.

hotel details



Rosendal Turisthotell, Rosendal

Mastercard
Visa
Hairdryer
WiFi
TV


The Rosendal Tourist Hotel is a charming and historic accommodation, known for its cosy atmosphere and picturesque surroundings. This traditional hotel underwent a significant renovation in 2008, blending its classic charm with modern comforts. Guests can enjoy one of the 21 well-maintained rooms that retain the hotel's warm, old-world appeal while offering updated amenities. The hotel's intimate size and welcoming staff ensure a personal touch during your stay. There is a lovely restaurant and wine cellar for you to enjoy a drink before dinner.

Your evening meal, breakfast and picnic lunch are included here.

Day 4: Rosendal to Uggdal (55km/34.2mi)

Ride through lush farmlands with breathtaking views of the Hardangerfjord. A scenic ferry crossing from Arsnes to Gjermundshamn brings you across the fjord before you continue cycling towards Uggdal. The journey includes challenging climbs, especially as you reach Haaheim Gaard, nestled in a valley at the top of a hill. To reduce the climb you can shorten the route by taking the express boat from Rosendal to Malkenes (ticket not included) and cycle the 19 km from Malkenes to Uggdal.

(All passenger ferries are free of charge for passengers with bikes, express ferries are not included and must be paid for locally. Entrance fees to any optional activities are not included and can be paid for locally).

Your stay at Haaheim Gaard offers a truly special experience, known for its warm, personal atmosphere. The hotel grows its own herbs and vegetables, ensuring a delicious meal crafted from fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients-a perfect way to end the day. Included is your evening meal, breakfast and picnic lunch to take with you in the morning.

You stay at Haaheim Gaard.

hotel details

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Haaheim Gaard, Uggdal

Mastercard
Visa
Hairdryer
WiFi
TV
Minibar


Once a traditional farmhouse, this quirky boutique hotel has been thoughtfully transformed into a unique retreat. With its enchanting rose garden, laid-back ambiance, and exceptional dining, it’s the ideal place to relax after a long day of cycling. The on-site restaurant offers delicious, locally sourced dishes, expertly prepared for a memorable culinary experience.

Day 5: Uggdal to Leirvik (32km/19.9mi)

Today's ride takes you from Uggdal to Leirvik, with a ferry crossing from Hodnanes to Jektavik. There are two route options, but we highly recommend cycling via Onarheim for less traffic and more stunning scenery.Your destination, Leirvik, is a charming village on the island of Stord, known for its cozy town center and waterfront views.

(All passenger ferries are free of charge for passengers with bikes, express ferries are not included and must be paid for locally. Entrance fees to any optional activities are not included and can be paid for locally).

Enjoy a relaxing stay at Stord Hotell, where guests have complimentary access to the wellness area (pre-booking required).Included is your evening meal, breakfast and picnic lunch to take with you in the morning.

You stay at Stord Hotel.

hotel details



Stord Hotel, Uggdal

Mastercard
Visa
Pool
Hairdryer
WiFi
TV
Aircon
Safe


Stord Hotel offers a modern and comfortable stay with top-notch amenities. Unwind in the newly renovated wellness area, complete with a swimming pool, sauna, and gym (pre-booking required). The hotel’s restaurant serves delicious local cuisine, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring the stunning Sunnhordland region. Additionally, guests can enjoy the inviting piano bar and wine cellar. Complimentary coffee and tea are available around the clock, with afternoon snacks—a delightful treat after a day of cycling!

Day 6: Leirvik to Bekkjarvik (34km/21.1mi)

From Leirvik you pass through Fitjar and Sandvikvag, from where you'll take a ferry to Husavik. The route starts with an uphill stretch from Leirvik to Sagvag, followed by a relaxing ride through lush cultural landscapes.

Your stay at Bekkjarvik offers a unique experience in a historic coastal trading post, rich in maritime heritage. Visit the fishery museum at Bekkjarvik Torg or just sit back and soak up the peaceful atmosphere on your last evening.

Overnight at the Bekkjarvik Gjestgiveri which includes your evening meal, breakfast and picnic lunch to take with you in the morning.

You stay at Bekkjarvik Gjestgiveri.

hotel details



Bekkjarvik Gjestgiveri, Bekkjarvik

Mastercard
Visa
Hairdryer
WiFi
TV


Located by a small harbour, this historic guesthouse has been a local landmark since the 1600s. Enjoy an unforgettable dining experience, prepared by some of Norway’s best chefs at the famous restaurant or relax with a drink at the bar or on the outside terrace. Stay in the charming “Barrel Factory”, where rooms have a classic, old-world feel, or in the elegant Manor House for a cosy and comfortable stay.

Day 7: Bekkjarvik to Bergen and depart (20km/12.4mi)

Following breakfast you will leave Bekkjarvik and cycle to Hufthamar, where you pick up your luggage and take the express boat to Bergen at 15:05, a journey of 45 mins (ferry not included as tickets must be bought on board). On arrival back into Bergen, your bikes will be picked up at the ferry terminal and you continue your journey home. Or you may choose to extend your trip with some extra days in Bergen or Oslo. Please ask your sales specialist at time of booking.

Please note that luggage will be transferred to the dock in Hufthamar as there is no luggage transfer is provided in Bergen.

CHOOSE A DEPARTURE DATE

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These tour prices are based on two people sharing. Single supplement from £425.

We can book your flights, protected by ATOL and ABTA. Please ask at time of enquiry.

TRAVEL DETAILS

If you choose a flight inclusive package with us, you will fly into your destination. We can provide transfers from the airport, please contact us for details and prices.

We hold an ATOL License and are fully ABTA bonded, so you can book your flights with us in confidence. We can book most airlines and will advise you of your most convenient airport and flight options.

Flight prices vary massively and change quickly. At Headwater we will sell you your flights at the same price you can buy them yourself. We simply add £35 per person to cover your flight protection, to learn more please click here.

OPTIONAL UPGRADES
  • Flights from London or any available regional airport
  • Airport parking and airport hotels
  • Priority at Security and Fast Track
  • Airport lounge access
  • Priority boarding and extra leg-room seats
  • Business/club/first class fares

Subject to availability and dependent on service provider, please ask at time of enquiry and book early to avoid disappointment.

REVIEWS

Megan was very obliging with all our queries and we didn't feel we were being rushed into making quick decisions.

15 Feb 2025

Knowledgeable, helpful, quick and easy

10 Jan 2025

A consistently prompt and personalised level of service, nothing is ever too much trouble. Great communication, easy to contact, and regular updates. Feels reliable and trusted at every stage of the process. And all done with a smile. Thank you Andrew!

3 Jul 2024

Luke was very helpful

22 Jun 2024


Self-guided cycling

6 nights,
hotel-to-hotel

Level: 2 & 3

Flights
available

Printed route
directions

6 nights from £2809

CHOOSE A DEPARTURE

Call: 01606 720199