Norway

Cycling Norway's Fjords: Hardangerfjord from Bergen

Trip code: C05HA

Self-guided cycling

5 nights,
hotel-to-hotel

Level: 2 & 3

Printed route
directions

SUMMARY

  • Spectacular scenery of Norway's iconic Hardangerfjord, dramatic mountains and the Folgefonna Glacier.
  • Relaxing ferry crossings that provide restful breaks and an opportunity to enjoy the serene surroundings.
  • Explore the famous fruit orchards of Hardanger, Norway's largest supplier of fruits and berries.
  • Cycle across the engineering marvel of the Hardangerfjord Bridge, one of the longest suspension bridges in the world, offering unparalleled panoramic views.

WHAT'S INCLUDED?

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

TRIP DESCRIPTION

The Hardangerfjord Route is a cycling journey that combines Norway's most breathtaking landscapes with a deep cultural and natural immersion. This route takes you through stunning fjords, majestic mountains, fruit orchards, and peaceful villages, offering an unforgettable biking experience for adventurers and nature enthusiasts.

Start your adventure with a scenic train ride from Bergen to Voss, then cycle through Hardanger's charming landscapes, to the village of Ulvik, filled with fruit farms where you can stop for fresh produce. Enjoy ferry crossings over the Hardangerfjord, offering time to relax and take in the stunning views, and then cycle across the iconic Hardangerfjord Bridge with its panoramic vistas to reach the village of Oystese. End your tour in Rosendal, known for its historic barony and beautiful gardens, before a scenic boat journey from Sunde brings you back to Bergen.

The accommodation is a variety of three and four star hotels 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 and travel to Voss

Arrive into Bergen and pick up your bikes before heading to the train station for your journey to Voss (1.5 hrs, ticket included).

Voss is known as the adventure sports capital of Norway and has much to offer, including white water rafting and attractions like the Voss Gondol. Just across Vangsvatnet Lake, you'll find the stunning Bordalsgjelet Gorge, a natural wonder easily accessible by walking or biking from central Voss, (optional activities are not included and must be paid locally). Spend some time here before relaxing at your hotel for the evening, ready for your cycling adventure to start in the morning.

Your hotel is the Fleischer's Hotel which includes your evening meal, breakfast and picnic lunch to take with you in the morning.

You stay at Fleischer’s Hotel.

hotel details



Fleischer’s Hotel, Voss

HOTEL WEBSITE      TRIP ADVISOR

Mastercard
Visa
Pool
Hairdryer
WiFi
TV


Conveniently located close to the train station, the historic 4* Fleischer’s Hotel is set between stunning lakes and peaks, not too far from the beautiful landscapes surrounding Sognefjord. Dating back to 1864, they have hosted princes, princesses, kings, queens and emperors who came to experience the unique atmosphere of the area. Now run by the fifth generation of Fleischer’s, they offer delicious contemporary meals in a classical setting. The hotel also has an indoor swimming pool, gym and sauna available to all guests.

All 110 rooms feature free Wi-Fi, television, telephone, tea/coffee making facilities and private bathroom with WC, shower/bath and hairdryer.


Day 2: Voss to Ulvik (43km/26.7mi)

You will cycle from Voss to Ulvik, a picturesque village tucked away in the innermost part of the Hardangerfjord, known for its serene fjord views, lush orchards, and welcoming atmosphere.

From Voss, the route begins with an uphill ride to Skjervet, followed by a descent along the old road past the stunning Skjervsfossen waterfall to Granvin. From there, you'll bike uphill through the scenic Espelandsdalen Valley before descending into the charming fruit village of Ulvik. Here you can learn about the region's rich cider-making traditions, and sample some of the wonderful produce in a series of tastings along the way. The route takes you through idyllic orchards, surrounded by the snow-capped mountains and tranquil fjord waters.

Your hotel is the Brakanes Hotel which includes your evening meal, breakfast and picnic lunch to take with you in the morning.

You stay at Brakanes Hotel.

hotel details



Brakanes Hotel, Ulvik

HOTEL WEBSITE      TRIP ADVISOR

Mastercard
Visa
Pool
Hairdryer
WiFi
TV


Located on the shores of Hardangerfjord, the 4* Hotel Brakanes is surrounded by stunning orchards and sparkling waters. Set within its own grounds on the water’s edge, this hotel has several lounges and a bar, an indoor swimming pool, sauna and good restaurant which serves a wide variety of first-class cuisine. Many rooms also have balconies and fjord views.

All 142 spacious rooms feature free Wi-Fi, television, telephone and private bathroom with WC, shower/bath and hairdryer.

Day 3: Ulvik (20km/12.4mi)

Your time in Ulvik gives you lots of options, starting with a scenic 20 km round-trip bike ride to Osa, with the option to continue further into the mountains for breathtaking views. You may also choose to spend time exploring the charming village and enjoy the hotel's relaxing facilities, or visit one of Ulvik's renowned cider farms to taste the local flavours and learn about Norway's fruit farming traditions.

Alternatively, take a boat from Ulvik to Eidfjord, where you can explore by bike or join the Voringsfossen Sightseeing Tour to visit the Hardangervidda Nature Centre and the spectacular Voringsfossen waterfall, (optional activities are not included and must be paid locally).

Your hotel is the Brakanes Hotel which includes your evening meal, breakfast and picnic lunch to take with you in the morning.

You stay at Brakanes Hotel.

hotel details



Brakanes Hotel, Ulvik

HOTEL WEBSITE      TRIP ADVISOR

Mastercard
Visa
Pool
Hairdryer
WiFi
TV


Located on the shores of Hardangerfjord, the 4* Hotel Brakanes is surrounded by stunning orchards and sparkling waters. Set within its own grounds on the water’s edge, this hotel has several lounges and a bar, an indoor swimming pool, sauna and good restaurant which serves a wide variety of first-class cuisine. Many rooms also have balconies and fjord views.

All 142 spacious rooms feature free Wi-Fi, television, telephone and private bathroom with WC, shower/bath and hairdryer.

Day 4: Ulvik to Oystese (34km/21.1mi)

Leaving Ulvik this morning, you will cycle along narrow fjords toward the stunning and newly built Hardangerfjord Bridge, which offers an exciting crossing of the fjord before heading south to Kinsarvik. From Kinsarvik to Oystese, there are several routes to choose from: take a boat from Kinsarvik to Norheimsund, then cycle the final 7 km to Oystese; or a ferry to Utne, cycle to Herand (23 km), take a boat to Norheimsund, and cycle the final 7 km; or take ferries from Kinsarvik to Utne and Kvanndal, then cycle 34 km to Oystese. Once in Oystese, relax at Hardangerfjord Hotel, which boasts incredible views of the Folgefonna Glacier.

(All passenger ferries are free of charge for passengers with bikes, express ferries are not included and must be paid for locally).

Your hotel is the Hardangerfjord Hotel which includes your evening meal, breakfast and picnic lunch to take with you in the morning.

You stay at Hardangerfjord Hotel.

hotel details



Hardangerfjord Hotel , Oystese

Visa
Hairdryer
WiFi
TV
Aircon
Safe


Hardangerfjord Hotel offers a peaceful retreat right on the shores of the stunning Hardanger Fjord in Øystese, with spectacular views of the Folgefonna Glacier. This charming hotel combines comfort and natural beauty, providing a perfect escape for relaxation or adventure. Guests can enjoy cosy rooms with scenic vistas, and indulge in the tranquil atmosphere of the surrounding fjords and mountains.

Day 5: Oystese to Rosendal (71km/44.1mi)

Start your journey by cycling to Torvikbygd, and from there enjoy a scenic ride along the fjord to Gjermundshamn (61km). The route features some minor climbs but minimal traffic, making for a peaceful ride. Take a ferry across the fjord to the south side, and continue your biking journey to the charming village of Rosendal (10km).

Once in Rosendal, you can visit The Barony, explore the Stone Park, discover local art galleries, or admire the historic Kvinnherad Church, which dates back to 1255. Rosendal is a charming village known for its breath taking combination of fjords, mountains, and cultural heritage. Also worth a visit are the interactive exhibitions at the nearby Folgefonna National Park where you can learn all about life in Hardangerfjord and the impact of climate change on this awe-inspiring glacial region.

(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).

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 6: Rosendal to Bergen and depart (31km/19.3mi)

Following breakfast, your final route takes you south along the fjord, winding through scenic landscapes with scattered buildings and breath taking views. Once you reach Sunde, you will enjoy a final beautiful boat ride to Bergen (ferry not included as tickets must be bought on board). The boat departs from Sunde at 14:45 and navigates through the charming Sunnhordland archipelago, arriving in Bergen at 16:25. Upon arrival into Bergen you return your rental bikes at the port and continue your onward 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 Sunde, but no luggage transfer is provided in Bergen.

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These tour prices are based on two people sharing. Single supplement from NZ$693.

TRAVEL DETAILS

Call now to speak to our specialist team at 0044 1606 720199 or email us at sales@headwater.com for enquiries or to book your trip.

REVIEWS

So far (booking by a phone call) the experience has been positive. Luke was friendly, approachable, but professional and told me all I needed to know, along with a little more information as well. I was very happy with the service.

14 Nov 2024

The sales assistant was really helpful and explained everything clearly.

Lesley Winters, 24 Sep 2024

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

This was my first booking with Headwater.
Initially my experience of booking was quite negative as I was given incorrect and confusing information at the start being promised things the company could not honour. I was then passed onto another consultant without explanation who initially made things worse. Once passed onto the manager Stephanie Johnson, she was superb in sorting out all the issues and I felt very happing about booking the trip.

20 Feb 2024


Self-guided cycling

5 nights,
hotel-to-hotel

Level: 2 & 3

Printed route
directions

5 nights from NZ$5455

CHOOSE A DEPARTURE

Call: +44 1606 720199