Discover the captivating beauty of Norway’s fjords on this guided tour from Bergen. Explore historic churches, cascading waterfalls, and serene fjord cruises. Indulge in a delightful cider-tasting experience, complemented by a delicious lunch. With flexible booking and an air-conditioned vehicle, this 13-hour adventure promises an unforgettable journey through the country’s natural wonders. But what makes this tour truly exceptional? The answer lies in the stunning sights that await you along the way.
Key Points
- Scenic 13-hour guided tour from Bergen to Balestrand along the Sognefjord, with stops at historic sites, waterfalls, and a cider tasting experience.
- Tour is available in English and Norwegian and is wheelchair accessible.
- No upfront payment required, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- Highlights include a fjord cruise, visits to Hopperstad Stave Church and Tvindefossen Waterfall, and a 5-course cider tasting lunch.
- Tour has an overall rating of 4.5/5 based on customer reviews praising the scenic views, cider quality, and well-organized experience.
Tour Overview
The tour begins with a scenic drive from Bergen to the tranquil village of Balestrand, situated along the Sognefjord.
A scenic drive from Bergen to the tranquil village of Balestrand, situated along the captivating Sognefjord, marks the start of this immersive tour.
Lasting 13 hours, this guided tour allows guests to explore the region’s stunning fjords, churches, and cider production. Offered in English and Norwegian, the tour is wheelchair accessible.
Guests meet at the Bergen Tourist Information office before embarking on their adventure.
The tour includes a cruise across the Sognefjord, visits to attractions like the Hopperstad Stave Church, and a cider tasting experience featuring five different styles paired with a five-course lunch menu.
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Booking Information
Guests can easily reserve their spot on the Bergen: Guided Fjord & Cidery Tour to Balestrand without any upfront payment. The booking allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Guests can also check availability for starting times that best suit their schedule. The tour offers the following booking options:
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Reserve now & pay later
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Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
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Check availability for starting times
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All fees and taxes included
This flexibility ensures a stress-free booking experience for guests looking to explore the scenic fjords and taste local ciders on this 13-hour tour.
Highlights of the Tour
Though the Bergen: Guided Fjord & Cidery Tour to Balestrand spans 13 hours, it offers a diverse array of highlights that captivate guests throughout the journey. Visitors can marvel at the historic Hopperstad Stave Church, admire the breathtaking vistas from Storesvingen Viewpoint, and witness the majestic Tvindefossen Waterfall. The highlight for many is the fjord cruise across the Sognefjord, providing a serene and awe-inspiring experience. Plus, the cider experience includes tastings of 5 distinct styles, a fruit and cider interpretation, and a 5-course lunch menu, offering a delightful culinary adventure.
| Attractions | Activities | Cider Experience |
|————-|————|——————|
| Hopperstad Stave Church | Fjord cruise across the Sognefjord | Tasting of 5 different styles of cider |
| Storesvingen Viewpoint | | Fruit and cider interpretation |
| Tvindefossen Waterfall | | 5-course lunch menu |
Included in the Tour
As part of the Bergen: Guided Fjord & Cidery Tour to Balestrand, travelers enjoy a range of inclusions that enhance their experience.
The tour features:
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An air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi for a comfortable and connected journey.
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All entrance fees to the tour’s attractions, including Hopperstad Stave Church, Storesvingen Viewpoint, and Tvindefossen Waterfall.
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A scenic fjord cruise across the Sognefjord, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
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A 5-course lunch menu and tastings of 5 different styles of cider, allowing participants to savor the local flavors.
Altogether, these inclusions ensure a well-rounded and enriching tour experience.
More Great Tours NearbyCustomer Feedback
The Bergen: Guided Fjord & Cidery Tour to Balestrand has received positive reviews from past participants.
With an overall rating of 4.5/5 based on 2 reviews, customers have praised the tour’s cider quality, scenic views, and well-organized tastings and information.
Travelers particularly enjoyed the beautiful fjord scenery and the photo opportunities during the stops.
The tour’s inclusions, such as air-conditioned transportation with Wi-Fi, entrance fees, and a 5-course lunch menu, have also contributed to the positive customer feedback.
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Exploring the Hopperstad Stave Church
One of the highlights of the Bergen: Guided Fjord & Cidery Tour to Balestrand is the visit to the Hopperstad Stave Church. This 12th-century wooden church is a magnificent example of Norway’s stave church architecture.
Here’s what to expect:
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Intricate Carvings: The church’s exterior features intricate wooden carvings, including dragon-like designs that were common in Viking-era structures.
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Restored Interiors: The interior has been carefully restored, showcasing the original wooden beams and columns, as well as religious artwork and artifacts.
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Guided Tour: Visitors can explore the church on a guided tour, learning about its history and the significance of its unique architectural features.
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Peaceful Atmosphere: The serene setting of the church, surrounded by lush countryside, adds to the overall tranquil and immersive experience.
Panoramic Views From Storesvingen Viewpoint
After exploring the captivating Hopperstad Stave Church, the tour takes visitors to the Storesvingen Viewpoint.
This scenic overlook offers panoramic vistas of the Sognefjord and the surrounding mountains. Guests can gaze out at the serene, mirror-like waters and the dramatic, rugged peaks in the distance.
The viewpoint provides the perfect spot to pause, snap photos, and soak in the breathtaking natural beauty of the region. With its unobstructed views, Storesvingen is an essential stop on the tour, allowing participants to fully enjoy the stunning fjord landscape.
Tasting Delightful Ciders at the Cidery
Having explored the stunning natural landscapes, the tour proceeds to the cidery, where guests embark on a delightful cider tasting experience.
At the cidery, visitors savor a curated selection of 5 distinct cider styles:
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A crisp, light-bodied apple cider
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A robust, oak-aged pear cider
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A lively, fruit-forward berry cider
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A complex, semi-dry cider with a touch of hops
The tasting is accompanied by a 5-course menu featuring locally sourced ingredients, providing a harmonious pairing between the ciders and the culinary offerings.
This immersive cider experience promises to delight the senses and leave a lasting impression on the palate.
Common Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
The tour likely doesn’t allow guests to bring their own food and drinks. The inclusions indicate the tour provides a 5-course lunch menu and transportation, so outside food and beverages may not be permitted.
Is There a Minimum Group Size Requirement?
There’s no minimum group size requirement. The tour accommodates individual travelers as well as small groups. Guests can enjoy the full experience regardless of group size.
Are There Restroom Facilities Available During the Tour?
The tour provides restroom facilities at various stops along the way, including during the fjord cruise and at the cidery. Travelers can expect access to clean and well-maintained restrooms throughout the day’s activities.
Can I Take Photos During the Cider Tasting Session?
Yes, you can take photos during the cider tasting session. The tour includes a cider experience where you’ll taste 5 different ciders, so feel free to capture the experience through photos.
Is the Tour Suitable for Children?
The tour is not explicitly marketed as family-friendly and may not be suitable for children. The cider tasting and 5-course lunch menu are geared towards adult participants. Younger visitors may find the pace and content less engaging.
The Sum Up
This guided tour offers an immersive experience in Norway’s stunning natural landscapes. Visitors can enjoy the breathtaking fjords, historic stave church, and a unique cider tasting, all while benefiting from the convenience of an air-conditioned vehicle and informative guides. With flexible booking options, this tour provides an unforgettable journey through the country’s remarkable beauty and cultural heritage.
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