Scenic Hardanger Fjord and waterfalls Guided bus tour

Looking at the stunning images of Norway’s landscapes, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer beauty of places like the Hardangerfjord. This guided bus tour from Bergen promises a day filled with waterfalls, charming villages, and apple orchards, with a good dose of scenic views. We’ve rounded up everything you need to know to decide if this trip fits your travel style — from the highlights to potential pitfalls.

What we love about this experience is its balance of natural beauty and local charm, the expert guides who make the journey engaging, and the value for money — especially with included meals and ferry rides. A possible consideration is that it’s a long day with a lot of driving, so travelers who prefer a more relaxed pace might find it a bit rushed. It’s best suited for those eager to see Norway’s iconic landscapes without the hassle of planning every stop.

If you’re after a well-organized, scenic adventure that combines nature with cultural insights, this tour offers a lot for the price. Whether you’re on a tight schedule or just want a taste of Norway’s fjord country, it’s a solid choice — especially if you love waterfalls, local food, and picturesque villages.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Scenic Experience: Combines fjord views, waterfalls, and a charming village in one day.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable and engaging guides enrich the journey with stories and insights.
• Included Meals & Ferry: Apple cake tasting, coffee, and a ferry ride add great value and fun moments.
• Good Value for Price: At $131, you get a full day out with multiple stops, transportation, and meals.
• Long but Rewarding Day: About 6.5 hours, so expect a fair amount of travel but with scenic rewards.
• Not Suitable for Wheelchair Users: The tour involves some walking and specific access limitations.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and Departure

The tour kicks off at 09:00 AM from a designated bus stop near the Fast boat terminal in Bergen. The meeting time is 8:45 AM, so plan to arrive a little early. The buses are in a shared area, so ask the guide or driver if you’re unsure where to locate your coach. The bus itself is described as first-class, comfortable, and driven by an experienced local driver—important for a smooth ride through Norway’s winding roads.

The Scenic Bus Journey

From Bergen, the ride begins with views of the surrounding mountains and fjord landscapes, setting the tone for the day. Expect a lot of picture-worthy scenery, as the route is designed to showcase the best of Hardanger’s natural beauty. Several reviews mention the comfort of the coach and the engaging commentary from guides like Maria, who shares intriguing facts about the area, local traditions, and geology along the way.

Crossing the Fjord with a Ferry Ride

One of the unique aspects of this tour is the ferry crossing across the Hardangerfjord. This isn’t just a transportation link; it’s part of the experience, offering you a chance to see the fjord’s iconic blue waters and towering mountains from a different perspective. The ferry ride is approximately 12 minutes, making it a brief but memorable highlight. Travelers have noted that the ferry ride provides a refreshing break from the bus, giving everyone a chance to stretch and enjoy the views.

More Great Tours Nearby

Øystese and Spildegarden Apple Farm

The first major stop is the charming village of Øystese, surrounded by high mountains and the sparkling fjord. It’s a perfect spot to soak in the peaceful atmosphere. The real treat here is a visit to Spildegarden, an apple farm where you’ll get to taste “the world’s best apple cake” — as many reviewers put it. The owners are welcoming and eager to share insights into how they manage their orchard, making this a genuine taste of Norwegian rural life.

Reviewers consistently praise the apple farm experience: “the apple pie and juice were really good,” and “the atmosphere at Spildegarden is tranquil and authentic.” Some even bought extra pies after the tasting, underscoring how delicious they found the local produce. The visit typically lasts about an hour, giving enough time to enjoy the food, learn about apple farming, and take photos.

Waterfalls: Steinsdalsfossen and Fossen Bratte

Next on the agenda are Norway’s famous waterfalls. The first is Steinsdalsfossen, an impressive 50-meter cascade renowned for its walking path behind the falls — a feature that makes this quite a photo opportunity and a highlight for many visitors. The experience of walking behind a waterfall, feeling its spray and hearing the roar, leaves a lasting impression.

Just 20 minutes away, the tour stops at Fossen Bratte, which plunges 80 meters. Both waterfalls serve as natural landmarks and are often praised for their breathtaking beauty. Reviewers mention that these stops are well worth the time, with some noting that the waterfall photos turned out stunning despite less-than-perfect weather. Be sure to bring your camera, as these natural wonders are some of Norway’s most photogenic spots.

Additional Stops and Scenic Views

While the initial itinerary mentions three waterfalls, some travelers report passing by the third one without stopping. This is a minor detail but worth noting if waterfalls are your main focus. The tour emphasizes the landscape’s grandeur, with scenic views from the bus and stops designed for photography.

Duration and Overall Experience

The entire tour lasts approximately 6.5 hours. Reviewers describe it as “the perfect length,” with enough time for sightseeing, food, and rest stops without feeling overly rushed. Some mention that the long drive is balanced by the comfort of the coach and the engaging commentary from guides like Jan and Maria.

What’s Included and Pricing

At $131 per person, this tour offers good value considering the included ferry ride, visits to waterfalls, apple farm experience, and the guidance of a knowledgeable local. The price Cover all taxes and fees, so there are no hidden costs. It’s worth comparing this to other similar experiences, as some reviews suggest this trip provides a nice balance of scenery, cultural insight, and food.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring comfortable shoes for walking, especially at the waterfalls and farm.
• Pack snacks and water; while there’s food at the apple farm, options are limited during other stops.
• A camera is a must — the views are stunning and worth capturing.
• Dress for the weather — layers and waterproof clothing are recommended, especially if rain is forecast.
• Note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, so plan accordingly if needed.

The Value of the Experience

This tour manages to pack in a lot of Norway’s best bits into a single day. The ferry ride, waterfalls, and apple farm offering a taste of local produce create a rich, multi-sensory experience. Many reviewers appreciate the expert guides like Maria and Jan, who bring the landscapes alive with stories and humor, making the long journey feel engaging and educational.

The scenic stops are well-chosen, offering a variety of photo opportunities and peaceful spots to simply take in the surroundings. The apple farm visit gets consistent praise for its authenticity and delicious offerings, making it a standout part of the trip.

On the downside, some might find the day somewhat rushed, especially if they’re not keen on long bus rides. Others mention that the waterfalls and fjord views, while beautiful, aren’t always as dramatic as the pictures online — weather conditions can influence the visual impact.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for nature lovers and those wanting a quick but meaningful taste of Norway’s fjord country. It suits travelers who don’t mind a bit of a long day on the bus and appreciate a mix of natural scenery, cultural insights, and local food. Families, couples, and solo travelers who enjoy photography, storytelling, and scenic stops will find plenty to love here.

If you’re looking for an easy, guided experience that covers multiple highlights with minimal planning, this tour offers excellent convenience and value. However, if you have mobility issues or prefer more pace and fewer stops, you might want to consider other options.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour doesn’t specify age restrictions, families with children who can handle a long day on the coach and enjoy walking at waterfalls should find it suitable. Keep in mind the walking involved and bring snacks for little ones.

What should I bring on the tour?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, snacks, and water are recommended. Dress appropriately for the weather, as it can be cooler or rainy, especially near waterfalls.

Are meals included?
Yes, you’ll enjoy a slice of apple cake and coffee or tea at Spildegarden, which many describe as a highlight. Additional food options are not included during the rest of the trip.

How long is the ferry ride?
The ferry crossing lasts about 12 minutes, providing a short but scenic break during the day.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility challenges?
No, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users as some walking and uneven surfaces are involved.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour runs rain or shine, and weather can affect the scenery. Always check the forecast and dress accordingly. The waterfalls and fjord views may be less dramatic in poor weather.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Yes, generally suitable for families, but younger children should be able to handle the long coach ride and walking.

This Hardanger Fjord and Waterfalls Guided Bus Tour from Bergen offers an accessible, well-rounded introduction to some of Norway’s most iconic sights. With beautiful waterfalls, a scenic ferry crossing, and a taste of local life at the apple farm, it captures the essence of Norway’s natural and cultural treasures.

The experience is particularly valuable for travelers wanting a convenient, guided day trip that combines breathtaking scenery with engaging storytelling. The good reviews and attentive guides suggest it’s a dependable choice that delivers more than just pretty pictures.

While it’s not suited for those seeking a very relaxed or slow-paced day, it’s a perfect option for curious explorers eager to see Norway’s scenic highlights without the hassle of self-driving or extensive planning. This tour proves that sometimes, a well-organized bus trip can be a rewarding way to experience Norway’s stunning landscapes.

In summary, if you’re after a scenic, educational, and delicious day out and don’t mind a full schedule, this tour offers solid value and memorable sights. It’s especially well-suited for first-time visitors to Bergen wanting to get a real feel for the fjord country with friendly guides to enhance the journey.

You can check availability for your dates here: