Things to Do in Hardanger: The Best Activities and Experiences in the Region

Why visit Hardanger for outdoor activities?

Hardanger is one of the most scenically rich regions in Norway. The area stretches across deep fjords, steep mountain plateaus and lush valleys, giving visitors access to an unusually wide range of outdoor experiences within a compact geographic area.

The region is home to the Hardangerfjord, the fourth longest fjord in the world, as well as the Folgefonna glacier, the Hardangervidda plateau and dozens of waterfalls. Trolltunga is the most famous single destination, but the surrounding landscape offers far more than one hike.

Trolltunga Active has operated in the region since 2008 and offers guided activities across a broad range of terrain and intensity levels, making it possible to explore Hardanger with local expertise regardless of your experience level.

Trolltunga hike

The Trolltunga hike remains the most visited experience in the region. The 27 to 28 km round trip route reaches a horizontal rock shelf 700 metres above Lake Ringedalsvatnet and delivers one of the most photographed views in Scandinavia.

Guided tours depart daily throughout the summer season and include options for sunrise, sunset and standard daytime departures. Winter tours are also available for those seeking a more challenging and less crowded experience.

Trolltunga Via Ferrata Sky Ladder

For those who want to reach Trolltunga in a way that most visitors never experience, the Via Ferrata Sky Ladder route ascends the cliff face directly using fixed iron rungs and a safety cable system. No climbing experience is required. The Sunset version of this tour is the top-rated experience in the Trolltunga Active portfolio and is not offered by any other operator in the region.

RIB Fjord Safari

The RIB Fjord Safari takes guests out onto the Hardangerfjord in a high-speed rigid inflatable boat. The tour covers dramatic fjord scenery, waterfalls visible from the water and sections of coastline that are inaccessible on foot.

A Deluxe version of the safari is available, which extends the route and adds additional stops. Both versions are suitable for most age groups and fitness levels, making the RIB Safari one of the most accessible high-impact activities in the region.

Trolltunga Zipline

The Trolltunga Zipline runs across a section of the Trolltunga landscape and delivers a short but intense burst of speed and exposure above the mountain terrain. It is a popular add-on for visitors who have already hiked Trolltunga and want to experience the area from a different angle.

E-bike tours in Hardanger

Trolltunga Active offers several e-bike routes through the Hardanger valley, including a route from Ulvik to Ossete that passes through historical farmland and landscapes shaped by centuries of agriculture and local tradition. E-bike tours are well suited for visitors who want to cover more ground than a standard hike allows while still experiencing the region at a pace that allows for stops and observation.

A combined e-bike and hike option is available on the Valley of Waterfalls route, which follows a trail through one of the most waterfall-dense areas in the region.

Fjord kayak tours

Guided kayak tours on the Hardangerfjord are available for individuals and groups. The tours cover the fjord from water level, which provides a perspective on the surrounding mountains and cliff faces that is not possible from the shore. No prior kayaking experience is required for the guided tours, as instruction and equipment are included.

Tyssedal Via Ferrata and Cliff Camping

In addition to the Trolltunga Via Ferrata, Trolltunga Active offers a separate via ferrata route at Tyssedal. This route can be combined with a cliff camping experience, where guests spend the night in a portaledge suspended on the cliff face. Cliff camping is one of the most unusual overnight experiences available in Norway and is suited for those seeking a genuine adventure rather than a standard accommodation option.

Queen Sonja's Panoramic Trail

Named after the Norwegian queen, this trail follows a panoramic ridge above the Hardangerfjord and provides some of the most expansive views in the region. The route is less demanding than Trolltunga and is well suited for visitors who want a rewarding hike without the full-day commitment of the Trolltunga route.

Half-day dogsledding tour

During the winter season, Trolltunga Active offers a half-day dogsledding tour in the Hardanger region. This is a family-friendly option that provides a completely different experience of the Norwegian winter landscape. Participants can both ride and drive the sled, and the dogs and handlers are local to the region.

Corporate and group activities in Hardanger

Trolltunga Active arranges tailored activity programmes for companies and groups. These range from single activities to full multi-day itineraries combining hikes, fjord experiences and team-based challenges. The guides adapt the programme based on the size, fitness level and preferences of the group, and private departures are available across most activities.

How to plan a trip to Hardanger

Most visitors base themselves in or near Odda, which sits at the southern end of the Sørfjord and provides access to both the Trolltunga trailhead and the main Hardangerfjord. Accommodation options in the area range from guesthouses and hotels to the mountain dome packages offered by Trolltunga Active.

The main activity season runs from late June to mid-October. Winter activities are available but require more planning and are weather-dependent. Booking in advance is strongly recommended during July and August, as popular tours fill up quickly.

Frequently asked questions about activities in Hardanger

What is the most popular activity in Hardanger?
The Trolltunga hike is by far the most visited experience. For those wanting something more physically intense, the Via Ferrata Sky Ladder Sunset tour is the highest-rated activity in the Trolltunga Active portfolio.

Are there activities in Hardanger suitable for beginners?
Yes. The RIB Fjord Safari, e-bike tours, fjord kayaking and Queen Sonja's Panoramic Trail are all suitable for visitors with no prior experience. Trolltunga Active guides all activities with safety and accessibility as core priorities.

Can I do multiple activities in one trip to Hardanger?
Yes. Many visitors combine a Trolltunga hike with a fjord safari or e-bike tour during a two to three day stay in the region. Trolltunga Active can advise on how to structure a multi-activity itinerary based on your available time and interests.

How do I get to Hardanger from Bergen?
Bergen is the closest major city to Hardanger. The drive from Bergen to Odda takes approximately two to two and a half hours via the E16 and Rv13. Buses also run regularly between Bergen and Odda throughout the year.

Where can I book activities in Hardanger?
All Trolltunga Active tours and activities are available for booking at trolltunga-active.com.