Private Guided Tour in Fjords & Waterfalls of Hardanger Norway

If you’re eyeing a trip to Norway, a day exploring the fjords and waterfalls near Bergen is often high on the list. This private guided tour in the Fjords & Waterfalls of Hardanger promises a scenic, flexible day out, with a focus on natural beauty, expert guiding, and sustainable travel. While I haven’t personally done this exact trip, I’ve gathered enough details to give you a honest, comprehensive look at what you can expect.

Two things really stand out about this tour: first, the stunning variety of natural sights — from waterfalls to fjord views — that make for fantastic photo ops and memorable moments. Second, the personalized service, with a dedicated English-speaking driver-guide and the ability to tweak the route to your preferences, sets this apart from more generic group outings.

Of course, one thing to consider is the price point, which is quite premium at over $1,300 for a group of up to 14 people. But if you value comfort, tailored experiences, and eco-conscious transport, the cost might be justified. This tour suits travelers who want a relaxed, curated day with plenty of scenic highlights and are prepared to indulge a bit in style and convenience.

Who would love this? If you’re traveling with a group and appreciate flexibility, excellent service, and breathtaking landscapes, this could be a perfect fit. It’s also ideal if you’re keen on a luxury experience that minimizes your environmental footprint with fully electric vehicles.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience tailored to your preferences
• Luxury electric vehicles for a smooth, eco-friendly ride
• Multiple waterfall stops with unique access and photo opportunities
• Breathtaking viewpoints of Hardangerfjord for stunning pictures
• Knowledgeable English-speaking guides who enrich the experience
• Flexible itinerary with options for personal interests and adjustments

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting in Bergen: Comfortable Pickup & First Stops

The adventure kicks off at 9:00 am, with pickup in Bergen, making it easy and stress-free to start your day. Since this is a private tour, you won’t be part of a large group, allowing for a more relaxed pace and the potential for tailored stops along the way.

Fossen Bratte Waterfall: The Bridal Veil

Your first stop is Fossen Bratte, often called “The Bridal Veil,” with a stunning 79-meter drop. For about an hour and a half, you can walk down to the waterfall, which involves a twenty-minute roundtrip hike. The walk offers a chance to stretch your legs and soak in the views before getting back into the vehicle.

This waterfall is particularly photogenic, and the walk down is straightforward, making it accessible for most visitors. It’s a great way to kick off the day with some impressive scenery and fresh mountain air.

Steinsdalsfossen Waterfall: Walk Behind the Water

Next, about 45 minutes away, is Steinsdalsfossen, a waterfall famous for a path that goes behind the cascading water. Walking behind a waterfall might sound like a cliché, but in reality, it’s a very immersive experience. You’ll find yourself just a few feet from the falling water, with the roar and spray creating unforgettable sensory memories.

The walk from Fossen Bratte is roughly 45 minutes, and the experience lasts around 1 hour 15 minutes, giving you ample time to marvel at the power of nature and take plenty of photos. The fact that the path is accessible from the parking lot makes it convenient and a favorite among visitors.

Hardanger Fjord Viewpoint: Scenic Highlights

Driving approximately 30 minutes from Steinsdalsfossen, you’ll stop at a beautiful viewpoint overlooking the Hardangerfjord. Here, you’ll get panoramic views of one of Norway’s most famous fjords—ideal for capturing photographs and just soaking in the vastness of the landscape.

This stop offers a great balance to the waterfalls — quieter, more contemplative, and perfect for taking in the scale of Norway’s natural beauty. Our review notes that some of the included pictures are from this spot, emphasizing its photogenic appeal.

Skjervsfossen Waterfall: A Narrow, Curvy Drive

Another highlight is Skjervsfossen, accessed via a narrow, winding road. Depending on traffic conditions, your driver might be able to stop in the middle of the road, with spray from the waterfall often washing over the car — a fun, immersive experience.

This stop typically lasts about 50 minutes, giving you time to enjoy the waterfall’s raw power and perhaps catch a few more photos. The drive there is part of the adventure, with the scenic, curvy roads adding to the sense of exploration.

Voss: Charming Village and Charging Break

The final stretch takes you to Voss, a lively village known for its small shops, cafes, and the Voss Gondol. Here, your guide will stop to charge the vehicle — a thoughtful touch reflecting the tour’s eco-conscious approach.

You’ll have around two hours on your own to explore Voss. Whether you want to browse local boutiques, grab a snack, or simply wander the historic streets and old stone church, it’s a good chance to stretch your legs and enjoy a more relaxed, local atmosphere.

Return to Bergen

From Voss, the journey back to Bergen takes about 1.5 hours, wrapping up a full day of awe-inspiring scenery and personalized service. The total duration is approximately 7 hours, making it a manageable, satisfying day trip.

The Experience: What Makes It Special?

The personalized nature of this tour is one of its biggest selling points. Since it’s private, you can discuss what you want to see more of — whether that’s waterfalls, viewpoints, or other local sights — and your guide can adapt accordingly. Having an English-speaking, certified driver-guide means you’ll not only enjoy the scenery but also learn plenty about Norwegian culture and landscapes.

The vehicles are all newer, electric models like Mercedes EQV, NIO ES8, and Mercedes EQS. This eco-friendly choice means you’re reducing your carbon footprint without sacrificing comfort — a win for environmentally conscious travelers.

According to reviews, the guides are knowledgeable and friendly, making the trip both enjoyable and informative. One reviewer praised Jacek for making the sightseeing “comfortable and a lot of fun,” highlighting the importance of a good guide in creating memorable travel experiences.

Price & Value Considerations

At $1,307.20 for up to 14 people, this tour is definitely at the premium end. For that price, you get a private, luxury experience with a dedicated guide, electric transport, and the flexibility to customize your day. If you’re traveling with a group or as a family, splitting the cost can make it quite reasonable compared to other private tours.

The value here lies in the comfort, flexibility, and eco-friendly approach. Instead of being part of a large, rigid bus tour, you get the freedom to linger at your favorite spots or skip others — ideal if you want a personalized experience with a focus on natural beauty.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who value personalized service, stunning scenery, and comfort. It’s especially suitable for groups or couples seeking a relaxed, flexible day with a knowledgeable guide. If you’re eco-conscious, the electric vehicles will appeal.

While it’s not specifically marketed as family-friendly, the stops involve manageable walks and no strenuous activity, so families with older children could enjoy it as well. If you’re after a luxury, scenic, and educational day out from Bergen, this tour hits many of the right notes.

Final Thoughts

This private tour in Hardanger offers an excellent way to explore Norway’s natural wonders without the rush or crowds of larger tours. The combination of spectacular waterfalls, breathtaking fjord views, and a knowledgeable guide makes it a compelling choice for those who want a personalized and comfortable experience.

You’ll love the variety of stops, from walking behind waterfalls to snapping photos at scenic viewpoints. The electric vehicle fleet adds a modern, eco-conscious touch, aligning with current travel values. While the price might seem steep, the level of service, flexibility, and immersive scenery justify it for many travelers.

In the end, if you’re after a thoughtfully curated day that balances adventure with comfort, this tour is definitely worth considering. Just be prepared to spend a full day on the road — but with so many beautiful sights, that’s hardly a hardship.

FAQ

Is this tour private?
Yes, it is a private tour, meaning only your group will participate, offering a more personalized experience.

Can I customize the route?
Since it’s a private tour, yes — you can request specific stops or experiences if you have particular interests.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is about 7 hours, including stops, driving, and free time at Voss.

What vehicles are used?
All vehicles are newer, electric models such as Mercedes EQV, NIO ES8, and Mercedes EQS, providing a smooth and eco-friendly ride.

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
While not explicitly marketed as family-specific, the stops involve manageable walks and scenic views that could suit older children.

What is the price for?
The price covers luxury electric transportation, a private guide, and all listed stops. It’s an all-inclusive experience, great for travelers valuing comfort and flexibility.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Where does the tour start?
It begins in Bergen, with pickup offered at a convenient time around 9:00 am.

Are there any additional costs?
Most stops are free of charge; the only potential extra costs could be personal expenses during free time in Voss.

If you’re looking for a scenic, flexible, and eco-friendly way to experience Norway’s fjords and waterfalls, this private tour from Bergen offers a well-rounded, high-quality option.