3 things you can do on Norway’s most popular scenic route

Travel itineraries: Oslo - Eidfjord - Bergen

If you want to experience Norway this summer, it’s not a bad idea to take a trip from Oslo to Bergen! 

The journey between Norway’s two largest cities crosses one of the world’s most beautiful mountain ranges across Hardangervidda. From here you can take a detour on the Flåm Line or experience beautiful Norwegian nature by hiking in the mountains, cycling or paddling on the fjord.

On the way down from Hardangervidda towards the fjord landscape in Western Norway, you'll experience majestic waterfalls and fantastic fjords. Here you can rent a rowboat, go kayaking or on a fjord safari on Hardangerfjord – Norway’s second longest fjord.

There is no shortage of experiences along this route, but it’s obviously difficult to see everything in one trip. Below are three of the experiences worth seeing if you are travelling between Norway’s two biggest cities this summer: 

1. Get up close to Norway’s largest predator

No, it’s by no means as scary as it sounds! The journey between Oslo and Bergen takes you across Hardangervidda, which is teeming with birds and wildlife. Perhaps you'll get to spot one of the 100 different bird species that live here, including the golden eagle and gyrfalcon. Or perhaps Europe’s largest wild reindeer herd of more than 9,000 animals? Wolverines and arctic foxes also live on Hardangervidda, so keep your eyes open!

And if you really want to have a close encounter with the king of the forest and other fantastic creatures, you can stop at Bjørneparken in Flå. Here you can see bears, wolves, lynx, moose and reindeer up close and even help feed the animals. 

TIPS! Need to book an overnight stay along the way? Thon Hotel Bjørneparken is only a short walk away from Bjørneparken, located right next door.

2. Magnificent fjords and magical waterfalls in Eidfjord

The journey from Oslo to Bergen offers impressive contrasts, from the bare mountains of Hardangervidda to the lush Hardangerfjord. 

Eidfjord is the starting point for a number of outdoor experiences, whether you want to swim, try your luck at fishing, go hiking or spend a few hours on the fjord. Take a fjord safari and get a closer look at the area's spectacular nature and the incredible fjord landscape! Or treat yourself to a kayak excursion and fill your drinking bottle with water from a waterfall. 

This area is also known for its magnificent waterfalls, which you shouldn't miss.

Vøringsfossen is Norway’s most famous waterfall and has a drop of 182 metres. Feel the powerful forces! Take a look at the large amounts of water from the viewpoint or cross over the waterfall on the step bridge. You can also go to the foot of Vøringsfossen and feel the spray of the water on the face.

Steindalsfossen is another natural attraction that is definitely worth experiencing. The waterfall outside Norheimsund has a drop of 50 metres and there is a path behind the waterfall so that you can experience the water up close without getting wet!

TIPS! Treat yourself to a night of historical splendour at Thon Hotel Sandven, located around an hour’s drive along the Hardangerfjord towards Bergen. The hotel dates from 1857 and is picturesquely located right on the edge of the fjord with its own beach zone in the beautiful town of Norheimsund.

3. Take Europe’s best train ride – the Bergen Railway!

Get ready for an adventure on rails! The Bergen Line is an absolute must for train lovers or for those who simply want a quiet and relaxing journey on public transportation. Hop off at one of the numerous stops along the way – from the Bergen Line, for example, you can take a detour on theFlåm Line – or simply stay on the train and enjoy the views.

In any case, the journey is sure to be a memorable experience. The train trip between Oslo and Bergen has been called 'Europe’s best train journey' by Lonely Planet.

The journey takes between six and seven hours and along the way, you cross the Hardangervidda National Park and Hardangervidda Plateau, which is Europe’s largest mountain plateau, situated at 1,237 metres above sea level. 

Finse is the highest stop, at 1,222 metres above sea level. From here there are miles and miles of mountains to explore and the perfect starting point for those who want to experience wild Norwegian nature. English lords spent a lot of time hunting and fishing in this area in the 19th century and today, it is a popular destination for anyone who wants to go for a hike, climb to the top of a mountain or simply enjoy the mountain scenery.

Did you know...? Have you seen Star Wars Episode V-The Empire Strikes Back from 1980? Finse was used as the location for the planet Hoth in the movie and is therefore a popular destination for Star Wars fans.

Once in Bergen, you can check in to one of our four great hotels- all at a convenient location and with a fantastic breakfast buffet included in the rate.