Vøringsfossen Waterfall
Viken
Vøringsfossen, also known as Vøringen, is a spectacular waterfall located at the top of the Måbødalen valley in Eidfjord Municipality, Vestland county, Norway. With a total height of 182 meters and a main drop of 163 meters, it ranks as the 83rd highest waterfall in Norway and is one of the country's most iconic natural attractions. Situated near Norwegian National Road 7, the waterfall forms a dramatic descent from the Hardangervidda plateau down to the Hardangerfjord. The name derives from the Old Norse word "vyrða," meaning to esteem or revere, reflecting the awe it inspires. Historically, it was relatively unknown until 1821 when Professor Christopher Hansteen estimated its height using a stopwatch and stones. The area developed into a tourist destination in the late 19th century, marked by the construction of the Art Nouveau-style Fossli Hotel in 1891, designed by architect Frederik Konow Lund. The site also attracted notable visitors such as the composer Edvard Grieg, who had a nearby log cabin. In recent years, safety measures have been enhanced, including the installation of a pedestrian bridge across the ravine in 2020, designed by Carl-Viggo Holmebakk. The Bjoreio river feeding the falls has a hydroelectric dam upstream, regulating water flow but maintaining minimum levels to preserve the waterfall's natural spectacle during summer months. Vøringsfossen remains a must-see for visitors exploring Norway's natural beauty and cultural heritage.
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Tip: The best time to visit Vøringsfossen is during the summer months when water flow is higher and the weather is milder. Visitors are advised to exercise caution near the edges due to steep drops, and to use designated viewing platforms and the pedestrian bridge for safe vantage points. Purchasing tickets or booking accommodations like the historic Fossli Hotel in advance is recommended during peak tourist season. There are safety signs around the area, and recent infrastructure improvements have enhanced visitor safety.
Interesting facts
- •Vøringsfossen is the 83rd highest waterfall in Norway with a total drop of 182 meters.
- •The waterfall's height was first roughly estimated in 1821 by Professor Christopher Hansteen using stones and a stopwatch.
- •The Fossli Hotel, built in 1891 near the waterfall, is designed in Art Nouveau style by Frederik Konow Lund.
- •The composer Edvard Grieg was a frequent visitor and had a log cabin nearby.
- •A pedestrian bridge spanning the ravine was installed in 2020 to enhance visitor safety and viewing experience.
History
Vøringsfossen was largely unknown outside local communities until 1821 when Christopher Hansteen estimated its height using a stopwatch and stones.
In 1891, a more precise measurement revealed the main drop to be 163 meters.
That same year, the Fossli Hotel was built atop the waterfall, accessible by a path with 1,500 stairs and a bridle path constructed in 1872 for English tourists.
The waterfall gained popularity with cruise passengers visiting Eidfjord around 1900.
Throughout the 20th century, hydroelectric developments upstream affected water flow, though minimum flow levels are maintained to preserve the waterfall's appearance.
A pedestrian bridge was added in 2020 to improve visitor safety and experience.
Place Guide
Fossli Hotel1891
An Art Nouveau-style hotel built in 1891 by architect Frederik Konow Lund, located at the top of the waterfall. It was constructed with materials carried on horseback and served early tourists exploring the falls.
Pedestrian Bridge2020
A 47-meter long pedestrian bridge crossing the ravine near the waterfall, designed by Carl-Viggo Holmebakk and opened in 2020. It provides safe viewing points and spans uneven terrain with one side 16 meters higher than the other.
