Hardangerfjord
Vestland
Hardangerfjord, located in the Hardanger region of Vestland county in western Norway, is the fifth longest fjord globally and the second longest in Norway, stretching 180 kilometers from the Atlantic Ocean into Norway's mountainous interior. The fjord's deepest point reaches over 860 meters near Norheimsund, and it branches into several smaller fjords such as Sørfjorden, which extends 50 kilometers south. The surrounding area includes the Folgefonna glacier, Norway's third largest, protected within Folgefonna National Park. Historically shaped by glacial erosion and meltwater pressure around 8000 BC, the fjord has been central to local agriculture, known as Norway's "fruit orchard," and later became a hub for tourism starting in the late 19th century with Thomas Cook's cruise departures. Today, Hardangerfjord supports fish farming, producing significant amounts of salmon and rainbow trout, and its pristine melt-water is bottled internationally. The fjord is surrounded by diverse municipalities with a population of around 70,000, offering visitors stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant local culture.
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Tip: The best time to visit Hardangerfjord is during late spring to early autumn when the weather is milder and the fruit orchards bloom. Booking cruises or tours in advance is recommended, especially in peak tourist seasons. Visitors can benefit from regional travel passes and discounts for cultural sites along the fjord. Exploring the adjacent Folgefonna National Park offers hiking and glacier experiences. Bring suitable clothing for variable weather and consider local transport options connecting fjord towns.
Interesting facts
- •Hardangerfjord is the fifth longest fjord in the world and the second longest in Norway.
- •The fjord reaches a maximum depth of over 860 meters near Norheimsund.
- •Folgefonna glacier, adjacent to the fjord, is Norway's third largest glacier and part of Folgefonna National Park.
- •Thomas Cook started weekly cruises to Hardangerfjord in 1875, boosting tourism.
- •The fjord region is known as the "fruit orchard of Norway" due to its fertile agricultural land.
- •Hardangerfjord is one of the world's four major fish farming regions, producing over 40,000 tons of salmon and rainbow trout annually.
- •Isklar, a globally sold bottled water brand, sources its melt-water from Hardangerfjord.
History
Hardangerfjord was formed approximately 8000 BC following the melting of vast glacial ice, which caused the Scandinavian landmass to rise and valleys to flood.
Its formation involved both glacial erosion and high-pressure meltwater carving the landscape.
The region's human history dates back to ancient hunters and later agricultural communities, establishing the area as Norway's prominent fruit-growing region.
In the late 19th century, Hardangerfjord became a significant tourist destination, marked by Thomas Cook's initiation of weekly cruises from London in 1875.
Industrial development followed, with waterfalls harnessed for hydroelectric power, notably in towns like Odda.
Place Guide
Sørfjorden
The longest branch of Hardangerfjord, extending about 50 kilometers south from the main fjord, offering picturesque views and access to local villages.
Folgefonna National Park2005
Located on the Folgefonna peninsula adjacent to Hardangerfjord, this park protects the Folgefonna glacier and surrounding natural landscapes, offering hiking and glacier experiences.
Town of Odda
Situated at the innermost point of Hardangerfjord, Odda historically developed around hydroelectric power generation and industry powered by local waterfalls.
