Vøringsfossen
Vestland
Vøringsfossen, also known as Vøringen, is a spectacular waterfall located in the Måbødalen valley within Eidfjord Municipality in Vestland county, Norway. It is among the highest waterfalls in Norway with a total fall of 182 meters and a major free fall of 163 meters. The waterfall is fed by the Bjoreio river, which is regulated due to hydroelectric power development but maintains a minimum summer flow to preserve its natural beauty. Vøringsfossen gained national recognition in 1821 when Professor Christopher Hansteen estimated its height during his journey to Hardangervidda. The area became accessible to tourists by the late 19th century, with the construction of the Fossli Hotel in 1891, designed in Art Nouveau style, serving visitors drawn by the waterfall's majesty. A pedestrian bridge spanning the ravine was opened in 2020 to enhance visitor experience, offering unique vantage points despite some controversy over its design. The waterfall remains a key natural attraction on the route from the Hardangervidda plateau to Hardangerfjord, celebrated for its dramatic drop and scenic surroundings.
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Astuce: The best time to visit Vøringsfossen is during the summer months when the water flow is guaranteed by minimum release requirements, ensuring an impressive cascade. Visitors should prepare for potentially slippery paths and heed safety warnings near the falls. Booking accommodations such as the historic Fossli Hotel in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist season. The pedestrian bridge opened in 2020 offers enhanced views but may be exposed to weather conditions, so dress accordingly. There are no fixed ticket prices, but some discounts may be available for guided tours or group visits.
Faits intéressants
- •Vøringsfossen is the 83rd highest waterfall in Norway by total fall height.
- •Professor Christopher Hansteen estimated the waterfall's height in 1821 by timing stones dropped from the edge.
- •The Fossli Hotel, built in 1891 near the waterfall, was designed in the Art Nouveau style by architect Frederik Konow Lund.
- •A pedestrian bridge across the ravine was constructed in sections by helicopter and opened in 2020.
- •The waterfall's name derives from Old Norse 'Vyrðingr', meaning to esteem or revere.
Histoire
Until 1821, Vøringsfossen was largely unknown outside the local community.
That year, Professor Christopher Hansteen's observations brought national attention to the waterfall.
In 1891, the Fossli Hotel was built to accommodate the growing number of tourists, coinciding with improved road access that included tunnels.
Around 1900, cruise ships began visiting the nearby Eidfjord, increasing visitor numbers.
The first car reached the area in 1915, and by 1921 a drivable road extended to the hotel.
In recent years, infrastructure improvements culminated in the opening of a pedestrian bridge across the ravine in 2020, designed to enhance visitor experience while preserving the natural environment.
Guide du lieu
Fossli Hotel1891
An Art Nouveau style hotel built in 1891 at the top of Vøringsfossen, designed by architect Frederik Konow Lund. It historically served visitors drawn to the waterfall and remains a notable landmark.
Pedestrian Bridge2020
A modern pedestrian bridge spanning the ravine near Vøringsfossen, opened in 2020. It measures 47 meters in length and has one side 16 meters higher than the other, designed by Carl-Viggo Holmebakk to offer spectacular views of the waterfall and valley.
