- \n
- Our journey begins as we follow the shores of the Ulvikfjord towards the beautiful Osafjord. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- As we reach the main branch of the Hardangerfjord, you’ll enjoy magnificent views of the Hardanger Bridge, one of the world’s longest suspension bridges.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- We then enter the Vallavik Tunnel, home to its remarkable blue-lit underground roundabout. This unique engineering solution also provides access to the Hardanger Bridge.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- From here, we continue to today’s main destination: the spectacular Skjervsfossen Waterfall. We’ll stop here for around 30 minutes. A well-maintained, paved path of approximately 100\u2013150 metres leads you to the foot of the waterfall, where you can experience the sheer power of the cascading water up close. If you don’t mind getting a little wet, the spray provides a wonderfully refreshing shower on warm days.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- After our visit, we return to Granvin following the historic mountain road back to Ulvik. When it opened in 1901, this was the first road connection that allowed people to reach Ulvik without travelling by boat. The route passes through the beautiful Espelandsdalen Valley, with its peaceful lakes and lovely views of Espelandsfossen waterfall on the left-hand side.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Just before descending into Ulvik, we’ll make a short photo stop to admire the panoramic views across the village, the surrounding orchards and the fjord below.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Our final stop is Norway’s famous Fruit & Cider Route. Here you can either remain on the coach back to your ship or choose to get off and explore one of the cider farms before walking back to the harbour along the scenic Fruit & Cider Route. You are free to decide where you would like to leave the coach.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
![\"Bird-view](\"https:\/\/www.bookhardanger.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/BrakanesHotel_MariusHaugsdalDrone-45-1024x576.jpg\")
Brakanes Hotel, Ulvik \u00a9 Marius Haugsdal<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n First of all: welcome to Ulvik, affectionately known as the pearl of Hardanger. This idyllic village is home to around 530 inhabitants, yet it boasts four hotels and Norway\u2019s only fruit & cider route, set amidst a charming agricultural landscape of fruit orchards, berries, and sheep farming. The municipality also includes Finse, the highest station on the Bergen Railway.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ulvik is more than just one of Norway’s most beautiful fruit-growing villages \u2013 it’s also a proud member of the international Cittaslow<\/strong> network, a movement that celebrates communities where quality of life comes before the fast pace of modern living.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Life here follows the rhythm of the seasons. In spring, the hillsides burst into blossom, while summer and autumn bring an abundance of apples, cherries, plums and pears. Surrounded by majestic mountains and fjords, Ulvik offers a slower, more peaceful way of life that residents cherish.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Rather than rushing from place to place, people here take time to enjoy nature, local food and good company. Visitors are invited to do the same \u2013 stroll through the orchards, taste locally produced cider, meet passionate local producers and experience the genuine warmth of a village where life is lived at a gentler pace.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It’s this combination of spectacular scenery, strong local traditions and an unhurried lifestyle that makes Ulvik such a special place to visit \u2013 and an even more special place to call home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Ulvik fjord is a branch of Osa fjord, which itself is a northward arm of the Hardangerfjord. Ulvik fjord is less than 100 metres deep, making it much shallower than Osafjorden, which plunges to over 300 metres.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"Bagnstrond,](\"https:\/\/www.bookhardanger.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Bagnstrond_Ulvik-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nBagnstrond<\/strong> in Osafjord<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\u2013 where one could hardly believe anyone once lived<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Across the Osa fjord lies Bagnstrond, a quietly forgotten hamlet where time seems to stand still. Once home to a small but hardy community, the village never had a road connection, relying solely on the fjord for transport. In 1780, this waterway witnessed a tragic chapter when the mountainside collapsed into the fjord, creating a tsunami. The powerful wave capsized five boats and claimed the lives of an entire bridal party. The ferry quay at Bruravik\u2014meaning \u201cBridal Bay\u201d\u2014was named in poignant memory, as the bride was found there. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you look across to the opposite side of the fjord, you can still see the enormous triangular section missing from the mountainside. This striking scar marks the place where the mountainside collapsed into the fjord, unleashing the devastating wave.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As the age of the motorcar dawned and roads replaced water routes, families gradually moved away, beginning around 1960 until the last person left in 1996. In 1961, they proudly held the title of \u2018Norway\u2019s smallest school\u2019\u2014just two pupils and one teacher. Unsurprisingly, discipline was never an issue!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Today, no one lives there year-round, yet the houses remain as holiday homes and a base for deer hunting in the mountains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"View](\"https:\/\/www.bookhardanger.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Hardangerbrua-bridge_Anne-Hirth_02-1024x683.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nThe Hardanger Bridge<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
The Hardanger Bridge took four and a half years to build and was opened in 2013. It replaced a 10 minute ferry connection between Bruravik and Brimnes. You will see the former Bruravik ferry quay along the way. When the bridge opened, it was the tenth longest suspension bridge in the world. Its main span is the longest in Norway and extends 30 metres further than the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco. The bridge towers rise to 202.5 metres, making them the tallest structures on the Norwegian mainland. The bridge forms part of the fastest road route between Bergen and Oslo under normal weather conditions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"Vallaviktunnel](\"https:\/\/www.bookhardanger.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Vallaviktunnel-1-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nThe Vallavik Tunnel<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Opened in 1985, the Vallavik Tunnel took on a remarkable new role when the Hardanger Bridge was built. Engineers ingeniously integrated an underground roundabout into the existing tunnel, allowing drivers to join the bridge from beneath the mountain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As you approach the roundabout, you’ll notice the tunnel is bathed in blue light. In recent years, this type of lighting has been introduced in an increasing number of Norwegian road tunnels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The main reason is practical. Norway has many exceptionally long tunnels, and driving through them can become monotonous, making drivers feel tired. The blue lighting breaks up the journey, helping drivers stay alert. It’s also used to highlight key points along the route, such as underground roundabouts, where extra attention is needed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
There’s an aesthetic benefit too. The blue light creates a unique atmosphere, giving the impression of driving through the heart of a glacier. Studies have also suggested that it can have a positive psychological effect. Because the colour resembles daylight or the open sky, it can make the tunnel feel more spacious and help reduce discomfort for people who are prone to feeling anxious in tunnels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Granvin<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
After leaving the tunnel, we arrive in the village of Granvin, which was part of Ulvik Municipality until 1891. When it became an independent municipality, it was originally named Graven<\/strong> \u2013 a name that literally means the grave<\/em>. Unsurprisingly, local residents were far from enthusiastic about telling people they lived «in the grave». After years of campaigning, they finally persuaded the authorities to approve a name change, and in 1898 the municipality officially became Granvin<\/strong>. In 2020, Granvin was incorporated into the larger Voss Municipality.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.bookhardanger.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Skjervsfossen-waterfall-Ulvik-spring-1024x576.jpg\")
Experience the Skjervsfossen waterfall up close. Be ready for a shower. \u00a9 Heidi Kvamsdal<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n Skjervsfossen waterfall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Granvin’s greatest natural attraction is undoubtedly Skjervsfossen Waterfall<\/strong>, one of the highlights of the Hardanger National Tourist Route. The waterfall is located alongside the historic mountain road that once connected Granvin with the surrounding communities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Skjervsfossen is made up of two spectacular cascades, one immediately below the other, with a combined drop of around 150 metres. We’ll stop at the famous viewing area between the two waterfalls, often nicknamed «the shower», where a short, paved path brings you remarkably close to the upper falls. Feel the roar of the water, the cool mist on your face and the immense power of nature from just a few metres away.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We will no make a 30 minute stop. The bus will pick you up again at the same spot. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
We now continue along the historic mountain road towards Voss before returning to Granvin through the modern Tunsberg Tunnel. Opened in 2011, the Tunsberg Tunnel replaced the old road over Skjervet, a steep and winding route with numerous hairpin bends. While the old road is still a scenic drive today, it was once one of the region’s most challenging stretches. In winter, icy conditions often made the climb difficult and hazardous, while in summer the narrow road struggled to cope with the growing number of tourists, frequently leading to long queues and traffic congestion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The new tunnel has made the journey between Granvin and Voss both safer and much more reliable, regardless of the season.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Espelandsdalen Valley<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
We now leave the main road and follow the historic mountain road back to Ulvik. The route climbs to an altitude of 345 metres through the beautiful Espelandsdalen Valley before descending towards the fjord and down again to Ulvik.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For centuries, the Hardangerfjord was Ulvik’s main transport route, with boats providing the only reliable connection to the outside world. When this road opened in 1901, it became the first overland route linking Ulvik with neighbouring communities. For the first time, local farmers and businesses could transport larger quantities of goods by road instead of relying solely on boats.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Espelandsdalen is a peaceful mountain valley with crystal-clear lakes, streams and cascading waterfalls. On your left, you’ll catch sight of the beautiful Espelandsfossen<\/strong> waterfall. Made up of two separate cascades, it has a total drop of around 130 metres, with its highest vertical plunge measuring approximately 100 metres, making it one of the valley’s most striking natural landmarks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ulvik Panorama Viewpoint<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Before descending into the village, we’ll make a short stop at the Ulvik Panorama Viewpoint, where you can take a few photographs and appreciate the peaceful beauty of the landscape before we continue down into the village.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.bookhardanger.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Syse-Gard-1.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nThe Fruit & Cider Route<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Norway\u2019s only fruit and cider route is found here in Ulvik. Three farms offer a wealth of experiences, including cider tastings, guided tours, and the opportunity to purchase a variety of award-winning ciders.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Visitor Tip:<\/strong> All the farms offer a \u201ccider plank\u201d \u2013 a tasting board featuring different types of cider unique to each farm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
There might be a bit too little time on this trip to try everything on offer, so you should decide what appeals to you the most:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.bookhardanger.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Hardanger_Saft_Sider.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n1st stop: Lekve Farm: Cider factory with tasting flight <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
This cider factory \u201cHardanger Saft- og siderfabrikk\u201d produces a wide range of apple juices and spontaneously fermented ciders, along with its own distillery where fine spirits are aged in oak barrels. A cider flight from their own production is highly recommended.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.bookhardanger.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Syse-Gard-butikk.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n2nd stop: Syse Farm: Farmer\u00b4s market with cider tasting plank<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
With a delightful farm shop and highly recommended cider tasting plank with a little taste of local produce, Syse offers a variety of processed fruit products\u2014from jams and juices to cider\u2014as well as traditional cured lamb meats such as fenal\u00e5r and dry-cured sausages.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.bookhardanger.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Ulvik-frukt-sideri.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n3rd stop: Hakastad farm: Ulvik Frukt & Cideri with shop and tasting<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
A family-run farm growing over 20 varieties of apples and sweet cherries, including many traditional flavour-rich types. They produce an assortment of apple juices, ciders, and apple cider vinegar. Their little farm shop offers their own products, including award-winning ciders, with fresh sweet cherries and apples available in season.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Back to Brakanes Hotel<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Our sightseeing tour has now come to an end.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
From the Fruit & Cider Route, you are welcome to continue exploring on foot and enjoy a leisurely walk back to Brakanes Hotel<\/strong> through the orchards, or simply stay on the coach for the short return journey.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We hope you’ve enjoyed discovering the beautiful landscapes, history and local traditions of Ulvik and Hardanger. Thank you for joining us today, and we wish you a wonderful rest of your stay. We hope to welcome you back to Hardanger again in the future.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Have a safe journey!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Welcome to a 2 hour 20 minute sightseeing tour to the best waterfall in Ulvik! This sightseeing tour will take you to Skjervsfossen waterfall, one of the most stunning waterfalls on the official Norwegian Scenic Route Hardanger.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4,"featured_media":3303,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[70],"tags":[],"activity-categories":[],"location":[],"class_list":["post-3306","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-guide"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bookhardanger.com\/no\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3306","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bookhardanger.com\/no\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bookhardanger.com\/no\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bookhardanger.com\/no\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/4"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bookhardanger.com\/no\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=3306"}],"version-history":[{"count":13,"href":"https:\/\/www.bookhardanger.com\/no\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3306\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":3341,"href":"https:\/\/www.bookhardanger.com\/no\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3306\/revisions\/3341"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bookhardanger.com\/no\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/3303"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bookhardanger.com\/no\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=3306"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bookhardanger.com\/no\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=3306"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bookhardanger.com\/no\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=3306"},{"taxonomy":"activity-categories","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bookhardanger.com\/no\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/activity-categories?post=3306"},{"taxonomy":"location","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bookhardanger.com\/no\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/location?post=3306"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}