Afternoon fjord cruise from Eidfjord to Lofthus

Spend your afternoon on a peaceful journey through one of Norway’s most beautiful fjords. Departing from the pier in Eidfjord, the cruise takes you along the Hardangerfjord—surrounded by steep mountainsides, cascading waterfalls, and countless fruit farms. It’s the perfect setting to slow down, breathe fresh air, and enjoy the scenery. Keep your camera close—this stretch of fjord is truly unforgettable.

After about 1 hour and 35 minutes on the water, you’ll arrive in Lofthus, a small village known for its fruit orchards, fjord views, and traditional cider. Depending on the tour option you choose, you’ll have 1 hour or 4 hours to explore. Wander through hillside orchards, taste local cider, have dinner at one of the cosy eateries, or simply relax by the shoreline and take in the tranquil surroundings.

Later, your return to Eidfjord is by Skyss public bus, giving you a new perspective on the landscape as you travel through small villages and dramatic countryside.

FAQ

Where can I buy tickets?

To enjoy the entire journey in one convenient ticket, you can easily book directly here on bookhardanger.com. Book Hardanger is a local non-profit organisation that supports local value creation and a sustainable community. You can also purchase tickets at the Eidfjord Tourist Office.

What’s included in the ticket ?

When you book through this website or at the Eidfjord Tourist Office, your ticket includes:

• One-way fjord cruise from Eidfjord to Lofthus
• One-way public bus journey from Lofthus to Eidfjord

Everything you need for a seamless round trip.

Duration options:

• Short version: approx. 3 hrs 42 mins
• Long version: approx. 6 hrs 47 mins

Schedule:

• Boat: Departs Eidfjord at 15:20 → Arrives in Lofthus at 16:55
• Return by bus – short stay:
  • 18:06 from Lofthus (bus 990)
  • 18:45 arrival at Bu terminal → change to bus 991
  • 19:02 arrival in Eidfjord
• Return by bus – long stay:
  • 21:11 from Lofthus (bus 990)
  • 21:50 arrival at Bu terminal → change to bus 991
  • 22:07 arrival in Eidfjord

What will I see along the way?

This scenic journey takes you past several charming villages along the Hardangerfjord.

The first place you’ll spot from the boat is Ulvik, nestled at the end of the Ulvikfjord. The village is especially known for its orchards and beautiful blossom season.
Next, you’ll pass Kinsarvik, a popular destination for hikers who want to explore the famous trail Dronningstien (The Queen’s Trail).
After Kinsarvik, the boat arrives in Lofthus, where you’ll disembark.

The return journey is by bus. The route takes you through the centre of Kinsarvik and onwards through the Butunnelen, which features a uniquely designed roundabout inside the tunnel. At Bu bus terminal, you’ll change to another bus that brings you back to Eidfjord.

What can I do in Lofthus?

Lofthus has long been a beloved travel destination, and Hotel Ullensvang is a well-known landmark in the area. In the hotel garden, you can visit the composer’s cabin once used by the famous Norwegian composer Edvard Grieg, who found inspiration for much of his beautiful music in these very surroundings.

The village is also known for its proud fruit-growing traditions. During the summer season, you can taste local juice or cider from one of the nearby orchards — or simply relax and enjoy the stunning natural scenery that surrounds Lofthus.

Can I buy food on board the boat?

There is a small kiosk on board offering a limited selection of snacks and refreshments.

Where do I find the bus stop in Lofthus?

There are two places where you can board the bus in Lofthus.
The first stop is diagonally across the road from the shop Bunnpris.
The second stop is directly opposite Hotel Ullensvang.