Vøringsfossen is often called the most famous waterfall in Norway. The Bjoreia river plunges 182 metres in a series of drops into the Måbødalen valley near Eidfjord, at the western end of the Hardangervidda mountain plateau, in a dramatic cauldron of rock. The setting is the real draw, because the valley walls are so steep that the falls seem to vanish into the earth. A metal bridge that opened in 2020 spans 47 metres across the falls, with 99 steps, and viewing platforms, metal walkways and fences along the cliff edges at the Fossli viewpoint let you look down from several angles. From Bergen it is about 173 kilometres, just under three hours by car via Voss and the Hardanger Bridge, so it is a long day trip, and most visitors reach it on a guided tour. The tour linked here is titled The Power of Vøringsfossen, which tells you what to expect, and it is built around the waterfall and the Hardanger scenery on the way.
The falls can be visited all year, but the experience changes with the seasons. May to October is the most popular period, with spring and autumn especially impressive, because the flow is strong and the light is good. In July and August, it is wise to arrive early or late in the day to avoid the crowds.
In winter the flow is lower and may be partly frozen, daylight is short and the road across the Hardangervidda can close in bad weather, so it is best to check conditions and the tour's operating dates. Summer flow is guaranteed at a minimum level, which means the falls are never a trickle in the main season.
On the ground, allow time for the viewpoints and the walk. You can park near the Fossli Hotel, about a kilometre from the main road, or at the large car park at the top of the Måbødalen valley, and the restrooms there are generally open from April to October. Trails lead around the falls and you can walk down to the base from the road at Fossatromma, which takes up to an hour and a half to explore, with steps that are tiring on the way back up.
Wear proper shoes, because the paths and platforms are wet from the spray, and take a waterproof layer. The bridge is not for anyone who dislikes heights, but the platforms give a safer view.
Think about combining the waterfall with other stops on the same route. Many Hardanger day tours from Bergen include Steinsdalsfossen, where you can walk behind the water, and others add Skjervsfossen, the Hardanger fjord and the Hardanger Bridge, the longest suspension bridge in Norway. Voss, on the way, is known for white-water rafting, indoor skydiving and a climbing and zipline park, so some visitors stop there too.
If you would rather not spend six hours or more on the road, Steinsdalsfossen is the easy alternative and the Mostraumen cruise is the quick fjord option, but for sheer scale Vøringsfossen is the one to see.
Be realistic about the effort
It is a long day with several hours of road time, so bring snacks, a charged phone and layers, and consider motion-sickness tablets for the winding roads. The scale of the waterfall repays the journey.
What to expect
The experience
A long guided day trip by road via Voss and the Hardanger Bridge to the viewpoints and bridge at the falls, with scenery stops on the way.
Best time
May to October, with spring and autumn especially strong; early or late in the day in July and August to avoid the crowds.
How long
Around ten to twelve hours, mostly on the road.
Tips
Wear shoes with grip and a waterproof layer for the spray. In winter the flow is lower, daylight short and the high road can close.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Waterfall and landscape lovers who do not mind a long day.
- Families
- Teenagers and older children enjoy the bridge and the scale; very small children may find the journey long.
- Couples
- A dramatic day for a couple who like big scenery.
- Pair with
- Steinsdalsfossen and the Hardangerfjord on the same route, or the Folgefonna glacier on another day.
- Time needed
- A full day, with roughly six hours of driving.
Good questions
How high is Vøringsfossen?+
The waterfall drops 182 metres into the Måbødalen valley near Eidfjord.
How far is it from Bergen?+
About 173 kilometres, or just under three hours by car via Voss and the Hardanger Bridge.
When is the best time to visit?+
May to October is the most popular period, with spring and autumn especially impressive. In July and August, arrive early or late to avoid the crowds.
Can I visit in winter?+
The falls can be visited all year, but winter flow is lower and may be partly frozen, daylight is short and the road across the Hardangervidda can close in bad weather.
Is there a bridge across the falls?+
Yes, a metal bridge that opened in 2020 spans 47 metres across the falls and has 99 steps. Viewing platforms at the Fossli viewpoint give a less exposed view.
