Bergen to Folgefonna: Glacier Lake Hike & Hardangerfjord Ferry

Summary

Fjord ferry crossings, glacier lake hike and Norway’s wild green

You’ll walk behind Steindalsfossen waterfall (yes, you get wet), cross Hardangerfjord by ferry with locals, then hike through Folgefonna’s forests to Bondhusvatnet glacier lake. There’s time for snacks by turquoise water before heading back past mountain villages—a day that sticks with you long after Bergen fades in your rearview mirror.

What’s the experience like?

Boots thudding on wet stone, I ducked under the spray—someone ahead let out a yelp and laughed. Our guide, Kari, just grinned and waved us forward behind Steindalsfossen. The waterfall’s roar was so close it rattled my chest. My jacket smelled like river after that (not complaining). There was this moment where water caught the sun and everything went bright for a second—felt like we were inside the weather.

We piled back onto the bus, shoes squeaking. Kari told us about trolls living in these hills—she swore her grandma believed it. The drive out of Bergen rolled by in patches of sun and drizzle. Then came the ferry across Hardangerfjord: locals sipping coffee, a kid pressing his nose to the window. I stood outside for most of it, wind stinging my ears, watching little red boathouses slide past. It’s not quiet on those ferries—just a kind of soft hum and clatter that feels like travel.

The main thing everyone talks about is the hike through Folgefonna. It’s not tough—mostly flat—but you get these mossy boulders everywhere, trees dripping from last night’s rain, water running cold beside you all the way up. The air tasted sharp, almost metallic near Bondhusvatnet glacier lake. We found rocks to sit on; someone shared dried fish (I’ll admit I wasn’t brave enough). People took photos but mostly just stared at that turquoise water under gray mountains—I still think about that view sometimes when I’m stuck in traffic back home.

On the way back to Bergen there were more photo stops—Kari would suddenly shout “look left!” and we’d scramble for our cameras. The countryside felt emptier somehow after all that blue water and noise; fields and small houses sliding by in silence. Not sure if I slept or just drifted with the bus rocking me a bit.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Folgefonna National Park and Fjords

• Depart Bergen with guide stories
• Walk behind Steindalsfossen waterfall
• Ferry crossing over Hardangerfjord
• Easy hike in Folgefonna National Park
• Relax at turquoise glacier lake
• Hike back to bus through park
• Second ferry ride on Hardangerfjord
• Photo stop in Western Norway countryside

Top questions

How long is the Bergen to Folgefonna day trip?

The tour includes about 4.5 hours on the bus plus time at stops, ferries, and hiking.

Is there hotel pickup included?

The tour includes convenient pickup in Bergen city center.

Can small children join this tour?

Yes, infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; infant seats are available on request.

How difficult is the hike to Bondhusvatnet glacier lake?

The hike is easy and mostly flat, suitable for all fitness levels.

Are ferry tickets included?

Yes, both ferry crossings across Hardangerfjord are included.

Will there be a guide during the tour?

A local tour guide accompanies you throughout the day trip from Bergen.

What should I bring for lunch or snacks?

You should bring your own snacks or lunch to enjoy by Bondhusvatnet lake.

Are there photo stops along the way?

Yes, there are multiple photo stops during the return journey through Vestland countryside.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from Bergen city center, comfortable air-conditioned transport with a knowledgeable local guide throughout, two scenic ferry rides across Hardangerfjord, an easy guided hike through Folgefonna with time at Bondhusvatnet glacier lake for your own snacks or photos—and plenty of chances to stop for pictures before returning to Bergen in the evening.