Jondal on the Hardangerfjord: Hiking, Glaciers and Building Heritage

Jondal lies at the inner end of the Hardangerfjord in Ullensvang. When choosing a hotel in Jondal, it helps to decide what you want to focus on during your stay: hiking trails and glacier activities, experiences on the fjord or architectural history. Folgefonna National Park begins just above the village.

Hiking and glacier experiences

There are at least 35 hiking trails in Jondal. An easy hike in the area is Fonnavegen–Gjetingshaugen; it follows a gravel road and forest path and offers views of Krossdalen and the Folgefonna Glacier. Teglbu is on the Teglhaug ridge east of central Jondal, towards Krossdalen.

Folgefonni Breførarlag is an activity provider based in Jondal. The provider offers guided glacier hikes in Folgefonna National Park; it runs meltwater kayaking trips near the glacier. The two activities differ in their format and location: the guided glacier hikes go into the national park, while the kayaking trips take place on meltwater near the glacier. Other experiences in Jondal include cycling along the fjord and swimming in the fjord.

Swimming times and fjord activities

Jondal swimming pool offers public swimming times for seniors, families, all age groups and women. The municipal schedule (as of 15 September 2026) also lists specific times for children in Grade 5 and above and for adults aged 16 and over. As times may change, check the current schedule before your visit.

Building heritage in Jondal

The Ungdomshuset in Jondal was completed in 1933 and designed by architect Torgeir Alvsaker. Jondal Church was built in 1888. It is a long church made of timber, with a narrower, lower chancel and an octagonal apse with three sides. The church has a wheelchair-accessible entrance; there is a ramp at the south entrance. The eastern entrance leads to the sacristy door. Check the current visitor guidelines before your visit.

More destinations in the wider Ullensvang destination

If you are planning to explore beyond Jondal, the wider Ullensvang destination offers other distinct natural attractions. Dronningstien runs between Kinsarvik and Lofthus, is 16 kilometres long and challenging; the hike takes six to nine hours. It offers views of the Sørfjorden and the Folgefonna Glacier and passes through lush orchards with thousands of apple trees. The Husedalen route runs from Kinsarvik into Hardangervidda National Park and takes three to six hours. The estimated durations help you compare the time needed for the two routes. Check seasonal conditions for both routes; for Dronningstien, it is also advisable to check the latest route details.

Agatunet is also a cultural destination in the wider Ullensvang area. The protected farm cluster is located at Aga on the Sørfjorden; its oldest building, Lagmannsstova, dates from 1220. Agatunet offers guided tours and exhibitions on art and cultural history; dates may vary.

Discover more destinations: Kysnesstrand, Herand.

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