Kvam: Experience waterfalls, fjords and culture

Steinsdalsfossen plunges 50 metres. Near Norheimsund, you can walk behind the waterfall without getting wet—a unique perspective on this natural spectacle. There is parking for cars, motorhomes and caravans at the waterfall. As parking arrangements can change, it’s best to check before setting off.

Hiking and views in Kvam

An easily accessible hike to Krokavatnet offers views of the Hardangerfjord. The route is 2.3 kilometres long and takes about an hour and a half each way. Allow enough time for the round trip. From Kiellandbu, the view stretches across fjords, mountains and glaciers, including the Hardangerfjord and Folgefonna.

Another starting point for mountain views is Breidablik in the Kvammafjella, high above Fitjadalen. Good trails lead there from the fjord, the mountains and other cabins. If you prefer a guided tour, Hardangerfjord Adventure offers tailor-made hikes in the landscape around Norheimsund and Øystese. The tours are listed as running from April to October and are subject to availability; check the dates in advance.

Fjord trips from different starting points

The Hardangerfjord and Fyksesund Fjord Safari travels from Norheimsund into Fyksesund. The trip includes brief photo stops and stories about nature, culture and life along the Hardangerfjord. The Norheimsund RIB Seafari departs from the guest harbour, 150 metres from the bus terminal. It crosses the Hardangerfjord and travels through the ten-kilometre-long Fyksesund to Botnen. Check the route and season for this trip before travelling.

A Fyksesund RIB Fjord Safari also departs from Øystese. It travels into Fyksesund, the only fjord arm in Hardanger without a continuous road all the way to its innermost area. The trip is seasonal. At Hardanger Akvasenter, another RIB experience combines a visit to an interactive exhibition with a trip to an operating salmon farm in the fjord. The tour begins with the exhibition “Det er her vi bur” and continues by RIB. Timetables vary by season and booking is required; confirm the dates in advance.

Art, water and local produce

In Øystese, Kunsthuset Kabuso offers changing exhibitions, concerts and events throughout the year. The Ingebrigt Vik Museum houses the collection of one of Norway’s most important sculptors. Hardanger Skyspace, a light installation by American artist James Turrell, is also located right by the fjord in Øystese. These places offer different experiences: changing programmes, a sculpture collection and a site-specific light installation.

Farms are also part of the experience. Spildegarden is a fourth-generation family farm where fruit and berries are grown, and apple juice and cider are made. Breievne Gard offers a farm café, its own products and locally made specialities. The café is seasonal; check what’s currently on offer before your visit. Breievne Gard also offers glamping, walks to cultural heritage sites, product tastings and locally themed events.

Hardangerbadet has a 25-metre pool, a family pool and a therapy pool. Facilities also include indoor swimming areas, a water park and a waterslide. So, alongside fjord trips and hikes, there are also water-based activities to enjoy.

When choosing where to stay, match the starting points and destinations mentioned above to your daily plans: fjord trips depart from places including Norheimsund and Øystese, and several cultural attractions are in Øystese. Think about which experiences will shape your trip, and use them to guide your search for a suitable base.

Discover more destinations: Strandebarm, Øystese, Tørvikbygd, Steinstø, Norheimsund, Omastrand, Radøy, Sund

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