Top 10 Refreshing Experiences in the Kingdom of Waterfalls

With a warm and dry summer ahead, embarking on a refreshing journey through the land of waterfalls is an excellent travel choice for the season. Ten of the world's 30 tallest waterfalls are in Norway, and most of them are located in Fjord Norway. Here is a guide to the ultimate fjord waterfall experience.

As we head into another hot summer season, with high temperatures and droughts in many parts of the world, the Norwegian fjords offer a stark contrast. With lush, colorful landscapes featuring waterfalls and glaciers, the fjord region provides refreshing and spectacular natural experiences.

Waterfalls are, in fact, an integral part of the landscape in Fjord Norway, connecting the mountains, plateaus, glaciers, and deep fjords. Standing at the base of a roaring waterfall is enough to take your breath away. But there are so many different ways to experience the mighty falls and get close to the wild natural forces. Here's an overview of the most intense waterfall experiences, easily accessible from the fjord cities of Stavanger, Ålesund, and Bergen.

Tour suggestion: Take a round trip by car from Bergen to experience the magical waterfalls

Vøringsfossen: Norway´s signature waterfall

Vøringsfossen is the most famous waterfall in Norway. With its 182-meter drop from the Hardangervidda plateau, it's an impressive sight. Vøringsfossen is located along one of the main roads between Bergen and Oslo, and is part of the National Tourist Routes Hardangervidda. It is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Norway. Recently, walkways and bridges were built over the waterfall, allowing visitors to get up close to the enormous natural forces. The waterfall is also part of several fjord tours in Fjord Norway.

Steinsdalsfossen: Walk Behind the Waterfall

Steinsdalsfossen is located in the village of Norheimsund in the Hardangerfjord and is one of Norway's most famous waterfalls. The reason for this is that there is a walkway behind the waterfall, allowing you to get as close to the waterfall as possible without compromising safety. The waterfall is easily accessible from the road and is part of several fjord tours from Bergen.

The Double Charm of Låtefoss

Låtefoss is known for its location close to the road. In the spring, when the water flow is high, it can almost seem like the waterfall is going over the stone bridge, which is the main road between Stavanger and Bergen. Låtefoss actually has two separate waterfalls, Skarsfossen and Låtefossen, both originating from Lotevatnet. This place was a popular destination for travelers as early as the 19th century and is still a favorite for photographers and nature lovers.

Langfoss – The Award-Winning Waterfall

Langfoss has been voted the world's most beautiful waterfall by the World Waterfall Database. Langfoss has a beautiful location along the Åkrafjord, not far from Haugesund. You can hike to the top of the waterfall in about an hour and a half and enjoy the fantastic views. Guided tours to the top of the waterfall are also available. CNN Travel has also named Langfoss, with its 610 meters, one of the world's 10 most beautiful waterfalls.

Kjosfossen: Huldra Dancing in the Waterfall

Kjosfossen waterfall, with its height of 225 meters, is located within Norway's picturesque Flåm Valley. Kjosfossen can be experienced by taking the beautiful train journey of the Flåm Railway, from Myrdal station to Flåm station. The train stops just below the waterfall, allowing visitors to experience it up close. This is particularly beautiful sight in spring, when snowmelt results in a high volume of water in the waterfall. Legend has it that the hulder lures unsuspecting travelers into the depths of the forest with her enchanting song, only to vanish without a trace. As visitors admire the majestic waterfall during spring and summer time, they can enjoy a live dancing show in front of the waterfall, presenting the Huldra as described in the myths.

The Seven Sisters: The Adventure in Geirangerfjord

The Seven Sisters waterfall, nestled in the UNESCO World Heritage site of Geirangerfjord, is renowned for its resemblance to seven graceful sisters descending from the mountainside. Plummeting approximately 250 meters (820 feet) into the azure waters below, this majestic cascade creates a mesmerizing spectacle that never fails to inspire awe. Whether admired from the decks of a cruise ship or from one of the viewpoints along the steep mountain roads, the sight of the Seven Sisters enchants travelers with its ethereal beauty. Legend has it that the waterfall represents seven maidens dancing playfully along the mountainside, their timeless allure captured forever in the cascading waters, adding an enchanting layer of folklore to the splendor of Norway's fjord landscape.

Mardalsfossen: Hike to Mardalsfossen

Mardalsfossen waterfall, located in Møre og Romsdal county in the north of Fjord Norway, is a breathtaking natural spectacle renowned for its impressive height and beauty. Plunging from a dizzying height of approximately 705 meters (2,313 feet), Mardalsfossen is one of the tallest waterfalls in Norway and Europe, captivating visitors with its sheer power. Mardalsfossen is a regulated waterfall and has water flow from June 20th to August 20th each year. For the rest of the year, the water in the waterfall is overflow from the dam located above the waterfall.

From Molde, follow signs to Eikesdalen on road FV62. Once in Eikesdalen, you'll find parking areas where you can leave your car and then embark on a scenic hike to Mardalsfossen. The hike takes approximately 30 minutes (depending on your starting point) and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Feigefossen: The Mighty Waterfall

The 218 metre high Feigefossen waterfall, on the southern side of the Lusterfjord, is one of Norways highest unregulated waterfalls. If you follow the so called "romantic road" along the southern shores of the Lusterfjord, you stop by the river where the Feigeelva river runs into the fjord and continue on foot up to the waterfall. The path takes you over a hilltop, and suddenly the mighty waterfall comes into view. An almost shocking experience. If you keep climbing to the top, you will be rewarded with a magnificent view of the alpine mountains of Hurrungane to the east.

Bordalsgjeldet: A series of majestic waterfalls

Bordalsgjelet boasts a series of majestic waterfalls that tumble down steep cliffs into verdant valleys below, creating a symphony of rushing water and misty spray. With its highest waterfall dropping approximately 320 meters (1,050 feet), Bordalsgjeldet offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into the geological forces that have shaped the region over millions of years. Steeped in history, Bordalsgjeldet has long been revered by locals and visitors alike for its natural beauty and spiritual significance. It is accessible by a scenic drive from Voss, or a hike up the hillside.

Hengjanefossen

Hengjanefossen is one of the most popular stopping points for sightseeing boats and other boats touring Lysefjorden in Ryfylke. With a staggering height of approximately 410 meters (1,345 feet), it ranks among Norway's tallest waterfalls. It is possible to go by boat right up to the waterfall and fetch clean, clear water in a bucket to drink; a popular activity for tourists. The waterfall has naturally varied water flow. On land, you will pass the waterfall on the hike along the north side of Lysefjorden.