Where to Stay in Hardanger: Best Areas & Hotels For Your Road Trip

As a Norwegian, I think Hardanger is one of the most beautiful parts of the country to explore, and it's a destination that deserves more than just a quick stop on your way between Bergen and the rest of Norway. There is so much variety here, from the famous Trolltunga hike near Odda to the peaceful fruit-growing villages along Sørfjorden and the impressive waterfalls around Eidfjord.

However, Hardanger is a fairly large region, and choosing where to stay can make a big difference to your trip. The distances between some of the villages are longer than they might look on a map, and you'll want to think about which attractions you want to visit before booking your accommodation. My advice isn’t to pick one base and stay there your whole trip, instead use this as inspiration and create a route that suits your timeline. This is an area best explored with car and multiple stops over a long weekend or preferably even longer.

In this guide, I'll take you through the best areas to stay in Hardanger, what each place is like, the main attractions nearby and the best hotels and accommodation options in each area. Whether you're planning an adventurous hiking holiday, a scenic road trip or a relaxing few days surrounded by Norwegian nature, there's somewhere in Hardanger for you.

Quick answer: Where Is The Best Area to Stay in Hardanger?

If you're visiting Hardanger for the first time, I'd recommend Lofthus or Kinsarvik for the classic Hardanger experience. You'll be surrounded by apple orchards, beautiful fjord scenery, charming villages and hiking opportunities, while still being reasonably well positioned for exploring the region.

However, the best area depends on what you want to do. Odda and Tyssedal are the best places to stay if you're planning to hike Trolltunga or explore the southern part of Hardanger. Eidfjord is ideal for visiting Vøringsfossen and exploring Hardangervidda, while Ulvik is a wonderful choice for cider tasting, fruit farms and a quieter fjord experience. Finally, Norheimsund and Øystese are good bases if you're travelling from Bergen and want to explore the western side of Hardanger.

If you have enough time, I would really recommend staying in a couple of different places rather than choosing just one base. This allows you to experience more of the region without spending too much time driving back and forth.

Below you’ll see my three favourite hotels that I recommend checking out first. This is my personal favourite, and I highly recommend staying there if you want a beautiful and relaxing, but practical stay in Hardanger.

Vikinghaug

For something a little more independent, this offers spacious self-catering apartments with spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. The apartments have fully equipped kitchens and plenty of space, making them particularly suitable for groups staying several nights.

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Hotel Ullensvang

This is one of the most famous hotels in Hardanger and a destination in itself. Located right on the waterfront in Lofthus, it offers spectacular views across the fjord towards the Folgefonna glacier. The hotel has indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a private beach, restaurants and beautiful outdoor areas.

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Thon Hotel Sandven

This is one of the most charming historic hotels in Hardanger. Located right on the waterfront in Norheimsund, the beautiful building dates back to the 19th century and has a lovely traditional atmosphere. The hotel combines historic interiors with modern facilities and has a garden overlooking the fjord.

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Map of the Best Hotels in Hardanger

Below you'll find a map where I've pinned my favourite hotels in Hardanger to make it easier for you to navigate when you're looking for where you want to base yourself.

Odda and Tyssedal – Best Area for Trolltunga and Outdoor Adventures

If you're visiting Hardanger mainly for its famous hikes and outdoor adventures, Odda and Tyssedal are probably the best places to stay. Located at the southern end of Sørfjorden, these neighbouring villages are surrounded by steep mountains, glaciers, waterfalls and beautiful fjord scenery.

Odda is the largest town in the region and has the most restaurants, supermarkets, shops and practical facilities. It's a convenient base if you want somewhere with a little more going on, especially if you're staying for several days. Tyssedal is a smaller village just north of Odda, and while it has fewer facilities, it's particularly convenient for anyone planning to hike Trolltunga.

This is also one of the best areas for exploring Folgefonna National Park and some of the region's most impressive waterfalls. You'll find plenty of opportunities for hiking, kayaking, glacier experiences and scenic drives.

One thing worth knowing is that Trolltunga is a demanding full-day hike, so I recommend staying in the area for at least two nights if that's on your itinerary. This gives you some flexibility in case the weather changes and means you won't have to drive a long distance before or after the hike.

Best Hotels in Odda and Tyssedal

Tyssedal Hotel

If you like historic hotels with plenty of character, this is a lovely choice. The beautiful Art Nouveau building dates back to 1912. Today, it combines historic interiors, an impressive collection of Norwegian art and beautiful views of the fjord.

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Trolltunga Hotel

This is located just outside the centre of Odda, in a scenic setting close to Lake Sandvevatnet. It's a popular base for hikers and offers different room categories, including more budget-friendly options with shared facilities. The hotel has a restaurant with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and lake.

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Vikinghaug

For something a little more independent, this offers spacious self-catering apartments with spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. The apartments have fully equipped kitchens and plenty of space, making them particularly suitable for groups staying several nights.

Check prices and availability

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Lofthus and Kinsarvik – Best Area for Fruit Orchards & Fjord Views

If there's one area I'd recommend for experiencing the traditional Hardanger scenery, it's Lofthus and Kinsarvik. These two small villages sit along the eastern side of Sørfjorden and are surrounded by fruit orchards, colourful gardens, steep mountains and beautiful fjord views.

Hardanger is particularly famous for its fruit production, especially apples, and this part of the region is one of the best places to see the orchards. In spring, the hillsides turn into a sea of white and pink blossoms, while late summer and autumn bring apple harvests and opportunities to taste locally produced juice and cider. It's a lovely area to explore at a slower pace, especially if you enjoy scenic walks, small villages and local food.

Lofthus is in my opinion the more picturesque of the two villages, with its traditional farms and beautiful location right beside the fjord. It's also home to the historic Hotel Ullensvang. Kinsarvik is a little further north and is a good base for families, outdoor activities and exploring the famous Husedalen valley.

I'd particularly recommend this area if you're planning a road trip through Hardanger and want to spend a few days enjoying the scenery rather than rushing between attractions. It's also a good base for exploring several of the region's highlights, including Odda, Utne and the western side of Sørfjorden.

Best Hotels in Lofthus and Kinsarvik

Hotel Ullensvang

This is one of the most famous hotels in Hardanger and a destination in itself. Located right on the waterfront in Lofthus, it offers spectacular views across the fjord towards the Folgefonna glacier. The hotel has indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a private beach, restaurants and beautiful outdoor areas.

Check prices and availability

Ullensvang Gjesteheim

This is a more affordable and informal alternative to the larger hotels in the area. It's located in Lofthus close to the church and within easy reach of the village's fruit farms and walking trails. The guesthouse is also known for its food, offering a mix of traditional Norwegian dishes and other flavours.

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Huse Gjestegard

Huse Gjestegard is a lovely smaller accommodation option in Kinsarvik, offering a more personal alternative to a traditional hotel. The property has comfortable accommodation in peaceful surroundings, with garden views and a convenient location close to the village.

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Eidfjord – Best Area for Waterfalls and Hardangervidda

Eidfjord is another excellent place to stay in Hardanger, particularly if you love dramatic landscapes, waterfalls and outdoor activities. The small village sits at the end of the Eidfjord branch of the Hardangerfjord and is surrounded by steep mountains, beautiful valleys and some of the most impressive natural attractions in Western Norway.

What makes Eidfjord special is its location between the fjord and Hardangervidda, one of the largest mountain plateaus in Europe. You can spend one day exploring the fjord, taking a boat trip or enjoying the village, and the next driving into the mountains, visiting waterfalls or heading out on a hike.

The village itself is small and peaceful, with a handful of restaurants, cafés and shops. It's also a popular stop for cruise ships during the summer, so the atmosphere can be quite different depending on when you visit. If you want to enjoy a quieter experience, I would try to spend at least one evening here after the day visitors have left.

Eidfjord is particularly well suited to those exploring Hardanger by car. You'll have easy access to Vøringsfossen, the beautiful Måbødalen valley and several hiking opportunities around Hardangervidda. It's also a good area if you want to experience some of Norway's more dramatic mountain scenery without necessarily committing to a challenging multi-day hike.

Best Hotels in Eidfjord

Vøringfoss Hotel

This is a historic hotel in the centre of Eidfjord, with a lovely location close to the waterfront. It has been welcoming visitors to the area for generations and is a convenient base for exploring Vøringsfossen, Hardangervidda and the surrounding mountains.

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Fossli Hotel

For a truly memorable location, consider staying here for a night. This historic hotel has spectacular views of the surrounding mountain landscape. The location makes it possible to experience the waterfall outside the busiest visiting hours, which is a big advantage during summer.

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Eidfjord Gjestgiveri

This is a cosy guesthouse located in Øvre Eidfjord, a little further inland from the main village. It's a good option if you prefer a quieter setting surrounded by nature and don't mind being a short drive from the fjord. The property has a homely atmosphere and is perfect for exploring Vøringsfossen.

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Ulvik – Best Area for Cider Tasting and a Peaceful Fjord Stay

If you're looking for somewhere a little quieter and want to experience the traditional fruit-growing side of Hardanger, I would definitely consider Ulvik. This small village is tucked away along the Ulvikafjord, surrounded by mountains, fruit orchards and beautiful countryside. It's one of those places where you can slow down, enjoy the scenery and spend a few days without feeling the need to rush around.

Ulvik is particularly famous for its apple production and cider and several local farms produce apple juice and traditional Norwegian cider. I highly recommend visiting Ulvik Frukt & Cideri to taste some of the best cider and apple juice you’ll ever have.

Compared with Odda and Eidfjord, Ulvik has a much quieter atmosphere. There are fewer restaurants and shops, but that's part of the appeal. You'll find lovely waterfront accommodation, small farms, walking trails and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the surrounding nature.

I'd recommend Ulvik if you're planning a scenic road trip through Hardanger and want somewhere peaceful to spend a night or two.

Best Hotels in Ulvik

Brakanes Hotel

This is one of the best-known places to stay in Ulvik and has a beautiful location right beside the fjord. The traditional hotel has been welcoming visitors since the 19th century and offers lovely views from many of its rooms. There is a garden, private bathing area and outdoor relaxation facilities.

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Hardanger Guesthouse

This is a relaxed and family-friendly place to stay, located within walking distance of Ulvik village. It offers guest rooms as well as a larger holiday house, making it a good option for families and groups. There's a spacious garden, and the nearby campsite provides additional facilities.

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Hardanger Panorama Lodge

If you're looking for something a little more unusual, this is worth checking out. The property offers a more secluded accommodation experience surrounded by the spectacular landscape that makes this part of Norway so special. It's a lovely option for those who want to relax and enjoy the views.

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Norheimsund – Best Area for Exploring Hardanger from Bergen

Norheimsund and Øystese are two lovely villages on the western side of the Hardangerfjord and are particularly convenient if you're travelling from Bergen. This part of Hardanger is a great introduction to the region, with beautiful fjord scenery, waterfalls, small villages and easy access to attractions like Steindalsfossen.

Norheimsund is the larger of the two villages and has a selection of shops, restaurants and cafés. It's also home to Thon Hotel Sandven, a historic waterfront hotel that has been welcoming visitors for generations. Øystese is just a short drive further along the fjord and has a slightly quieter atmosphere, with beautiful views and a lovely waterfront setting.

I particularly like this area as a starting point for a road trip through Hardanger. You can visit some of the region's most famous waterfalls, explore the surrounding countryside and continue towards Ulvik, Eidfjord or Lofthus. It's also a good choice if you're coming from Bergen and don't want to drive all the way to Odda on your first day.

One thing to remember is that this part of Hardanger is a little further away from Trolltunga and the main attractions around Odda. If that's the main reason you're visiting, I'd choose somewhere further east or south instead. But for a more relaxed stay with easy access to the western side of the fjord, Norheimsund and Øystese are excellent choices.

Best Hotels in Norheimsund

Thon Hotel Sandven

This is one of the most charming historic hotels in Hardanger. Located right on the waterfront in Norheimsund, the beautiful building dates back to the 19th century and has a lovely traditional atmosphere. The hotel combines historic interiors with modern facilities and has a garden overlooking the fjord.

Check prices and availability

Hardangerfjord Hotel

This hotel is located in Øystese, right beside the fjord, and is a good option if you want a modern hotel with beautiful surroundings. The property has comfortable rooms, a restaurant, a garden and a terrace where you can enjoy the views.

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Which Area Should you Choose when Visiting Hardanger?

As you can see, there are quite a few lovely places to stay in Hardanger, but I wouldn't necessarily recommend choosing accommodation based on the hotel alone. The region is quite spread out, and your choice of base should depend on what you want to see and do.

If you're still unsure, here's how I would choose.

For first-time visitors, Lofthus or Kinsarvik would be my recommendation. You'll get the classic Hardanger scenery, with fruit orchards, mountains and beautiful fjord views.

For hiking and outdoor adventures I would choose Odda or Tyssedal. These are the most convenient bases for Trolltunga, Buarbreen and several other hiking opportunities.

For waterfalls and mountain scenery I think Eidfjord is an excellent choice. You'll be close to Vøringsfossen, Måbødalen and Hardangervidda.

For cider tasting and a peaceful stay I think Ulvik is a lovely option, particularly if you want to explore the local fruit farms and enjoy a slower pace of travel.

For a road trip from Bergen, Norheimsund and Øystese are convenient starting points for exploring the western side of Hardanger, and no matter where you want to go you might end up staying a night here anyways depending on when you’re arriving.

How Do You Get Around Hardanger?

One of the most important things to consider when planning a trip to Hardanger is how you're going to get around. While there are buses and ferries connecting several of the villages, I would personally recommend renting a car if you want to explore the region properly. The busses are infrequent and many of the highlights are outside the villages, so exploring the area without a car is not something I recommend. Then I would rather have a look at a tour that takes you around the area.

Having your own car gives you the freedom to stop at waterfalls, viewpoints, small villages and fruit farms along the way. Some of the most beautiful places in Hardanger aren't necessarily the main attractions, but the little stops you discover while driving between them.

The Norwegian Scenic Route Hardanger is a particularly beautiful drive, covering several sections between Granvin, Steinsdalsfossen, Norheimsund, Tørvikbygd, Jondal, Utne, Kinsarvik and Låtefoss. You'll pass fjords, mountains, waterfalls and fruit orchards along the way. If you’re planning a trip around the area I would definitely use that as a starting point and add more things you want to see elsewhere.

Also remember that some of the mountain roads are narrow, winding and can take longer to drive than you might expect. So don't plan your itinerary too tightly, as you'll probably want to stop for photos more often than you think!

When is the Best Time to Visit Hardanger?

Hardanger is beautiful throughout the year, but the best time to visit depends on what you want to experience.

Spring (April–May) is my favourite season and it’s particularly special because of the apple blossom season. The fruit orchards around Lofthus, Ulvik and Sørfjorden turn pink and white, creating some of the most beautiful scenery in Norway. It's also a lovely time for scenic drives, although some mountain hiking routes may still have snow.

Summer (June–August) is the best time for hiking, outdoor adventures and exploring the fjord. Most hiking trails are accessible, the days are long and you'll have the best selection of accommodation, restaurants and activities. This is also the busiest time of year, so I recommend booking your hotels well in advance.

Autumn (September–October) is a wonderful time to experience the apple harvest and cider season. The surrounding mountains start changing colour, and the region becomes particularly beautiful. It's also a good time for those who prefer fewer visitors, although some seasonal accommodation and activities may have reduced opening hours.

Winter (November–March) is a completely different experience. The mountains are covered in snow, waterfalls can partially freeze and the scenery becomes much more dramatic. However, not all hotels and attractions remain open throughout winter, and some mountain roads and hiking routes can be inaccessible. If you’re only visiting Hardanger once, I personally wouldn’t choose the winter months.

If I had to choose just one time to visit, I'd probably go in late spring or summer. The combination of green mountains, blossoming orchards or long summer days makes Hardanger absolutely stunning.

Is Hardanger Expensive to Visit?

Like much of Norway, Hardanger isn't the cheapest destination, especially during the summer months. Accommodation in popular places such as Lofthus and Odda can become expensive during peak season, particularly when there are major hiking events or school holidays.

If you're travelling on a tighter budget, I'd look at guesthouses, campsites and self-catering cabins rather than traditional hotels. Having your own kitchen can make quite a difference to your overall travel budget, as restaurant meals in Norway can be very expensive.

I'd also recommend booking accommodation early if you're visiting in July or August. The smaller villages have a fairly limited selection of hotels, and the most popular properties can sell out well in advance.

Final Thoughts: Where Would I stay in Hardanger?

If I were planning a trip through Hardanger, I'd try to spend at least three or four nights in the region and split my stay between two different areas.

I'd choose Lofthus or Kinsarvik for the beautiful orchards, fjord scenery and traditional Hardanger atmosphere. Then I'd spend another night or two around Odda or Tyssedal if I wanted to explore Trolltunga, the waterfalls and the surrounding mountains.

If hiking isn't your main priority, I'd happily swap Odda for Ulvik or Eidfjord. Both offer a slightly different experience, and I think they're wonderful places to enjoy the quieter side of Norway.

Hardanger is one of those destinations where the scenery is just as much a part of the experience as the attractions themselves. Give yourself enough time to explore, take the scenic roads, stop at the little villages and enjoy the views along the way. You really don't want to rush through this part of Norway.

Plan Your Trip to Hardanger

Hopefully this guide has given you everything you need to plan where to stay in Hardanger. To make planning the rest of your trip even easier, I've included all the resources I personally use when I travel.

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