Eidfjord

The popular vessel, Lady Anne, was built in 1952 and has rich traditions. Watch the serene landscape glide by, either from the lounge with its big windows, or from the open deck. The Hardangerfjord is known as the Queen of Fjords, and her beauty is timeless. At 111 miles long, the fjord is the second largest in Norway.

The scenery you will see changes between fjord and mountains, dramatic waterfalls, romantic fruit gardens and green fields. Many painters, writers and composers have found their inspiration in this wonderful scenery.

The Lady Anne will sail along the Eidfjord, before turning into the narrower Osafjord. You will then sail along the Ulvikfjord, where the tiny fruit village of Ulvik lies, before turning to travel back to Eidfjord.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by boat. There is a walk of approximately 650 feet on even, flat terrain from your ship to Lady Anne. Passengers are advised that part of the cruise is on the same fjord that your ship sails, before you branch off into the smaller fjords.

Embark on a scenic drive along the River Eio, well known for its trout and salmon fishing, past the village of Øvre-Eidfjord and through the towering mountain walls of Måbødal Valley.

Admire the passing scenery dotted with small wooden houses, snaking rivers and pretty stone bridges as you climb 2,460 feet above sea level to the Hardangervidda mountain plateau, the largest mountain plateau in Northern Europe. Most of the area is a National Park where vegetation and wildlife is protected, it is also one of the few places in Norway where wild reindeer herds still live untended.

Sysen Dam, one of Norway's largest embankment dams, holds approximately 127 billion cubic feet of water and is the main reservoir for Sima Power Station. The 262 foot high walls made from natural stone and gravel are an impressive sight. Take a walk along part of the ½ mile long Dam to admire the views, if the skies are clear you’ll be able to see the Hardangerjøkul Glacier.

The last part of your journey takes you to Måbø Canyon where you’ll be able to feel the raw power of the magnificent Vøringfoss Waterfall as it cascades down deep into the canyon below.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There is a 100 yard walk down a steep, partly gravelled road to walk on the Dam. There is also a 100 yard walk over rough and uneven ground to reach the Waterfall viewpoint. Care should be taken at the Waterfall viewpoint as there is only a partial barrier and some areas have no protection from the steep drop to the canyon. For your own safety it is essential that you stay away from areas where there is no barrier and heed the warning signs. This tour involves tunnels.

A short guided walk from the pier will bring you to a small beach where the kayaks are launched from. Here you will be given the necessary safety briefing and taught how to use the equipment properly before heading out onto the stunning Eidfjorden.

As you paddle along the fjord, admire the beautiful fjord landscape containing dramatic mountains and cascading waterfalls whilst keeping a look out for local wildlife such as seals, sea eagles and deer.

There will be short stops along the way, one of which is at a small waterfall, allowing you to fill your water bottle directly from its falls.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by by 2-man kayak. No kayaking experience is required as the trained guides will provide the necessary instructions. Passengers should be in good physical condition and not suffer from any back problems or conditions affected by cold water. Passengers must be competent swimmers. Lifejackets are provided and are mandatory. Please carry a change of clothing as you may get wet. The kayaks are for 2 people. Children between 10 and 15 must be accompanied in the kayak by a responsible adult. Children under 10 cannot participate.

You’ll drive along the Hardangerfjord for a short while and then turn south following the long and narrow Sørfjord, to the village of Kinsarvik, one of the many fruit orchards of Norway.

Up until the 1970's the village was the busiest ferry port in Norway and a crucial junction on the only all-year road connecting Bergen and Oslo. Alternative routes then eroded its importance, but in 2006 the Norwegian Parliament approved Hardangerbrua, a monumental bridge project only 7.4 miles from Kinsarvik, and still in the planning process. When completed, it will re-establish inner Hardanger as a dominant route and tourist stop for both east-west and north-south traffic. Your stop here allows you to browse around the village at leisure, before continuing south to the charming village of Ullensvang.

Ullensvang is situated right in the middle of the fjord district of Hardanger, and with its 600,000 fruit trees, it is Norway’s largest fruit growing area. Enjoy a coffee or tea with a slice of apple cake and then visit Old Ullensvang Church. This beautiful stone church was built in the period 1270 – 1300.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by coach. There is a short steep slope and 14 steps to access the refreshment venue.