Vøringsfossen Waterfall: Norway’s Most Famous Cascade in Hardangervidda

Imagine standing at the edge of a towering cliff, gazing down into a lush, thunderous gorge, with cascading water plunging nearly 182 meters below. Welcome to Vøringsfossen Waterfall, one of Norway’s most breathtaking natural landmarks and arguably the country’s most famous waterfall.
 

Located between the vast Hardangervidda Plateau and the green Måbødalen Valley, Vøringsfossen is a must-see for nature lovers, road trippers, photographers, and thrill-seekers. Its double-level fall, iconic sky bridge, and proximity to major tourist routes make it an unmissable stop on any western Norway itinerary.

📍 Where Is Vøringsfossen?

Vøringsfossen is located in Vestland County, western Norway, near the town of Eidfjord, and is part of the Hardangervidda National Park region.

🚗 Travel Distances:

Oslo to Vøringsfossen: ~5 hours (330 km)

Bergen to Vøringsfossen: ~3 hours (150 km)

Geilo to Vøringsfossen: ~2 hours (90 km)

Accessible by car, bus tours, or as part of the Norwegian Scenic Routes.

🏞️ What Makes Vøringsfossen Special?

🌉 1. The Sky Bridge

One of Vøringsfossen’s most remarkable features is the dramatic sky bridge, opened in 2020. Suspended above the gorge, this steel and glass structure connects two viewpoints and lets visitors walk over the waterfall—a thrilling experience with stunning photo opportunities.

🌊 2. Two-Level Cascade

Vøringsfossen has a total drop of 182 meters, with a free-falling section of 145 meters—making it both powerful and elegant. It flows from the Bjoreio River, carving its path from the highlands into the deep Måbødalen gorge.

📸 3. Scenic Lookout Points

There are multiple viewing platforms, including upper and lower areas, designed to offer safe and panoramic views of the falls and valley. These platforms are free and open year-round (weather permitting).

🌄 History and Name

The waterfall was relatively unknown to the wider public until 1821, when professor Christopher Hansteen documented it. Its name, "Vøringsfossen," likely derives from the Norwegian word vyrða, meaning "esteem" or "respect"—an apt description of the awe this natural wonder inspires.

It became one of Norway’s earliest tourist attractions during the rise of 19th-century Romanticism, and remains a national icon.

🧭 Top Things to Do at Vøringsfossen

1. 🌉 Walk the Sky Bridge

One of the highlights is stepping onto the Vøringsfossen bridge, designed by architect Carl-Viggo Hølmebakk. With 99 steps and a transparent middle, it offers a thrilling view of the waterfall roaring beneath your feet.

Open: Typically May–October (weather dependent)

Accessibility: Moderate (stairs involved)

2. 📷 Enjoy the Viewing Platforms

There are several vantage points both at the top and along the edge of the Måbødalen Valley:

Fossli Hotel Viewpoint – Closest to the falls, with safe railings

Lower Gorge Viewpoint – Reachable via hike or car

Panorama Platform – Ideal for photography

3. 🥾 Hiking Around Vøringsfossen

There are excellent hiking trails in the surrounding area:

🏞 Fossli to Vøringsfossen Viewpoint Trail

Length: 1.5 km (round trip)

Time: ~30–45 minutes

Difficulty: Easy

Start: Fossli Hotel parking area

⛰ Måbødalen Old Road Trail

A historic route with tunnels and stunning views

Best suited for active hikers and those with good shoes

🚶 Hike to the Foot of the Waterfall

Trail from the bottom of Måbødalen up to the base of Vøringsfossen

More challenging, but rewarding with close-up views

4. 🛏 Stay at Fossli Hotel

Perched above the waterfall, Fossli Hotel is a historical hotel built in 1891 that has hosted royalty and famous composers like Edvard Grieg. It offers:

Majestic views

Local cuisine

Access to trails and viewing platforms

🎒 What to Bring

🧥 Windproof/waterproof jacket

🥾 Good walking shoes (some paths can be slippery)

🧢 Hat and sunscreen in summer

🗺 Camera with zoom lens

🍫 Snacks and water if you plan to hike

📅 Best Time to Visit Vøringsfossen

☀️ Summer (June to August)

Best weather and most accessible

Sky bridge and facilities open

Longer daylight for photography

🍁 Autumn (September to early October)

Beautiful fall foliage

Fewer tourists, crisp air

❄️ Winter (Late October to April)

Sky bridge closed

Upper viewpoints may be snow-covered

Majestic, icy appearance for adventurous visitors

🍽 Where to Eat Nearby

Fossli Hotel Restaurant – Seasonal, with traditional Norwegian dishes

Eidfjord Café – Local café in the town of Eidfjord (25-minute drive)

Brimnes Restaurant – Scenic fjord views and local seafood

🛏 Accommodation Options

🏨 Near the Waterfall:

Fossli Hotel – Historic, with unmatched waterfall views

🛌 In Eidfjord (25 mins away):

Eidfjord Fjell & Fjord Hotel

Vøringfoss Hotel – Overlooking the fjord

Campsites and cabins available around Øvre Eidfjord

🚌 How to Get There

🚗 By Car:

From Oslo: Take the E134 west to Geilo, then follow route 7 toward Eidfjord

From Bergen: Take route 7 east toward Eidfjord

🚍 By Public Transport:

Bus from Voss or Geilo to Eidfjord (seasonal service)

Taxi or tour shuttle from Eidfjord to Vøringsfossen

🚢 By Cruise:

Some fjords cruise itineraries stop in Eidfjord, with optional excursions to the waterfall.

🧭 Nearby Attractions to Combine with Vøringsfossen

Hardangervidda Nature Centre – Learn about the surrounding plateau’s ecosystem

Hardangerfjord – One of Norway’s most beautiful fjords

Sysendammen Dam – A scenic artificial lake near the plateau

Kjeåsen Mountain Farm – An old farm dramatically perched above the fjord

♻️ Sustainability and Safety Tips

🚯 Do not litter – carry all waste with you

🧍‍♀️ Stay within marked trails and viewing platforms

🐏 Respect local nature and wildlife

❄️ Check weather updates—fog and storms can limit visibility

🔚 Final Thoughts – Why Vøringsfossen Belongs on Your Norway Itinerary

Vøringsfossen is not just a waterfall—it’s a raw, roaring symbol of Norway’s natural grandeur. From its powerful drop and mist-filled gorge to the exhilarating sky bridge that lets you walk above the falls, the experience is both humbling and unforgettable.

Whether you’re driving the Norwegian Scenic Routes, exploring Hardangervidda, or cruising the fjords, a stop at Vøringsfossen is a true highlight of any journey through western Norway.

Plan your visit, take your camera, and prepare to be amazed by one of nature’s finest performances.