From Spring to Winter: The Seasons in Hardanger

Hardanger and the Hardangerfjord can be visited year-round. Each of the four seasons has its own charm and offers different experiences.

The fjord stays the same, but the surrounding landscape changes from month to month. It goes from raw and snowy during winter to splashed by the pastel colours of blooming fruit trees in spring, painted by all shades of green in summer, and given a golden hue in autumn.      

Keep reading to learn what highlights the seasons and what activities we recommend at each time of year.

Spring (April – May): Blossoms and Awakening Nature

Spring is a lovely time to visit Hardanger. It’s easy to see why it’s called the time for renewal and the awakening of nature. While the peaks surrounding the fjord are still white with snow, the fields and forest turn bright green. When the snow starts melting, waterfalls plunge from the cliffs everywhere you see.

By mid-May, Hardanger’s famous fruit blossoming starts. Witnessing the hundreds of thousands of apple, cherry, plum, and pear trees turn the landscape into shades of pink and white is definitely a bucket list experience.

Recommended activities in Hardanger in spring:

Most activities are available at this time of year, especially in May. It’s still a bit early for longer hikes in the mountains, but it is perfect for walks along the orchards along the fjord. Spring is the absolute best time of year for discovering spectacular waterfalls, for example, on a RIB boat safari or a tour to Vøringsfossen Waterfall.

Summer (June – August): The Peak of Adventure

Summer is peak tourist season in Hardanger and also high season for all things activities. The long bright days and mild weather make summer ideal for outdoor adventures. Hardanger truly thrives in summer, with the landscape being at its most vibrant and the fjord villages buzzing with life.

The end of the blossoming season in June makes room for growing fruit. And if you visit in the latter half of the summer, you’ll notice small kiosks selling cherries and plums all along the fjord. You can also visit local farms to learn more about fruit farming and the local culture, as well as taste varieties of the world-renowned cider from Hardanger.

Things to do in Hardanger in the summer:

As mentioned, summer is the season for all sorts of adventures. Whether you prefer a peaceful kayaking tour, a relaxing fjord cruise or getting your adrenaline rushing on a fast RIB boat, getting out on the fjord is a must.

Hiking is also a popular summer activity in Hardanger. There are hiking trails all around the fjord, but you can also choose to do iconic trails such as the Trolltunga and the Queen Sonja’s Trail or explore the Hardangervidda National Park by foot.  

The most unique experience is a dog sledding tour on the Folgefonna Glacier. Join Moa and her huskies on either a half-day or an overnight tour. It’s also possible to explore the glacier on a guided hike or kayak tour.

Autumn (September – November): Harvest and Colorful Landscapes

The golden season boasts vibrant autumn colours covering the shores and mountains by the Hardangerfjord.  As soon as the kids return to school, fewer tourists around and the farmers get busy harvesting, the pace slows down. And while we said you could go hiking in summer, autumn is the real hiking season in this part of the world.

The weather can be a bit unpredictable, but you still have a good chance of sunny weather. Few things beat waking up to a clear, crisp autumn morning only to experience the sun warming in the mountains a few hours later.

Activities we recommend doing in autumn:

As autumn means fruit harvest season, we recommend booking a tour at one of the local fruit farms. In addition to learning about the fruit and farming, you also get to experience how they produce cider and juice. And of course, you’ll get to sample the results.

Autumn weather is ideal for being active outdoors, whether hiking or kayaking. Just make sure to layer up, as the weather can be unpredictable.

On bad weather days, visit the Norwegian Nature Centre to learn about nature in an interactive and fun way.

Winter (December – March): A Quiet, Snowy Wonderland

Winter is a lesser-known but magical season in Hardanger. Coming this time of year, you’ll feel like you almost have the whole fjord to yourself.

The days are short in December, but the cosy holiday decorations in the villages make up for the darkness. Local Christmas markets are great for finding authentic souvenirs.

Come January, you can experience the special soft pastel light over the fjord that comes with the low sun and cold temperatures. From February, every day gets a little lighter and it usually isn’t as cold as earlier in the winter.

March may be a spring month, but in Hardanger it’s considered winter. You can still experience snowfall, and skiing is the locals’ favourite activity.

Things to do in Hardanger in winter:

Winter is perfect for slow travelling. There are no crowds, and the range of activities on offer is the lowest. Cosy up in one of the hotels that are open year-round and indulge in good, warming food at one of the restaurants.

If you are into ski-touring, you are in for a treat. The Hardangervidda Mountain Plateau has endless options for ski touring, and going from hut to hut is popular amongst the sporty.

To get the best winter experience, we recommend booking a private, guided tour, such as snowshoeing from Øystese or a RIB safari.

What do you think is the best season to visit Hardanger?

Having read this far, we hope you have all seasons have something unique to offer. What season is best depends mainly on your interests. If you want a lot of action, come in the summer. If you want a more laid-back atmosphere combined with spectacular nature, come in the spring or autumn.

Winter, on its side, is the perfect escape from a busy everyday life. This is when you really can experience the rawness of nature by the fjord, combined with excellent dining experiences.

Whatever time you decide to visit us, find your adventures at Book Hardanger!