Eidfjord, Norway

Last Updated on 26 August 2025 by Johan

Eidfjord is a municipality located in Vestland County, in western Norway, at the innermost part of the Hardangerfjord. The name “Eidfjord” derives from the Old Norse word “Eið,” meaning a narrow land strip between two bodies of water, and “fjord,” referring to the deep glacial inlet that defines the region. Historically, the area has been inhabited since the Viking Age, with archaeological finds such as burial mounds at Hareid indicating its long-standing cultural significance. Today, Eidfjord is known for its dramatic natural landscapes, including steep mountains, waterfalls, glaciers, and highland plateaus.

Geography and Natural Features

Eidfjord covers approximately 1,492.5 km² and includes the villages of Nedre Eidfjord and Øvre Eidfjord. The municipality borders Ullensvang to the southwest, Ulvik to the north, and Nore og Uvdal and Hol to the east. The terrain rises from sea level along the fjord to alpine heights on the Hardangervidda plateau.

Key geographic highlights include:

  • Måbødalen Valley: A narrow gorge leading to the famous Vøringfossen waterfall.
  • Lakes such as Eidfjordvatnet, Nordmannslågen, and Sysenvatnet.
  • The Hardangerjøkulen glacier, partially located in northern Eidfjord.

Local tip: The drive through Måbødalen offers panoramic views and is especially striking in early autumn when the foliage turns golden.

Vøringfossen Waterfall

One of Norway’s most iconic waterfalls, Vøringfossen features a 182-meter free fall into the canyon below. It is fed by the Bjoreio river and is often mistaken for the smaller Tyssvikjo waterfall, which appears first along the route.

Local tip: Visit in the late afternoon when sunlight creates rainbows in the mist—best viewed from the bridge near the Hardangervidda Nature Centre.

Cultural Attractions

Måbødalen Cultural Landscape Museum

This open-air museum showcases traditional road-building techniques from the 16th century onward. Twenty-one information panels mark key stops along the valley.

Local tip: Guided tours are limited, so check seasonal schedules at the tourist office in Eidfjord.

The Troll Train

A tourist train on wheels that travels through the old road in Måbødalen, offering scenic views of the valley’s rugged terrain.

Local tip: Departures are hourly from Vøringfoss Kafeterie and every half hour from Måbø Farm—ideal for families with children.

Sima Power Plant

One of Europe’s largest hydroelectric stations, located in Simadalen. The main hall is carved 700 meters into the mountain.

Local tip: Group tours are available year-round and include a documentary on the plant’s construction.

Kjeåsen Mountain Farm

Perched 600 meters above the Simafjord, this historic farm is accessible by a steep road or hiking trail.

Local tip: Drive up only on the hour and descend on the half-hour to avoid traffic on the narrow road.

Nature and Outdoor Activities

Hardangervidda Nature Centre

Located at the base of Vøringfossen, this center offers interactive exhibits on ecology, wildlife, and human impact on nature.

Local tip: Don’t miss the Ivo Caprino panoramic film and the aquariums showcasing native species.

Sysendammen

A massive stone-filled dam in Sysendalen, visible from Route 7. It holds 3.6 million m³ of stone and moraine.

Local tip: There’s a designated parking area and information boards near the dam—ideal for a short stop en route to the plateau.

Hjølmodalen and Vedalsfossen

Turn off Route 7 at Øvre Eidfjord to reach Hjølmo and the double waterfall Vedalsfossen. The serpentine road leads to Hjølmoberget, a base for hiking.

Local tip: Buses with more than 20 seats should avoid this road due to its steep incline.

Valurfossen Waterfall

Located near Hjølmoberget, this waterfall drops 272 meters down a cliff face. It’s about a one-hour hike from the trailhead.

Local tip: Wear sturdy hiking boots and bring water—there are no facilities along the trail.

Historical Sites

  • Eidfjord Old Church: Built in stone in 1309, allegedly commissioned by Rich Ragna to atone for her sins.
  • Eidfjord New Church: A multifunctional modern church built in 1991.
  • Viking Burial Grounds at Hareid: The largest collection of ancient graves in western Norway, with over 350 burial sites dating from 500–1000 AD.

Local tip: Maps and interpretive materials are available at the tourist office in Eidfjord.

Recreation and Sports

Beaches

  • Kråkeskarvet and Stavanes beaches are located 1–3 km from Eidfjord, ideal for families due to shallow tidal flats.

Sysendalen Ski Centre

Located near Maurset on Route 7, this ski center offers 3 downhill slopes, 2 ski lifts, and 85 km of prepared cross-country tracks.

Local tip: Snow cannons ensure reliable conditions during winter holidays and Easter.

Fishing

Fishing is permitted in rivers, lakes, and fjords with a national and local license. Popular spots include the Eio, Bjoreio, and Simo rivers.

Local tip: Licenses are sold at the tourist office, shops, and gas stations. Rowboats and life vests are available for hire.

Golf

The Hardangervidda Golfpark is located near Route 7, 700 meters above sea level.

Local tip: Cabins are available for rent nearby, making it a convenient base for outdoor enthusiasts.

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