Ulvik between the Hardangerfjord and the high mountains

Ulvik connects the innermost part of the Hardangerfjord with the high mountains of Hardangervidda. The village lies at the fjord’s innermost end; steep mountains, green valleys and orchards shape the landscape. At the same time, Ulvik herad stretches from the fjord to the high mountains. Those interested in staying in Ulvik will find a range of things to explore: trails through the mountain landscape, insights into local culture, and experiences centred on fruit and cider.

Trails with different levels of challenge

The family-friendly Liavegen/Jobykse starts in the centre of Ulvik. The route is 9 kilometres long, takes about three hours and offers panoramic views over the Osafjord. The route to Solsævatnet has a different character: it follows a relatively flat gravel road and is suitable for hikers, cyclists and families with pushchairs.

The hike to Kristinuten offers views over Ulvik, the Osafjord and the surrounding mountains; Vassfjøra can be seen in the background when visibility allows. Hallingskeidvegen is a challenging hike from Osa into the high mountains of Ulvik herad. It can be done as a day hike, and you can also join the route at Hallingskeid turisthytte. As conditions in the mountains can change, check the latest conditions before setting out.

High mountains and railway history

Rallarvegen is a 92-kilometre high-mountain route in the Hardangervidda area, suitable for walking or cycling. Its opening depends on local weather conditions. The route also recalls the construction of the Bergen Railway between 1895 and 1902. Along the way, a long high-mountain route meets a specific chapter of railway history.

Finse is also connected to the railway: Finse Station is Norway’s highest railway station and lies at the highest point of the Bergen Railway. The Rallarmuseum is located in Østre Lokstall. Photographs and an exhibition there tell the story of railway construction from 1894 to 1909. The museum’s opening is seasonal; check current opening times before your visit.

Literature, poetry and sacred art

The Haugesenteret offers insights into the life and poetic works of Olav H. Hauge (1908–1994), who lived in Ulvik all his life. Visitors can also write their own poems in a writing workshop; programme details may change. Traditionally, the centre hosts the Poesifestivalen every other year in September, featuring poetry and music. Check the dates if you want to plan your trip around the festival.

Ulvik kyrkje, consecrated in 1858, features traditional rose painting by local artist Lars Osa, dating from 1923. Historical Christian artworks also include a copy of the medieval antependium. Information about the church and its art provides another insight into local cultural history, complementing the literary focus of the Haugesenteret.

Orchards, cider and fjord experiences

The Frukt- og Siderruta links the orchards Ulvik Frukt & Cideri, Syse Gard and Hardanger Saft- og Siderfabrikk. Along the route, the farms offer guided tours with tastings and sell their own products, including cider. Ulvik Frukt & Cideri is located at the Hakastad farm and offers tours and tastings of local products such as apple juice and cider. Syse Gard offers, among other things, cider, fruit in various forms and traditionally prepared lamb. The farm also has a farm shop and a summer café.

On the water, the Hardangerfjord Ultimate RIB Safari starts in Ulvik and takes you into the Hardangerfjord and on to the fjord branches of Simadalsfjorden and Osafjorden. The local guide company Angr A/S offers guided kayak tours on most summer days from 10:00 to 14:00; check seasonal availability in advance. At the Ulvikfjord, Ulvik vass-skiklubb offers water skiing for beginners and experienced participants. It is also a good idea to enquire about this activity before your trip.

Getting here

Bus routes 925, 945, 980 and 990 connect Ulvik with Voss, Odda, Eidfjord and Norheimsund. Routes and connections may change, so check the timetable for your travel dates. The region offers a range of experiences to help you plan your trip: local culture and orchards alongside hiking trails, high-mountain scenery and activities on the fjord.

Discover more destinations: Ulvik, Sveio, Bergen, Stord, Voss, Modalen, Austevoll, Askøy.

For the regional travel overview: Hordaland.