A popular cruise port for small ships, Eidfjord also makes an excellent base for a multi-day driving tour through Norway’s western fjords. Begin in the town with a visit to the Nils Bergslien Art Gallery, which displays Bergslien’s finest paintings and sculptures inspired by Norwegian legends, fairy tales and history.
From there, continue to the Hardangervidda Natursenter, located on the edge of Norway’s largest national park. The center offers a 20-minute panoramic film that provides an excellent overview of the dramatic landscape, plus three floors of themed exhibits on local wildlife, birdlife, glaciology, geology and archaeology. The center’s shop stocks a careful selection of Norwegian-made products, and the rustic, wood-themed restaurant serves local specialties such as mountain trout, reindeer steak and a buffet of traditional dishes and desserts.
While in Eidfjord, take advantage of the spectacular surroundings by hiking, trekking or sea kayaking in the deep fjords and nearby mountain slopes. Wildlife sightings are possible—look for seals, sea eagles and occasionally small whales. Guided and self-guided options are available; local outfitters such as FlatEarth run kayaking, hiking and glacier-trekking trips suitable for a range of experience levels.
For an unforgettable overnight stay, consider the historic Fossli Hotel. Perched on the edge of Måbø Valley above the cascading Vøringsfoss Waterfall, this family-run hotel was hand-built in 1891, before roads reached the area—materials were carried uphill by horse to the present site. The composer Edvard Grieg worked on his Opus 66 while staying here. The hotel retains a rustic atmosphere with 21 rooms, a café and a restaurant decorated with period wall murals. It also offers meeting and event spaces and continues the Norwegian tradition of serving coffee and freshly made waffles with jam.