Journey deep into the Hardangerfjord — Norway's 'orchard fjord' — visiting the ancient Øystese stave church, a working cider farm, and the edge of the Folgefonna glacier. A full-immersion Norwegian day that covers centuries of culture in a single sweep.
What to expect
Departing Bergen, your driver winds south along fjordside roads where apple and cherry trees cascade to the water's edge. At the 12th-century Øystese stave church your guide explains the Viking-era carvings and the Christian overlay that makes Norwegian ecclesiastical history so layered. A family-owned cider estate opens its cellar for a private tasting — ice-cold Hardanger cider paired with brown cheese and flatbread. The afternoon ascent to Folgefonna glacier ends at a snowfield where you can walk on 200 metres of ancient ice before the panoramic drive back to Bergen's quay.
Good to know
Depart Bergen early (8–9 am) to complete the full circuit before a 6 pm all-aboard. The Folgefonna glacier road is accessible June–September. Book the private car hire through a Bergen-based operator at least 8 weeks ahead. The stave church has limited opening hours — confirm with your guide before departure.