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scenic · Rosendal

Bondhusvatnet Lake Hike: Glacier-Fed Emerald Waters

Follow a dramatic valley trail to one of Norway's most spectacularly situated glacier lakes — Bondhusvatnet — fed by ice meltwater tumbling directly from the Folgefonna plateau. Crystal-green water, thundering cascades, and raw Scandinavian wilderness.

What to expect

The trail winds gently up Bondhusdalen valley, a corridor of ancient birch forest and rushing glacial streams, before opening onto the impossibly turquoise Bondhusvatnet. Above the far shore, Folgefonna's ice edge hangs suspended — a living reminder of the ice age. Meltwater cascades feed the lake directly; on warm days you can hear ice cracking in the distance. The return walk is equally stunning in reverse light.

Book it with
Hardangerfjord.com / Kvinnherad Tourist Office
Self-guided (free trail access); private guided hike approx. NOK 1,200–1,800 per person through local guiding services (book via Hardangerfjord.com or the Folgefonn Centre)
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Good to know

Trailhead is roughly 25–30 minutes by taxi from the Rosendal quay (Sunndal/Bondhusdalen direction). Allow 3–4 hours round trip at a comfortable pace. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and pack layers. Trail is well-marked and manageable for most fitness levels. Check all-aboard time carefully.

Sail there

Luxury cruises that call at Rosendal — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.

Oceania · Oceania Insignia
14 nights · calls at Rosendal
from $3,720
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Azamara · Azamara Journey
17 nights · calls at Rosendal
from $9,099
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Regent · Seven Seas Mariner
20 nights · calls at Rosendal
from $17,810
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