Jondal Norway Hardangerfjord
Norway
Frequently Asked Questions
At a quay set in the middle of the village, on the eastern shore of the Hardangerfjord. No terminal, no line of coaches: you walk down the gangway and find yourself among the church, a few shops and wooden houses facing the water. The quay takes modestly sized ships.
One of Norway's largest ice caps, its white tongues visible between the summits whenever the sky clears. Jondal belongs to the very small circle of Norwegian villages officially associated with a national park, a distinction shared by only five communities.
Yes, it is the signature excursion: certified guides lead glacier hikes suited to walkers in good shape, crampons on and roped up. Departures are from the quay, with transport up to the mountain. Book ahead, as places go quickly in high season.
Yes. Those who prefer not to walk on the ice approach the glacier area by vehicle for the viewpoints only. You keep the landscape without the effort or the equipment.
The glacier hike takes up most of the day. If you stay in the village, count on a sea kayaking outing, a marked trail up to a lookout and an hour wandering the streets: that is often where the call shows its true face.
Yes, the sheltered waters of the Hardangerfjord suit guided sea kayak outings: you follow the shore, pass beneath the waterfalls that pour down in spring and look back at the roofs from the water. No prior experience is needed for the basic trips.
Because the region is Norway's orchard: apples, pears, plums and cherries ripen on the slopes running down to the water, and the farms sell juices and ciders that have become a national point of pride.
It depends what you are after: in May the white orchard blossom draws photographers from all over Norway; in late summer the farm stalls overflow with fruit. The Folgefonna ice, for its part, stays visible all summer.
Homemade cakes and locally smoked salmon, served in the village cafes and small eateries. Nothing complicated, everything fresh. Nearby farms also sell apple juice and cider.
Warm and waterproof clothing even in July: fjord weather changes within an hour. For the glacier hike, follow the list provided by the guides, as the technical equipment is lent on site.
