Apple orchards
Blossom in May.
Alice Wiegand — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Holger Uwe Schmitt — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Alice Wiegand — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Jules Verne Times Two — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Ryan Hodnett — CC BY-SA 4.0
The Hardangerfjord is the fifth-longest fjord in the world and the second-longest in Norway, in the Hardanger region of Vestland in western Norway. It runs 180 km from the Atlantic into the mountains along the Hardangervidda plateau, and its central reach lies about 17 km in a straight line south of the town of Norheimsund. The fjord begins at the ocean about 80 km south of Bergen and heads north-east between islands and the Folgefonna peninsula; once surrounded by mainland, it branches into smaller fjords reaching in towards Hardangervidda. Its longest branch, Sørfjorden, runs 50 km south to the town of Odda, and its greatest depth is more than 860 m. Tall green mountains are mirrored in the fjord's calm water, and morning cloud often hangs on the slopes above the dark blue surface. Apple and cherry orchards line the shores and blossom in May, with small villages and waterfalls, the Hardanger suspension bridge spans the fjord between two mountains, and the Folgefonna ice gleams above. Viewing the fjord is free from roads and viewpoints, and boat trips are paid. Spring brings orchard blossom and summer is best for cruises; some roads are narrow, so drive with care.
Blossom in May.
Over the fjord.
On the slopes.
Vestland, western Norway
Usually in May.
Yes; boat trips are paid.