Spectacular waterfalls in Voss – Tvindefossen and Skjervsfossen

Text and photo: Helena Bergström

Voss is located between the Sognefjord and Hardangerfjord in Norway and is a natural stop when traveling through this part of Western Norway. The area offers several beautiful waterfalls, among other things.

Voss in Norway

Is it called Voss or Vossevangen? It's easy to get confused, but the fact is that the names refer to roughly the same place. Voss is actually the name of the municipality, while Vossevangen is the name of the settlement. At the same time, Voss is often used colloquially, regardless of whether you're talking about the municipality or the settlement.

The area is known for nature, outdoor activities and adventure activities, and can serve as a starting point for excursions to fjords, mountains and waterfalls.

From the Sognefjord to Voss over the mountain

We drove from the Sognefjord to Voss, over the mountains. In fact, we had an important goal: We needed to fill up with LPG (gasoline for fixed gas tanks), while knowing that there were several nice sights in and around Voss.

To get over the mountain, we first had to drive up, up. Once on the plateau, the incomparable expanses opened up. You are high up and on the peaks the snow remains in patches – sometimes you drive so close to the snow that you could touch it.

Since we have, by now, driven over a number of mountains, we know that the descent can be tough for the camper. This time we took it very easy, and even made a viewpoint stop along the way. The descent went smoothly and the views were fantastic.

Tvindefossen – a mighty waterfall near Voss

Even before we arrived in Voss, we decided to check out Tvindefossen. This waterfall is very easy to visit because there is a parking lot right next to the falls, and because the walk is very short.

This case is a perfect destination for a big experience for little effort. We stayed for about half an hour, enjoying the views and taking some photos.

A very scenic waterfall! Note that the amount of water in the falls varies throughout the year, although it never dries out completely.

Skjervsfossen – waterfall along the old road

Skjervsfossen is a waterfall located along the old road between Voss and Granvin, and that part is also part of National Tourist Route Hardanger. The historic road is beautiful in itself, winding its way through the mountains, with the waterfall being the highlight.

The waterfall is beautiful and can be explored from several different levels, walking paths and viewpoints. In some places there are also remains of war events during World War II. It becomes a bit of an adventure to find your way between the different places.

More things to do in Voss

We made a relatively short stop in Voss, but there is much more to experience here for those who have time. Not least, the area offers great opportunities for those who like nature and adventure. Here are some suggestions:

• Vangsvatnet – Here you can swim, kayak or cycle around the lake
• Voss Gondola – Northern Europe's largest and most modern cable car. It takes you from Voss train station up to the Hangurstoppen mountain (820 meters above sea level) in less than 9 minutes.
• Hiking – Everything from family-friendly trails to challenging summit tours.
• Rafting – Very popular tours, which go on either Strandaelva or Raundalselva.
• Extreme sports – In Voss you can try everything from paragliding and skydiving to canyoning and whitewater kayaking.

By motorhome in Voss

Driving a motorhome in the area is great, and the only place where we took it easy was on the downhill from the mountain. What was really good was that we could fill up with LPG, i.e. gas for our fixed LPG tank, at LPG Voss.

Further towards the Hardangerfjord

Once we had seen the two spectacular waterfalls in Voss, it was time for us to continue our journey in the camper towards the Hardangerfjord.

More to see and do in Norway

Want more tips on things to see and do in this part of Norway? Here you will find more inspiring reports:

• Troll's Path
• Geirangerfjord
• Old Strynefjell Road
• Sognefjord
• Hardangerfjord
• The Pulpit Rock