Tucked away in a quiet arm of the Hardangerfjord, Furebergsfossen is a dramatic waterfall that crashes straight into the fjord. Here’s why you should visit, and how to do so.
Cruising slowly into the narrow Maurangerfjord, a branch of the Hardangerfjord, I wasn’t sure what to expect from this scenic cruising highlight on our itinerary.
Nestled deep in a region already overflowing with natural beauty, I thought I’d seen it all. But as the Fred Olsen Balmoral glided around a bend, a sudden burst of white thunder came into view: Furebergsfossen.
I’ve visited a fair few spectacular waterfalls in Norway, but there’s something uniquely thrilling about Furebergsfossen.
Maybe it’s the way the water tumbles straight down the mountain and crashes into the fjord with no warning. Or perhaps it’s the little road that clings to the cliffside, carrying you so close to the falls that you can feel the spray through the open car window.
You don’t just see this waterfall, you feel it. Whether you arrive by cruise ship or car, you’re guaranteed front-row views of nature at full volume.
What Makes Furebergsfossen Special?
Furebergsfossen is a dramatic waterfall that drops from the mountainside directly into the Maurangerfjord.
Fed by meltwater from the Folgefonna glacier high above, the waterfall is especially powerful in spring and early summer, when snow and ice rapidly melt under the longer days.
Unlike many of Norway’s best-known waterfalls, Furebergsfossen doesn’t require a hike to reach. It’s located right beside the road, and if you’re lucky enough to approach it by boat, it quite literally erupts into view from the rocky shoreline.
The force of the water and the mist it throws into the air are mesmerising. When the sun hits the spray just right, you may even be treated to a rainbow.
A Quiet Corner of Hardanger
Furebergsfossen is located in Kvinnherad municipality in the heart of the Hardanger region, one of Norway’s most picturesque areas.
This part of western Norway is less crowded than more famous fjord hotspots like Geiranger or Flåm, but every bit as beautiful.
The nearby village of Sundal is the gateway to the southern part of Folgefonna National Park and is popular with hikers aiming for the Bondhusbreen glacier.
The Bondhus Valley, with its shimmering glacial lake and well-maintained trails, makes for a peaceful and photogenic detour.
Further along the fjord, Rosendal is home to Norway’s smallest castle, the elegant Baroniet Rosendal manor. Dating back to 1665, this historic estate offers guided tours, art exhibitions and a beautiful rose garden in summer.
The nearby Folgefonna Tunnel also links this quiet corner to the wider region, making it more accessible than ever.
When to Visit Furebergsfossen
The best time to visit Furebergsfossen is late spring through early summer (May to July), when the waterfall is at its most powerful thanks to snowmelt from the Folgefonna glacier.
This is also when the surrounding nature is at its greenest and the fjord views are especially striking.
That said, the waterfall flows year-round, and autumn brings a golden hue to the landscape, making it a stunning—if quieter—time to visit.
How to Get to Furebergsfossen
Furebergsfossen can be visited by road or by boat. By road, it’s located along Fv551 between Sundal and the Folgefonna Tunnel. There’s a small parking area near the waterfall, allowing easy access to admire the falls up close.
If you’re arriving by cruise, some itineraries—such as mine with Fred Olsen Cruise Lines—venture into the narrow Maurangerfjord for a close encounter.
However, it's far from a guaranteed stop on every cruise. Only relatively small cruise ships can enter the Maurangerfjord, so check the itinerary in advance for any ‘scenic cruising' highlights.
Travellers with more time might consider making Rosendal their base and exploring the surrounding area by car or bike. Car ferries link Kvinnherad to other parts of the Hardangerfjord region, making it a convenient detour on a west coast road trip.
For an overnight stay, consider the traditional Hotel Sundal, which offers classic fjord views, locally inspired food, and cosy hospitality just minutes from Furebergsfossen and the Bondhus Valley.
