Plan a CruiseEidfjord is nestled in the innermost part of Norway's famous Hardangerfjord, offering a stunning sail-in experience. The cruise port, which opened in May 2005, is conveniently located right in the center of this small town of approximately 1000 inhabitants. Passengers can simply walk off the ship directly into the town, making it an exceptionally easy port for independent exploration.
Getting Around from the Port
Eidfjord's compact size means the town center is immediately accessible on foot from the cruise pier. For those who enjoy walking, the local tourist office near the dock provides a walking guide. A pleasant route starts on the opposite side of the bridge from the pier, following the river's edge, through woodlands (some parts are rough track, but mostly good paths or quiet roads), and up to a lake.
For a guided experience, "The Troll Train" offers a 1-hour tour of Eidfjord on cruise call days. It departs from outside the tourist information office, visiting the Hereid terrace with its Viking Age graves, making a 10-minute photo stop at a fjord viewpoint, and a 10-minute stop at the 1309-built Eidfjord Old Church. Tickets are sold at the tourist information center.
Attractions further afield, such as the Vøringsfossen waterfall (12.1 miles or 19.5 kilometers away) and the Hardangervidda Natursenter, will require other forms of transport, such as a taxi or organized shore excursion, as they are not within walking distance.
Attractions and Activities
1. Explore Eidfjord on Foot: Enjoy easy access to local attractions directly from the port. Walk to the Hæreid Viking graves, just 20 minutes by foot from the town center, showcasing Western Norway's largest collection of Iron and Viking Age graves. Continue to the Eidfjord Old Church, a historic stone church built in 1309. Pick up a free walking guide from the tourist office for scenic routes along the river and into local woodlands.
2. The Troll Train Guided Tour: Board "The Troll Train" for a 1-hour guided tour of Eidfjord, available on cruise call days. The tour starts outside the tourist information office and includes stops at the Hereid terrace to view Viking graves, a 10-minute photo opportunity at a beautiful fjord and mountain viewpoint, and a 10-minute visit to the 1309-built Eidfjord Old Church. Tickets can be purchased at the tourist information center.
3. Vøringsfossen Waterfall: Journey 12.1 miles (19.5 kilometers) from Eidfjord to witness Vøringsfossen, Norway's most visited natural attraction. This spectacular waterfall boasts a dramatic 600-foot (183-meter) fall. This excursion typically requires a bus tour or taxi service as it is not walkable from the port.
4. Hardangervidda Nature Center: For those interested in the famous Hardangervidda plateau without extensive trekking, visit the Hardangervidda Natursenter. This combined museum and visitor center offers comprehensive insights into the unique nature and culture of this high-mountain region. Transport will be required to reach the center.
Dining & Shopping
Given Eidfjord's small population of approximately 1000 inhabitants, dining and shopping options are limited. The provided reference guide does not specify particular restaurants, cafes, or shops. However, in such a central port location, you can typically expect to find a few local eateries and small shops selling souvenirs or essential items.
Currency and Language
The local currency is the Norwegian Krone (NOK), abbreviated as kr. Exchange rates fluctuate, but generally, 1 EUR is approximately 9 NOK. Be aware that Norway is widely recognized as one of the most expensive countries in the world. Credit cards are generally accepted. The local language is Norwegian, but English is commonly spoken in tourist areas. Free WiFi is available throughout the port area.