Havkajakk

Tall mountains, deep fjords, idyllic fruit farms; Ulvik is a playground and the perfect place for an active stay! Whether you’re looking for a gentle Sunday stroll through town, wanting to climb a summit or hit the waves of the fjord – Ulvik has something for you. These are our top recommendations for a spectacular stay – on land and in the water.

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1) Kayaking on the fjord

Glistening fjords, majestic mountains and a world-class view of the fruit orchards – it doesn’t get better than this. Make memories of a lifetime as you hop aboard the kayak and paddle through the gentle lull of the Ulvik fjord. The B-Active Center rents out beginner- and family-friendly kayaks for 1 hour, 2 hours, half a day and full days. ANGR has sea kayak-rentals and offers guided tours by the fjord. We recommend joining a local guide through ANGR or B-Active if you are unfamiliar with kayaking or simply wish to learn about the Pearl of Hardanger on a more intimate level.

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2) Biking through the majestic landscape

One of the best ways to explore Ulvik’s spellbinding nature is from the seat of a bicycle. There are several great tracks throughout town that are suitable for families, children and active bikers. Fully equipped bicycles are available for rent at the B-Active center. Bike to Osa and see the spectacular waterfall Røykjafossen or hit the beach in Holmen for a cool, refreshing dip in the fjord. Inquire with B-Active or the tourist information for recommended trails and destinations in the area.

Bactive
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3) Mountain-hiking and tunnel-exploration

Explore the mountainous region of Austerdalen in Osa with a local guide from B-Active. The skilled guide will walk you through a series of spectacular views and roaring waterfalls in the untouched landscape. On clear days, you will also be able to see the vast glacier Hardangerjøkulen. The guide will take you through Osa’s enchanting history as you make your way down along Røykjafossen waterfall, cascading down the mountainside. The tour continues to an exciting exploration of the hidden tunnels in the mountainside. These were intended for a massive power plant that would make Osa an industrial hub before the war struck.

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4) Exhilirating watersports on the fjord

Hit the waves and join Ulvik Waterskiing-club for an exhilarating ride on the fjord. The clubhouse is in Holmen by the beach and sports-field and is open to both beginners and more advanced thrill-seekers. Go waterskiing or hop aboard a banana-boat and enjoy the fresh breeze and crystal-clear Ulvik fjord as the adrenaline pumps through your veins. Enjoy the rest of your stay in Holmen at the beach, which has everything you need for fun for the whole family, including a diving-board, volleyball-court and a soccer-field.

Stand up paddle med Julie
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5) Walks and hikes in the area

  • It’s not without reason Ulvik is nicknamed “the Pearl of Hardanger”. With tall mountains bordering Hallingskeid and Finse in the northeast and Hardangervidda in the southeast, Ulvik is like a treasure chest chock-full of scenic hikes for young and old. Here are some of the most popular hikes:
  • Liavegen: This is a family-friendly round-trip starting from Ulvik town center. The hike is 7,5 kilometers long at 350 meters above sea level and lasts about three hours. Along the way, you get to walk along the fruit orchards and catch some great, panoramic views of Ulvik and the Osafjord.
  • Åsen rundt: This circular walk starts in Holmen and takes you through Åsen and follows a level gravel road. The road is suitable for bikes and strollers, with some great views of both the Ulvikfjord and Osafjord on either side.
  • Ossete: This trail leads to a summer pasture-area in Osa up the narrow Norddalen valley alongside Røykjafossen waterfall. The hike takes about two hours one way and offers a spectacular view down to the Osafjord from 550 meters above sealevel. This hike is more challenging due to its elevation and terrain but is well worth it for the view.
  • Kvasshovden: With its summit at 1030 meters above sealevel, Kvasshovden is a challenging hike best fit for experienced hikers. The hike starts at Ulvik town center and takes you through a family farm and summer pasture area. The ascent takes around 3 hours (descent: 2 hours) and gives you a breathtaking panoramic view over Ulvik and its fjords.

Midtfjell: This demanding and steep all-day hike takes you to one of the tallest mountains in Ulvik at 1255 meters above sea level. Soak up the stunning over the Hardangerfjord and surrounding areas. On clear days, you might even catch a glimpse of the glaciers Folgefonna and Hardangerjøkulen! This hike is for experienced hikers only and require professional hiking gear and a hearty meal to keep you going. The trail is not signposted, and we recommend you go with an experienced guide, which can be booked through agencies like Angr.

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