Best waterfalls around Jondal offers access to a diverse range of waterfalls in the Hardangerfjord region of Norway. Jondal serves as a base for exploring both local cascades and more prominent regional examples. The area features waterfalls associated with glacial lakes, as well as powerful river rapids. Visitors can find a variety of waterfall experiences, from easily accessible sites to those requiring more challenging hikes.
Last updated: May 19, 2026
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The hike here is somewhat underestimated. It's much more mountaineering than hiking. Therefore, dogs larger than a handbag should not be taken along. Furthermore, there's a constant risk of slipping on the trails due to the loose, sometimes coarse gravel and the smooth stones higher up the mountain. A change of clothes is advisable, but not absolutely necessary. Some of the climbs and descents are very steep, so snacks and plenty to drink are a must. If you make it to the top, congratulations! You'll be treated to a wonderful view of a glacier with a turquoise mountain lake—dreamlike. Have fun and a successful hike with good weather ☀️
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One of many waterfalls here, but developed for tourism with a parking lot, path up, viewing platform and shops at the bottom. Quite nice, but then there are also lots of other people 😉
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The Steinsdalsfossen is one of the most famous and most photographed waterfalls in Norway. Even Kaiser Wilhelm II admired it and visited it almost every summer. The Steinsdalsfossen is two kilometers from Norheimsund and is famous because a path leads behind the falling water, making it a very special experience.
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Unfortunately, we had to stop our hike in May at that point. Immediately after the rope, there was no way through due to the snow and ice and no longer any view of the actual hiking trail. It's a shame so close to the lake, but that's the disadvantage if you want to do the tour in May.
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The path to the glacier lake is initially a rough, steadily rising gravel path, then it goes steeply uphill in the forest over hill and dale. The komoot route is not entirely correct, but it is well signposted. Instead of 1:20 hours, we needed a total of 2:20 hours for the climb with short breaks.
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There is a small path 50 m to the right of the bridge. The path leads to a higher viewpoint of the waterfall.
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Walking behind the waterfall is something special
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The Hardangerfjord region offers diverse waterfall experiences. You can walk directly behind the cascading water at Steinsdalsfossen Waterfall, offering a unique perspective without getting wet. For a more challenging adventure, hike to Raunsdalsvatnet Lake and Waterfall to see a beautiful glacial lake with turquoise water and an impressive cascade.
Yes, Steinsdalsfossen Waterfall is considered family-friendly due to its easy accessibility and the unique path that allows visitors to walk behind the waterfall. This makes it a popular and engaging experience for all ages.
The best time to visit is generally during spring and early summer (May to July) when snowmelt increases water flow, making the waterfalls particularly powerful and impressive. Some locations, like the Rapids in Husedalen Valley, are best visited in the morning, and note that they may have no water in winter.
Beyond the waterfalls themselves, the region boasts stunning natural features. You can find beautiful glacial lakes with striking turquoise water, such as at Raunsdalsvatnet Lake and Waterfall. The area also features deep canyons, powerful mountain landscapes, and scenic river views, especially in places like the Rapids in Husedalen Valley.
The Jondal area offers various outdoor activities. You can explore numerous hiking trails, including those leading to waterfalls. For more structured activities, consider road cycling routes like the 'Folgefonna climb time trial from Jondal' or running trails such as 'Bondhusvatnet out and back'. Find more options on the Hiking around Jondal, Road Cycling Routes around Jondal, and Running Trails around Jondal guide pages.
Yes, the hike to Raunsdalsvatnet Lake and Waterfall is described as challenging, involving mountaineering-like sections with loose gravel and steep climbs. Similarly, accessing the Waterfall Access at Bondhusvatnet can be challenging, with acute slipping danger and potential snow/ice even in May.
Vøringsfossen, located at the edge of Hardangervidda National Park, is considered one of Norway's most spectacular waterfalls. It features a dramatic 145-meter free fall within its 182-meter total drop, framed by steep cliffs and a deep canyon. Viewing platforms and a striking footbridge offer close-up views of its immense power.
Yes, Steinsdalsfossen Waterfall is easily accessible by car or bus along Route 7. Further afield, Låtefoss (Latefossen) is a powerful twin waterfall easily viewed from the roadside on Route 13, and Langfossen, one of Norway's highest, can be admired directly from the European route E134 highway.
Visitors particularly enjoy the unique experience of walking behind Steinsdalsfossen Waterfall. The stunning turquoise waters of glacial lakes like Raunsdalsvatnet also receive high praise, despite the challenging hike. The scenic river views and impressive cascades, such as those in Husedalen Valley, are also highly appreciated.
Yes, Herand Waterfall is described as a pleasant starting or ending point for tours in the area, depending on your chosen route. It offers an impressive sight, especially in good weather.
While not historical in the traditional sense, Låtefoss (Latefossen) is notable for its rustic six-arched bridge that spans beneath the powerful twin waterfall, adding a distinctive architectural element to its natural beauty. Steinsdalsfossen Waterfall is also famous for its unique path allowing visitors to walk behind the falls, a feature that has attracted visitors, including Kaiser Wilhelm II, for generations.


Happy to travel a little further afield? Then browse these guides for the best waterfalls around Jondal: