Steinsdalsfossen

Steinsdalsfossen is a gentle, much-loved waterfall near Norheimsund whose great trick is a footpath that runs behind the falling water and stays dry. Easy, safe and quickly reached, it is a family favourite in Hardanger, popular since a visit by the German Kaiser over a century ago.

Background

Steinsdalsfossen, also called Øvsthusfossen, falls at Øvsthus, in the east of Steine village in Kvam Municipality, about 2 kilometres west of Norheimsund. The waterfall came into being in 1699, after the river shifted to a new course. It measures 46 metres in all, and its main drop is 20 metres. It carries the most water during the snowmelt in May and June. Its river, the Fosselva, drains the lake Myklavatnet, 814 metres up in the mountains, and flows on into the Steindalselvi and then the Hardangerfjorden. The waterfall draws 300,000 visitors a year. Kaiser Wilhelm II came every summer but two between 1889 and 1914.

Source: Wikipedia, "Steinsdalsfossen"

The landscape

• The path behind the falls - the dry walkway that leads behind the curtain of water.
• The cascade - the wide, gentle fall over the rock ledge.
• The green setting - the leafy Hardanger valley around it.
• Easy access - the short, level path suitable for all.

When to go

The warm months, when the path is clear and the surroundings green; the flow is fuller in early summer. It is an easy stop in any fine weather.

What to expect

It is a modest, gentle waterfall rather than a thundering giant, so its charm is the walk behind rather than sheer power. It is a quick stop, popular with coaches and families. Best combined with the fjord and other Hardanger sights.

Nearby

Norheimsund and the Hardangerfjord are alongside; the Folgefonna glacier is within reach.

Key facts