The Folgefonna National Park: Discover the Glacier Park

Folgefonna National Park is a scenic protected area situated in the Hardanger region of Norway. It was established in 2005 and covers approximately 545 square kilometers (211 square miles). The park is named after the Folgefonna glacier, one of the largest icefields on mainland Europe. Folgefonna National Park offers a stunning landscape of glaciers, mountains, lakes, and valleys, attracting visitors with its natural beauty and opportunities for outdoor adventures.

Visitor Fee: There is no entrance fee to access Folgefonna National Park. The park is open to the public, and there is no specific visitor fee for exploring its natural wonders. However, certain facilities or guided tours within or around the park may have associated fees, so it’s advisable to check with tour operators or service providers for any applicable charges.

Transportation: To reach Folgefonna National Park, you can use different means of transportation:

• Car: You can drive to various access points and parking areas in the region. The main roads leading to the park are well-maintained, but some secondary roads may be narrower and less accessible in winter.
• Public Transport: Buses operate in the area, connecting towns and villages in the Hardanger region. The closest towns with regular bus services are Odda and Jondal.

Things to Do:

1. Glacier Hiking: Guided glacier hikes offer a unique opportunity to explore the majestic ice formations of the Folgefonna glacier.
2. Hiking and Trekking: There are several hiking trails in the park, catering to different skill levels and providing stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
3. Sightseeing: Enjoy the breathtaking scenery from various viewpoints and viewpoints accessible by car or short hikes.
4. Fishing: Fish in the park’s lakes and rivers, known for trout and salmon, with valid fishing permits.
5. Camping: Experience the wilderness by camping in designated areas and spending nights under the stars.

Why People Enjoy Coming Here: People are drawn to Folgefonna National Park for several reasons:

• Glacial Beauty: The chance to witness the impressive Folgefonna glacier and surrounding icefields is a major draw for visitors.
• Scenic Landscapes: The park’s diverse landscapes, with glaciers, mountains, and lakes, offer postcard-worthy vistas.
• Outdoor Activities: The park provides opportunities for hiking, glacier adventures, and fishing, appealing to nature enthusiasts and adventurers.
• Photography: The stunning landscapes, including the glacier, mountains, and alpine flora, provide excellent subjects for photography.

How Old is this Place: The geological formations and landscapes of Folgefonna National Park have been shaped over millions of years due to glacial activity. However, as a designated national park, it was established in 2005, making it a relatively young protected area.

Additional Nearby Attractions:

• Folgefonna Glacier Ski Resort: Located on the southern side of the Folgefonna glacier, the ski resort offers summer skiing opportunities and other outdoor activities.
• Hardangervidda National Park: To the east of Folgefonna, Hardangervidda is Norway’s largest national park, known for its vast highland plateau and arctic-alpine landscapes.

List of Activities:

1. Glacier hiking and guided glacier tours.
2. Hiking and trekking on various trails.
3. Sightseeing and photography of the scenic landscapes.
4. Fishing in the park’s lakes and rivers (with appropriate permits).
5. Camping and experiencing the tranquility of the wilderness.