Bergen: Guided Fjord & Cidery Tour to Balestrand

Exploring Norway’s breathtaking landscapes doesn’t have to mean just gazing from afar—this guided tour from Bergen offers a thoughtful blend of scenic beauty, cultural landmarks, and delightful local flavors. We may not have attended ourselves, but based on detailed reviews and the detailed itinerary, it’s a well-rounded experience designed for those who want more than just a quick sightseeing trip.

What we love about this tour is how it seamlessly combines impressive natural scenery with the chance to learn about and taste local cider and wines, all while visiting iconic sites like the Hopperstad Stave Church and Tvindefossen Waterfall. Plus, the luxury transportation, knowledgeable guides, and inclusion of a cruise on the Sognefjord make it a memorable day out.

One thing to consider is the duration—13 hours is a long day, so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with full-day excursions. If you’re after a mix of scenic views, cultural stops, and tasting experiences, this tour will likely tick all your boxes.

This experience is ideal for those who enjoy a balance of nature, culture, and culinary delights, and for travelers wanting a structured yet immersive day in Norway’s stunning landscapes.

Good To Know

• Scenic highlights include fjord cruises, waterfalls, and mountain viewpoints.
• Cider and wine tasting at a local winery with expert guidance.
• Cultural visits such as Hopperstad Stave Church and Stops for photos.
• Comprehensive experience with lunch, transportation, and all entrance fees included.
• Small group setting with knowledgeable guides enhancing the experience.
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An Overview of the Bergen Guided Fjord & Cidery Tour

This tour promises a full day immersed in Norway’s natural beauty and culinary craftsmanship, blending a scenic journey with tastings and cultural insights. Priced at $313 per person, it offers good value considering the inclusions: a five-course lunch, cider tasting of five different styles, and entry to all stops. The tour is operated by Glaciertour AS, a provider known for organizing well-arranged excursions across Norway.

Starting outside Bergen’s Tourist Information in Strandkaien, you’ll hop onto a luxurious, air-conditioned bus with Wi-Fi to kick off your adventure. The first part of your day is spent traveling towards Vik, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the scenic ride through Norway’s rugged landscapes. The guide will likely share stories about the region’s history and natural features, adding context to what you see out the window.

The Stops That Make It Special

Hopperstad Stave Church

One of the earliest stops is the Hopperstad Stave Church, dating back to the 12th century. It’s a classic example of stave church architecture and offers a tangible link to Norway’s medieval past. Visitors often find it fascinating to walk inside and imagine life centuries ago, especially with a knowledgeable guide explaining the details.

Fjord Cruise Across Sognefjord

The highlight for many is the cruise across the Sognefjord, Norway’s longest and deepest fjord. From Vik to Balestrand, you’ll glide through shimmering waters flanked by towering cliffs and waterfalls, a truly awe-inspiring sight. According to reviews, this cruise is not only scenic but also relaxing, providing plenty of chances for photos. One reviewer mentioned that the views of waterfalls, including Tvindefossen, were particularly stunning, and the boat’s smooth ride makes it accessible for most.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Storesvingen Viewpoint & Waterfalls

After the cruise, a stop at the Storesvingen Viewpoint offers panoramic vistas over the fjord and surrounding mountains. The tour also includes a visit to Tvindefossen Waterfall, which is often praised for its majestic cascade. Guests enjoy the opportunity to snap pictures from the viewpoints and feel the fresh mountain air—a moment that leaves a lasting impression.

Ciderhuset Experience

The journey continues to the Ciderhuset, where you’ll learn about local cider production. Here, you taste five different styles of cider, each representing Norway’s artisanal approach to fermentation. According to reviewers, guides are highly knowledgeable, providing insights into how the ciders are made and their unique flavor profiles. One guest shared that the cider was “great,” and the experience added a delicious touch to the day.

Storesvingen Fjellstove & Lunch

A hearty five-course lunch is included, giving you a taste of local ingredients paired with the scenic mountain backdrop. The guide’s storytelling and the quality of the food contribute to a memorable meal. Guests often mention that the combination of good food and beautiful surroundings enhances the experience.

What to Expect from the Whole Day

The tour is designed with a balance of sightseeing, cultural exploration, and tasting experiences. Starting early in Bergen, you’ll spend the day traveling through some of Norway’s most iconic landscapes, with plenty of stops for photos and short walks. The cruise is a significant highlight, providing a different perspective of the fjord’s grandeur, while the cultural sites add depth to the trip.

Throughout the journey, guides share insights about the region’s history, geology, and local customs. Guests have appreciated the personalized attention, as small groups allow for interaction and questions. The bus ride’s scenery is often described as “amazing,” and the well-planned stops mean you get a good mix of leisure, education, and indulgence.

The Practical Side

At 13 hours long, this is definitely a full-day adventure. The luxury bus with Wi-Fi ensures comfort and connectivity, and all fees and entrance costs are covered, making it a stress-free experience. The tour is wheelchair accessible, welcoming a broader range of travelers.

Pricing at $313 per person reflects the inclusions—lunch, tastings, scenic cruise, and curated stops—offering good value given the comprehensive nature of the trip. But it’s essential to factor in the long duration if you’re not used to extensive excursions.

Authentic Insights from Past Travelers

Reviewers highlight several aspects that stand out. Matthew praised the “great cider” and the impressive views of fjord and waterfalls, while Alma appreciated the well-organized tasting sessions and the amazing scenery during the bus ride. They both mention how guides’ knowledge and the quality of tastings significantly enhance the experience.

This tour’s success hinges on its balance—combining educational insights about cider and wine, breathtaking scenery, and cultural visits—making it appealing to travelers who want a well-rounded day.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those who want a manageable, thoughtfully curated day in Norway that hits all the key highlights—scenery, culture, and local flavors. It suits travelers who appreciate guided experiences, enjoy tasting local products, and are comfortable with a full-day commitment.

It’s also great for families, couples, or groups seeking a relaxed yet enriching Norwegian adventure, where they can learn about regional traditions while soaking up incredible views.

Final Thoughts on Value and Experience

This Bergen guided day tour offers a wonderful mix of natural splendor, cultural insights, and culinary delights, all wrapped into one comprehensive package. The inclusion of a fjord cruise, cultural stops, and tastings at a local ciderhouse means you get not just sightseeing but an immersive experience.

While the length might be demanding for some, the variety of stops and the quality of guides make it worthwhile. The substantial inclusions mean you’re well taken care of, with little need to worry about additional costs.

If you’re eager to explore Norway’s stunning landscapes and want to indulge in local flavors — all with the convenience of a guided trip — this excursion makes a compelling choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
While not explicitly stated, the tour’s length and scenic nature suggest it could suit families with older children comfortable with a full day of travel and sightseeing.

Does the tour include transportation back to Bergen?
Yes, the tour concludes back at the original meeting point in Bergen, making logistics straightforward.

Are meals included?
Yes, a five-course lunch is provided as part of the tour, along with cider tastings.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the activity is wheelchair accessible.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What language is the tour guided in?
The tour is guided in English and Norwegian.

How long is the ferry cruise?
While the exact cruise duration isn’t specified, it is part of the full 13-hour experience, crossing the Sognefjord from Vik to Balestrand.

Do I need to prepare anything special?
Bring along comfortable clothing, suitable footwear for short walks and photo stops, and a camera to capture those stunning views.

To sum it up, this Bergen guided fjord and cider tour combines scenic beauty, cultural richness, and local flavors into a thoughtfully curated day. It’s especially suited for those wanting to see the highlights of the Sognefjord area without the hassle of planning each detail. With its blend of education, leisure, and adventure, it’s a fantastic way to deepen your appreciation of Norway’s natural and culinary heritage.

You can check if your dates are available here: