What to do in Voss

Voss, Norway: The Adventure Capital of Fjord Norway

A river rushes below your feet as you cross a swaying suspension bridge, while paragliders drift silently overhead. Mountains ring the valley, their peaks dusted with snow even in early summer. Welcome to Voss — where adrenaline meets nature, and the landscapes beg to be explored.

Tucked between the famous fjords of Hardanger and Sognefjord, Voss is one of Norway’s top destinations for outdoor adventures. With its striking mountain scenery, vibrant local culture, and year-round activities, it attracts both thrill-seekers and nature lovers. While it’s often called Norway’s adrenaline capital, Voss also offers moments of deep calm — from lakeside walks to forest hikes, and quiet evenings under Nordic skies.

Whether you’re into white-water rafting, skiing, or just soaking in the view, Voss is the kind of place where every day feels alive with possibility.

Outdoor Activities in Voss

White-Water Rafting and River Kayaking

The Vosso and Raundalselva rivers offer world-class rapids for white-water rafting, especially in spring and early summer when snowmelt boosts the flow. Whether you're tackling Class III and IV rapids or trying river kayaking for the first time, Voss is a thrilling place to get on the water.

Hiking the Grungahorgi or Bordalsgjelet Gorge

For something a bit quieter, hit the hiking trails. The Grungahorgi mountain hike rewards walkers with 360-degree views over the Voss plateau, while the Bordalsgjelet Gorge offers a dramatic short walk into a narrow, fern-covered canyon where rushing water echoes off the steep rock walls.

Lake and Forest Explorations

Lake Vangsvatnet sits right by the town centre, perfect for swimming, SUP boarding, or renting a kayak on calm summer days. The surrounding forests are full of trails, ideal for trail running, biking, or a peaceful nature walk.

Best Time to Visit Voss

• Summer (June–August): The peak adventure season. Warm weather, long daylight hours, and all outdoor activities in full swing. Best for rafting, skydiving, and hiking.
• Spring (April–May): A great time for rafting as the rivers swell with snowmelt. The trails begin to open, and the valley turns lush and green.
• Autumn (September–October): Crisp air and golden colours make hiking especially beautiful. Fewer crowds and cooler weather.
• Winter (December–March): Ideal for skiing and snowboarding. The gondola and resorts offer full facilities, and the valley takes on a cosy winter charm.

How to Get to Voss

Getting to Voss is easy and scenic:

• By train: The Bergen Line runs between Oslo and Bergen, and Voss is one of the best stops. The journey from Bergen takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes.
• By car: Voss is around 1.5 hours’ drive from Bergen, via the E16 road. It’s a beautiful route through tunnels and fjord landscapes.
• By bus: Regular buses connect Voss with Bergen and nearby fjord towns.

Nearby Places to Discover

Voss is a natural hub for exploring Western Norway. Head west to Bergen for urban culture and coastal scenery, or drive east toward Flåm and Aurlandsfjord for dramatic fjord views and scenic boat trips. South of Voss, the route to Hardangerfjord passes waterfalls, fruit farms, and glacier viewpoints — ideal for extending your journey.

Whether you're soaring through the sky, navigating rapids, or hiking a peaceful forest trail, Voss is a place that puts you in the heart of the landscape. With its unbeatable mix of adrenaline and natural beauty, it offers one of the most complete outdoor experiences in all of Norway.