Årdal may be just an industrial town, but there is some charm to the area. The surrounding landscape is incredible, and the town is a great base if you want to get out and enjoy some of the hikes in the Sognefjord region. The Tindeveien road is a must, too!
Fun Facts About Årdal
Latitude: 61.1 degrees north
Population: 5,200
Årdal Municipality
In this Travel Guide...
Things to See & Do
Here’s an overview of some of the best things to see and do in Årdal.
Utladalen Naturhus
The museum of Utladalen Naturhus opened in 1998 and houses an exhibition containing information about the natural and cultural history of the valley of Utladalen as well as the western part of Jotunheimen.
Here are some things that you must experience in Årdal.
Årdal Water Park
Årdal is one of the few places in Norway with an outdoor water park.
Vettisfossen
Vettisfossen has been named as Norway’s most beautiful waterfall.
History of Årdal
Årdal has historically been a municipality for heavy industry. The first industrial company, Årdal Kobberverk, started back in 1702. In the early 20th century, the Germans also established mining here. The Aluminium works today was established by Germans during World War II, and it’s still a major business here today.
Årdal Today
There is still a heavy investment in mining, with both the production of aluminimum at Hydro Aluminium and solar cells. Lots of investment is also being made in tourism and travel, and in 2020 Årdal municipality received the status of a national park municipality.
Årdal is at the forefront of technological development, both nationally and internationally. Traditions continue to build on a large and technological environment in the fields of primary aluminium, solar cell production and hydropower.
Travel Information
Getting Here
Fly: There’s no airport close by.
Drive: Årdal is located on the Fv53, which connects to the E16 running between Bergen and Oslo.
Train: No train connection.
Ferry: The coastal ferry calls at Risøyhamn, which is on the other end of the island.
Getting Around
Årdal is very walkable, but you will need a car if you are planning to head out to the mountains.
Shops
Places to Eat
Årdal has limited options, but there are some unique places.
Cafes & Bakeries
Tya Bakery
Quick Bites
Reasonable Restaurants
High End & Unique Eats
Places to Stay
All our hotel recommendations are based on research and experience. We don’t recommend somewhere unless we think it is wonderful! The Hidden North focuses on accommodation that provides good quality for price or offer local or unique experiences.
Camping
Cabins
Jølsterlia Hyttetun is a beautiful cabin area located in the mountains with views to the Jølster glacier.