The Hidden North
North European travel guide
Population 596 / 60.1 degrees north
Lofthus, Norway
Lofthus is a small village located along the Sorfjord in the region of Hardanger. Lofthus is regarded as one of the largest orchards in Norway, and apples are famous from this region.
About Lofthus
Latitude: 60.1 degrees north
Population: 596
Ullensvang Municipality
In this Travel Guide...
Map of Lofthus
Uniquely Lofthus
Here are some things that you must do and try in Lofthus
Cider tasting
Alvavoll Cider Farm
Alvavoll Cider Farm offers 90 minute local cider tasting. Tastings are available all year round, and in the summer season a walk through the orchards is included. During the tour you learn about the farm’s history and the culture of sider making.
Things to See & Do
Here’s an overview of some of the best things to see and do in Lofthus
Historic Church
Ullensvang Church
Ullensvang Church (“Ullensvang Kyrkje”) is a historic church from around the year 1300. The church is built in the English Gothic style of architecture. Next to the church is the Ullensvang Prestegård, or Ullensvang rectory. The farm is first mentioned in 1309 and there has been a rectory continuously since then.
Hikes, Day Trips & Experiences
Looking to go for a hike or take part in a unique experience? Here are my recommendations!
Experience
Hardangerfjord Active
Hardangerfjord Active has kayaks available for rent for the day. You need to have some kayaking experience to qualify for a rental. It’s a unique way to explore the fjord and get close to nature.
Hiking
The Queens Hiking Trail
The Queens Hiking Trail (Dronningstien fra Kinsarvik til Lofthus) is one of the most popular hikes in Norway. The trip takes you from Lofthus to Kinsarvik, and the journey takes between 5 and 11 hours. The hike itself is strenuous.
Hiking
The Fruit Trail
The Fruit Trail is an 8km loop around the fruit orchards. The trip should take up to 3 hours total and the hike is graded as easy.
Road-Trips
Follow my road-trip guides for scenic trips around Lofthus.
The Rv13 from Stavanger to Sogndal
Lofthus is located roughly halfway on this drive along the west coast.
Self-Guided Walks
Here are my self-guided walks for Lofthus.
Lofthus on YouTube
Watch my YouTube videos featuring Lofthus
History of Lofthus
Lofthus Today
Travel Information
Getting Here
Drive: Lofthus is located on the Rv13 roughly halfway between the Hardanger Bridge and the town of Odda.
Bus: All buses are operated by Skyss.
Ferry: The Fjord Cruise Hardangerfjord doubles as a mode of transportation, connecting Odda and Lofthus three times a day.
Getting Around
Shops
Places to Eat
Cafes & Bakeries
Quick Bites
Reasonable Restaurants
High End & Unique Eats
Spisesalen is the main restaurant at Hotel Ullensvang and has dishes using seasonal Norwegian produce.
Places to Stay
Camping
Cabins & B&Bs
Chains & Mid-Range
High End & Unique Properties
Hotel Ullensvang is a historic hotel dating back to 1846 and has long been known as a resort hotel. The hotel is luxurious and well worth staying at!