Steinsdalsfossen
Waterfall Popular waterfall where visitors can walk behind the cascade
Waterfall near Norheimsund where a footpath runs behind the cascade; visitors combine short walks with drives through the Hardanger region and nearby fjord scenery.
Steinsdalsfossen is a roadside waterfall in Vestland county, Norway, near the village of Norheimsund in the Hardanger region. The drop is approximately 20 metres and the falls are famous for the path that passes behind the falling water.
A short, well-marked trail and parking area make Steinsdalsfossen easily accessible by car and a popular stop on regional sightseeing routes. The falls are part of a scenic valley setting with nearby viewpoints and other waterfalls within easy driving distance.
The waterfall is a natural attraction rather than a historic site, and it is particularly busy in summer when the weather makes the walk behind the falls most pleasant. The site is located a short distance outside Norheimsund and is an established stop on local tourist itineraries.
- Behind the falls: A footpath runs behind the main curtain of water, allowing visitors to walk under the falls without getting soaked in most conditions.
How to Get to Steinsdalsfossen #
Steinsdalsfossen is about 3 km from Norheimsund; drive via Rv7 and local roads or take the bus from Bergen to Norheimsund and a short taxi or local bus onward.
Tips for Visiting Steinsdalsfossen #
- Walk the path behind the waterfall - visitors can remain comparatively dry in a light drizzle but the rocks are slippery, so good grip is essential.
- Combine the visit with a drive to nearby Norheimsund for fjord views and seafood cafés; the waterfall lies about 3 km from the town center.
Best Time to Visit Steinsdalsfossen #
Best in summer for access and daylight; spring offers higher flows from snowmelt but can be wetter and more variable.
Weather & Climate near Steinsdalsfossen #
Steinsdalsfossen's climate is classified as Warm-Summer Continental - Warm-Summer Continental climate with cool summers (peaking in July) and freezing winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -3°C to 19°C. Abundant rainfall (1950 mm/year), wettest in December.
January
January is the coldest month with highs of 2°C and lows of -3°C. Significant rainfall (198 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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February
February is the coldest month with highs of 2°C and lows of -3°C. Significant rainfall (163 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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March
March is cold with highs of 4°C and lows of -1°C. Significant rainfall (156 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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April
April is cold with highs of 8°C and lows of 2°C. Regular rainfall (90 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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May
May is cold with highs of 14°C and lows of 6°C. Regular rainfall (82 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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June
June is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 9°C. Regular rainfall (100 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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July
July is cool with highs of 19°C and lows of 11°C. Significant rainfall (122 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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August
August is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 10°C. Significant rainfall (149 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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September
September is cool with highs of 14°C and lows of 8°C. Heavy rain (214 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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October
October is cold with highs of 10°C and lows of 4°C. Heavy rain (218 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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November
November is cold with highs of 5°C and lows of 0°C. Heavy rain (214 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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December
December is cold with highs of 3°C and lows of -2°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (244 mm) and mostly overcast skies.