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Guide to Voss

With its rushing rivers, roaring waterfalls and towering mountains, Voss is natural playground for thrill seekers and adventurers – but it also has plenty to offer those who want to keep their feet firmly on solid ground. It’s easy to get to Voss by train, bus, or car all year round.

Whether you’re planning a trip to Voss, looking for inspiration or simply curious about the area, our ultimate guide will tell you everything you need to know.

Large sign saying Voss, placed in a green landscape

How to get to Voss

Voss is a region located in southwest Norway, and is known for its snowcapped mountains, whitewater rivers, lakes and forests. It’s simple to get to Voss from across Norway, especially by train and bus.

From Bergen, you can reach Voss by train in 1 hour and 10 minutes, you’ll also find Flam is only a short distance away.

If you’re coming from Oslo, you can get to Voss in an afternoon on a direct, scenic train journey. For those travelling by bus, there are several routes to and from Bergen that go through Voss.

Find bus and train tickets to Voss

Things to do in Voss

Voss is a region internationally known for its natural beauty and extreme sports. Voss’ mountainsides lend themselves to skiing in the winter and paragliding in the summer. The lakes and white rivers are also perfect for water sports.

If your idea of a holiday is more low key than high octane, there’s plenty of laid back and easy going fun to be found in Voss too.

Events

Ekstremsportveko⁠External link

Ekstremsportveko is the world’s biggest festival dedicated to extreme sports. Located in Voss, the festival invites extreme sports athletes from around the globe to compete in their chosen field. Expect BASE jumping, climbing, longboarding, BMX competitions and more, plus beginner-friendly opportunities to get involved yourself.

Vossa Jazz⁠External link

The week before Easter the Voss region in Norway comes together to celebrate jazz music. Along with its extensive jazz lineup, the festival also focuses on world and traditional folk music. As a key part of the Norwegian jazz scene, this festival welcomes musicians of all levels to take part and enjoy this free-flowing improvisational genre.

6 people in a rafting boat
A family with two children cycling along side a lage past trees
Two people walking past a sign in the mountains

Photo: Vy, Visit Voss

Activities

Rafting⁠External link

Norway may be famous for its fjords, but in Voss you can enjoy the region’s whitewater rafting and swap serene for extreme. With options to raft on the Stranda or the Raundal rivers, these beautiful riverways are as fun as they are scenic.

With prices starting from NOK 1,200, and all whitewater rafting equipment included, it's never been easier to embrace the spray and paddle like you’ve never paddled before!

Skydiving⁠External link

Skydiving over Voss is one of the best ways to see the unparalleled views of this spectacular region. Paired with the thrill of freefall, no viewing platform can get your adrenaline pumping quite like this.

Beginners can enjoy tandem jumps for a safe and easy introduction to the world of skydiving, with jumps organised every day between April and September, and planes take off from Voss Flypass, roughly a 10-minute drive from Vossevangen.

Biking⁠External link

There are few better ways to explore Voss than on a bike. Whether it’s road, mountain, or gravel, you can find a route to suit you. Surrounded by fjords, mountains and countless hidden gems, take to two wheels when you visit Voss.

By renting a bike or joining a guided tour, you can explore in a group or on your own. For those who prefer something short and sweet, Voss also has a pumptrack, perfect for a quick spin and catching some air.

Ski resorts⁠External link

It should come as no surprise that the mountainous terrain of Voss lends itself to skiing. Voss has a reputation for being a snow-sure destination and its home to two of the largest ski resorts in western Norway.

Hiking⁠External link

Voss is a region that rewards hiking with panoramic views and hidden gems. With plenty of options for full day hikes, short strolls closer to the centre, and even multi-day hikes, how you do it is up to you.

Plates with cured hams
View of mountains and two people skydiving
Person skiing down freshly prepared slopes
Gondala above Voss

Photo: Vy, Visit Voss

Sightseeing

Voss Gondola⁠External link

Voss Gondola is a cable car that operates year-round and takes you from Voss’ train and bus station to the top of Mount Hanguren in under nine minutes. As the largest mountain gondola in Northern Europe it’s a quick and easy way to get straight to the action.

In the summer you can hike, bike, rappel or paraglide, while in the winter the gondola serves as a ferry to Voss ski resort.

Voss folk museum⁠External link

Voss folk museum offers a fascinating insight into the storied history of the region and its folk history. You can also explore an authentic collection of Norwegian farm buildings for a glimpse into the rural past.

With plenty for visitors of all ages to explore and enjoy, Voss folk museum also offers guided tours and a cafe.

Food and drink

Smalahovetunet

Voss Brewery

Flor’n Restaurant – Store Ringheim

Hotels in Voss

Hotel Store Ringheim

This unique and rustic hotel provides traditional Norwegian comfort on this renovated farm. With rooms located in the old farmhouse and tool shed, Store Ringheim is a hotel with soul, charm and a warm welcome.

Book your stay at Hotel Store Ringheim

Fleischer’s Hotel

This traditional Swiss style hotel began its story in 1889. Today, Fleischer’s Hotel offers a spacious modern stay, with rooms and amenities to suit all tastes and budgets.

Reserve your room at Fleischer’s Hotel

Scandic Voss

Scandic Voss is a modern stylish hotel that can be found in the centre of Voss. Located next to the train station, Scandic Voss provides a service that is as comfortable as it is convenient.

Book at room at Scandic Voss

Park Hotel

If you’re travelling to Voss in search of adventure, Park Hotel puts you right in the heart of it. An oasis of comfort after a long day of thrill seeking, Park Hotel even provides packed lunches for those who want to keep exploring right through till the evening.

Book your stay at Park Hotel