Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
WORTH A TRIP
JONDAL DRIVE
While there are no heart-in-mouth hairpin bends, dramatic high passes or deep, dark
fjords to stir the soul, the gentle drive along the
Rv550
from Utne to Jondal is one of Nor-
way's most delightful, especially in late spring or early summer. The road hugs the fjord
the whole way, passing through orchards and by fisherman's shacks and tiny beaches.
There's plenty of 'come hither' rocky outcrops for picnics, lolls in the sun or a paddle. In
Hereiane, smooth rock rises straight up from the fjord to the peaks above and a small ser-
vice building made entirely from natural stone sits on a brilliant yellow plinth. The ferry
from Jondal takes you back to Norheimsund, but, before you depart, make time for a
waffle at the boat-shed kiosk and a wander around the town's Swiss-style cottages. Or
continue on to Rosendal or Odda via the Jondalstunnelen.
Getting There & Away
Ferries run between Utne, Kinsarvik (per person/vehicle Nkr31/81, 40 minutes) and
Kvanndal (Nkr15/39, 20 minutes) at least six times a day.
Odda
Pop 7006
Despite the promising location at the far end of Hardangerfjord, Odda is, in fact, an indus-
trial, iron-smelting town. That said, it serves as a gateway to Folgefonna National Park,
home to the Folgefonn glacier, and has a host of activities on offer.
Sights
Trolltunga
VIEWPOINT
Norway's specialises in extraordinary rock platforms offering both panoramic views and
postcard-perfect photo opportunities. Up there with the best of them is Trolltunga, a nar-
row finger of rock that hangs out over the void high above the lake Ringedalsvatnet. To
reach it, drive north of Odda to Tyssedal, then northeast to Skjeggedal, from where Troll-
