The best hiking routes in Bondhusdalen landskapsvernområde

Bondhusdalen landskapsvernområde protects a steep, glacier-carved valley that leads from the edge of the fjord up toward the Folgefonna ice cap. The lower section of the valley features a wide, gravel-surfaced track that is highly accessible, running alongside a rushing, silt-laden glacial river. As you walk inland, the terrain transitions from dense deciduous woodland into a dramatic landscape dominated by massive granite boulders, steep scree slopes, and cascading waterfalls fed by the melting ice above.

At the heart of the area lies the glacier lake, Bondhusvatnet, where the water has a distinct milky-green color caused by fine rock flour suspended in the meltwater. The main track ends at the lake shore, where the ground becomes rougher. Walkers wishing to continue toward the moraine at the far end of the lake must navigate a narrow, uneven path over wet peat, slippery tree roots, and exposed lakeside rocks that require careful foot placement.

This valley is not a place for high-altitude ridge walking or expansive mountain plateau views, as the towering rock walls closely frame the path and limit the horizon. While the gravel track to the lake is straightforward and highly frequented, the trail beyond demands sturdy footwear to cope with the muddy patches and rocky scrambles near the glacier tongue.